It’s the time of year to do some trout fishing in Florida! Do you have the tips you need to bag some trout successfully on the St. Johns River? Grab your rod and reel and follow these 7 St. Johns River trout fishing tips.
Now is the time of year to do some trout fishing in Florida.
Follow the Water Currents
Trout love a good hiding spot. Since water currents can create deep pools in the river banks, that is where you’re likely to find trout hanging out. Follow the water currents and look for trout hangouts in deep pools.
Try Trout Fishing in Florida Under Docks
Trout are also notorious for hiding under piers and docks. When you are trout fishing in Florida, try casting some lines in some hard to reach places and see if you can find a hiding place for some hungry trout.
Utilize Dawn and Dusk
Trout love to hang out in their deep water pools together during the hours of dawn and dusk. If you’re looking to find large trout in one place that are ready for a morning or evening snack, take advantage of these hours.
Try some trout fishing in Florida along the St. Johns River.
Try Night Fishing
If you’re a night owl, you should also consider doing some trout fishing in Florida past dusk. Trout are known for burning the midnight oil and like to take the bait when the sun goes down. Remember to be careful and keep your boat lights on.
Go Slowly
It’s important to be patient and move your boat slowly when you are trout fishing in Florida. Stay in one place for a while and be patient before moving on. Never jump on the throttle too fast and cause a big wake or you could scare trout away in other spots further away too.
Use Night Crawlers
If you’re looking for the best live bait to use for trout, look no further than night crawlers. Favorite live bait choices for trout include night crawlers, crayfish and minnows.
Book your next fishing trip today along the St. Johns River at Castaways on the River.
The Silver Spoon Trick
Have you ever heard of the trout silver spoon trick? For some reason, trout are fascinated with biting shiny silver spoon-shaped lures. Find lures that resemble shiny silver spoons to get those trout to bite.
Now it’s time for you to rent a boat at Castaways on the River. The marina can accommodate all of your boat rental needs when you’re trout fishing in Florida. We also offer comfy cottages and motel rooms right along the St. Johns River. Through the end of October, guests staying on site Monday through Friday can receive 50 percent off boat rentals and one night free for those that rent a boat for a full day. This offer isn’t valid on weekends or holidays. Give Castaways on the River a call today at (352) 759-3442 to book your trout fishing trip today!
Summer is still in full swing on the St. Johns River. It’s a great time of year to plan a pontoon boat party while you enjoy the scenery and wildlife from the comfort of a boat. Follow us as we charter your path for the perfect party on the St. Johns River.
Tips on how to plan a pontoon party on the St. Johns River.
Make a Pontoon Party Theme
Consider coming up with a theme for your cruise down the St. Johns River. If you’re planning an upcoming Labor Day weekend pontoon party, consider an American flag theme. Other theme suggestions include:
Nautical
Tropical
Fiesta
Pirate
Game day tailgate with your favorite sports team colors
Prepare a Meal
Pontoon boats are perfect for a lunch or dinner party because they can accommodate up to 12 people. There is enough seating and tables that make pontoon boats the perfect sit down dining boat. Prepare a meal in advance to bring on the boat in a cooler.
Finger foods work best so you have less cleanup to do. Always make sure you bring enough disposable napkins and any utensils you might need. Avoid using glass cups, trays and any other breakable items.
Play Some Games
Do you and your fellow boaters like to play board games or cards? Make sure you bring some games, playing cards and poker chips along. Your party can accommodate more than one game going on at a time because pontoon boats have multiple tables. Make it fun and host a card playing tournament.
Pontoon boats are also a great boat choice for fishing trips with large groups.
Make a Music List
The St. Johns River is a great place to listen to the sound of nature both in the water and in the canopy around the water. We understand though that sometimes a pontoon party needs some tunes.
A great perk of pontoon boat rentals at Castaways on the River is they come equipped with AM/FM radios that come with an iPod connection. So you can listen to your favorite radio station or prepare an iPod playlist before your pontoon party.
Go Swimming in the Springs
The great part about planning a pontoon party in the St. Johns River is you’re close to several natural freshwater springs that constantly spew fresh water at a constant 72 degrees. The fresh water is a great place to cool off and get refreshed during the warm summer months. Bring along some tubes and snorkel equipment to see the marine life up close and personal in the crystal clear water. Read our blog on 7 tips for swimming in freshwater springs to learn more. There are some springs that don’t allow boats to enter so watch the boating signs closely.
Plan a Pontoon Fishing Trip
Pontoon boats are also a great boat choice for fishing. Selecting a 22-foot pontoon boat for a fishing trip gives you and up to 12 fishing partners a comfortable boat with enough room for all of your bait, tackleboxes and coolers.
A 20-foot Harris pontoon boat can still fit up to eight people and works as a great fishing boat too. Those looking for the perfect fishing spot should know pontoon boats are known for their fantastic turning ability. They are easy to maneuver down the St. Johns River.
Your last step is to rent a pontoon boat at Castaways on the River.
Rent a Pontoon Boat
You have all the tips you need now to plan a pontoon party trip on the St. Johns River. Your last step is to rent a pontoon boat at Castaways on the River. The marina can handle all of your boat rental needs. We also offer comfortable cottages and motel rooms so you can stay awhile and enjoy the peaceful St. Johns River. Pick up the phone today and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to book your boat rental adventure today.
Do you crave the great outdoors? Do you prefer staring at the stars at night rather than your ceiling? If you have an urge to be one with nature, it’s time to get outdoors and camp in North Central Florida along the St. Johns River. Known for its natural beauty and a variety of camping sites, the area is a must stop camping destination. Follow us to discover a list of places to camp along the river that will keep you coming back again and again.
Camp along the St. Johns River to enjoy fishing and boating in North Central Florida.
The Florida National Scenic Trail
The Florida National Scenic Trail is a must for you and your fellow campers. The trail consists of 1,300 miles of federally designated land that comes right across North Central Florida near the St. Johns River.
You can’t find a better camping haven in North Central Florida than the Ocala National Forest. Brimming with 607 square miles of nationally protected forest that contains more than 600 lakes, springs and rivers, the forest is a great place to explore nature. Campers can see black bears, deer, birds, manatees and an abundance of other wildlife in the forest from their camp sites.
The St. Johns River is the main attraction while you’re camping in North Central Florida.
RV Campsites Near the River
Are you a camper that still likes to have the luxuries of home at your fingertips? Those that like a little bit of both worlds enjoy the recreational vehicle (RV) life.
Castaways on the River offers two RV sites just steps from the river with 30 amp or 50 amp offerings that include cable, water and sewer.
The Astor Landing RV Resort and the St. Johns River Campground offer campsites that can accommodate the size of any RV or motor home. The sites come equipped with open grills and fire rings for your late night scary stories by the fire with roasted marshmallows.
Juniper Springs Recreation Area
How does the sight of a crystal clear spring to cool off in sound on a hot summer day? Then the Juniper Springs Recreation Area is the campground you should seek out near the St. Johns River. Juniper Springs is one of the oldest recreation areas in the country. It has an onsite campground and hiking trails.
Embrace and enjoy the river by renting a boat and enjoy some fishing and boating at Castaways on the River.
Enjoy the St. Johns River
The St. Johns River is the main attraction while you camp in North Central Florida. Embrace and enjoy the river by renting a boat and enjoy some fishing and boating at Castaways on the River. Are there some members of your camping entourage that prefer the comforts of home? We also offer cottages and motel rooms just steps from the river. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to plan your camping and river trip today!
Summer is still in full swing in Florida and Labor Day weekend is quickly approaching. This is a popular time of year for annual family reunion trips. The best place to hold a summer family reunion adventure trip is in North Central Florida along the St. Johns River in Astor, FL. Follow our tips to plan the perfect family reunion river trip.
The best place to hold a summer family reunion adventure trip is in North Central Florida along the St. Johns River in Astor, FL.
Survey The Family
If you’re in charge of pre-planning the family reunion, the first step is polling the family to get a consensus of where the majority of family members want to go this year and what they want to do. This allows you to pinpoint a location for your next family reunion trip.
Pick a Date
The most important and most time consuming part of planning a family reunion is picking a date that your entire family agrees upon. The larger the family you have the more difficult it is to find a date that works for everyone. The sooner you can pick a date, the better off you will be. Planning 12 months to 18 months out is not too early.
Remind Family Members
As the date draws near for your family reunion, make sure you send save the date notices and reminders to family members. Don’t be pressured to change the date if the majority of the family has already committed to the original date. Stay strong.
Make sure you pick a location that has things to do for both adults and children.
Make the Family Reunion Affordable
It’s important to plan a family reunion trip that’s affordable for everyone in the family. Not all of your family members and their families have the same income or financial resources. Places like Castaways on the River on the St. Johns River have affordable lodging and boat rental opportunities just steps away from the water in a relaxing spot. Make sure it’s a trip that won’t break the bank or force family members to decline the invitation.
Plan For Families
When you’re planning a family reunion, make sure you pick a location that has accommodations and things to do for both adults and children. Outdoor activities like boating, swimming and fishing are great summer family reunion activities that can keep both adults and children happy and spending quality time together.
Enjoy the summer on the St. Johns River by planning a family reunion river trip.
Plan Activities You Can Do Together
Does your family enjoy the sport of fishing? Consider a location on the river that has amenities for lodging and boating opportunities. For those anglers that take the sport seriously, consider setting up competitive fishing tournament teams among family members. Have fun setting up fishing tournament rules and prizes. Guess what the best part of a family fishing tournament is for the winning team? Bragging rights in the family for the entire year!
Rent a Boat
It’s time to have some fun on the St. Johns River with your family! There’s not a better way to have fun on the river than by renting a boat at Castaways on the River. Your marina rental boat operator has all the fishing and swimming spot tips at freshwater springs you need for a great trip on the river. Castaways on the River also offers quaint cottages and motel rooms for your entire family during your family reunion stay. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your summer family reunion river trip today!
The St. Johns River is home to some of Florida’s most beautiful freshwater springs in the entire state. Crystal clear water regulated by Mother Nature at a cool 72 degrees is what you will enjoy when you visit North Central Florida. Follow these seven tips when you go swimming in the freshwater springs.
We have the seven tips you need to enjoy crystal clear freshwater springs in Florida.
Use Designated Paths
When visiting a spring, use clearly marked and established trails, boardwalks and paths to access the springs and canoe launch ramps. Foot traffic can alter the native plants and protected areas.
Bring Proper Equipment
You can’t come to a Florida freshwater spring without taking advantage of the crystal clear water. Be sure to bring the following items to enhance the quality of your visit:
A good mask and snorkel
Water shoes
A tube to float in
A waterproof card case and bag to hold your belongings
Beach towels
Stay Clear of the Bottom
We know how clear the water is and how exciting it is to see the marine life and vegetation all the way on the bottom of the springs when you’re diving or snorkeling. Avoid trampling the vegetation and stirring up the sediment at the bottom of the springs though. You’ll damage the ecosystem and disrupt the marine life.
Dispose of Trash Properly
The freshwater springs near the St. Johns River are natural treasures that park rangers strive to protect. Please remember to dispose of your trash properly. Cans, bottles, cigarette butts, plastic bags and more harms the water quality and wildlife that make the springs so beautiful.
Avoid trampling the vegetation and stirring up sediment at the bottom of freshwater springs.
Use Caution When Anchoring
Are you taking a boat on a trip to a freshwater spring? Use caution when using boat ramps and anchoring near the springs. Anchors disrupt the vegetation and cloud the water so make sure you are anchoring in proper locations. Also be advised there are some springs that don’t allow boats to enter. Read our blog to get up to speed on the proper boating signs along the St. Johns River.
Look for Wildlife at Freshwater Springs
While fresh spring water almost seems like it comes from a water park because of its amazing clarity, always remember that you’re sharing the springs with wildlife besides fish and turtles. The springs are a popular manatee sighting spot in the winter and are home to many other forms of wildlife. Read our blog to find out everything you need to know about wildlife near the St. Johns River.
The springs are a popular manatee sighting spot in the winter months.
Plan Your Trip to the Springs Properly
North Central Florida’s freshwater springs, which stay a constant 72 degrees all year long, are popular for tourists and residents of the area alike, especially when temperatures climb into the 90s in the summer. Be advised the springs can be quite popular on summer weekends and long holiday weekends. Plan your trip to the springs earlier in the day or take a weekday trip if you’re looking to take advantage of the solitude of the springs.
Read a firsthand account of visitors utilizing all that De Leon Springs State Park has to offer here.
Read up on the local spring sensations you should visit near the St. Johns River with our 6 Hidden Gems blog.
Rent a Boat
No trip to the area’s freshwater springs is complete without renting a boat on the St. Johns River. Castaways on the River offers a fleet of rental boat options for your trip. Your marina rental boat operator will provide you with the tips and direction you need to navigate your rental boat to some amazing freshwater springs. Castaways on the River also offers quaint cottages and motel rooms with views of the St. Johns River. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your summer trip on the river today!
Who says you have to be a fisher to be out on a boat enjoying the St. Johns River? There are plenty of reasons non fishers will enjoy the water and a boat just as much as fishers who enjoy casting a line. We’ve got the six reasons why everyone should rent a boat.
Enjoy a boat cruise or boat party with friends on the St. Johns River.
Water Access Rules
More than 90 percent of Americans live less than an hour away from a body of water that’s navigable by a boat. There’s no reason you should be left out. Get on that river and enjoy some time in a boat as much as possible.
Affordable Activity
Owning a boat is an expensive hobby. The maintenance, upkeep, storage and gasoline for a boat can get pricey. That’s why renting a boat is an affordable option.
All you have to do is take the boat for the day at an agreed upon rental price and let the marina rental operator handle the rest. A boat rental will be ready for you when you have time to use it and you don’t have to worry about anything other than reserving it, using it and bringing it back to the marina for others to worry about its maintenance.
It’s time to rent a boat with confidence at Castaways on the River.
Boating is a Bonding Experience
A study by the National Marine Manufacturers Association reveals that relaxing on a boat enjoying the scenery ranks higher as a boat activity than boat fishing. Enjoy a boat cruise or boat party with friends and family.
Good Exercise
Boating can be good exercise. Besides the fresh air you’ll be enjoying, you can enjoy swimming, hiking and nature watching both in and around the body of water you’re traveling in.
Are you a boating novice? No problem. You have to sign waivers as part of your boat rental agreement stating that you have the proper identification to operate a boat by your local marina rental.
Now that you’re prepared and excited to enjoy all that boating can do for you as a non fisher, it’s time to rent a boat with confidence at Castaways on the River. We offer cottages and motel rooms right next to a marina full of boats on the St. Johns River. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your summer trip on the river today!
The St. Johns River is one of the best freshwater fishing spots in Florida. Its tranquil, idyllic setting in north central Florida offers anglers great fishing opportunities in a peaceful setting. Freshwater fishing tops saltwater fishing for many reasons. Let us count the ways here with our top 8 reasons freshwater fishing on the river is the way to go.
We have top 8 reasons freshwater fishing on the river tops saltwater fishing.
Less Wear and Tear
Freshwater fishing is easier on your boat and equipment. Why? Saltwater takes a toll on your boat, motor, tackle and other equipment. Those that strictly fish in saltwater have to repair and/or replace equipment and boats that becomes corroded from the salty sea.
Cheaper Costs
You need more fuel to go on fishing trips miles from shore on saltwater fishing excursions. You also need bigger boats that can withstand the saltwater and the sea. So if you want to reduce your fishing costs on everything from fuel bills to boat payments and tackle costs, stick with freshwater fishing.
Smooth Sailing
For those that don’t handle a bumpy boat ride very well, freshwater fishing is the way to go. You don’t have to worry about wave action and Dramamine on the St. Johns River.
You Know What You’re Going to Catch
When you’re fishing in saltwater, you don’t know if you have hooked a Grouper or Jaws. If you’re seeking dependable fishing that leaves little to the imagination in terms of what you are going to hook on the line, stick with freshwater fishing.
Reduce your fishing tackle and lures costs by going freshwater fishing.
Less Injury Prone
Catching bigger fish in saltwater comes with a greater risk of potential fishing injuries when trying to control your catch. If you’re going fishing with little ones or don’t want to risk an injury fighting a fish with razor-sharp teeth and a powerful tail, you’ll want to stay on the river.
Dependable Bait
Saltwater fishing has so many bait options. Shrimp, soft crabs, eels. The list is endless depending on which fish you’re trying to catch in the sea. If you like your tried and true worms and lures, you’re a freshwater fisher.
Less Complicated Fishing Tactics
There are so many ways to catch saltwater fish. Spear fishing, deep sea fishing and charter fishing just to name a few. If you want to save on equipment costs and fish on a boat or off of a dock peacefully, the St. Johns River is calling your name.
It’s time to relax and go fishing on the St. Johns River.
Less Intense Fishing
Saltwater fishing is intense and not for the faint of heart. Many saltwater fish hit the bait and your line with force. You need strength and endurance to reel them in, an experience that can take more than an hour depending on the size of the fish. Freshwater fishing is less intense and doesn’t typically require help from others to reel in your catch.
The St. Johns River is your go to hot spot for fishing, boating and enjoying wildlife. But what if we told you there were other must-visit spots along the St. Johns River that are very much worth your time and exploration? These six hidden gems on the St. Johns River give you even more incentive to visit the river.
Salt Springs in Ocala National Forest is one of many springs that attract visitors each year.
The Ocala National Forest
The Ocala National Forest is 607 square miles of nationally protected forest that’s full of more than 600 lakes, springs and rivers. It’s a fantastic place to explore nature and enjoy a panoramic view of wildlife. Depending on the time of year, you can see bears, deer, manatee and a lot of birds and other marine life in the forest,
There are hiking trails, canoeing and kayaking opportunities and campgrounds to enjoy inside the forest, which runs along the St. Johns River.
Looking for some special spots in the Ocala National Forest to enjoy?
Check out these spots:
Alexander Springs Recreation Area is one of only 27 first-magnitude springs in Florida. The water is a constant 72 degrees and some of the clearest water you will ever swim in. It is surrounded by palms, making it a tropical swimming experience in the middle of a forest. Canoe and kayak rentals are available.
Mill Dam Recreation Area lies in the shade of the 168-acre Mill Dam Lake. It has a large swimming area and a beach that’s even accessible by wheelchairs.
Lake Dorr Recreation Area sits under a shade of oak trees and includes a boat ramp, a picnic area overlooking the lake and RV camping.
You can also impress your friends with these fun facts:
Ocala National Forest is the southernmost forest in the continental United States
It’s the second largest nationally protected forest in the United States
It’s the oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River.
Florida National Scenic Trail
The Florida National Scenic Trail is a 1,300-mile federally-designated recreation trail that doesn’t allow motorized vehicles on its path. It crisscrosses its way near the St. Johns River, offering those that travel wonderful opportunities to enjoy different landscapes, wildlife and bird watching opportunities.
Silver Glen Springs is home to manatee sightings in the winter months.
The St. Johns River is home to some of Florida’s most stunning freshwater springs, which sit along the Ocala National Forest.
Touting crystal clear water that stays a constant 72 degrees, the springs are popular for locals and tourists alike. Popular activities in the springs include swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and canoeing. You’ll be amazed with up close and personal view of the wildlife and underwater vegetation you’ll see in the clear water.
Put these springs on your must-see list:
Salt Springs is home to a variety of turtles, Blue Crabs and bass. Motorized boats aren’t permitted here so plan on renting a canoe or kayak.
Silver Glen Springs is home to manatee sightings in the winter months. The springs’ two vents spew 65 million gallons of water per day!
Juniper Springs is one of the oldest in the area and is an access point to the Florida National Scenic Trail.
De Leon Springs is seeping with history. Native Mayaca Indians inhabited the area for more than 6,000 years.
Florida’s Black Bear Scenic Byway
If you want to catch a glimpse of a Florida Black Bear, the nationally designated Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway is the place to see one. This byway houses the most heavily concentrated Florida Black Bear populations in the state. Keep your camera handy because it’s common to see a black bear or two in the spring, summer and fall. The east west segment of the byway takes visitors along State Road 40 near the St. Johns River and through the Ocala National Forest and the Lake George State Forest.
Glimpses of a Florida Black Bear can be found on the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway.
Lake George
The St. Johns River is linked to 14 lakes. The largest lake is Lake George, which offers anglers many opportunities to catch fish and has wonderful bass fishing opportunities. Lake George is the second largest lake in Florida behind Lake Okeechobee. Once home to an operational U.S. military bombing and aerial mining range, the lake today is full of various species of fish, migratory birds and other wildlife. The lake also has a blue crab population that is big enough to keep a local fishery running.
Do you want to see manatees? You can get your fill of them every winter at Blue Springs State Park.
Blue Springs Park, a more than 2,600-acre park and manatee hideout, is the perfect place to spot Florida’s large, lovable sea cows. The park is a designated manatee refuge and is a well-known popular winter hangout for West Indian Manatees. During manatee season, which runs from mid-November through March, hundreds of sea cows can be viewed hanging out in the spring’s warmer constant 73-degree temperature water staying warm for the winter.
The park has air-conditioned cabins, fishing, canoeing, boating and scuba and snorkeling opportunities.
Enjoy the Summer on the St. Johns River
Now that you know all the hidden gems on the St. Johns River, all you need to do is rent a boat at Castaways on the River. We also offer quaint cottages and motel rooms that are just steps away from a dock full of rental boat options. However, please note that not all destinations are reachable from Castaways on the River. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan you summer trip on the river today!
Summer is in full swing and the St. Johns River and the fish that call it home are calling your name. Need a quick refresher on fishing safety? Here are 8 safety tips you need to know to have a fun and safe summer fishing trip on the St. Johns River.
We have 8 safety tips for a safe summer fishing trip on the St. Johns River.
First Aid Fishing Safety
Accidents happen when you are fishing on the river. Always make sure you carry a fishing first aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, disinfecting liquid and antibiotic cream.
Did you hook your skin instead of a fish? Follow these steps to remove a fishing hook from your skin:
Cut the hook away from the rest of the fishing lure.
Put a loop of fishing line around the bend of the hook and then hold down the eye and shank of the hook, pressing it lightly to the skin.
Grasp the loop in the line and with a sharp yank, pull the hook free.
Treat small cuts with adhesive bandages and antiseptic. For large or deep cuts, use clean gauze pad to reduce the bleeding.
Fish Hook Accident Must Read Tip: Never remove a hook from around a person’s eyes, face, the back of the hands or anywhere near ligaments tendons or blood vessels. Seek medical treatment to remove those hooks to prevent further injury.
Wear a Life Jacket
If you’re on board a boat, wear a life jacket. Make sure you have life jackets for each passenger.
Respect No Fishing Signs and Wildlife
Don’t fish in areas that are clearly marked as no fishing zones. These areas are off limits for a reason to protect wildlife and the river’s vegetation.
Never grab a fish near the hook because the fish could wiggle the hook into your skin.
Bring Safety Items
Bring along items that keep you safe. Some of these items include:
Drinking water
Flashlights
Maps
A cell phone
Spray, Spray, Spray
Make sure you bring along both bug spray and sunblock. This will protect your skin and keep the pesky mosquitoes away.
Coordinate Your Clothing
Wear thin layers of clothing that you can shed as the weather warms up. Wear proper footwear that protects your feet from loose hooks and a hat to protect you from the sun.
Know Your Knives
Keep your fishing knives sharp and cover the blade when it’s not in use to avoid unnecessary injuries.
Make sure no one is behind you when you are making a cast.
Hook Happenings
Be careful when baiting and removing hooks. Before you make a cast, make sure no one is behind you. Once you catch a fish, never grab it near the hook because the fish could wiggle the hook into your skin.
Book Your St. Johns River Trip
Now that you are equipped with the fishing safety tips you need to have a fun and safe summer boating trip on the St. Johns River, all you need to do now is rent a boat at Castaways on the River. We have cottages and motel rooms right on the river so you can stay awhile and enjoy the natural and peaceful surroundings. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your summer fishing trip today!
Summer is a great time of year to schedule a fishing trip on the crystal clear fresh water of the St. Johns River. All you need to do is schedule time to relax and unwind on the river while making sure you bring along these 10 must have items for your St. Johns River fishing trip.
Bring your favorite rod, a tacklebox and lures for your fishing trip adventure.
1. Fishing Trip Rods and a Tacklebox
Fishers don’t leave home without their favorite fishing rod. So in your excitement to head to the St. Johns River, don’t forget to bring your rod and a tacklebox. One rod per person should suffice.
2. Navigational Tools
Don’t leave home without your GPS, which allows you to punch in coordinates to find the perfect fishing spot. Do your homework before you leave for your trip. Access Google Earth to find coordinates from a topographical map online that look like good fish hangouts. Then you just plug in the coordinates when you’re on the river and you’re off and running to the precise spot. Read our blog on finding the perfect fishing spot on the St. John’s River for some hints.
3. Fishing License
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) requires Florida residents and visitors to have a freshwater fishing license. There are FWC fishing license exemptions that visitors and residents can qualify for though. One of the most efficient ways to obtain a fishing license is by downloading the Fish|Hunt Application that allows the ability to renew, purchase, and store your license.
4. Binoculars
The St. Johns River is teeming with more than just fish. It’s full of turtles, alligators, birds, manatees and other wildlife that live in and around the river and the Ocala National Forest. Binoculars are a must to truly enjoy the nature the St. Johns River produces for you from the comfort of your boat.
Binoculars are a must to truly enjoy the nature the St. Johns River produces for you.
5. Snorkel and a Mask
Did you know the St. Johns River is home to some beautiful crystal clear fresh water springs created by Mother Nature? The springs are full of colorful fish and other aquatic wildlife? Don’t forget your snorkel and mask so you can take advantage of snorkeling in cool crystal clear water that will enhance your snorkeling adventure.
6. Cooler
It’s hot in Florida. Don’t forget to bring a cooler full of water and other beverages to quench your thirst on your fishing trip. Here at Castaways On The River, we offer ice for sale, ensuring you have everything you need to keep your days on the river cool and enjoyable!
7. Waterproof Bags
Fishers get wet, even when they don’t intend to. Use sealable plastic bags to secure your wallet, phone and other items you don’t want to get soaked.
Don’t forget your snorkel so you can take advantage of snorkeling in cool fresh water springs.
8. Polarized Sunglasses
There is a reason they call Florida “The Sunshine State.” Polarized sunglasses are essential for your St. Johns River fishing trip for two reasons. They will protect your eyes from the sun and allow you see down deeper to find fish beds where fish are congregating.
9. First Aid Kit
When boats are moving and hooks are flying, sometimes accidents happen. Friends can get hit on the head by a low hanging branch, items in the boat can move around if they aren’t secure and even avid fishers can cut their hand or have an unfortunate fishing accident. Don’t forget the first aid kit. A first aid kit can easily take care of an injury that needs medical attention and help prolong your fishing trip instead of cutting it short.
10. Camera
You just caught the biggest fish of your life but no one was there to witness it. Don’t forget to bring a camera or have a good cell phone camera handy to capture evidence of The Big One. The camera gives your fishing trip story credibility when your friends start to scoff.
