How to Choose the Right Boat Lift for Your Michigan Waterfront

Choosing the Right Lift for Your Lake Life

Owning a waterfront property in Michigan is all about maximizing time on the water — not fighting with your equipment. Whether you're up north on Torch Lake or in Southwest Michigan on a small local lake, the right boat lift makes all the difference in protecting your investment and simplifying your boating season.

There are plenty of brands on the market — ShoreStation, FLOE, CraftLander, Bullman, ShoreMaster, Lakeshore Products, Max Lifts, Midlander, Great Lakes Lift, and Starr Lifts — but not all are created equal. At Beach Bumz Marine, we focus on long-lasting, high-quality systems that deliver reliability season after season. That's why we offer ShoreStation and FLOE boat lifts.

Why ShoreStation Leads the Way

ShoreStation has been a Michigan favorite for decades — and for good reason. Built by Midwest Industries in Iowa, these lifts are known for their strength, smooth operation, and minimal maintenance.

One of the standout options is the ShoreStation hydraulic lift, offering:

• Fast, effortless lifting with the push of a button
• Solar power options with wireless remote control and phone app integration
• Clean, minimal cable design for reduced wear and corrosion
• Premium aluminum construction built to withstand Michigan's coldest winters and warmest summers
• Revolution Canopy and ShoreScreen for 360-degree protection from the elements

These lifts are ideal for anyone who wants reliability without constant maintenance — simply drive on, lift, and enjoy your day.

FLOE Boat Lifts: Innovation and Ease of Use

FLOE is another leader when it comes to innovative, easy-to-use boat lift systems. Known for their patented Easy-Level system, FLOE lifts make installation and leveling incredibly simple — even in deeper or uneven lake bottoms.

Key benefits of FLOE lifts include:

• Lightweight yet durable aluminum frames for longevity
• A sturdy V-brace frame that is highly rigid while still allowing easy access to the boat
• Modular design with the main cradle beam lowering to 9.5 inches from the ground, allowing smooth operation in less water than other vertical boat lifts
• Quiet, smooth operation with optional 12V solar power and wireless remote
• Maxis Canopy with 32 inches of additional side coverage over standard canopy fabrics

Whether you're docking a wakeboard boat or a pontoon, FLOE's design ensures years of dependable use — and less time adjusting or tinkering.

Hydraulic vs. Manual Lifts

When deciding between hydraulic and manual lifts, consider how often you're on the water.

• Hydraulic lifts, like ShoreStation's, are ideal for frequent boaters who value convenience and speed.
• Manual or winch-driven lifts, offered by both FLOE and ShoreStation, are cost-effective and reliable for smaller boats or less frequent use.

At Beach Bumz, we help customers weigh these options based on boat size, lake depth, shoreline conditions, and daily use habits — because the right setup is never one-size-fits-all.

Our Take at Beach Bumz Marine

We've seen firsthand what separates a quality lift from one that only lasts a few seasons before serious maintenance. While there are many good brands offered in Michigan, we believe ShoreStation and FLOE deliver the best balance of longevity, performance, and innovation.

Whether you're upgrading your current setup or starting from scratch, our team can help you choose a lift that's built for your lake and your lifestyle — and that keeps your boat protected for years to come.