M-37 Bridge Boat Launch

This is an old single-lane wood ramp — one of the oldest DNR acquisitions in the state, actually. The grade is steep enough that you'll want extra winch strap to get your boat back on the trailer. In winter it gets dangerously icy, so watch your footing and your tires.

This launch drops you right into the flies-only, catch-and-release section of the PM. If you show up with spinners or bait, you're getting a ticket. Know the regs before you go — enforcement is real on this stretch.

During the fall salmon run, this place turns into a zoo. Only 12 trailer spots and the turnaround area gets clogged with people standing around talking while others are trying to launch or take out. If you're floating through, scout the takeout from upstream before committing — the current is fast near the ramp and there's not much room to squeeze in when it's packed.

The river moves quick right at the access point. Once you round the bend upstream of the launch, you're committed — there's a short fast stretch and if the ramp area is full of boats, you're floating past with no good option. Best move is to beach before the bend and walk down to check if there's room.

Don't expect to do much shore fishing or hiking from here. The banks are hemmed in tight by posted private land in nearly every direction. Old trail signs for Fisherman's Trail are still out there but the routes dead-end into private parcels now. Bring waders and stay in the river — that's your public access.