The Boardman River: Fishing close to Traverse City
Use Garfield Road as a starting point, it's in the middle of TC
Shumsky Road Access: take Garfield Rd south out of town until you reach River Road. Turn Right and go about 3 1/2 miles to Shumsky Road. Watch closely for a small road/access sign. Turn Left onto Shumsky Rd. and soon you will find a public access site. Comfortable wading with good fishing both up and down stream. Private property limits other access in this fine stretch.
Below Brown Bridge Dam: Take Garfield Rd. to River Road. Turn Left - cross the next road... very soon you will cross a small bridge. Park near the bridge and enter the Boardman on the upstream side. A nice wade through a short stretch in the "Brown Bridge Quiet Area". You can wade up to the dam, exit at the steps and walk the road back to your car. Or park at the dam and do the reverse. I prefer to wade up and down stream. Easy wading, a very attractive natural area and a fine spot for kids & beginners.
Above Brown Bridge Dam: For a more solitary experience, you can continue from this small bridge over the Boardman.. and take Brown Bridge Rd (a dirt road) at least 1/2 mile or so upstream of the dam pond. Keep watching on your left and pick a likely pull-off.. a hike through the woods on a well used path will get you to the river. Some trails will get you into nice stretches of the upper Boardman.... Continue on the road upstream; check out Ranch Rudolf on the river and the fishing access at "Scheck's" and the "Forks". Easy wading, medium exertion. (you can use this route to connect with Supply Rd. beyond the Forks and you're on your way to the Manistee)
For more information on these and other rivers, you should check with Streamside Orvis, 231-938-5337 or, The Northern Angler, 231-933-4730. All are well-stocked stores with sound advice and guide services.