Satellite view of Sherman Lake Boat Launch
HomeHomeMichiganKalamazooSherman Lake

Sherman Lake Boat Launch

Sherman Lake · Kalamazoo County, Michigan
Last verified: March 14, 2026
1 laneUnimproved ramp
15 spotsTrailer parking
4a–11pHours
Directions
Street View
Craft & Seasonality
Motorboat
Kayak / Canoe
Jet Ski / PWC
Large Boat
Winter Access
Site Details
Conditions change rapidly due to water levels, prop wash, and weather. Always visually inspect before backing down.
RampUnimproved, 1 lane
Dock1 boating pier · ADA
Trailer Parking15 spots · asphalt
FeeMI Recreation Passport (annual, on vehicle registration)
Hours4 AM – 11 PM
RestroomsVault toilet (1)
PierYes
AIS StationDecontamination tools on-site
AccessibilityAccessible pier, parking, restroom
Not Available Fish cleaning · Fishing pier
Scout's Notes
Ramp Quirks & Etiquette
Shallow Dock Side
The side of the courtesy dock opposite the ramp is surprisingly shallow — too shallow to bring a bass boat up to it. There's also a big sign blocking the end of the dock, so plan on loading and unloading only on the ramp side.
Free & No Hassle
Unlike a lot of spots in the Fort Custer area, you don't need a rec area pass to launch here. Single concrete ramp is paved and wide enough for a bass boat. For a one-lane setup, it's about as smooth as it gets.
Quiet Hours Are Gold
Sherman Lake has designated no-ski hours for fishing, and that's when this place really shines. Get out early and you'll have clean, clear water with solid largemouth and bluegill action — summer fish tend to hang around 20 feet deep. Crappie bedding season in spring is especially worth a trip.
Small Lake Crowding
Fifteen trailer spots sounds tight, but it matches the lake. This isn't a big water destination — it's a neighborhood-sized lake that gets busy with ski boats on summer weekends. Kayakers might find it cramped when powerboats are out. Weekday mornings or quiet hours are your best bet.
Rules Sign Unreadable
There's a rules sign posted at the launch but it's been illegible since at least fall 2025. Worth knowing the motor restrictions and quiet hours before you show up — don't count on reading them on-site.
Sources: DNR GIS data, Google Reviews, Google Street View
About This Lake