News & Fun in Michigan
Home of the Bay Port Fish Sandwich Festival. Bay Port was settled in 1851 by Carl H. Heisterman. It was first named “Geneva” and later “Wildfowl Port”. The post office was relocated here from Ora Labora in 1872. Today this tiny town has a population under 500.
Carl Peets was a familiar name along the Pigeon River in Caseville during the postwar years, known for running daily fishing trips into Saginaw Bay. His charter service drew locals and tourists alike—until a deadly explosion aboard his boat, Panteramarina, changed …
The 1800s pamphlet promotes Bay Port resort, highlighting transportation via Flint & Pere Marquette Railroad, luxurious accommodations, fresh water sources, and recreational activities. It showcases Bay Port’s appeal as an accessible summer destination with scenic views and high standards of service.
Michigan’s Upper Thumb has interesting sites and things to do beyond our great beaches. Driving along M-25 along the shore we found some downright interesting and unique roadside attractions that dont cost a dime to see.
The story of the luxurious Bay Port Hotel and the railway resort era in the late 1800s was short lived.
Was the untimely demise of one of its guests the cause if its downfall?
Two duck hunters were rescued after their boat capsized in Wild Fowl Bay due to strong winds. One hunter clung to the partially submerged vessel while the other swam ashore. Emergency services coordinated a swift rescue, and both men declined medical treatment after being evaluated. The incident highlights the importance of preparedness and safety on the water.
The Bay Port Fish Sandwich Festival is the granddaddy of them all. Since 1978 folks come in and lined up for a fish sandwich that “takes two hands to hold one.
The R.L. Gillingham Fish Company, established in 1886, played a key role in Bay Port, Michigan’s development as a major commercial fishing port. Overcoming setbacks like a fire and economic challenges, the company left a lasting legacy. Today, its influence is evident in the Bay Port Historic Commercial Fishing District.
It turns out you don’t have to have an expensive boat to get access to great fishing on Saginaw Bay. We cover about a half dozen spots we have personally fished and visited near Bay Port.
