Muskegon River Fishing: Tips and Access at Besemer Park

Charles Besemer Muskegon River Park is a public boat and shore-fishing access immediately below Croton Dam in Newaygo County. Michigan DNR identifies the site as a Consumers Energy and Croton Township access at 43.435561, -85.66678.

Boat launch, parking and shore access

• A steep, paved boat ramp is on the west side of Croton Drive.
• Trailer parking is available on both the west and east sides of the road.
• Shore-fishing access is available on both sides of Croton Drive, with a walkway beneath the road bridge.
• The North Country Trail follows roughly three-quarters of a mile of public river frontage downstream from the ramp.

Accessible fishing facilities

From the west-side parking area, a barrier-free path descends to a fishing platform below the dam. A separate fishing pier sits on the south side of the river and is reached by traveling a short distance south on Croton Drive.

Fishing and current regulations

The Muskegon River below Croton Dam supports seasonal trout, salmon and steelhead fishing, but run timing and legal methods can change with water conditions and the regulation year. Check the DNR’s Central Lake Michigan fisheries information and current Michigan Fishing Regulations before fishing. The 2026 regulations remain in effect through March 31, 2027, and the DNR’s trout-regulations map should be used to confirm the rules for the exact river section.

The paved ramp is steep, so inspect conditions before backing a trailer and use extra caution when the surface is wet or icy. River current can be strong below a hydroelectric dam; changing flow, cold water and submerged structure can create hazards for boaters and wading anglers.

For another public access farther downstream on the same river, compare the route and conditions at the Holton–Duck Lake Road access.

Directions

From the M-37 and M-82 intersection on the north side of Newaygo, follow Croton Drive east for about 6 miles to the bridge just downstream from Croton Dam. The access road is on the northwest side of the bridge; upstream access is available from Swan Road on the northeast side.