Top Pontoon Boating Destinations in Northern Michigan

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IRSC Owner - Travis
Travis Conners
Owner, Indian River Sports Center
IRSC Employee - Renee
Renee Conners
Owner, Indian River Sports Center
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Here's Our Favorite Michigan Boating Destinations

Northern Michigan boasts some of the most beautiful and serene boating destinations in the United States, ideal for unforgettable pontoon boating adventures. At Indian River Sports Center, we're passionate about helping boaters explore Michigan’s top lakes. Here’s our comprehensive guide to the best pontoon boating spots in Northern Michigan.

Pontoon Boating on Burt Lake, Michigan

Burt Lake, a highlight of Michigan's famous Inland Waterway, offers clear waters, sandy beaches, and picturesque views perfect for family-friendly boating excursions. Enjoy relaxing cruises, swimming at shallow sandbars, or dining at local waterfront restaurants. Burt Lake State Park also offers excellent picnic spots accessible directly by boat.

Explore the Scenic Waters of Mullett Lake

Connected seamlessly to Burt Lake via the beautiful Indian River, Mullett Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear water and scenic beauty. Ideal for swimming, watersports, and fishing, it provides calm waters perfect for leisurely pontoon cruises. Nearby marinas and waterside eateries add convenience and charm to your boating adventure.

Boating on Crooked Lake and Pickerel Lake

Experience the tranquility of Crooked Lake and Pickerel Lake, connected by the gentle Crooked River. Known for their calm waters and serene surroundings, these lakes offer excellent conditions for leisurely pontoon boating, wildlife viewing, and fishing. The charming lakeside towns provide accessible restaurants and boutique shops to enhance your visit.

Torch Lake: Michigan’s Caribbean-like Boating Paradise

Torch Lake is famous for its stunning turquoise-blue water, often compared to Caribbean beaches. Popular for swimming, snorkeling, and watersports, Torch Lake features vibrant sandbars like the iconic Torch Lake Sandbar, a popular gathering spot during summer months. Its unparalleled beauty makes it a must-visit pontoon boating destination.

Enjoy Lake Charlevoix’s Scenic Boating Experience

Lake Charlevoix combines scenic beauty, clear waters, and charming towns such as Charlevoix and Boyne City. This lake is ideal for boaters seeking waterfront dining experiences, boutique shopping, and exploring extensive shorelines. The calm, inviting waters of Lake Charlevoix are perfect for pontoon boat excursions.

Walloon Lake: Serene Boating in Northern Michigan

Walloon Lake offers boaters a quieter atmosphere and stunning views ideal for those seeking tranquility. Its clear waters and picturesque shores provide the perfect backdrop for relaxing pontoon rides, swimming, sunbathing, and peaceful days on the water.

Grand Traverse Bay: A Pontoon Boater’s Paradise

For adventurous boaters, Grand Traverse Bay provides expansive waters, coastal vistas, and islands ready for exploration. Traverse City’s vibrant downtown area offers excellent waterfront dining and shopping opportunities, making it perfect for a full-day or weekend boating adventure.

Essential Pontoon Boating Safety and Preparation

Before exploring Northern Michigan's pontoon boating destinations, ensure your boat is thoroughly inspected, properly maintained, and equipped with essential safety gear. Life jackets, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and communication devices should be onboard to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Check out our boat maintenance checklist for some helpful tips.

Why Pontoon Boats are Perfect for Northern Michigan Lakes

Pontoon boats offer unparalleled stability, spacious layouts, and comfortable seating, making them ideal for families, groups, or leisurely cruises. Their versatility and ease of handling make pontoons the preferred choice for exploring Northern Michigan’s diverse waterways.

Rent or Buy a Pontoon Boat in Northern Michigan

Thinking about renting a jet ski or pontoon boat? Indian River Sports Center offers high-quality Tahoe pontoons available for sale or rent. Our experienced team can assist you in selecting the perfect boat to match your boating style and requirements.

Begin Your Northern Michigan Pontoon Adventure Today

Ready to start your pontoon boating adventure? Indian River Sports Center is your trusted source for pontoon boat rentals, sales, and servicing in Northern Michigan. Contact us today to get started, and make this boating season one to remember!

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Customer Testimonials

Our customers love their experience with us!

"Outstanding customer service before during and after the sale. Great prices and willing to go above and beyond."
Matthew N.
Tahoe Boat Purchase
"Cameron who I think manages service is awesome. Great people. Awesome selection of accessories and gear. Knowledgeable service center. Smooth operation."
Tom H.
Service Department
"The owner and staff are very knowledgeable.  They helped my wife and I pick out snowmobiles that fit our needs.  In addition, he made himself available to me on several occasions as I shopped for a trailer.  I would've bought one from them but, they didn't have one in and couldn't get one in my very short time.  He also provided me information on the trailer I ended up buying which helped me negotiate $500 off of the price I was quoted.  I should also mention we drove 3 hours from down State and past several other dealers just to deal with them.  Very happy with the knowledge, availability of products and deals."
David C.
Snowmobile Purchase
"I am very late in writing this - but I am hoping the saying "better late than never" applies here.
September 2019 I was on a motorcycle trip with a dear friend of mine heading north on I-75 when a link on the chain of my motorcycle locked up and jumped the sprockets - basically putting me in desperate need of help. I was towed to Indian River Sports Center. They quickly diagnosed the situation and were able to locate and source the parts needed fast. They had the parts overnighted, put my repairs as a priority, and me back on the road in less than 48 hours! In addition to this - they helped me find WONDERFUL accommodations close to town within walking distance to good food.
They took care of this tired traveler --- and with my travel companion needing to move on to meetup we were joining, they made me as a solo female feel safe and well taken care of. I respect that and have passed this on to MANY of the women rider sites. Respect to Indian River Sports Center!  PROFESSIONAL! KIND! QUALITY!

I cannot tell you how many times I have referred  Indian River Sports Center and the place I stayed - and how beautiful Indian River is to stay if in the area."
Monique H.
Service Department
"Just rented a couple snowmobiles yesterday. Everyone was absolutely awesome! Very nice staff, got us in and out quick, and competitive prices. Nice facility too, if you need anything at all. We will be renting every year from now on here."
John G.
Snowmobile Rental
"Jeff in sales was great to deal with.  I highly recommend them.  They went above and beyond to make sure I was happy with my purchase.  I purchased a used watercraft and was treated the same as if I was buying a new one. Their customer service is top notch.  Buy with confidence!"
Brian R.
Used Boat Purchase
"Have had several new and used boats my entire life...  Absolutely unmatched service.

Jeff at IRSC called me after he was able to find me a last minute winter storage location.  Short turn around time, so he helped get me completely setup all the way down to coming to my house and picked up the boat for me.  THIS should be the standard in service... not the exception."
Tatem P.
Boat Storage Service
"I was excited to buy a used touring snowmobile and Jeff O from Indian River Power Sports suggested to be patient and he would call when they had the right trade in. A few weeks later he found a “unicorn”! A good as new Pantera LTD. Their service department gave it a nice once over and I picked it up the following week. Great buying experience. I referred my riding buddy and Jeff found him a nice Ski Doo!  The retail store is really nice too!"
MD C.
Used Snowmobile Purchase
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