10 Fishing New Year’s Resolutions

“The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope.” – John Buchan

Happy New Year! We know you have big plans to make 2017 another great fishing year on the St. Johns River in North Central Florida. Follow these 10 New Year’s fishing resolutions in 2017 to stay focused on the fish at hand and remember why fishing soothes your soul.

New Year’s fishing resolutions — St. Johns River fishing is all about taking time to unwind and to do some self-reflection.

Study Your Electronics

Let’s face it. If you want to be considered a serious angler in 2017, it is time to get to know the latest electronics that help your sport. An electronic depth finder will help you find where fish are hiding and topographical maps help you navigate the river’s bottom easily.

Barometers also help you measure the atmospheric pressure. When the atmosphere pressure rises or dips over the course of a few hours, fish are more active during that period. GPS and weather electronics should also be on every angler’s boat for safety reasons too.

Fish in the Moment

Fishing is all about taking some time to unwind and to do some self-reflection. Do not stress about where you found fish last year. Take a deep breath, enjoy all the St. Johns River has to offer and trust your fishing instincts while you do some exploring in new areas.

Keep Your Mind Open to New Techniques

We have all said it. “I’ve been fishing here for 10 years and know everything about how to fish here.” That is just not true though. Be open to new technology and take fishing advice from others in the New Year. At the end of the day, fishing should be exciting, fresh and fun. Don’t get stuck in a rut or fishing might become boring for you.

electronic depth finder — If you want to be considered a serious angler in 2017, it is time to get to know the latest electronics that help your sport.

Exercise on Off Fishing Days

We know, we know. Fishing is a sport. But for a good part of the day, you are sitting on a boat waiting for fish to grab your line. Try getting into an exercise regimen on your off fishing days. Strengthen those arms and legs this year and watch as your fishing friends are impressed with your newfound strength when you’re casting bait and reeling in the big one.

Get Your Tackle Box Organized

Most anglers have a mess of a tackle box that somehow works for them each and every year. But imagine if your tackle box was organized and efficient this year! That could make all the difference for an improved fishing day on the water. Take some pride in your sport and follow our tackle box guide to get started.

Help Others on the St. Johns River

There are so many fishers out there that get set in their ways and don’t like to divulge their fishing secrets. We would argue that is the wrong approach in this day and age. One of the best joys in the life of an angler should involve helping others learn the sport and watching them grow to appreciate the hobby as much as you do. Make some friends, be a fishing mentor and enjoy the smiles and appreciation on others faces this year as you teach them new tricks. Try participating in a river cleanup or being a volunteer with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission too.

Take a Camera

Anglers are notorious for telling stories about the big fish they caught but never having the proof to back it up. Make a commitment in 2017 to always take a camera with you to document your catches and capture all of your fishing adventure moments with friends and loved ones on the St. Johns River.

man fishing on the river — Follow these 10 fishing New Year’s resolutions in 2017 to stay focused and remember why fishing soothes your soul.

Be More Patient

A true fisher knows fishing is a game of patience. Anglers can always use a little more patience so try to practice that mantra this year. Leave your bait in the water a little longer and don’t give up on a fishing spot too soon.

Make More Weekend Fishing Plans

Commit to getting away for longer than just a day. Plan more weekend or week-long fishing trips this year. Book a stay at Castaways on the River to enjoy a comfortable cottage or motel room that sits right along the beautiful St. Johns River.

Rent a Boat

Castaways on the River can handle all of your St. Johns River boat rental needs this year. The marina offers a variety of boats that are ready for use on the river today. The St. Johns River in Astor, Florida is a great place to do some serious fishing this year and practice your new fishing resolutions. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to book your boat rental and lodging needs today!

How to Plan a Company Fishing Trip

Are you planning a company fishing trip with your team to celebrate the past year or prepare for the new one? As the New Year approaches, there is no better time to get out on a boat in the St. Johns River and forge lasting bonds with your co-workers to make the upcoming year a great one for your company. Follow our step-by-step guide to plan a company fishing trip.

Count Your Anglers

You need a head count first and foremost when you are planning a company holiday fishing trip. This allows you to figure out how many boats you need to rent and how big the boats should be.

Find Days that Work For Your Employees

Timing is difficult when you are booking a company fishing trip. You need to plan ahead of time so everyone has a free schedule on the days you will be fishing. Map out the trip ahead of time and keep the calendars of your co-workers free on those days.

Are you planning a New Year’s Eve trip or a trip right after the New Year to motivate morale for the coming year? Plan ahead to make sure the schedule is solidified. Check with Castaways on the River too to plan your boat rental needs in advance.

company fishing trip rods and reels — Plan ahead so you know how many boats rentals and fishing rods and reels you need.

Connect with a Charter Captain

Find some experienced fishing charter captains to make your job easier. Charter captains know the St. Johns River better than anyone and can help you find fish easily. This will allow your team to enjoy a great day of fishing without stressing over the lack of fish they are catching.

Pick Your Spot

Choosing a great fishing spot location in a beautiful natural setting is one of the most important parts of planning a company fishing trip. Allowing your co-workers to unwind and enjoy the trip is crucial and can set the tone for a great first quarter for the New Year. We already have the perfect spot for you along the St. Johns River in Astor, Florida, where you will find a tranquil fishing backdrop and enjoy every minute of your company fishing adventure. Try these hidden gems on the St. Johns River while you are here.

company fishing trip pin — The St. Johns River is the perfect spot for your company fishing trip adventure.

Reserve Some Rooms

Your company fishing trip should be a minimum two- to three-day experience. Book a stay at Castaways on the River to enjoy your fishing trip in a setting with comfortable cottages and motel rooms that sit right along the St. Johns River.

Reserve Your Company Fishing Trip Boat Rentals

Castaways on the River can handle all of your boat rental and fishing needs. The marina offers a fleet of rental boats along the St. Johns River right next to cottages and motel rooms that have barbecue grills and fire pits. It is a great place to bring your catch back to shore and enjoy a meal that you caught straight from the river! Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to book your boat rentals and your company fishing trip today!

9 Holiday Gift Ideas for Your Anglers

It can be a daunting task to buy the perfect holiday gift for the angler or boating enthusiast in your life. There is no need to panic. Utilize these nine holiday gift ideas for the anglers in your life this year.

Gift ideas anglers — Utilize these nine holiday gift ideas for the anglers in your life this year.

Waders

Fishers that love to fish in rivers like the St. Johns River always need some new waders. Waders protect anglers that wade into flats and knee-deep areas to find the perfect fishing spots. The angler in your life will thank you every time their new waders keep them dry.

Rods and Reels

Anglers can always use a new rod and reel to improve their fishing skills. Which one should you pick? Here are a few to choose from these days:

Shimano is one of the leading manufacturers of high quality fishing rods reels. They make surf and spinning reels and trolling and muskie rods.
Loomis has a line of high-performance graphite rods and features conventional and fly fishing rods for serious anglers.
Umpqua is the largest producer of quality hand-tied flies. The company also makes high-quality fishing packs, bags and vests that are backed by a lifetime guarantee.
Dan James Rod Company makes what many fishers claim are the best custom rods in the world. The company offers an adjustment of the balance of their rods, making it more comfortable for anglers to cast with more distance and accuracy.

Here are 10 other must have items for a St. Johns River fishing trip.

Fishing Books

Does your fisher love to pick up a good book? Impress him or her by picking up some of the classics like “The Old Man and the Sea” or “Moby Dick” to show that you care about the hobby they love so much.

Fishing Magazines

Does your partner like to read up on the latest and greatest fishing equipment and trends? Consider getting your loved one a fishing magazine subscription that will cover all the bases on a monthly basis.

Monthly Tackle Subscription

Even better than a monthly magazine? Many fishers will love a monthly package of fishing lures that are delivered straight to your home. You can find subscriptions that meet your freshwater fishing needs for the St. Johns River.

Read up on the best live fishing freshwater fishing bait to take with you on the river to impress your partner too.

Polarized Sunglasses

If your angler doesn’t have a great pair of polarized sunglasses, they are missing out. Polarized sunglasses reduce glare and help you find fish trying to hind under water. Give the gift of super fish vision to your loved one this holiday season.

Fishing Tools

Is there anything missing from your loved ones tacklebox? Impress them this holiday season by finding out from a friend what they need. Put some stocking stuffers in their stocking like needle-nose pliers, a filet knife, a new net and a pocketknife.

YETI Coolers and Tumblers

YETI coolers have become the new “must have” item for anglers and boaters. They are indestructible and can keep ice intact for days. Find a complete line of YETI coolers, tumblers and other accessories from which to choose.

hooking a present — Hook the perfect gift for your angler this holiday season.

Book a Fishing Trip Stay

Book a stay at Castaways on the River and surprise your partner with a holiday fishing trip on the St. Johns River! We offer cozy cottages and motel rooms so you can stay awhile along the river.

Rent a Boat

Just when you thought we thought of everything we have one more gift idea for you. When you visit Castaways on the in Astor, Florida, rent a boat at the marina and surprise your loved one with a fishing trip that comes complete with fishing advice from you marina operator. The marina on the St. Johns River can accommodate all of your boating needs. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to book your boat rental today!

The 7 Best Live Freshwater Fishing Bait

Live bait will typically grab the attention of more fish than artificial bait. If you’re seeking to up your fishing game on the beautiful St. Johns River in North Central Florida, bring some of the best live fishing bait available to take home more than your fair share of fish.

best fishing bait st johns river — The tried and true worm is always great bait for freshwater fishers.

Minnows

It’s the circle of life. Big fish eat little fish. Minnows are essentially baby fish and are a popular freshwater fishing bait. Use large shiners to go along with your minnow bait when searching for bass.

Hook the minnow upside down using the same water they were captured in. Don’t puncture the minnow’s spinal cord so it can continue to move on its own while it is on your hook.

Clams and Mussels

Freshwater clams and mussels native to the St. Johns River make for great live bait. To keep them fresh, gather them from shallow water right before your fishing trip.

When you are ready to use them, crack the shell open and cut out the clam or mussel and allow the bait to harden in the sun before you put it on your hook. Try tying mussels on a hook with thread without pulling the thread too tight.

Crayfish

Crayfish are great for attracting smallmouth bass or panfish. Hook them through the tail to catch bass and use the pan mean from the crayfish’s pinchers to catch pan fish.

Insects

Beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars and crickets can be used as live fishing bait to catch panfish and trout. You can buy insects at a bait shop or try to catch them on your own. Have fun with the kids and send them searching for insects for your hooks.

Worms

The tried and true worm is always great bait for freshwater fishers. You can find them in the dirt of your garden or in local bait and tackle shops. Here are some worm tricks to help:

To attract trout, use smaller manure worms.
To prevent smaller fish from nibbling the worm without biting your hook, put just a piece of the worm on your hook. Thread the worm on the hook until it’s completely covered to avoid it from being stolen.

Shrimp

Freshwater shrimp are great bait that work best in water below 70 degrees. Looking to catch catfish? They enjoy snacking on a piece of frozen shrimp. Take off the shell and the tail before you place a shrimp on your hook.

Dough Balls

Okay, so are last recommendation isn’t exactly fresh bait. But if you’re looking to catch crappie in the St. Johns River, dough balls are your game. Dough balls are a homemade or commercially made bait treat that consists of flour, cornmeal and sugar mixed with a little bit of water. Here is a dough ball recipe the crappie will love.

Book Your Next Fishing Visit

You have the live freshwater bait tips you need to catch the most fish and target the types of fish you are looking for. Book a stay at Castaways on the River to do some fishing using your new bait tips. The marina can accommodate all of your boat rental needs. We also offer comfortable cottages and motel rooms so you can stay awhile along the St. Johns River. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to book your boat rental winter fishing trip today.

Tips for Building the Perfect Campfire

There is something about a roaring campfire that makes the campground perfect during cool evenings in the Ocala National Forest. Follow our tips as we teach you how to build the perfect campfire to enjoy with friends and family.

tips for building a campfire Ocala National Forest — Follow our tips as we teach you how to build the perfect campfire in the Ocala National Forest.

Create Your Fire Bed

Safety comes first when you create a campfire. Camping sites like those in the Ocala National Forest in North Central Florida have designated fire areas that you must use. Select a site away from trees, bushes and plants. Create a fire bed on bare earth with no live or dead grass around it. Dry grass, branches and bark catch fire easily so make sure you find a nice bare spot. If you can’t find a good bed area, make your own by digging and raking away all grass and plant material.

Once you’ve cleared a bed area, gather some dirt and place it in the center of your clean fire bed. Form the dirt into a firm platform that is 3- to 4-inches thick.

Hunt for Wood

Once your fire bed is ready, it’s time to gather your wood. You are looking for the following types of acceptable wood:

Tinder: Materials like dry bark, dry leaves, dead grass and wood shavings make up your tinder. Tinder catches fire easily and this is the wood you need to get that fire started.
Kindling: After the fire gets started with tinder wood, kindling helps to keep the fire going. Kindling consists of small twigs and branches that are laid on top of your tinder wood. Look for wood about the width of a pencil. Make sure it’s dry or it won’t burn easily.
Fuel wood: Fuel wood comes next on the pile and it keeps your fire hot and makes the fire stay consistent. Look for branches of wood that are about the width of your forearm or wrist to act as fuel wood.

When gathering wood for your fire, look for wood that snaps and breaks easily. If the wood bends, it’s too wet and your fire will become smoky. Dry wood always burns best.

Hint: Collect double the amount of tinder, kindling and fuel wood as you think you will need because you will go through a lot of kindling when you start your fire.

lighting a campfire — When gathering wood for your campfire, look for wood that snaps and breaks easily.

How to Lay Your Fire

There are many different ways to lay your fire. The most common types of fires include:

Teepee fires, which involve placing your tinder in a bundle in the middle of your campfire site and forming a teepee around it with your kindling.
Lean-to fires are created by sticking a long piece of kindling into the ground at a 30-degree angle with the end of the stick pointing into the wind. Then tinder is placed underneath the support stick and kindling is scattered around the fire.
Log cabin fires create a small teepee, with wood being stacked on top of it like a real-life version of Lincoln Logs being stacked on top of the teepee.

How to Put Out Your Fire

You’ve enjoyed the fire but now it’s time to extinguish it properly. Follow these steps:

Have a bucket of water near your campfire at all times for safety reasons. This bucket of water should be sprinkled around carefully to extinguish all the embers. Don’t dump it all in one spot.
Stir the embers with a stick or shovel as you sprinkle the water on the fire to completely extinguish the fire.
Keep adding water until you no longer feel heat coming from the ashes.
Scoop up the ashes and return the land as you found it, spreading the ashes around the campsite to dispose of them. Then replace the dirt and sod you dug up with a shovel.

Fire Extinguish Tip: It takes at least 20 minutes to put out and monitor a fire being extinguished before you can leave the campfire unattended, so plan your time accordingly.

tips for building a campfire Pinterest image — A roaring campfire makes the campground perfect during cool evenings.

Monitor and Adhere to Fire Restrictions

Always monitor state and local fire restrictions. When camping in North Central Florida in the Ocala National Forest, there is a risk of wildfires due to strong winds and drought conditions. Check if you are in an area with campfire restrictions, listed in the alerts and notices and forest orders.

Read the campfire restrictions that exist year-round in the Ocala National Forest so you know the approved and non-approved fires and where you can make a campfire. Always keep a watch on fire danger ratings too.

Plan a Trip Along the St. Johns River

Make sure to spend some time enjoying the St. Johns River when you visit North Central Florida. Embrace and enjoy the river by renting a boat at Castaways on the River. The marina on the river can handle all of your boat rental needs. We also offer comfortable cottages and motel rooms so you can stay awhile. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to book your boat rental adventure today.

Fall Bass Fishing on the St. Johns River: 7 Tips for Success

Did you know that depending on the season, there are different tips and tricks to catch bass effectively? While autumn in Florida may be a bit warmer than most regions of the United States, here are 7 fall bass fishing tips for reeling in largemouth bass. Follow these fall bass fishing tips on the St. Johns River for a big-time catch in the Sunshine State.

fall bass fishing image — We have the 7 fall bass fishing tips for reeling in largemouth bass on the St. Johns River.

Look for Bait to Reel in the Bass

Look hard for smaller fish that bass are still feeding on in the St. Johns River, and that’s where you will find places to cast your line. As bass prepare for the winter and spawn, they are hungrier than ever and seek food sources wherever they can find them during this time of year.

Bass Hide in Shallow Beds

If you can’t see bass in the water, they are likely hiding in shallow shell beds and ledges in the fall. Target 3- to 6-foot range areas with your depth finder, and focus on casting your line close to river inlets where there are more hiding spots for bass.

fall bass fishing tips — Rent a boat and book a stay at a comfortable cottage or motel room at Castaways on the River. while you enjoy some fall bass fishing.

Find Baitfish in Grass Weeds and Rocks

Grass weeds are a hiding spot for bass in the fall. The weeds produce both oxygen and are also a hiding spot for baitfish, which are a great source of food for bass.

When the temperature drops, search for bass in rocky areas too. Rocks hold heat, and bass will cozy up to the rocks to stay warm and regulate their temperature as the water turns colder.

Casting is Key to Lure Bass from Hiding

Always remember to cast your line and lure beyond your underwater target area. The line will be at its deepest as you reel it in intermittently across the target area where you hope to lure bass from their hiding spots.

Anchor Away from Your Fall Bass Fishing Spot

To attract bass from their deep water hiding spots this time of year, it’s best to anchor your boat further away from your target fishing area. Make long casts toward the area, and reel your line in with a variety of fast and slow motions so the bass become intrigued by your line and not the shadow of your boat.

Lure Colors Matter

Make sure you use lures that match the color of the baitfish in the St. Johns River area where you are fishing for bass. If it’s hard to see the color of the baitfish, white or chrome colored lures will work. If the water is muddy or not clear, try gold, orange or red lures.

Make Reservations and Rent a Boat

You have all the fall bass fishing tips you need for a trip to the St. Johns River. Now it’s time to rent a boat and book a stay at a comfortable cottage or motel room at Castaways on the River. We have a fleet of rental boats ready for your fall bass fishing adventure. If these seven fall bass fishing tips aren’t enough to get a jaw dropping bass in your boat, contact Castaways Bass Fishing Capt. Steve Nemeiller at (800) 507-0058 and review his fishing guide information. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your fall fishing trip!

8 Tips for Trout Fishing in Florida

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.

man trout fishing in Florida — 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.

trout fishing Pinterest image — 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.

Young woman holding a trout in a fishing net — 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.

Read our blog on the top 7 fishing tips and tricks on the St. Johns River for some other fish adventure fishing tips.

Book a Trout Fishing Trip

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!

Places to Camp Along the St. Johns River

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 river — 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.

The central northern portion of the trail near Astor, FL is a great place for bird watching and beautiful views. Utilize this map of the Florida National Scenic Trail to plot the portion of the trail you want to hike. Use this designated campsite and trailhead location site to find your perfect camping spot.

Learn tips to hike the Florida National Scenic Trail in our blog.

The Ocala National Forest

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.

There are dozens of campgrounds in the Ocala National Forest that accommodate walk-in tent camping for 14 days or more, depending on the time of the year.

Read our blog on watching wildlife in the Ocala National Forest for wildlife viewing tips.

Castaways-Camping-PINTEREST-8-26-16-PIn — 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.

Read our blog to learn 7 tips for swimming in freshwater springs.

camp along the St. Johns River — 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!

7 Tips for Swimming in Freshwater Springs

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.

girl snorkeling in 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.

freshwater springs Pinterest pin — 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.

manatee swimming in a freshwater spring — 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!

6 Reasons to Rent a Boat

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.

men 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.

rent a boat Pinterest pin — 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.

Read our blog on the 6 hidden gems of the St. Johns River to find out how you can get exercise while exploring all the area has to offer.

Easy to Learn

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.

Those wishing to rent a boat on the St. Johns River can do so after they complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Boating Safety Education Identification Card issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Other questions about obtaining a boating card can be found here. Those visiting from another state can also obtain a temporary Florida boating certificate from this list of Florida vendors.

ladies on a boat — Enjoy the sights and sounds of the St. Johns River on a rental boat.

Rent a Boat

Are you wondering what kind of boat fits your boat cruising needs on the St. Johns River? Read our blog on how to choose the best boat rental. Ready to sign on the dotted line for a rental boat agreement? Read this blog first on what you need to know before you rent a boat.

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!