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 […]

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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. Whether visitors are on a casual outing or an […]

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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 […]

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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 […]

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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. Manatees are considered […]

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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. Wake Etiquette Remember other boats are on the water and a large, rough wake may […]

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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 […]

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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 […]

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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, […]

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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 […]

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