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Au Gres River - East Branch

Iosco County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
1 launchFree launch available
Au Gres River - East Branch Access Map 1 launch
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Boat Launches on Au Gres River - East Branch
East Branch Au Gres River Boat Launch
Gladwin Forestry Management Unit · Carry-in only ramp, 0 lane
Open Kayak Free
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Connected Waterways

The East Branch is a tributary of the Au Gres River, which flows westward into Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron. This is a separate watershed from the nearby Au Sable River — the two systems drain different parts of Iosco County despite their proximity.

Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the East Branch Au Gres River launch in Iosco County?
The launch is in Iosco County in northeastern Lower Michigan. It provides access to the East Branch of the Au Gres River, which is a tributary flowing into the main Au Gres River and ultimately into Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron.
What kind of boats can I launch on the East Branch Au Gres River?
This is a river access point, so expect it to be suited for canoes, kayaks, and small boats. Don't plan on launching anything large — river width and depth will be limiting factors, especially in drier months.
Are there campgrounds near the East Branch Au Gres River?
Yes — Shady Oaks Campground & RV Park and Northern Bear Paw RV Park LLC are both nearby, giving you options for overnight stays if you're spending time on the river.
Is the East Branch Au Gres River the same as the Au Sable River?
No — these are separate river systems. The Au Sable River is a famous 138-mile blue ribbon trout stream that empties into Lake Huron at Oscoda. The Au Gres River is a smaller, less well-known system that drains into Saginaw Bay. They're in the same general area of Iosco County but are distinct watersheds.
What fish are in the Au Gres River?
The Au Gres River system typically holds smallmouth bass, northern pike, and panfish. Some stretches may see seasonal steelhead or salmon runs closer to Saginaw Bay. The East Branch is a smaller tributary, so expect smaller resident fish species in the upper reaches.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

The East Branch of the Au Gres River flows through Iosco County — a small, quiet stream access point rather than a lake destination. There's a single launch site here with a 4.3 Google rating, though only three reviews suggest it sees light traffic. The Au Gres River system drains into Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron, running through lowland forests and wetlands typical of this part of northeastern Lower Michigan. Don't confuse this with the nearby Au Sable River — the Au Gres is a separate, smaller watershed. This is the kind of put-in that paddlers and small-boat anglers use to access river stretches rather than open water.

Sources: Wikipedia, Google Reviews, DNR data, campground & beach reviews, ShorelineScout enrichment