Best Boat Launches on the Au Sable River

Finding the perfect launch point on a renowned river like Michigan's Au Sable can feel like cracking a secret code, especially when you're dreaming of a peaceful day on the water but don't know where to start your adventure. This guide aims to clear up that confusion by pinpointing the best and most accessible boat launches along the legendary Au Sable River, ensuring your next fishing trip or scenic float begins with ease and sets the stage for an unforgettable experience.

Navigating the Au Sable River's Unique Character

The Au Sable River is nothing short of legendary among anglers and paddlers in Michigan, known for its pristine waters, challenging trout, and breathtaking scenery. However, its expansive length and varying characteristics mean that not all "boat launches" are created equal. You might find some perfect for a drift boat, others ideal for a solo kayaker, and some that are really just designated points for wading anglers to access the river. Understanding these nuances is crucial before you even load up your gear.

Understanding the River's Sections and Their Impact on Launches

The Au Sable River is generally divided into several distinct sections, each offering a unique experience. The Main Stream, often called the "Holy Water," refers to the upper stretch, mostly catch-and-release fly fishing only, known for its challenging brown trout. Further downstream, the North Branch and South Branch join the Main Stream, offering different fishing pressures and water characteristics. Below Mio Dam and then Foote Dam, the river widens, slows, and becomes suitable for larger boats and a wider variety of species, including walleye, pike, and smallmouth bass. Each of these sections will dictate the type of launch you'll be looking for. A small, gravel pull-off might be perfect for a drift boat on the upper river, while a paved ramp with ample parking is a must for a larger craft on the lower river.

The Importance of Proper Launch Etiquette and Planning

Beyond simply finding a spot to put in, launching on the Au Sable requires a bit of forethought and respect for other users and the environment. These launches are often shared spaces, used by fly fishers, recreational paddlers, and families alike. Arriving early, preparing your boat away from the ramp, and launching or loading quickly minimizes disruption. It’s also important to remember that many of the smaller, more rustic launches on the upper stretches might not have restrooms or extensive parking, so plan accordingly. Familiarizing yourself with the specific regulations for the stretch you plan to fish, such as those outlined in the Michigan Fishing Regulations Every Angler Should Know, is also a crucial part of proper planning.

Premier Boat Launches on the Upper and Middle Au Sable

For those seeking the classic Au Sable experience—drifting quietly for trout or paddling through stunning natural landscapes—the launches on the upper and middle sections are your best bet. These are primarily geared towards drift boats, canoes, and kayaks, and often provide access to some of the river's most productive waters.

Burton's Landing and Keystone Landing

These two launches are legendary for accessing the "Holy Water" stretch of the Au Sable Main Branch near Grayling.

• Burton's Landing: Located off M-72, just a short drive from Grayling, Burton's is one of the most popular and easily identifiable launch points. It features a paved access road and a concrete ramp, making it suitable for drift boats, rafts, and canoes. Parking is available, though it can fill up quickly during peak season or a good hex hatch. Anglers typically launch here for floats downstream, often taking out at Wakeley Bridge or even further. The river in this section is classic trout water: clear, cool, and teeming with insect life. It's a fantastic starting point for a dedicated day of fly fishing, allowing anglers to cover significant amounts of water. You'll want to be extra considerate here, as it’s a high-traffic area, and smooth operations ensure everyone gets on the water efficiently.
• Keystone Landing: A few miles upstream from Burton's, Keystone offers a slightly more rustic experience but still accommodates drift boats. It’s often used by those who want to fish a shorter upper section or begin a longer float that passes through Burton's. The access is typically gravel, and while manageable for trailers, it's not as formal as Burton's. It's an excellent choice if you're looking to start your float a bit higher up and enjoy the river's early stretches before the crowds might pick up further downstream. Many local guides, some even booked through platforms like FishingBooker, will often utilize launches like Keystone to provide clients with a prime head start on a full-day drift.

Parmalee Bridge and Wakeley Bridge

As you move slightly downstream, but still within the prime trout water, Parmalee and Wakeley bridges offer crucial access points.

• Parmalee Bridge: This site provides good access for drift boats, canoes, and kayaks. It's a bit more secluded than the launches closer to Grayling, offering a quieter starting point. The access is generally well-maintained, but typically a gravel ramp. From Parmalee, anglers can enjoy a fantastic float, with many choosing to take out at Wakeley Bridge. This stretch is known for its beautiful bends and diverse habitat, holding good numbers of brown and rainbow trout. It’s particularly popular during the prolific caddis and mayfly hatches of late spring and early summer.
• Wakeley Bridge: A major landmark and popular take-out point for floats originating upstream, Wakeley Bridge also serves as an excellent launch for shorter floats or specific sections. It offers good parking and easy access, making it a convenient hub for many anglers. If you're planning a full day of fishing, you might launch at Burton's or Parmalee and plan your take-out here. Conversely, launching at Wakeley allows you to explore the mid-river sections downstream, which are still excellent for trout but may see slightly less intense pressure than the "Holy Water" itself. For those looking for more comprehensive information on species, remember to check out resources like Michigan's Most Popular Fish Species.

Launch Name	River Section	Boat Type Suitability	Access Type	Primary Fish Species
Burton's Landing	Upper Main Branch	Drift Boat, Raft, Canoe	Paved Ramp	Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout
Keystone Landing	Upper Main Branch	Drift Boat, Raft, Canoe	Gravel Ramp	Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout
Parmalee Bridge	Middle Main Branch	Drift Boat, Raft, Canoe	Gravel Ramp	Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout
Wakeley Bridge	Middle Main Branch	Drift Boat, Raft, Canoe	Gravel Ramp	Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout
Mio Pond DNR Launch	Mio Pond	Motorboat, Kayak, Canoe	Paved Ramp	Walleye, Pike, Bass, Trout
Foote Dam	Lower Au Sable	Motorboat, Kayak, Canoe	Paved Ramp	Salmon, Steelhead, Walleye

Accessing the Wider Waters: Mio Pond to Foote Dam

As the Au Sable River flows downstream and eventually encounters the impoundments created by the Mio Dam and then the Foote Dam, its character changes dramatically. The river widens, slows, and becomes more suitable for larger boats and a different set of target species. These sections are renowned for their migratory salmon and steelhead runs, as well as resident walleye, northern pike, and various bass species.

Mio Pond and Loud Pond Launches

The areas around Mio Dam and the subsequent Mio Pond offer different types of fishing and boating opportunities.

• Mio Pond DNR Launch: This is a fantastic, well-maintained paved ramp located on Mio Pond, just upstream from the Mio Dam. It’s perfect for launching larger fishing boats, pontoons, and jet skis, allowing access to the expansive waters of the pond. While the pond itself offers great fishing for walleye, northern pike, and bass, it also provides an opportunity to fish the deeper, slower sections of the Au Sable both upstream and downstream from the dam, depending on portage or dam access. The facilities here are usually quite good, with ample parking and often restrooms. This is a common starting point for those looking to fish this larger, reservoir-like section of the river, which demands different techniques than the upper trout streams. Many anglers use this launch during the winter for ice fishing on the pond, too.
• Loud Pond Access: Similar to Mio Pond, Loud Pond is another impoundment downstream, created by the Loud Dam. There are various public access points and informal launches around Loud Pond, some suitable for smaller boats or hand launches for kayaks and canoes. These spots provide opportunities for fishing the pond’s abundant panfish, bass, and pike. The main focus here is often the calmer, wider waters for a more relaxed fishing or paddling experience. Remember to always consult the current Michigan Fishing Regulations Digest PDF for 2026 to stay informed about any special rules pertaining to these specific impoundments.

Foote Dam and the Lower Au Sable

Further downstream, where the river truly transforms into a broader, deeper waterway, the launches around Foote Dam are critical for accessing the river's lower sections, particularly for the incredible salmon and steelhead runs.

• Foote Dam Area Launches: The area surrounding Foote Dam, near Oscoda, offers multiple access points. The main public launch is typically a paved ramp, well-suited for larger motorboats and trailers. This launch provides access to the final stretches of the Au Sable before it empties into Lake Huron. This section is incredibly popular during the spring steelhead runs and the fall salmon runs. Anglers launching here can target Chinook and Coho salmon, steelhead, walleye, and even lake trout. The lower Au Sable is a completely different fishery than the upper river, characterized by wider currents and more conventional boat fishing. You'll often see guides and charter services operating from these launches, and if you’re considering a guided trip, checking a platform like FishingBooker can help you find experienced captains familiar with these specific launches and the incredible fishery they access. This is also where you'll find great opportunities for a different kind of angling, as detailed in our guide on Michigan Salmon Species Explained.

• Oscoda Municipal Marina: While not strictly a "river launch" in the traditional sense, the Oscoda Municipal Marina provides excellent access to the mouth of the Au Sable River and Lake Huron. It's a full-service marina with multiple paved ramps, ample parking, and amenities. For those with larger vessels wanting to explore the very end of the river or transition directly into Lake Huron for deeper water fishing, this is the prime location. From here, anglers can pursue large lake trout, salmon, and even steelhead that stage at the river mouth. This spot is a hub of activity, especially during peak migratory seasons.

Choosing the Right Launch for Your Au Sable Adventure

Selecting the right boat launch on the Au Sable isn't just about finding a spot to put your boat in; it's about matching the launch to your angling goals, your equipment, and the overall experience you're seeking. The river offers such diversity that a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a successful and enjoyable trip.

Matching Your Launch to Your Fishing Style and Target Species

Think about what kind of fishing you want to do. If you're a fly angler dreaming of casting tiny dry flies to rising trout on the "Holy Water," a small, discreet drift boat or wade access point like those near Burton's or Parmalee Bridge will be ideal. These launches are designed for minimal disturbance and offer immediate access to prime trout habitat. You might even consider launching a kayak or canoe for a quiet float and some wade-fishing along the way.

Conversely, if your sights are set on the powerful runs of fall salmon or spring steelhead, or you're hoping to jig for walleye or cast for northern pike, the wider, deeper sections of the lower river near Mio Pond or Foote Dam will require a larger, more robust launch. These paved ramps can accommodate a variety of motorboats, allowing you to cover more water and fish different depths. The type of boat you bring significantly impacts which launches are feasible. A small inflatable or a kayak can be launched almost anywhere, but a 20-foot bass boat needs proper infrastructure. For a deeper dive into seasonal tactics, consider exploring resources like Michigan Spring Fishing Season Guide.

Practical Considerations: Parking, Amenities, and River Conditions

Beyond the type of fishing, practicalities are paramount. Always check what kind of parking is available. Smaller launches on the upper river might have limited, unpaved parking, which can be a challenge during busy weekends. Larger launches, especially those around the impoundments or the lower river, generally offer more extensive parking, sometimes even paid options. Amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, or nearby bait shops can also influence your choice, especially for longer trips or if you're bringing family along. It's not uncommon for anglers to consult local guides through services like FishingBooker, not just for their expertise on fishing, but also for their intimate knowledge of access points and real-time river conditions.

River conditions themselves play a huge role. Water levels can fluctuate, making some launches easier or harder to use. High water might make a small, rocky launch difficult, while very low water could expose obstacles or make it hard to float certain sections. Always check the current river conditions and forecasts before heading out. Some launches, particularly those on the upper river, can become very crowded during peak hatches or holidays. If solitude is your goal, consider exploring less-frequented launches or opting for a mid-week trip. Understanding the dynamics of the river and preparing for any potential challenges will make your Au Sable adventure much smoother. You may also find it helpful to review topics like Michigan Fishing Season Dates and Rules to align your trip with peak fishing opportunities.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only and is subject to change. Always consult the official Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website and their most current fishing regulations digest before planning any fishing trip to ensure compliance with all state laws and local rules. River conditions, launch availability, and species behavior can vary significantly.