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 the awesome 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 proudly 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 unmatched 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 ShoreStation are the leaders in speed, safety, and reliability.
Solar power options with wireless remote control and phone app integration.
Clean, minimal cable design for reduced wear and corrosion.
Premium aluminum construction that’s built to withstand Michigan’s coldest winters and warmest summers.
Revolution Canopy and ShoreScreen for ultimate 360° 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.
Sturdy V-brace frame is the most rigid available while still allowing easy access to the boat.
Modular design with the main cradle beam lowering to 9.5 inches from the ground, allowing for smooth operations in less water than other vertical boat lifts.
Quiet, smooth operation with optional 12V solar power and wireless remote.
Maxis™ Canopy with 32″ of additional side coverage over standard canopy fabrics providing even more protection for your boat.
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 perfect 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.
👉 Ready to find the right lift for your waterfront?
Inquire here or stop by our showroom to compare models, get expert advice, and discover exclusive offseason pricing on ShoreStation and FLOE lifts.