How to Choose the Best Boat Rental

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

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

Pontoon Boat Cruising is Fun

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

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

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

Try a Pontoon Fishing Experience

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

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

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

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

Deck Boats are a Family Alternative

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

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

Try a Fishing Boat Classic

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

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

Time to Rent a Boat

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

Bird Watching on the St. Johns River

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

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

Birds to Watch for on the St. Johns River

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

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

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

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

Florida: The International Bird Hub

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

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

I’m Bird Watching on a Boat!

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

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

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

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

Planning the Perfect Spring Break in Florida

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

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

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

Spring Break on the Water

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

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

We Put the Spring in Spring Break

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

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

The Sun Rises and Sets Here Too

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

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

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

All Red Everything for Heart Health at Castaways on the River

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

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

DIET

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

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

EXERCISE

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

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

LAUGH

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

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

Tackle Box for Freshwater Fishing

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

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

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

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

Know the lingo

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

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

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

Additional Tools of the Trade

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

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

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

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.

Cooking the Fresh Catch of the Day

A day of fishing out on the St. John’s River could net a great dinner to be prepared back on dry land for a few or many. Fishing is a favorite pastime in the area and many travel here year round to cast their lines.

So the question becomes what’s for dinner? Or better yet, how are we cooking dinner? Here in these parts of the Deep South, a favorite way to cook a fresh catch is too deep fry it, of course coated in a great batter.

Beer batter is always one of the best so let’s hash out a quick beer batter mix you can prepare easily.

Beer Batter Receipe:

Mix 1-cup of all-purpose flour

1 egg

A touch of garlic powder

A little bit of black pepper

1-cup of beer; add more beer if the batter is too thick

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl; dip your fish and deep fry until golden brown

Now for the big question, what beer should you use in the batter? Here are some fun fish-themed recommendations, and yes, all are available here in Florida.

Largemouth Bass

A summer favorite, you caught some trophy largemouth bass. For this pinnacle catch we recommend a lager, Ballast Point Longfin. A lighter beer, this will complement nicely with the flakiness of the bass.

Perch

You caught a mess of perch to make a nice meal. Congrats! Some may be turned off by the black dots on the flesh but a good strong beer batter will cover that right up and make for a delicious meal. Feel free to play around with this one and add in some cayenne pepper to the batter for an extra kick. For an even stronger batter we recommend pouring in some beer named after a saltwater variety catch, Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA. If you love hoppy beers this is for you. Enjoy the rest of your 6 pack with your meal; you’ll be glad you did.

Bluegill or Bream

Another small catch that makes a great fry, bream calls for a lighter batter. Make yours with Florida’s own Stump Knocker American Pale Ale from Swamp Head Brewery. Its moderate flavor will be an easy compliment to the crunch of your fish.

Channel catfish

Hooked a huge channel catfish? Then you must stir in some Alligator Pale Ale from the Alligator Brewing Company. Light and drinkable, it would go well for a lightly seasoned fish on a muggy summer night.

Striped bass

Make sure you add some Cajun seasoning to that striped bass batter before you deep fry this delicious fish. Try it with New Crustacean Barleywineish Imperial IPA Sorta, the lightness will balance with the spices in the batter.

Grass Shrimp

Grass shrimp the catch of the day? Deep fry those little critters with some Sweet Water Brewing Company’s Spinnerbait. The caramel flavors will blend seamlessly with the crunch and light texture of the shrimp.

The cottages at Castaways on the River include fully furnished kitchens ready to bring your feast from the river to the table. Or cook outside on one of the grills in the pavilion to enjoy the beautiful landscape. And don’t forget we offer a variety of rental boats to get to your favorite fishing spot. Learn more about us in our blog and keep up with us on Facebook and Twitter.

National Fishing & Boating Week on the St. Johns River

The weekend of June 13^th and 14^thare the last days of National Fishing and Boating Week 2015. We’re always happy to celebrate a week that spotlights our two favorite things – boating & fishing! Especially since fishing season never ends here in Florida, especially on the river! Call us and book your getaway today!

CA-BoatRental — Set off for a great day of boating and fishing from Castaways on the River in Astor, FL.

Fishing is a great way to spend your recreational time. More than 30 million of us across the United States think so according to the 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation (NSFHWR). That’s how many people went on at least one fishing trip in the past year. Freshwater fishing made up 81 percent of those trips just like our favorite spot, the beautiful St. Johns River.

So why are we all fishing obsessed? It relieves stress! No ringing cell phone, no constant streams of text messaging, it’s your unplug time. It’s well-deserved YOU time!

Fishing is about friendship. For those who love fishing, there is nothing better than spending a long day on the river with friends and family and good conversation. Fishing brings laughter as we try to reel in the one that is just a bit smarter than we are and joy when we finally catch the trophy we’ve been waiting for all day. There’s also the moment of shared disappointment when the one that got away is the only one we wanted.

Fishing licenses in in Florida help fund the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Anglers are outdoorsmen and women. They love the river and will work to conserve it and the life teeming in these waters.

Keeping with the spirit of the National Fishing and Boating Week, we urge you to pass this love along. Bring out that fishing novice friend for some time in the boat. Summertime is high season to bring in bass from the St. Johns River! Take a friend out on the river and share the excitement of getting a bruiser channel catfish. Plan a weekend boil and go out for the day to get a bucket full of blue crab. Castaways on the River offers boat rentals right on the St. Johns River for your convenience.

We would love to be part of your long weekend or week-long escape. Give us a call at 352-759-3422 and make National Fishing and Boating Week 2015 one to remember. For more great information follow our blog and connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.

A Relaxing Getaway Close to Major Attractions in the Region

Telling visitors how to get to Castaways on the River in Astor, FL typically means using the cities of Ocala and Daytona Beach as landmarks. Most tourists have heard of these locales since both regions host several events gaining national attention year round.

CA-TouristReg1 — Our guests come in March for Bike Week & October for Biketoberfest.

Of course, the world famous Daytona Beach is home to NASCAR’s Daytona 500 in February, Bike Week in March, CokeZero 400 in July, Biketoberfest in October and other racing events. The beach along the Atlantic Ocean is known as a Spring Break hotspot for college students.

The area is less than an hour drive from world class golf courses including Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, home to the LPGA Coates Golf Championship in January. The tournament is the newest stop added to the LPGA tour. Ocala’s equestrian ties also attract large events including the Ocala Breeders Sales, HITS Ocala Winter Circuit and the Live Oak International to name a few.

Nestled on the eastern rim of the Ocala National Forest off U.S. 40 on the St. Johns River, Castaways on the River is a relaxing getaway but within proximity to enjoy great tourist destinations.

SONY DSC — Blue Crabs are popular in the St. Johns River

Eco-tourism plays a big role in this region thanks to the St. Johns River and the Ocala National Forest. The river is a fisherman’s paradise, home to several species of fish like Black Crappie or Speckled Perch to Largemouth Bass and Stripped Bass. The river, which flows south to north, is also known for White Shrimp and Blue Crab. Yes, that means you can catch lunch or dinner in just a few hours and prepare it on one of our outdoor grills on in the kitchen of your cottage.

CA-Hotel — The Castaways on the River can accommodate small or large groups.

Our guests can enjoy lodging in one of our quaint cottages or one of our luxury motel rooms. Whether you choose to spend the day boating or fishing on the St. Johns River or take a daytrip to a nearby tourist attraction, Castaways on the River is your headquarters to do it all!

Castaways On the river

Castaways on the River

Tag: boat rental

How to Choose the Best Boat Rental