Nine Mile Point Boat Launch

The ramp is notably shallow, so if you're launching solo, plan on getting your feet wet — you'll be wading to get back in your truck. Bigger boats with deeper drafts can be a real headache here.

There's a single lane and one short floating dock, so backups happen fast. I've seen half a dozen boats queued up on a summer afternoon with more stacked in the canal waiting to pull out. Avoid anything after noon on weekends if you value your sanity.

Parking is roughly a quarter to half mile from the actual launch. That's a serious hike with all your gear. The attendant sometimes offers golf cart rides if you're friendly, but don't count on it. Travel light or bring a wagon.

The road to the ramp is riddled with potholes and crumbling patches. You're paying $15 resident or $20 non-resident per launch, which stings given the condition of the place. For what you get — one lane, three trailer spots, minimal amenities — it's hard to justify over other nearby options.

The launch shuts down before November, which means you miss late-fall perch runs entirely. If you're planning a fall trip, confirm the closing date with Young State Park ahead of time — it catches people off guard every year.