The Boardman River rises in western Kalkaska County and flows 28.2 miles west and north through Grand Traverse County, emptying into Grand Traverse Bay — a bay of Lake Michigan — in downtown Traverse City. The watershed drains 295 square miles through approximately 130 miles of river and tributaries. The river historically included several dam impoundments, some of which have been removed in major restoration efforts to restore natural flow and fish passage.
The Boardman is a flowing river with consistent current, so ice formation is unreliable and dangerous. Do not attempt to walk or fish on river ice. For winter fishing, stick to nearby inland lakes with confirmed safe ice.
What fish are in the Boardman River?
Can you kayak or canoe the Boardman River?
How long is the Boardman River?
Can you launch a motorboat on the Boardman River?
Are there campgrounds on the Boardman River?
Can you swim in the Boardman River?
Where is the Boardman River?
Is there a fee to launch on the Boardman River?
Can you ice fish on the Boardman River?
The Boardman River (also called the Ottaway River) is a 28.2-mile river flowing from western Kalkaska County through Grand Traverse County before emptying into Grand Traverse Bay in downtown Traverse City. It's ranked among Michigan's top ten trout streams — brown trout and brook trout are the main draw — and the river's clear, cold water and wooded corridor make it one of the best paddling runs in the northwest Lower Peninsula. The watershed drains 295 square miles through a combined 130 miles of river and tributaries.
This isn't a lake destination — it's a river corridor with multiple access points for kayaking, canoeing, and SUP. A typical float takes about two hours, with tight twists and turns through heavily wooded banks before opening up near the bay. State forest campgrounds like Scheck's Place and Forks sit right on the river with canoe launches, vault toilets, hand-pump water, and direct ORV/snowmobile trail access. The launches are shallow and best suited for canoes, kayaks, and small boats — reviews consistently warn against trying to launch larger fishing boats. Traverse City's downtown, beaches, and marinas are right at the river's mouth, making this equal parts backcountry paddle and gateway to Grand Traverse Bay.