DeTour Passage Boat Launch

You're launching right into DeTour Passage, where Lake Huron funnels between the mainland and Drummond Island. Currents here can rip, especially on a wind-against-tide setup. Smaller boats under 18 feet should time it carefully — I've seen guys get pushed sideways on the ramp trying to load in a northeast blow.

Only 17 trailer spots, and this is a gateway to Drummond Island and the North Channel. Summer weekends, especially around the 4th of July, you'll find the lot full by 8 AM. Overflow means street parking in the village, which adds a decent walk back to the ramp.

Big lakers and salties run through DeTour Passage regularly — this is a major shipping lane. Keep your head on a swivel once you clear the launch area. At night the freighter lights are easy to misjudge for distance. During the day, their wakes alone can swamp a small aluminum boat if you're not squared up.

The ramp itself is in good shape and handles most trailered boats without drama. Concrete holds up well even at varying water levels. It's a no-nonsense launch — back in, drop, go. Way better maintained than some of the rough gravel drops you'll find further west along the U.P. coast.

This is a prime staging spot for fall salmon and whitefish runs in the St. Marys River corridor. Late September through October, expect to see a lot of charter guys and serious anglers using this launch. Weekday mornings are your best bet to avoid the crunch.