5 Tips for a Romantic River Trip

If you’re looking for something different to do with someone who loves the outdoors as much as you do, we have just the trip for you.

Below are 5 tips for a romantic river trip on the St. Johns River for Couples Appreciation Month that will have you coming back again and again to enjoy the natural beauty of the St. Johns River in Central Florida.

couple fishing on the river
Catching fish and enjoying each other’s company on the St. Johns River is a great idea for Couples Appreciation Month.

Lure your Partner With a Fishing Trip

Imagine the peace and serenity of a quiet day on the river, catching fish and enjoying each other’s company on the crystal clear water of the St. Johns River. Spring is a great time to catch fish. If your loved one isn’t an angler but is interested in taking up your hobby, you’re in luck. This weekend you can take advantage of Florida freshwater license free fishing days. So grab the tackle boxes and rods and get moving.

Boating on the River

You don’t have to enjoy fishing to enjoy the St. Johns River together. Rent a boat and spend the day on the river enjoying the wildlife and each other’s company. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy your surroundings as you and your loved one spend quality time on the river.

Rent a Cottage

Stay awhile and enjoy a romantic weekend on the St. Johns River. There are plenty of quaint cottages and motel room options, including our cottage and motel room options, that allow couples to settle in for the weekend, relax in the evenings and even fry up that day’s catch from your fishing adventure.

couple on the river
Enjoying the beauty of the St. Johns River and looking for wildlife is a great way to spend quality time with your loved one.

Wildlife Watching

You’ll see more species of wildlife on the St. Johns River than you will at the beach. Enjoy a day on the boat with your special someone looking for manatees, alligators catching some sun along the river shoreline and blue crabs. If you’re adventurous, get off the boat and head inland where you may see some deerr even a Florida black bear in the Ocala National Forest.

This is also a great time of year for bird watching on the St. Johns River as birds migrate north. You’re likely to see bald eagles, white pelicans, sandhill cranes, wood ducks and other species enjoying the river.

Soothing Springs will Relax You

Did you know that you’re near some of Florida’s most beautiful warm water natural springs when you visit the St. Johns River in Central Florida? The constant 72-degree water springs disperse crystal clear water for those couples looking to unwind. Grab a raft or a tube and enjoy the water and serenity of the area’s freshwater springs.

couple on a romantic river trip at sunset
Enjoying a sunset on the St. Johns River is a great way to enjoy the river’s natural beauty.

Watch the Sun Rise and Set Over the River

The beach isn’t the only place to see a beautiful sunset in Florida. The sun rising and setting over the St. Johns River is a site to behold with the natural beauty of the area reflected in the river while the sky turns hues of orange and pink. If watching the sunset together is on your “romantic to do list” you won’t want to miss this.

At Castaways on the River, we offer everything you need to plan the perfect romantic trip on the St. Johns River. We offer cottages with access to all of the features on the river. You can also rent a boat or a Jet ski. Pick up the phone and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect romantic getaway on the river.

How to Choose the Best Boat Rental

How to Choose the Best Boat Rental

There’s a well known saying for those that live near the water when it comes to boating. “The best boat to have is your neighbor’s boat.” We all love boats but they’re expensive to maintain.

That’s why renting a boat on the St. Johns River this spring to enjoy the sparkling water, whether it’s for a lazy river cruise or for your next fishing trip, is a GREAT idea. We’ll show you how to choose the best boat rental for your next river adventure at Castaways on the River.

Pontoon Boat Cruising is Fun

kids on a pontoon boat rental
Pontoon boats can comfortably fit a family and their belongings for a river cruise.

We know what you’re thinking. Grandpa made his own pontoon boat with a plywood deck, some steel pontoons and a metal fence wrapped around it. But these aren’t your grandfather’s pontoon boats.

A 22-foot cruising pontoon boat with a 50 horsepower motor can pack passengers in the double digits for a river cruise party. You can fit a dozen people on one of these river cruisers. They include a plush interior, a radio with an iPod connection to play some tunes for guests and even two fishing seats in the rear of the boat for your angler friends.

Try a Pontoon Fishing Experience

Pontoon boats aren’t just for cruising the river either. If you select a 22-foot fishing pontoon boat, you’ve just rented a comfortable fishing boat that can hold a dozen of your fishing friends and all of their tackle boxes and coolers comfortably.

Pontoon boats are great freshwater boats and some of them are outfitted to pull skiers, wake boarders and tubers.

Looking for a smaller alternative? A 20-foot Harris pontoon boat seats up to eight people, has a 40 horsepower motor and still has plenty of room for fishing.

Don’t be deceived by their size either. Pontoon boats are known for being able to turn on a dime and are easy to maneuver down the river. Grandpa would be shocked to see what today’s pontoon boats can do.

Deck Boats are a Family Alternative

family fishing on a boat
Deck boats are a comfortable rental boat alternative for families looking for a sportier alternative.

Looking for a sportier boat with a little more style and speed? A 23-foot deck boat still gives you a lot of seating and room, while giving you a boat with a flatter bottom and less bow rise (lifting of the boat during acceleration). The 23-foot Azure deck boat, for instance, can seat 12 people, has a Bimini top and padded sundeck and comes with a 150 horsepower Yamaha motor. Deck boats are also a comfortable alternative for families with young children.

Try a Fishing Boat Classic

Looking for a more low-key fishing experience? The Mako fishing boat has a reputation for durable boats that fishermen love. A 19-foot center console Mako comes equipped with a 140 horsepower four-stroke motor. It can hold seven fishermen, has two fishing seats off the rear of the boat and comes fully equipped with fishing rod holders. All you need to bring is the rods and tackle boxes.

man fishing on the river
Rent a boat on the St. Johns River this spring to enjoy the sparkling water, whether it’s for a lazy river cruise or for your next fishing trip.

Time to Rent a Boat

All of the above mentioned boats can be found for rent at the perfect spot on the St. Johns River for your river cruise and fishing trip. Castaways on the River offers half day and full day boat rentals that fit all your boating needs. We also offer cabins so you can stay awhile and enjoy all this Florida paradise has to offer. Pick up the phone and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to book your boat rental adventure.

How to Use Florida License Free Fishing Days

Fellow freshwater anglers and non-anglers unite! Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River will be held the first Saturday and Sunday in April this year and you’ll want to be prepared. License free fishing weekends this year fall on the weekends of April 2-3 and June 11-12.

We have the scoop on how to use Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River and why these days are important for both experienced fishermen and those seeking to try freshwater fishing for the first time.

Teach New Anglers the Ropes

Dad and son fishing outdoors
Florida license free fishing days are the best time to teach both your children and your buddies seeking freshwater fishing lessons.

Florida license free fishing days are the best time to teach both your children and your buddies seeking freshwater fishing lessons. Parents can use these days to teach teenagers 16 and over the ins and outs of fishing to see if they become addicted before purchasing a license. Those under the age of 16 don’t need a license but could be required to provide proof of their age while fishing. Anglers can also introduce their friends to the sport to see if they become hooked. #seewhatwedidthere?

These license free days are useful, as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) requires Florida residents and visitors to have a freshwater fishing license on all other days you are catching fish. Annual freshwater fishing licenses are $17 and five-year licenses are $79. You can purchase licenses at your local tax collector’s office.

How to take freshwater fish

Game fish, which include bass and black crappie that are abundant in the St. Johns River, can only be caught using a fishing pole and line or with a road and reel. There’s no limit on the number of poles fishermen can use to catch game fish. Unlike saltwater fishing, you can’t catch freshwater fish by underwater swimming or diving. It’s also illegal to use a spear gun, firearm or any other weapon with ammunition to catch freshwater fish. Cast nets with mandatory stretched mesh sizes, though, can be used. Non-game fish, which is everything that isn’t labeled as game fish by the FWC, are well, fair game.

Fish you can catch and keep

Unrecognizable fisherman, How to use Florida License Free Fishing Days
Remember that license free fishing weekends this year fall on the weekends of April 2-3 and June 11-12.

While non-game fish have no limits placed on them, there are special bag and length limits for game fish. For the St. Johns River, those requirements include just one to remember: Black bass must be released immediately. The possession limit for game fish is a two days’ bag limit that includes:

  • 50 Panfish
  • 25 Black Crappie
  • 20 striped, white or sunshine bass (six of those may be 24 inches or longer in total length)
  • 2 Butterfly peacock bass (one of those may be 17 inches or longer in length)
  • 25 American eels (must be 9 inches or greater in length)
couple taking advantage of Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River
Grab a partner and take advantage of Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River next month.

Now all that’s left to do is grab a partner and take advantage of Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River. Remember that license free fishing weekends this year fall on the weekends of April 2-3 and June 11-12.

Need a perfect place to stay for your fishing trip? We offer cabins right on the river and boat rentals. Grab the phone and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect fishing trip on the river.

Bird Watching on the St. Johns River

If you’re into bird watching, the place to be is the St. Johns River. The river is teaming with wading birds during the day and thousands of birds returning to their nests by evening. Spring is also the time of year that birds descend back north, making this the opportune time to observe their migration.

We would love to educate you about various bird species, along with other wildlife and the crucial role that Florida plays to migration patterns and the ecosystem so you’re ready for bird watching on the St. Johns River.

Birds to Watch for on the St. Johns River

white pelicans on the river
Your’e likely to spot white pelicans when you’re bird watching on the St. Johns River.

If it’s birds that brought you to the St. Johns River, it’s birds you’re going to see. Bird watching is best during the fall, winter and spring and the St. Johns River also serves as an incredible backdrop, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

This time of year, you’re likely to see:

  • Bald Eagles
  • White Pelicans
  • Northern Harriers
  • Sandhill Cranes
  • Mottled Ducks
  • Blue-Winged and Green-Winged Teal Wood Stork
  • Moorhens
  • Night Herons
  • Roseate Spoonbills
  • Marlins
  • Peregrine Falcons
  • Wild Turkeys Limpkins
  • Wood Ducks
  • Crested Caracaras
  • Black Skimmers
  • Sedge Wrens

Florida: The International Bird Hub

bird watching migration on the river
Florida is a major rest stop for birds migrating north to their nesting sites for the summer.

The bi-annual cycle of birds migrating is in full swing during the months of March and April. Florida is a major rest stop for birds upon crossing the Florida Straits channeling from Cuba, South America and the Caribbean; until they proceed north to stake out prime breeding territories. Make sure you check them out while bird watching on the St. Johns River while you can.

I’m Bird Watching on a Boat!

A egret on a boat in the river
You never know who will drop in to captain your boat when you’re bird watching on the St. Johns River.

You can do plenty of bird watching while hiking or walking the various conservation areas and reserves that line the St. Johns River. Now it’s time to think out of the box though. Imagine the envy of your bird watching buddies when you return to tell them about bird watching on a boat or a kayak.

Watching wildlife while bird watching on the St. Johns River is a panoramic view of nature. There’s a lot more to see than just birds. The area is also home to manatee, deer, otter, bobcat, gators coasting along the river banks and sometimes the occasional Florida panther. Don’t forget to reserve some time to fish!

Need a place to stay? We offer cabins right on the river and boat rentals. Pick up the phone and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect bird watching experience on the river.

Top 7 Fishing Tips and Tricks on the St. Johns River

When you’re fishing the pristine freshwater of St. Johns River and Lake George for large mouth bass, specs (crappie) and catfish, you want to be prepared. Even the most experienced love to learn a trick or two from their fellow anglers if it will help them reel in the big one. So sit back, relax and take the bait we feed you that will help you come home with quite the catch on your next St. Johns River fishing excursion. We have the top 7 fishing tips and tricks on the St. Johns River.

Take the Bait

fishing tackle on a wooden table
The better the bait and lures are, the better fish you will catch.

Live bait is always more effective than fake or static baits. Widely used live baits include worms and smaller fish. The better the bait, the better fish you will catch. And if you need tackle box help for freshwater fishing, we have you covered with our tackle box guide.

Follow the Fish

Even the most hardcore fishermen have succumbed to technology if they want to find out where the fish are biting. An electronic fish finder is a sure bet to finding fish, including the spawning grounds where they procreate and the areas where they hunt for smaller fish. If it’s your first visit to the St. Johns River, an electronic fish finder can be your best friend. You’ll also want to use a topographical map that shows you how deep the water is.

Watch the Weather

Group of Heavy duty fishing reel set to catch a big game fish
When it’s sunny out like it usually is here in Florida, head to darker waters where fish are more likely to snag your line.

The weather affects the mood and behavior of fish. Overcast days make fish more likely to move and be fooled by your enticing bait. Sunrise and sunset times are also great times to fish for the same reason. And if it’s sunny out like it usually is here in Florida, head to darker waters where fish are more likely to snag your line. When you need a break for lunch, do it during the noon hour when fish can see better and are more hesitant to take your bait.

Practice Safety First

Fishing is fun but safety is an important part of the process that shouldn’t be overlooked. Make sure you know how to tie knots and bait a sharp hook before you set out for the day. This way you’ll avoid equipment-related injuries that will otherwise cut your fishing trip short.

Trust the Moon

The moon and its phases are keys to a good fishing trip. A full moon is a great time to go fishing, while moonless nights keep the fish at bay. The brighter the moon, the better you can see the fish too.

to 7 fishing tips and tricks Pinterest pin
Rent a cabin and a boat and head to Castaways on the River for a fishing trip.

Know your Fish

Want to know how to hook the most popular freshwater fish on the sparkling water of the St. Johns River? Here’s your guide:

  • Bass: The best time to catch largemouth bass is in the spring in the early morning hours when the water temperatures begin to rise. If lures aren’t producing a catch, don’t be afraid to try some live bait.
  • Specs (crappie): Small 1/8 ounce artificial bait jigs work best. Your best live bait bet is using a small split shot, a live minnow and a slip bobber.
  • Catfish: Catfish hunt with their whiskers and most catfish artificial bait is stinky and oily but has proven effective in reeling in big ones. Use circle hooks that make it hard for catfish to shake off the hook. Chicken liver is the live bait of choice for catfish and should be placed on a treble hook that keeps the squirmy liver in place on the hook when casting your line.

Make your Own Fish Hook Remover

Here’s a great tool you can make yourself to remove a hook from the mouth of a fish easily. Lock the handle of a slim flathead screwdriver (at least 10-inches in length) in vice grips with the metal shank vertical and the blade tip in a horizontal position. Set the sharp edge of a three corner metal file on the center point of the screwdriver and the blade tip perpendicular to it. Cut down the blade to 3/16 inches deep and file the sharp tips off the inside corners. Wrap the handle with rubber electrical tape to make it slip resistant. Now you have an easy tool that will remove hooks that are stuck in a fish’s mouth with a quick push and twist action.

Now all that’s left for you to do is rent a cabin and a boat and head to Castaways on the River for a fishing trip you won’t forget. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 today to plan your perfect fishing trip on the river.

rentaboat

 

Planning the Perfect Spring Break in Florida

Girl tubing on the river
Spring break isn’t spring break unless you’re near the water.

Are you planning your perfect spring break in Florida but craving something different? Look no further than the St. Johns River. It’s the perfect spot to get away from typical spring breakers infiltrating Florida coastlines. Plus, it has natural amenities that beach towns offer, minus the crowds.

We’ll fill you in on why this Old Florida location should be your next spring break destination.

Spring Break on the Water

Spring break isn’t spring break unless you’re near the water. You’re just mixing it up this year by trading the salt water for fresh water on the St. John’s River. Spend your break boating, kayaking, snorkeling and fishing while enjoying a change of spring break scenery.

Fun fact: The St. Johns River is the longest river in Florida at 310 miles long and is one of only three rivers in the country that flows from south to north.

We Put the Spring in Spring Break

Bird on the river.
You’re likely to spot wildlife you won’t find at the beach.

Why not celebrate spring break by enjoying an area known for its natural springs? Your spring break destination spot puts you near some of Florida’s most beautiful warm water natural springs to help you unwind and relax. Bonus perk? You’re likely to spot wildlife you won’t find at the beach. Plus, you might spot manatees in the crystal clear water.

The Sun Rises and Sets Here Too

Sunset on the river
Watching the sun pop up and down over the St. John’s River will rival any sunrise or sunset you’ve seen at the beach.

Who says you have to have your toes in the sand to watch the sun rise and set on spring break week? Mix it up this year. We would a hedge a bet that watching the sun pop up and down over the St. Johns River will rival any sunrise or sunset you’ve seen at the beach.

We offer cabins with access to all of the above, including boat and Jet ski rentals! Pick up the phone and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect spring break on the river.

Valentine’s Day at Castaways On The River

Valentine's Day-Castaways-Surprise
Surprise your sweetheart with a weekend getaway.

If you love being outside next to nature then The St. John’s River is the place to be on the day of love; Valentine’s Day at Castaways On the River. The St. John’s River area is truly a sample of old Florida’s pristine beauty. And what a wonderful backdrop to spend time with the one you love.

Your Valentine’s Day at Castaways on the River itinerary can include:

Surprise your honey with a weekend trip. Plan to arrive on Friday and spend the weekend away from it all. We offer a variety of cottages and motel rooms to accommodate guests.

A fishing excursion followed by cooking the catch of the day for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You reserve the time to serve up a great meal. We have grills for guests to use or set up a romantic atmosphere in one of our guest cottages.

Spend the day on the boat. The whole day can be spent enjoying the beautiful St. Johns River. Cast off from our dock at first light and log the hours just relaxing on the water. Head north and explore Lake George or south to Lake Dexter.

Valentine's Day-Castaways-Snorkel
Snorkeling for two is a great way to spend the day.

Snorkel in one of the area springs. Just the two of you underwater taking in the sheer beauty can be a memorable time. These are valuable hours of alone time spent exploring nature.

Another favorite activity in this area is to look for manatees. This time of the year it is easier to spot them as they seek the warm waters of area springs when the outside temperature dips. Make sure to slow your boat down to idle speed in manatee zones.

Valentine's Day-Castaways-Boat
Spend the day enjoying a boat ride along the St. Johns River.

Enjoy the beauty of the area. While the river has a lot to offer, remember it’s in the middle of the OcalaNational Forest, so that means hiking, bird watching or other fun eco-related activities to enjoy for a day or over a weekend.

Bring your boat and we can launch it and store it for you while visiting. Or you can rent one of ours along with other water craft including kayaks. Give us a call at (352) 759-3422 and let us help you plan the perfect trip to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

All Red Everything for Heart Health at Castaways on the River

February is American Heart Month – the perfect time to begin your journey to better heart health while cruising down the St. Johns River.  American Heart Month focuses on knowledge and the promotion of healthy lifestyles for the prevention of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

AMERICAN HEART MONTH
February is American Heart Month

The American Heart Association encourages some of these tips for a healthy heart and lifestyle:

DIET

Some foods proven to be beneficial for your heart are fish, nuts, berries, oatmeal, red wine, dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), cruciferous vegetables, citrus fruits, whole grains, avocado, and olive oil. A varied diet is the key to a healthy heart. All of these foods offer different benefits such as omega-3 fatty acids in fish, the phytonutrients in berries, and vitamin C in citrus.

American Heart Month
A varied diet is the key to a healthy heart.

Speaking of fish – known as the Bass Fishing Capital of the World, the St. Johns River is rich in fisheries including ample crappie, bluegills, catfish and other varieties freshwater fish. Exceptional areas for bass fishing include western shorelines at Juniper, Salt and Silver Glen springs, which are accessible by Lake George. In the winter, you might also find bass in schools to the south end of Lake George through early spring. When you visit Castaways on the River, you can keep a heart healthy diet and relax at all these great fishing locations.

 

EXERCISE

While on vacation at the beautiful St. Johns River is the perfect opportunity to switch your routine and be more active. Regular exercise is required to maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress hormones and assist to lower blood pressure, which benefits the heart and mood.

American Heart Month
Keep active during your vacation at St. Johns River.

When visiting Castaways on the River you can also stop by the St. Johns River Water Management District which maintains approximately 700,000 acres of land that offer a variety of recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, hunting, cycling and equestrian riding.

LAUGH

In order to achieve optimal health we have to take into consideration our emotional health and look beyond the physical markers of being fit. If you remember that your heart is not just about pumping blood, it will make sense. Endorphins help ease stress and minimize pain, both literally and metaphorically. At Castaways on the River, we promote healthy living by providing a family friendly and relaxing atmosphere.

Make Heart Month count and put these tips into practice at Castaways on the River!  Give us at (352) 759-3422 to to learn about all the activities you can do while visiting to keep your heart active.

Tackle Box for Freshwater Fishing

tackle box freshwater supplies
There are a variety of supplies needed in a tackle box for freshwater fishing.

Tackle boxes for freshwater fishing can be basic for the beginner to the more advanced for the experienced angler. In putting together a tackle box, make sure to know what type of freshwater fish you’ll be after to gather all the supplies you’ll need.

Look to use a tackle box that is sturdy and able to endure the wet and messy conditions while fishing. Keeping everything organized and clean will aid in making you more efficient to catch the big one!

tackle box freshwater
There are a variety of supplies needed in a tackle box for freshwater fishing.

Know the lingo

Each item in the tackle box has a specific purpose and use for anglers. Knowing what each piece does and using it to make a catch is part of the allure of fishing. A main difference of freshwater fishing is the depth of water, usually more shallow along rivers like the St. Johns River. Items like bobbers & floaters, sinkers & lures along with various hooks have varying weights to help keep the bait in the water. It’s always good to have extra gear on hand.

Tackle comes in all the different colors, shapes and sizes and using those features is a good way to keep everything organized and easy to find when you need it. Keep everything in its own spot. Sure things may get mixed up while fishing, but take a few minutes before and after to sort everything out. You’ll be glad you did.

tackle box freshwater fish
Gathering the right gear for your freshwater tackle box.

Additional Tools of the Trade

While rods and reels are not stored in the tackle box, each is important in the use of everything in the tackle box.

  • Fishing line – the line attached to your fishing rod that the tackle will be attached.
  • Clippers or Knife – to cut the line when needed
  • Needle Nose pliers – makes for easy removal of hooks
  • Gloves – helps protect your hands when dislodging hooks or other items.
  • Sunscreen – whether on the boat or on shore stay protected from the sun’s rays.
  • Flashlight – if you leave before dawn or after sunset, it’s always good to have a light source to see what you’re doing.

Plan the start of your trip here with us and enjoy one of Florida’s best sources of freshwater fish. Dock your own boat or make arrangements to rent a boat to reach your fishing destination.  Give us a call here at Castaways On the River at (352) 759-3422 to ensure you are ready to tackle your freshwater fishing trip.

rentaboat

Watching Wildlife in the Ocala National Forest and Along the St. Johns River

Watching wildlife in the Ocala National Forest and along the St. Johns River is a panoramic view of nature. The area is home to a large variety of wildlife from birds to fish which draws visitors from all walks of life to get a closer look.

Watching Wildlife in the Ocala National Forest and Along the St. Johns River
Manatees are popular sightings along the St. Johns River especially when temperatures dip.

Whether visitors are on a casual outing or an enthusiast viewing a particular species, it won’t take long for the show of wildlife to delight spectators. Few can say they saw a manatee, an alligator or a bear all in the same day. Oh my! In this area of Florida, it’s just another day.

Manatee Watching on the St. John’s River

While manatees are known as gentle giants, you have to be purposeful and patient to see them in their natural habitat. They are shy and will gracefully avoid boats, other vessels and noise in the wild. If you turn your boat motor off and sit for a bit, you may catch a quick glimpse as they surface for a fresh breath of air. A manatee won’t come close to investigate so have your camera ready and stay quiet.

wildlife-info
A diverse group of wildlife can be found in the Ocala National Forest and along the St. Johns River.

Wild Gators on the St. John’s River Shores

Seeing alligators catching a little sun along the shoreline of the St. Johns River is commonplace. Remember this is their natural habitat so observe at a distance and be careful. Alligators are swift swimmers and prefer marshy areas or open water. The slow moving river flowing through the Ocala National Forest is ideal to see an alligator while enjoying a day of boating.

Watch out for Bears

While there are no lions or tigers in the region, there are bears in the wild. The black bear population is mostly concentrated in this region, hence the name of the scenic Florida Black Bear Highway. The 60-mile route is the best place to sight a bear in the area.

Birds on the Wild Side

We’re not talking about snowbirds here. The Ocala National Forest is home to approximately 200 species of birds; especially a large concentration of American Eagles. The area is considered somewhat of a paradise for bird watching enthusiasts. If you are staying with us, be sure to meet the pelicans. Don’t worry they won’t let you ignore them for long along the dock, they keep a close eye on newcomers and old alike.

Watching out for Wildlife on the St. John’s River

Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie and Blue Crab are plentiful in the region attracting both sport and casual anglers. Get advice from the veterans to learn the best spots to snag your catch. While all have their prime seasons, it’s best to check ahead to see what’s biting and where to plan your strategy for the day on the water.

Watching Wildlife – Entertainment at its Finest

Did you know there are several groups of wildlife comedians? Yes, they would be the squirrels who can be seen whizzing around in a rush everywhere and checking things out. And don’t leave out the cute turtles peaking from their shells to see who is stopping by for a visit. These are cute pictures for sure to remember your trip.

Check with the Castaways On The River staff to learn the best spots to watch wildlife in the area. We’ll be glad to accommodate your stay for a bird watching expedition or for those boating or fishing trips. Contact us via Facebook or Twitter, through our website or call us at (352) 759-3422.