Tag: boat rental

8 Reasons Freshwater Fishing Tops Saltwater Fishing

The St. Johns River is one of the best freshwater fishing spots in Florida. Its tranquil, idyllic setting in north central Florida offers anglers great fishing opportunities in a peaceful setting. Freshwater fishing tops saltwater fishing for many reasons. Let us count the ways here with our top 8 reasons freshwater fishing on the river is the way to go.

freshwater fishing on the river
We have top 8 reasons freshwater fishing on the river tops saltwater fishing.

Less Wear and Tear

Freshwater fishing is easier on your boat and equipment. Why? Saltwater takes a toll on your boat, motor, tackle and other equipment. Those that strictly fish in saltwater have to repair and/or replace equipment and boats that becomes corroded from the salty sea.

Cheaper Costs

You need more fuel to go on fishing trips miles from shore on saltwater fishing excursions. You also need bigger boats that can withstand the saltwater and the sea. So if you want to reduce your fishing costs on everything from fuel bills to boat payments and tackle costs, stick with freshwater fishing.

Smooth Sailing

For those that don’t handle a bumpy boat ride very well, freshwater fishing is the way to go. You don’t have to worry about wave action and Dramamine on the St. Johns River.

You Know What You’re Going to Catch

When you’re fishing in saltwater, you don’t know if you have hooked a Grouper or Jaws. If you’re seeking dependable fishing that leaves little to the imagination in terms of what you are going to hook on the line, stick with freshwater fishing.

freshwater fishing
Reduce your fishing tackle and lures costs by going freshwater fishing.

Less Injury Prone

Catching bigger fish in saltwater comes with a greater risk of potential fishing injuries when trying to control your catch. If you’re going fishing with little ones or don’t want to risk an injury fighting a fish with razor-sharp teeth and a powerful tail, you’ll want to stay on the river.

Dependable Bait

Saltwater fishing has so many bait options. Shrimp, soft crabs, eels. The list is endless depending on which fish you’re trying to catch in the sea. If you like your tried and true worms and lures, you’re a freshwater fisher.

Less Complicated Fishing Tactics

There are so many ways to catch saltwater fish. Spear fishing, deep sea fishing and charter fishing just to name a few. If you want to save on equipment costs and fish on a boat or off of a dock peacefully, the St. Johns River is calling your name.

freshwater fishing sign
It’s time to relax and go fishing on the St. Johns River.

Less Intense Fishing

Saltwater fishing is intense and not for the faint of heart. Many saltwater fish hit the bait and your line with force. You need strength and endurance to reel them in, an experience that can take more than an hour depending on the size of the fish. Freshwater fishing is less intense and doesn’t typically require help from others to reel in your catch.

Now that you’re pumped up with all the reasons freshwater fishing is superior to saltwater fishing, all you need to do is rent a boat on the St. Johns River and book a stay at a comfortable cottage at Castaways on the River. We have a marina full of rental boats ready for your St. Johns River fishing adventure. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your summer trip on the river today!

Castaways request lodging button

10 Must Have Items for a St. Johns River Fishing Trip

Summer is a great time of year to schedule a fishing trip on the crystal clear fresh water of the St. Johns River. All you need to do is schedule time to relax and unwind on the river while making sure you bring along these 10 must have items for your St. Johns River fishing trip.

fishing trip main image
Bring your favorite rod, a tacklebox and lures for your fishing trip adventure.

1. Fishing Trip Rods and a Tacklebox

Fishers don’t leave home without their favorite fishing rod. So in your excitement to head to the St. Johns River, don’t forget to bring your rod and a tacklebox. One rod per person should suffice.

2. Navigational Tools

Don’t leave home without your GPS, which allows you to punch in coordinates to find the perfect fishing spot. Do your homework before you leave for your trip. Access Google Earth to find coordinates from a topographical map online that look like good fish hangouts. Then you just plug in the coordinates when you’re on the river and you’re off and running to the precise spot. Read our blog on finding the perfect fishing spot on the St. John’s River for some hints.

3. Fishing License

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) requires Florida residents and visitors to have a freshwater fishing license. There are FWC fishing license exemptions that visitors and residents can qualify for though. One of the most efficient ways to obtain a fishing license is by downloading the Fish|Hunt Application that allows the ability to renew, purchase, and store your license.

4. Binoculars

The St. Johns River is teeming with more than just fish. It’s full of turtles, alligators, birds, manatees and other wildlife that live in and around the river and the Ocala National Forest. Binoculars are a must to truly enjoy the nature the St. Johns River produces for you from the comfort of your boat.

St. Johns River fishing trip
Binoculars are a must to truly enjoy the nature the St. Johns River produces for you.

5. Snorkel and a Mask

Did you know the St. Johns River is home to some beautiful crystal clear fresh water springs created by Mother Nature? The springs are full of colorful fish and other aquatic wildlife? Don’t forget your snorkel and mask so you can take advantage of snorkeling in cool crystal clear water that will enhance your snorkeling adventure.

6. Cooler

It’s hot in Florida. Don’t forget to bring a cooler full of water and other beverages to quench your thirst on your fishing trip. Here at Castaways On The River, we offer ice for sale, ensuring you have everything you need to keep your days on the river cool and enjoyable!

7. Waterproof Bags

Fishers get wet, even when they don’t intend to. Use sealable plastic bags to secure your wallet, phone and other items you don’t want to get soaked.

snorkling man swim underwater in turquoise sea
Don’t forget your snorkel so you can take advantage of snorkeling in cool fresh water springs.

8. Polarized Sunglasses

There is a reason they call Florida “The Sunshine State.” Polarized sunglasses are essential for your St. Johns River fishing trip for two reasons. They will protect your eyes from the sun and allow you see down deeper to find fish beds where fish are congregating.

9. First Aid Kit

When boats are moving and hooks are flying, sometimes accidents happen. Friends can get hit on the head by a low hanging branch, items in the boat can move around if they aren’t secure and even avid fishers can cut their hand or have an unfortunate fishing accident. Don’t forget the first aid kit. A first aid kit can easily take care of an injury that needs medical attention and help prolong your fishing trip instead of cutting it short.

10. Camera

You just caught the biggest fish of your life but no one was there to witness it. Don’t forget to bring a camera or have a good cell phone camera handy to capture evidence of The Big One. The camera gives your fishing trip story credibility when your friends start to scoff.

Got your bags packed? Now all you need to do is rent a boat and rent a comfortable cottage at Castaways on the River for a summer fishing trip you’ll be talking about for years. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect fishing trip on the river today!

Planning the Perfect Father’s Day Fishing Trip

Father’s Day weekend is almost here. For kids looking to spend more quality time with dad and dads looking to do the same with their kids, a fishing trip is the perfect time to do some bonding. We’ve got the tips for planning the perfect Father’s Day fishing trip on the St. Johns River.

son and father fishing trip
A Father’s Day fishing trip is the perfect time to do some bonding with dad.

Tips for First Timers with Your Kids

Are you spending Father’s Day fishing trip on the river with some first time fishers? Teach your kids how to cast and reel on a beginner’s rod before the trip. Make sure you celebrate the first fish your children catch on the line. It’s a big deal to a little one and you will hook them into becoming fishing friends of yours for life.

family fishing trip
Make Father’s Day memories on the St. Johns River during a fishing trip.

Time To Talk

A fishing trip is the perfect time to catch up with dad and have some meaningful conversations. There is something about being on the river that relaxes dad and allows him to loosen up. Take advantage of it.

Pick the Right Fishing Spot

Finding the perfect fishing spot on the St. Johns River is crucial to your perfect fishing trip. Here are some tips to find that ideal spot so you can concentrate on spending the extra time enjoying your trip with dad. Read up on a St. Johns River fishing report and a local fishing forum to get you familiarized for the trip so you can impress dad with the perfect fishing trip.

Tacklebox Tricks and Tips

While we’re on the subject of impressing dad, rock his world by knowing these seven fishing tricks to improve his chances will make this a Father’s Day weekend he will never forget.

Choosing the Right Boat

Celebrate Father’s Day weekend by renting a boat on the St. Johns River. Wondering what kind of boat will suit your weekend plans? We will show you how to choose the best boat rental and boat rental tips you need to know before you rent that boat.

grandson and grandpa fishing trip
Celebrate the first fish your children or grandchildren catch on your fishing trip.

Summer Fishing Trip Tips

The fish are biting, the St. Johns River is warmer and the temperatures are climbing in north central Florida this time of year. Use these summer apparel fishing tips to keep you cool and poised while you enjoy the summer season on the river.

Take a Camera

Making memories is what this fishing trip is all about. Boating and fishing on the St. Johns River with dad is peaceful, special and fun. Make sure you take your camera and have your cell phone charged so you can record the special weekend. Documenting the trip on camera will also act as evidence when dad starts to embellish about the size of the big fish he caught on the river.

Now that you have all the tips you need to make this Father’s Day fishing trip a memorable one, it’s time to rent a boat at Castaways on the River. We offer cottages and motel rooms right on the river next to a marina full of rental boats. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to plan your fishing trip on the river today!

Boating and Fishing on the St. Johns River

It’s National Fishing and Boating Week, which means it’s the perfect time to celebrate the importance of boating and fishing on the St. Johns River. We’ve got the tips you need to take full advantage of your time on the beautiful fresh water river.

boating on the St. Johns River
Celebrating National Fishing and Boating Week by cruising the river in a pontoon boat.

Take Advantage of License Free Fishing Days

During National Fishing and Boating Week many states offer license free fishing days, which are days when fishers are allowed to fish on bodies of water without a fishing license. While you’re fishing on the St. Johns River, take advantage of Florida license free freshwater fishing on the St. Johns River June 11-12.

Tacklebox Tricks and Tips

Tackleboxes for freshwater fishing are the key factor for either coming back to the dock empty handed or with a pile of fish you can brag about. We’ve got the tips you need to put together the perfect tacklebox and seven fishing tricks to help you land the fish you’re looking for.

Find the Perfect Fishing Spot

Now that you know you can fish for free in Florida this weekend, it’s time to find the perfect fishing spot on the St. Johns River. We’ve also got you covered with how to plan the perfect fishing day.

man boating at sunset
We’ve got the boating and fishing tips you need to have a perfect day from sunset to sunrise.

Choosing the Right Boat

Celebrating National Fishing and Boating Week means you must get on a boat. Pronto. Wondering what boat fits your needs on the St. Johns River? We’ll teach you how to choose the best boat rental and the tips you need to know before you sign your boat rental agreement.

Know the Boating Signs

Do you know the boating signs on the St. Johns River and the Florida boating requirements to navigate safely and effectively this summer? While you cruise the river and enjoy its natural beauty and wildlife, be mindful of these important boating signs and follow these boating etiquette tips along the way.

Boating-Signs
These are the boating signs you need to know on the river.

Enjoy The Summer Boating Season

Summer is here on the St. Johns River. The fish are biting and the temperatures are climbing. Don’t worry. We’ve got summer fishing apparel tips that will keep you cool and relaxed while you enjoy the summer season on the river.

Now that you’re prepared and equipped with all the tips and tools you need to enjoy the St. Johns River on National Boating and Fishing Week, all you need to do is rent a boat at Castaways on the River. We offer cottages and hotel rooms that are just steps away from a dock full of rental boat and Jet Ski options. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your summer trip on the river today!

Tips for Renting Boats: What You Need to Know

It’s a beautiful time of year to be on a boat cruising the St. Johns River in search of crystal clear springs for swimming or to catch fish. Don’t have a boat? That’s not a problem. We’ll teach you the tips you need to know to rent a boat this summer on the river.

rent a boat
We’ll teach you the tips you need to know to rent a boat this summer on the St. Johns River.

Review Boat Rental Companies

You already know you want to be on the St. Johns River for your boating adventure. The crystal clear water, great fishing and wildlife make it the perfect choice. But how do you find the right boat rental company to choose from? Search the Internet for “boat rentals” in the region where you are planning your trip. When selecting a boat rental operator, research the following:

  • The ratings of rental operators
  • The reviews given by previous customers
  • The prices for half day and full day rentals

Rental Boat Licenses and Regulations

Each state has different age and license requirements for boaters. Boat rental operators and charter captains are required to have a valid boat license, which is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). This license allows operators to carry anywhere from 4 to more than 11 customers on board a boat, depending on which charter boat license they carry.

For those wishing to rent a boat in Florida, Florida law requires anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 to successfully complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Boating Safety Education Identification Card issued by the FWC. Other questions about obtaining a boating card can be found here.

If you are visiting from another state and meet the boating safety requirements elsewhere, you can obtain a temporary Florida boating certificate from a list of vendors. Make sure you ask your boat rental operator what they require before you show up to rent a boat.

pontoon boat at sunset
Most boat rental operators mandate their boats are returned before nightfall.

What’s in the Rental Agreement?

Boat rental agreements vary so make sure you take a close look at them before you sign on the dotted line. Some limit how far you can travel from the boat dock and others won’t allow you to tow tubes or skiers. Most rental operators mandate their boats are returned before nightfall. Normal wear and tear is expected but if you come back with a damaged propeller or a ripped captain seat, you’re likely going to have to pay for the damage.

Rental agreement tip: Make sure it’s outlined how weather-related cancellations are handled so you’re not stuck paying for a boat rental you didn’t get to use.

Is the Rental Boat Insured?

It’s important that a rental company’s liability coverage is outlined in your boat rental agreement. It’s common to accept all responsible for anything that happens to the boat and motor regardless of cause.

Rental Insurance tip: It’s worth contacting your insurance agent to find out what kind of rental coverage you’re eligible for under your policy while operating a rental boat.

Perform a Rental Check

Boats and their maintenance are expensive. So take a long look at your rental boat and outline any issues with the boat in writing before you take the keys and fire up the engine. You never want to be accused of causing previous damage to a rental boat. List the following on your rental agreement before you sign it:

  • Scratches and dents on the hull
  • Damage to the motor or propeller
  • Seat stains
  • Windshield cracks
  • Missing, broken or loose fittings

What Safety Equipment is Provided?

Boat rental operators are required to have all necessary safety equipment on board your rental boat. Make sure you know where it’s all stashed and how to operate it before you leave on your boat trip. Make sure your rental boat operator gives you a tour of the boat.

Safety Tips: Make sure your provided life jackets are sized and adjusted properly before you and your passengers leave. Make sure children wear life jackets at all times. It’s the law.

Castaways tips for renting boats Pinterest pin
Pontoon boats are fun for cruising the river for fishing or for a leisurely river cruise.

Rent a Boat

Now all that’s left to do is rent a boat. How do you choose the perfect rental boat? Here’s a sampling of boats you can try on the St. Johns River:

  • Pontoon fishing boats – These boats are fun for cruising the river for fishing or for a leisurely river cruise. You can fit a dozen people on a pontoon river cruiser or accommodate your fishing party.
  • Mako fishing boats – Mako fishing boats are bit sportier and more stylish and are a popular choice among anglers. A 19-foot Mako comes equipped with a 140-horsepower motor that can accommodate seven fishers, two fishing seats and comes equipped with fishing rod holders.

Now that you’re prepared for your summer boat trip on the St. johns River, all you need is to rent a boat at Castaways on the River. We also offer cottages and hotel rooms that sit right on the St. Johns River so you can stay awhile and enjoy the tranquil setting of the river. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your summer trip on the river today!

Enjoying the Summer Season on the St. Johns River

Summertime is always the best of what might be.” – Charles Bowden

Summertime on the St. Johns River is a magical place. The crystal clear river is teeming with fish and the weather is warm enough to take a cool dip in North Central Florida’s fresh water springs. With Memorial Day weekend being the unofficial start to the summer season on the St. Johns River, we’ve got the tips you need to make those summer trips perfect.

summer fun boating
With Memorial Day weekend being the unofficial start to the summer season on the St. Johns River, we’ve got the tips you need to make those summer trips perfect.

Dress the Part

The end of May marks the end of the cool fronts that make their way down to Florida. Warmer, more humid weather is in store for Florida through October. In Florida, that’s just an excuse to enjoy the water more and cool off.

When you can’t be in the water, we’ve got the summer fishing apparel tips you need to stay cool on the St. Johns River.

Watch the Weather

Summer also ushers in the rainy season for North Central Florida. You can almost set your clock by the afternoon thunderstorms that roll in every day in the late afternoon and roll out before you can usher the word “sun shower.” Monitor a weather app closely so these storms don’t leave you soaked on the river while fishing. Hint: Rainy summer days in Florida have their perks. Overcast days make fish more likely to take your bait.

License Free Fishing Days

Do you have a friend or family member that’s ready to try their hand at fishing on the river? Florida license free fishing days are the best time for them to try a rod and reel to see if they become addicted before they purchase a license. The Florida Fresh and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) requires Florida residents and visitors to have a $17 freshwater fishing license on all other days you fish in Florida.

The next weekend for license free freshwater fishing days in Florida is June 11-12, so start planning that trip.

summer fishing on the river
We’ve got the fishing tips on the river to catch what you’re looking for this summer.

Tackle That Tacklebox

Tackleboxes for freshwater fishing can be basic for beginners or more advanced for the experienced angler. The key to preparing that tacklebox is knowing what kind of fish you’re looking for on your trip.

We’ve got the tips you to put together a tacklebox and fishing tips on the river to catch what you’re looking for.

Find a Perfect Fishing Spot

Looking for the perfect summer fishing spot on the St. Johns River? There’s a lot of preparing and planning that needs to take place to find that spot, especially if you’re a newcomer to North Central Florida. We’ve got you covered with fishing spot tips and planning for the perfect fishing day.

Watch the Wildlife

Gators, bears and birds, oh my! When you’re on the river this summer, don’t forget there’s more than just fish to catch. There’s a lot of wildlife in and near the St. Johns River. Take some time to look for gators on the river banks, black bears near the scenic Florida Black Bear Highway and more than 200 species of birds along the river and in the Ocala National Forest.

Gator Watching Tips:

It’s gator nesting season in the summer months. Follow these tips to watch gators safely from the sidelines.

Check Out Nearby Attractions

Our little slice of fishing heaven may be tucked away in peaceful Astor, FL but we’re just a short drive from Daytona or Ocala. Located in the eastern portion of the Ocala National Forest, we’re just a few minutes north of De Leon Springs State Park. Both offer a lot of fun summer activities near the river.

summer season on the river
Now that you’re prepared for summer on the St. Johns River, all you need now is to rent a boat and head down the river.

Rent a Boat

Now that you’re prepared for summer on the St. Johns River, all you need now is to rent a boat and head down the river. We’ve got tips on how to choose which rental boat fits your needs. Castaways on the River offers half day and full day boat rentals. We also offer cottages and hotel rooms that are just steps from the rental boats on the St. Johns River so you can stay awhile and see what this Florida paradise has to offer this summer. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your summer trip on the river today!

How to Find the Perfect Fishing Spot

“Many go fishing all their lives without knowing it’s not the fish they are after.” – Henry David Thoreau

The St. Johns River is calm, peaceful and full of wildlife and natural beauty. You can spend time by yourself fishing and reflecting on the sparkling fresh water river or head out on the river with friends. However you like to fish, we’ve got the 5 tips you need to find the perfect fishing spot on the St. Johns River.

perfect fishing spot for bass fish
We’ve got the tips you need to find the perfect fishing spot for catching bass in the St. Johns River.

Planning is Key

If this is your first time to the St. Johns River, spend some time on the Internet looking for top fishing spots. Browse local fishing forums to see where the best places to bite are and what’s biting. It doesn’t hurt to jot down a few good spots other anglers have found to give you a leg up when you get out on the water. Need some help? Here’s a St. Johns River fishing report and a local forum to get you started.

Talk to the Locals

At the end of the day, who knows the best fishing spots better than the locals? Once you get to the St. Johns River, don’t be afraid to start asking the locals and your marina rental operator where you should go to find fish. Local guides and the person behind the counter selling you live bait are good sources to help you find the best spots. Don’t be discouraged when some hardcore locals don’t give up their fishing holes though. Many of them don’t want their favorite spots overrun by visitors. Just give them a tip of your hat, move on and respect an angler who cherishes his or her sacred perfect fishing spot.

Take a Topographic Map

An easy Internet search can help you get your hands on a topographic map of the area you plan on fishing. Look for places where a topographic line intersects with the St. Johns River and another body of water like a lake or an inlet. There’s likely a drop in elevation there, which is code for: Fish Party Hangout. Drops in elevations or depressions in bodies of water are also known as honey holes. Now take that honey hole location and match it up with a site like Google Earth. Write down the coordinates, punch them into your GPS and voila, you’re off and running to the exact coordinates of your own perfect fishing spot.

osprey holding a fish
When you see an osprey pluck a fish out of the water, you just found yourself a fishing spot.

 Watch the Birds

When you’re out on the water, watch those birds. Why should you stare at birds on a fishing trip you ask? When you see birds diving in the water and coming up with a fish, you can thank those birds for finding you a great fishing spot.

Patience = Perfect Fishing Spot

Finding the perfect fishing spot takes patience, a skill you should be used to as a lover of fishing. So remember to wait it out, switch spots when all else fails and try new bait. At the end of the day, planning the perfect fishing day is a game of patience you must learn to master.

man catching bass
Finding the perfect fishing spot is easy if you have patience and follow a few simple steps.

Plan Your Trip

It’s time to plan your trip to the river. Rent a hotel room or book a cottage at Castaways on the River. Once you step outside with your rod and reel, you’re just steps away from a variety of rental boats docked at a marina right on the St. John’s River. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your fishing trip on river today.

Know the Boating Signs on the St. Johns River

Do you know the boating signs on the St. Johns River to navigate safely and effectively? As you’re enjoying the pristine water and the beautiful natural surroundings, be aware of these important signs along the way. Understanding these signs will help preserve the natural habitat as well as make for a peaceful visit for everyone.

boating sign
Don’t go faster than the posted speed limits when you see these speed limit signs on the St. Johns River.

Idle Speed No Wake Signs

idle speed no wake zone

This sign means the area you’re approaching requires boats to move extremely slow and not create wakes that come from boat motors going too fast. So back off on that throttle and move slowly here. Basically, an Idle Speed No Wake sign means that you should not be accelerating at all to create any wake. Maintaining steerage and headway is key here until you coast out of the no wake zone.

Slow Speed, Minimum Wake Signs

Here, boaters can create small wakes. Code: You can go a bit faster than idle speed here but move cautiously.

boating sign
Don’t go faster than just above idle speed when boating in areas with these signs.

Maximum 25 MPH and 35 MPH Speed Zone Signs

These are controlled areas. Bottom line: Don’t go faster than the posted speed limits in these areas. Translation: It’s the boat version of a school zone on the water here.

Vessel Exclusion Area Signs

This sign is marked with a vertical diamond shape with a cross in the center and indicates boats aren’t permitted here. Typically, these are posted to let boaters know it’s a swimming area. For the St. Johns River, these signs are posted to let boaters know where people are swimming in places like Silver Glen Springs and other crystal clear water spots created by natural springs.

Manatee Zone Signs

Manatee signs alert boaters to slow down in areas where the revered and endangered manatees congregate. The words “Manatee Zone” are typically placed above a Slow Speed, Minimum Wake sign to let boaters know to look out for the big lovable sea cows. Sometimes there are stand-alone signs warning boaters to watch for manatees.

Navigation Tips

There are some other navigation tips you’ll want to know when traversing the St. Johns River.
Don’t:

  • Anchor your vessel in the river’s navigation channel because you’ll block boat traffic.
  • Moor or attach your boat to a buoy or navigational aid or sign.
  • Move, displace or tamper with any navigational aid or sign.
  • Obstruct a pier, wharf, boat ramp or access to any public facility.

Plan Your Boating Trip

Now that you know how to maneuver that rental boat like a pro on the St. Johns River, it’s time to plan a trip. Rent a hotel room or book a cottage at Castaways on the River to make your trip perfect. Once you step outside your room and see that sparkling river, you’re only steps away from rental boats that are sitting in the marina just waiting for you to cruise the river or go fishing. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your fishing trip on the river today.

How to Take Your Dog Fishing

Do you have a loyal fishing partner who always shows up for your fishing trips, stays by your side to keep you company and keeps quiet while you fish? If so, that loyal companion is quite possibly your dog.

If you’ve never taken your dog fishing with you,  you’ll want to train your dog properly before your first venture. Training will take time and several fishing outings before your dog becomes a fishing companion pro. Here’s how to take your dog fishing on the St. Johns River.

dog on a boat
Make sure your dog has a canine life jacket for your fishing trip.

Pay Close Attention to Fishing Safety

Dogs are curious and they’ll gravitate toward interesting objects and  the curious items sticking out of your tackle box. Avoid hooks getting stuck in your dog’s mouth by keeping all your fishing equipment and hooks stowed away and inside the tackle box.

Keep a Water Bowl Handy

Whether on a boat or dry land, one common mistake anglers with pups forget is a supply of fresh water. Water bowls ensure your dog stays hydrated during a long day of fishing.  Make sure your dog has some shade to sit in too during the hot afternoon hours.

how to fish with a dog on a boat
Make sure your dog has some shade to sit under during your fishing trip.

Pups Need Bathroom Breaks Too

Don’t forget that Fido has to go to the bathroom too. To avoid fishing trip interruptions from a dog that’s got to go, let your dog off the boat once or twice during the day to go to the bathroom. If they run off into a wooded area to do their business, you might want to follow them in case they stumble upon a snake or other wild animal.

Boating: Backing Up Protocol

Before you start backing up the boat during a fishing trip, make sure you know where your dog is located. While an experienced fishing dog knows to stay put and stay out of the way, novice fishing pups can jump off the boat right in the path of your boat when the boat changes direction.

girl fishing with a dog
Do you have a loyal fishing partner who always shows up for your fishing trips, stays by your side to keep you company and keeps quiet while you fish?

Life Jackets for Everyone

Even dogs can get scared if they fall or jump off the boat and hear you screaming, “Dog Overboard!” Make sure you get your companion a canine life jacket to avoid any incidents. Plus, your dog will feel just like one of the crew with a life jacket.

Remember the Leash

You probably won’t need the leash for most of the fishing trip while your dog roams the boat. That leash, though, will be valuable when your dog needs to be tied to the dock while you unload the boat.

dog and a tackle box
Avoid hooks getting stuck in your dog’s mouth by keeping  hooks stowed away and inside the tackle box.

Treats for Good Behavior

The fishing trip is now over and you might get a beer or a pat on the back for catching the Big One. But what about Fido? You dog deserves multiple treats for staying by your side and following the rules throughout the fishing trip. Treats also come in handy to reinforce good behavior as you train your dog to become the perfect fishing trip companion on your adventures.

At Castaways on the River, we offer everything you need for the perfect fishing trip in a pet-friendly environment on the St. Johns River. Our cottages are pet friendly and our boats welcome pets. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect fishing trip with your favorite canine on the river.

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.