Cast Away the Old and Usher in New Year’s Resolutions

The flip of the calendar signals that it’s time to cast away the old and usher in the New Year. Yes, it’s time to draw up that list of resolutions for the year ahead.

We thought you might like to take a peek at our New Year’s resolutions to get started. And in a place like Castaways on the River in Astor, FL, it’s hard not to incorporate the beauty of the area into our list. It’s stuff you’ve always wanted to do but just don’t make time to do. So get ready to cast out the old and usher in new experiences in 2016!

Watch the sunrise. Make a New Year’s Resolution to watch the sunrise over the St. Johns River at least once a month; more often if you can swing it! You’ll be glad you have those beautiful memories.

Dinner by sunset. It’s nice to spend some time enjoying dinner, reflecting on the day and relaxing as the day draws to an end. It’s so peaceful.

New Years Fishing — New Year’s Resolution: Fish More

Fish more. So who does not want to block out time in their schedule to make this happen? Explore other new fishing spots and see what you catch! Whether you catch the big one or nothing at all, the time spent is well worth it. #FishMore

Spend a weekend boating. You may get a few hours on the water, but this year increase that time to an entire weekend! Before you know it, you’ll spend every weekend on a boat. It’s the life!

Plan a Day Trip. There are so many places to discover near Astor, FL along the St. Johns River that make perfect day trips. Just pick one and then pick another! You may discover one we haven’t tried yet!

Kayak the Big River. You may be fine taking the kayak out on the smaller creeks and narrow rivers off the St. Johns River but you’ve yet to navigate the big river. This is the year to make it happen! Then tag us in your selfies so we can share the proud moment too!

New Years Manatee — New Years Resolution: Find a Manatee

Find a Manatee. On a morning when the air is a little crisp, set out for a lazy day on the river in a boat at idle speed or turn it off completely to watch for the graceful glide of a manatee. It takes patience but they will be there keeping warm, usually near the area springs. Yes, this is a must-do on our list.

New Years Gators — New Year’s Resolution: Count Gators

Go On a Gator Count. Now be careful with this one. Yes, there are alligators along the St. Johns River, it’s their natural habitat. So counting the alligators along the shore line or in shallow spots will not be difficult, especially on a clear day. Warning: you must have a license to capture an alligator during the designated hunting season so don’t get any ideas beyond counting them.

Coordinate a Getaway. There’s always one person in the group who takes the lead in planning the group getaway. You’ll find enough to keep the adventurous members of the group busy. And there’s plenty of peace and quiet for those who want a laidback getaway.

If you’ve added some or all of these resolutions to your list, let us know how we can help you stick to them and have a great New Year! Here at Castaways, we can handle the accommodations for your getaway, rent you a boat for counting alligators, and suggest spots to see a great sunrise or sunset. Reach out to us via Facebook or Twitter, go to our website or call us at (352) 759-3422.

Boating Requirements in Florida

Boating is a year round activity here in the Sunshine state. There are a few boating requirements in Florida that must be followed whether you are a seasonal visitor who wants to hit the water to escape the snow back home; or a native looking for a day of fun.

Prepare for Boating in Florida

First, to make sure everyone is on the same page, Florida does not have a “boating license.” What is required however is a Boating Safety Education Identification Card for anyone born after Jan. 1, 1988. The card is proof that the boater passed the approved safety course. Out of state guests can either show proof of boating safety course completion from their home state or obtain a temporary card. Check with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission on obtaining boater education.

There are some boaters who are exempt from obtaining Florida’s boating identification card. Check the list to see who qualifies for an exemption.

Who Can Boat In Florida?

Did you know?

In Florida a boater must be at least 14 years old in order to operate a personal water craft or PWC.
Additionally, a boater must be at least 18 years old to rent a PWC in Florida. This includes not only a boat, but also jet skis and other vessels powered by an inboard motor.

Other Boating Requirements

Just because you have met the boating requirements in Florida does not allow overlooking other rules associated with boating like fishing, diving, skiing.

Everyone on the boat – driver and passengers – along with those being towed behind for skiing must wear a life vest. It’s the law.
If you plan to fish while boating, everyone aboard must have a current fishing license. Also know what type of fish you are catching and the regulations for the species.
Have the proper flags on display while diving or snorkeling from the boat.

There are a number of other requirements to cover fun activities to know while boating. Check with the FWC or other resources like Florida Go Fishing.

Renting a Boat

The rental facility must provide an instructional overview of all boats over 10-horsepower before leaving the dock. This session is to then be followed up with a demonstration on the water to make sure the renters are comfortable with the vessel.

Our staff at Castaways On The River is ready to help you find the right boat to enjoy a day of fun on the St. Johns River. We have a wide array of rental boats to suit your needs. You can request a boat reservation through our website, on our Facebook page or by calling us at (352) 759-3422.

Manatee Awareness: Florida’s Gentle Giants

The waters of the St. Johns River and nearby springs are popular to spot manatees here in Florida. And as the air temperature begins to dip, manatee stay close to springs seeking warm water. The month of November is designated as Manatee Awareness Month in hope of better protecting these gentle giants.

Manatee endangered — Manatee Fact: Manatees are an endangered species.

Manatees are considered endangered and are protected by law. Boaters will find signs along waterways where manatees are known to swim reminding them to shift to idle speed in these zones.

A Gentle Giant

As a distant relative of elephants, manatees are often referred to as gentle giants because of their bulk, slow moving and non-aggressive nature. Manatees can swim up about 5 miles per hour and travel a distance of 15 miles in short bursts. They use their powerful tail to propel them through the water while using their front flippers to steer.

Manatee breathe — Manatee Fact: Manatees breathe air but never leave the water.

Manatee Habitat

There’s a lot to know about manatees and their habits. For starters, did you know that while they must breathe air manatees never leave the water. A quick scan of the water’s surface can usually find a nose or two sticking up for a breath. They can hold their breath underwater in excess of 15 minutes.

Manatees can go between freshwater and saltwater and can be found along the eastern U.S. from Florida and south to Brazil in South America along the Amazon River and also on the west coast of Africa. Can you say international?

The manatees found in Florida are known as the West Indian Manatee.

manatee eat — Manatee Fact: Manatees are big eaters.

Time to Eat

Manatees like to eat! And they eat a lot! These vegetarians eat grass and other plants found along the shoreline and in the water. If they are not sleeping or swimming, manatees are eating! Manatees are big…usually weighing an average of 1,500 to1,800 pounds as an adult.

In the wild, manatees live an average of 30 to 60 years. Seeing a manatee for the first time in the water or after many times is remains a priceless experience for many. The Blue Springs Park Manatee Refuge is a short boat ride away. Visit us here at Castaways on the River, bring your boat or rent one of ours to see manatees up close. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates about the area, check out our website or give us a call at (352) 759-3422.

The St. Johns River: Boating Etiquette Tips

Just like driving a vehicle on the road, operating a boat is much the same but in the water. There are a few general rules of boating etiquette tips to follow for safety but also to be courteous to follow boaters.

boating etiquette wake — A good boating etiquette tip is to control the wake of the boat.

Wake Etiquette

Remember other boats are on the water and a large, rough wake may cause the other boats to rock or cause damage. Consider slowing your speed when passing near other boats to decrease the wake. Keep in mind to also control the wake upon your arrival and departure from the dock.

CA-BoatingEtiquetteSigns — Signs are in place along the river for boaters to follow. In manatee zones the boat needs to maintain a slow speed.

Boating Signs of the St. Johns River

Waterways like the St. Johns Rivers are popular for boaters to enjoy. The river is home to a diverse eco-system that requires careful attention by boaters to protect these areas, especially when it comes to manatees. Posted signs in manatee zones require a slow speed and minimum wake so that the slow moving mammals have time to evade oncoming boats.

Accessing the many springs along the river also requires going slow or idling in order not to disturb the pristine, sensitive environment.

Take time to understand what the various signs and buoys mean while the boat is operating in the water.

Nautical Lingo

Do you know which side of the boat is port and which is starboard?

Port – the left side of the boat if looking at the bow.

Starboard – the right side of the boat.

So why don’t we just say left and right sides of the boat? The term starboard dates back to the days when all boats were operated by oars which were typically placed on the right side of the stern. The side opposite the oar was eventually referred to as the port side; the side used for loading the boat on the dock.

Now you’ll know which side is which when you pull into dock.

boating etiquette litter — Litter is a no-no in boating. Please keep the water clean.

Keep the water clean

Littering is a definite no-no of boating. The water is not a place to discard trash. Provide a receptacle for everyone on board to place trash that will be disposed of once on shore.

Boating Etiquette Tips

Most boaters have at least one thing in common, their love of the being out on the water. So it’s a nice gesture to wave in greeting other vessels. Those using a boat to get to their favorite fishing spots will often chat with other anglers about what’s biting. While there is lots of good advice along the way, be respectful of others who want to enjoy the solitude and quiet on the water.

Ready, Set, Launch!

It’s good boating etiquette to be ready to launch your boat upon arrival at the ramp. If you have to still load gear and park the tow vehicle, others waiting behind you may become impatient. Have everything in place before you get to the launch ramp.

Likewise when you return, clear the path the boaters following you in for day.

Contact Us

Launch your boat from our ramp and spend the day enjoying all that the St. Johns River offers. If you need a boat, we have plenty available to rent for the day or just a few hours if you prefer. Let our staff get you ready for a day of fun on the water. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates about the area, check out our website or give us a call at (352) 759-3422.

Florida Springs off the St. Johns River

The St. Johns River offers boaters access to some of Florida’s most beautiful freshwater springs along the Ocala National Forest.

Recreational Activities and Wildlife Exploration

Popular among tourists and locals alike, the Florida Springs provides unique opportunities for recreational activity and wildlife exploration.

Visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear spring water, which remains at a refreshing average temperature of 70 degrees year round.

The springs are also home to a large bird population and many species of marine wildlife, including manatees.

Benefits of Boating to the Florida Springs

Although you can drive to almost all of the Florida Springs, boating offers a scenic experience we encourage you to try. There are also many great fishing spots along the way.

If you do not own a boat, we have rentals! Start planning your next boating adventure on the St. Johns River to some of Florida’s most breathtaking springs. However, please note that not all springs are accessible from Castaways On The River, so be sure to inquire about available routes and destinations to ensure a delightful and safe journey.

Salt Springs

Salt Springs, on the northern edge of Lake George off the St. Johns River along Salt Springs Run, is a popular spring within the Ocala National Forest.

Visitors can swim and snorkel in the spring. While the spring is home to a variety of turtles, Blue Crabs and bass, fishing and motorized boats are not permitted.

Since Salt Springs is in the Ocala National Forest, the area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The spring can also be accessed via U.S 19.

Silver Glen Springs

Also off the St. Johns River is Silver Glen Springs at the end of Silver Glen Springs Run off Lake George. The area is another popular spot for tourists. During the cooler winter months, manatee sightings are frequent as they seek warmer water than that of the river.

Silver Glen Springs also sits within the Ocala National Forest. The crystal clear water gives way to swimming, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. Did you know that the spring’s two vents produce an average of 65 million gallons of water daily?

Juniper Springs

A leisurely boat ride along Juniper Creek off the St. Johns River or by land traveling along S.R. 40 will lead to Juniper Springs. The surrounding complex dates to the 1930s making it one of the oldest in the region.

Like other springs in the area where swimmers can enjoy the pristine waters, the spring is also an access point to the Florida Trail/Florida National Scenic Trail in the Ocala National Forest.

Castaways-Hidden-Gems-2-7-15-16-Pin — The St. Johns River offers boaters access to some of Florida’s most beautiful freshwater springs.

The Land of Springs

Several other springs to consider for day trips include Alexander Springs, De Leon Springs and Blue Spring. You can take the St. Johns River or a feeder creek to reach any of these springs.

The First Magnitude Spring

Considered a first magnitude spring, Alexander Spring in Altoona on C.R. 455 is an 8-mile boat ride east of the St. Johns River.

De Leon Spring’s Rich History

De Leon Springs, east of the river, is steeped in history dating back to when the native Mayaca inhabited the area for 6,000 years and the 1500s when the Spanish began building missions in the region.

Manatees at Blue Spring

If you are looking to spot manatees during the winter months, then head to Blue Spring. It’s the largest spring on the St. Johns River and is known as the winter home of manatees in this part of the state. The spring discharges 165 million gallons of water daily.

Boat Rental and Contact Information

Checking out any of the springs in the area is a great way to spend a few hours or make it an all-day outing to enjoy the unique bodies of water. There is really no better way to access many of these sites than by boat. Hop in one of our boat rentals at Castaways on the River.

For St. Johns River news, updates and more, follow us on Facebook, visit our website or give us a call at (352)759-3422.

The Best Bass Fishing on Lake George

The St. Johns River is known for it’s size, lakes and great bass fishing. Also known as the River of Lakes and the Bass Fishing Capital of the World, the St. Johns River offers anglers endless access to many bass fishing spots including Lake George.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), Lake George maintains an excellent habitat for bass, rich in aquatic vegetation, primarily eelgrass. Whether you are an experienced bass angler or just a beginner, Lake George is a great place to start!

Spots for Bass Fishing on Lake George

Some of Florida’s best bass fishing can be found on Lake George, especially along the shoreline where it is rich in vegetation.

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.

Tips for Bass Fishing on Lake George

Other fishing tips include surface feeding, which is known to attract large schools of striped bass and sunshine bass. The FWC also recommends casting deep-diving crankbaits near old dock structures along the northeast shore and off Drayton Island.

St. Johns River Boat Access

Conveniently located just a few miles from Castaways on the River, visitors can easily access Lake George by boat or jet ski in one of our rentals. We also offer waterfront accommodatons along the St. Johns River, perfect for the weekend or your next extended bass fishing adventure.

Guests can book a boat rental before they stay or bring their boat and dock it onsite. For direct access to Lake George, there is a public boat ramp on the south end of Lake George on Blue Creek Lodge Road, located north of Highway 40.

Learn More About Bass Fishing

For more information about bass fishing along Lake George and other areas of the St. Johns River, visit us online or contact us at (352) 759-3422. For daily updates about fishing and boating along the St. Johns River, follow us on Twitter or Facebook.

Lightning Safety

Florida’s tropical climate and warm waters create the perfect environment for lightening to strike in a flash.

Florida Lightning Statistics

Did you know that lightning is as thin as a ruler and five times hotter than the sun at some 53,000 degrees? Lightning causes between 10-13 fatalities and around 30 injuries per year in Florida, as reported by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS).

The Lightning Capital of the U.S.

“Florida is known as the lightning capital of the United States, with storms occurring approximately 100 days out of the year, compared to California’s low of only five,” UF/IFAS states. “Although our entire state rates as a high risk area, the most dangerous area runs from St. Augustine (north) to Lake Okeechobee (south) and from east to west coasts.”

Since 2006, more people have been struck to death while fishing than any other outdoor activity in the world as reported by the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Lightning Safety on the St. Johns River

To ensure the safety of swimmers, boaters and anglers on the St. John’s River, adjoining lakes and nearby springs, we have provided the following tips for avoiding lightening before it strikes:

Check the Weather

Weather predictions, storm warnings and safety precautions should not be ignored. Staying up-to-date with what’s going on with the weather can mean life or death while on the water where fatal strikes are more likely to occur.

Pay Attention to Warning Signs

If you see storm clouds approaching or hear thunder, head indoors. Thunder travels faster at the speed of sound, while lightning travels at the speed of light. Don’t assume it’s not coming for you. Better safe, than struck.

Plan Ahead

If you have ever spent longer than two weeks in Florida, you’ve probably called the weather reporter a liar. Florida’s weather conditions are unpredictable and sporadic. It might be raining on one side of the highway, but not the other. Therefore, plan ahead in case weather takes a turn for the not-so-sunny.

Call Ahead

If you are coming from out-of-town, give us a call before your visit. We can tell you what kind of weather expect to expect and help plan your next fishing adventure on the St. Johns River. Looking for a jet ski or boat rental? We can help you with that too. Give us a call at (352) 759-3422.

Little Things That Make a Big Difference for Vacation Planning

You’ve settled on Castaways on the River for your upcoming vacation, what a great choice! Soon you’ll be relaxing in a cottage, fishing crappie out on the St. Johns River, or hanging out with the family on a 22’ cruising pontoon boat. How will you start vacation planning?

To make the most of your time away, you’ll need to finish packing your suitcase and marking things off your vacation checklist, but what might you forget? It’s those little things that will really add up to make the return from your adventure as stress-free as possible. Here are some little things that make a big difference while you’re vacation planning!

Getting Your Home Ready for Your Vacation

Sometimes you get so busy getting your plane tickets, rental cars, and fishing gear ready, you totally forget preparing your house for a week away. Getting your home ready for your absence means there’s less to do when you return—no need to have the proverbial vacation from your vacation!

Finish your laundry. Just think about the laundry you’ll be bringing home from a week away. Do you really want to find those week-old dirty jeans at the bottom of the hamper to do as well? When we say do all your laundry, make sure you clear out BOTH your washer and dryer. You don’t want it to become a home for germs in there during your vacation because the last load didn’t fully dry. While you’re at it, go ahead and throw your bed sheets in as well; it’s pretty nice to have clean sheets to come home to after a long day traveling.
Head over to your fridge and get rid of anything that may expire while you’re gone. Opening the fridge to the smell of “something dead” doesn’t exactly scream “Welcome Home”. Also, be nice to yourself. Leave a frozen pizza or likewise in the freezer so you don’t have to rush out to the store when you get home. If your plane is delayed it will be a lifesaver.
After you’re done with the refrigerator clean up take out the trash. If your trash cans are stored in the garage arrange to have a neighbor take it out for you. You can’t use enough air freshener to get rid of the funk cloud smelly trash will leave after sitting for a week.

Last, make sure your home is secure by locking windows and doors, unplug all non-essential (not the fridge!) appliances, and turn anything you can off. This saves energy and alleviates any “Did I turn (insert energy-using/money-spending object here) off…” thoughts.

If you have a patio sliding door, put a bar down to prevent someone from sliding it open and put a few lights on each floor on timers.

Getting Ready for Vacation Outside Your Home

One of the easiest ways to prepare for vacation is calling your credit card company and giving them a heads up you’ll be going out of town. You don’t need to be receiving fraud alerts and dealing with a declined card while fishing largemouth bass.

Make a list of all the bills that are due during your vacation and arrange payments a week before you go. You can always schedule bills with your bank’s automatic bill pay option if you don’t care to pay ahead.

Also, check to see if you have any doctor or dentist appointments scheduled. Scheduled appointments months out and are easy to forget.

Make sure you schedule a mail hold for your vacation time so unwanted people can’t tell you’re gone.

Preparing Yourself and Your Family for Vacation

Put Castaways on the River, your car rental agency and airline phone numbers in your cell phone contacts. It seems so simple, but many people don’t consider this before they go. And will save you a lot of headaches if something goes amiss on the road.

Give a trusted family member, friend, or neighbor your itinerary with contact phone numbers, while also setting expectations on when they should be used. Tell friends or family when, or if, you’ll be checking in and when you may be totally off the grid and unreachable.

Take a long hard look at the contents of your wallet. Ask yourself what do you really need for a vacation? Take out anything that doesn’t make the cut. Store credit cards, membership cards, or any other random fillers are just dead weight and not necessary for your vacation; travel should be simple.

Happy vacation planning! Enjoy your vacation at Castaways on the River and be sure to let us know what you catch (even if it’s just your kid’s smiles). If you haven’t reserved a cabin or boat yet, here’s where you can book your reservation.

Do you have any helpful vacation planning tips we didn’t cover? Share them in the comments below.