Every Boat Ramp on Lake Michigan

About Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is the third-largest Great Lake and the only one located entirely within the United States. Michigan's western coastline stretches over 1,600 miles, offering boaters an extraordinary range of experiences from the dune-lined shores of Sleeping Bear to the harbor towns of Little Traverse Bay. World-class salmon and trout fishing draws anglers from across the country, with Chinook salmon runs peaking in late summer and steelhead providing action from fall through spring.

The lake's deep, cold waters support a thriving coldwater fishery, while nearshore areas around river mouths and harbors offer excellent smallmouth bass and yellow perch fishing. Charter fishing is a major industry in ports like Ludington, Manistee, and Frankfort, where captains target salmon and lake trout in waters reaching 923 feet deep.

Boaters have access to dozens of well-maintained public launch ramps along the coast, from large harbors of refuge with full marina services to smaller launches near river mouths. The coastline features numerous protected harbors, making it possible to cruise between ports. Popular destinations include the Leelanau Peninsula, Traverse City's Grand Traverse Bay, and the Tunnel of Trees shoreline near Petoskey.

Nearest towns: Traverse City, Muskegon, Holland, St. Joseph, Petoskey, Ludington, Manistee, Frankfort