Complete Local Guide
The Au Sable is the reason people fall in love with Oscoda. World-class trout water, easy family floats, and salmon runs that draw anglers from every state. Here is how to plan a day on the river from the lakehouse.
The Basics
The Au Sable River flows 138 miles across northern Michigan before spilling into Lake Huron right in Oscoda. Its lower stretch, from Foote Dam to the river mouth, is a nine-mile ribbon of cold, clean water that draws paddlers, tubers, and anglers all summer long.
From Oscoda Lakehouse on Van Etten Lake, every launch, livery, and fishing access on this page is within a short drive. Pack a cooler, grab a rod, and be on the water in under fifteen minutes.
Canoeing, Kayaking & Tubing
The lower Au Sable is one of the most forgiving float rivers in Michigan. Wide, gentle, and almost always perfect temperature. Two to four hours of drifting past cedar banks, sandbars, and the occasional bald eagle.
CANOES · KAYAKS · TUBES
Family-run livery a mile from the river mouth. Half-day and full-day floats, tubing trips on the lower river, and shuttle service included with every rental.
CANOES · KAYAKS · CAMPING
Multi-day float trips through the AuSable River Canoe Marathon route. Best for experienced paddlers looking for an overnight adventure.
Launches & Access Points
FLATWATER · FISHING
Wide impoundment above Foote Dam. Popular for bass, pike, and walleye. Paved ramp, easy parking, and a great sunset paddle spot.
Open in Google MapsPADDLE · WADE FISHING
Classic put-in below Foote Dam. Cold, clear water and steady current. Prime stretch for steelhead in spring and fall.
Open in Google MapsPADDLE · WADE FISHING
Deep, slow bend halfway between Foote Dam and Oscoda. Gravel launch, good bank access, favored by fly anglers.
Open in Google MapsPADDLE · BEACH · PIER FISHING
Where the Au Sable meets Lake Huron. Sandy beach, pier fishing for salmon and steelhead in season, and easy kayak takeout.
Open in Google MapsFishing The Au Sable
The upper Au Sable is fly-fishing royalty. Wild brown, brook, and rainbow trout on cold, spring-fed water. Below Foote Dam, the lower river turns into one of the best salmon and steelhead runs in the Great Lakes.
Spring · March to May
Summer · June to August
Fall · September to November
Winter · December to February
A Michigan fishing license is required. Regulations differ above and below Foote Dam. Check the DNR site before your trip.
Your Home Base
Oscoda Lakehouse sleeps eight on Van Etten Lake with a private dock, four kayaks, a game room, and a fire pit. Fish the Au Sable at dawn, tube it in the afternoon, and be back on the lake for sunset.