Launching a legacy on the Chippewa River

Mike Anderson spent 35 years working in the Central Michigan University Police Department before retiring in 2018. However in 1995, he began looking ahead to what would become his next adventure: running a rental business that would offer kayaks, canoes, and tubes for community members to enjoy floating down the scenic Chippewa River. 

The idea for Chippewa River Outfitters took hold in 1995 when Anderson’s father was eager to invest in a new venture. With family ties in the water recreation industry in Iron River, they consulted with these relatives, leading to the launch of Chippewa River Outfitters in Mt. Pleasant in 1996. 

Now nearly three decades later, Anderson’s “retirement gig” has continued to be a thriving seasonal business. 

This summer marks Anderson’s 29th season operating Chippewa River Outfitters. 

“I’ve learned, you know, starting this by ourselves,” shares Anderson of his entrepreneurial journey with a smile. “I’ve learned for 29 years. Every year I learn something new.”

Over the years, this commitment to continuous learning has shaped his approach to the business and his relationship with customers.

“Customer service is what we strive for,” he says, adding, “with a friendly smile.” 

Chippewa River Outfitters offers over 180 rental items—from kayaks and canoes to tubes and floats for coolers—plus life jackets and transportation. They call it an all-inclusive full-service experience. 

What does the journey entail? Chippewa River Outfitters drives renters to various launch sites along the Chippewa River, depending on how long of a trip they’d prefer from two to four-and-a-half hours. After their float or paddle ends at Meridian Park, they pick them up, and drive renters back to their business site.

The journey starts and ends at their 3763 S. Lincoln Road location in Mt. Pleasant. 

“We tell people to look for the giant red canoe in the front yard,” says Anderson of the 30-foot structure signifying the business’s address. 

Courtney Jerome / Epicenter Mt. Pleasant
On any given Saturday through the summer, Anderson estimates 150 people enjoy their excursions on Chippewa River with their rentals. 

Anderson enjoys welcoming new customers and introducing them to the Chippewa River. He’s also energized when he sees familiar repeat customers.  

Just recently, he hosted a bunch of CMU alumni during their reunion weekend. As an alumni himself, he takes pride in connecting with fellow graduates, sharing not only the beauty of the river but also the shared memories of their time at Central Michigan University.

Groups of children, such as boy scout groups, and kids with families are also noteworthy guests for Anderson. 

“Knock on wood, for 29 years, we’ve never had an injury for adults or kids,” he says. 

Courtney Jerome / Epicenter Mt. PleasantEvery Chippewa River Outfitters rental item is washed and sanitized between each use.
In addition to daily summer rentals, and September weekends (weather permitting), Anderson offers unique Chippewa River experiences. 

One of which is coming up Aug. 9—a moonlight paddle. This monthly guided paddle is scheduled for Saturdays closest to the full moon, in the evenings. Paddlers meet at dusk, traverse down the river with glow sticks on their boats and head lamps to light the way. At the end of the trip, hot dogs and s’mores are served at Chippewa River Outfitters. 

Another offering Anderson claims is “very remote and very rustic” are canoe and/or kayak trips that include overnight camping at Deerfield Nature Park. 

“The camping is done at Deerfield Park at Beaver Lodge Campground,” Anderson explains. “They make their camping arrangements for Deerfield Park, and then they come here. We transport them to the put-in point, which is at Coldwater Road Bridge.”

“The only way to get to the campgrounds is to come down river with all your stuff, or hike one mile with all your stuff to the campground; there’s no vehicle access,” he says. 

After overnight camping, people pack up their gear and paddle down the river from Deerfield, and Chippewa River Outfitters picks them up at Meridian Park. 

Courtney Jerome / Epicenter Mt. PleasantThis summer, over 120 tubes, 29 kayaks, 22 canoes, and 10 cooler tubes are available to rent at Chippewa River Outfitters.
Reservations for all rentals and experiences are required by calling 989-772-5474. Information on rates, schedules, events, and a river map can be found at chipoutfitters.com.