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About Boardman River

Near Grand Rapids, Bay City, Traverse City State Park

The Boardman River is located in both Kalkaska and Grand Traverse Counties in the northern region of the state. It is just 18 miles from Traverse City State Park and less than 3 hours from Grand Rapids and Bay City. 

History

In 1847, Captain Horace Boardman bought land on the Grand Traverse Bay. He was the namesake of the Boardman River, previously named Ottawa river. In 1894, the Boardman dam was built to create Boardman Pond and divert the stream. In 2005, Traverse City Light and Power decided it was not economically feasible to produce power from the multiple dams on the river. They then called for them to be removed and for Union Dam to be restored.

Great Fishing and Boating

Popular activities include fishing, boating, and sailing. Multiple species of trout and bass are fished on the Boardman River. Many of these visitors come for the exquisite fishing because it is one of the top ten trout streams in Michigan. 

The Perfect Place to Experience the Outdoors

Whether you are looking for a relaxing waterfront home, or a condo for an outdoors enthusiast Boardman River is a great way to experience the outdoors lifestyle.

Lake Overview

  • 28mi. of Shoreline
  • Shoreline Borders
    State Park (Some)
    Mountains
  • Dam Name
    Union Dam
  • Ownership
    Public
  • Public Boat Ramps
    1
  • Water Level
    Full Pool Year Round

Information

  • Counties: Grand Traverse County, Kalkaska County
  • Fish: Brown Trout, Largemouth Bass, Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass
  • Condos available (Yes)
  • Notable events: Annual Adams Fly festival and Kayak Raffle. Tour De Brew: Paddling Micro-Brew Tour.
  • Sailing clubs: Traverse Area Community Sailing (TACS).
  • Interesting facts: The Boardman River is considered one of the top ten trout fishing steams in Michigan.
  • Known for: Lay park. Cass Road Bridge. Logan's Landing.
  • History: In 1847, Captain Horace Boardman bought land on the Grand Traverse Bay. He was the namesake of the Boardman river, previously named Ottawa river. In 1894, the Boardman dam was built. The building of this dam created Boardman Pond and diverted the stream.
  • Landmarks: American Legion Memorial Bridge

Amenities

Marinas
(231) 922-4906
1011 E Grandview Pkwy
Traverse City, MI 49684
Golf Courses
(231) 947-9140
1725 Union St.
Traverse City, MI 49684

Nearby

Hospitals
(231) 935-5000
1105 6th St.
Traverse City, MI 49684
Airports
Gerald R. Ford International Airport
5500 44th St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512
152 miles away
Cherry Capital Airport
727 Fly Don't dr. Traverse City, MI 49686
4 miles away