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.
RampPaved, 2 lanes
Dock1 boating pier · ADA
Trailer Parking20 spots · asphalt
FeeMI Recreation Passport (annual, on vehicle registration)
Hours8 AM – 10 PM
RestroomsVault toilet (1)
PierYes
AIS StationDecontamination tools on-site
AccessibilityAccessible pier, parking, pedestrian route, restroom
Not Available Fish cleaning · Fishing pier
Scout's Notes
Ramp Quirks & Etiquette
Rec Passport Required
You'll need a Michigan Rec Passport to get in since it's through the Metamora Hadley State Recreation Area. No separate launch fee though, so if you've got the passport on your plate you're good to go.
Winter Access Solid
They actually plow the access road and lot in winter, which is unusual for a smaller lake launch like this. Makes it a reliable spot for ice fishing without worrying about getting stuck or having to hike in your gear.
Rarely Crowded
Big Fish is a smaller lake and doesn't draw the weekend armada you'd see at, say, Lake Orion or Pontiac Lake. Two lanes and 20 trailer spots are more than enough — I've never had to wait here, even on a Saturday morning in June.
Picnic Area Bonus
There's a nice picnic area right next to the launch, so if you're bringing the family it's a good setup — someone can hang onshore while you fish. Makes for easy lunch breaks too without packing everything back in the boat.
Sources: DNR GIS data, Google Reviews, Google Street View
About This Lake
Big Fish Lake →