How to Find the Perfect Christmas Tree in the Ocala National Forest

Oh Christmas tree! Thy leaves are so unchanging. If you have never experienced the fun and excitement of finding the perfect live Christmas tree as a family, we urge you to find and cut down the perfect tree in the Ocala National Forest in North Central Florida. It’s legal as long as you follow these guidelines.

Christmas tree Ocala National Forest — You can find the perfect Christmas tree in the Ocala National Forest near Astor, Florida.

Ocala National Forest Permits

The Ocala National Forest is a great place to find and cut down your perfect Christmas tree. The Ocala National Forest is protected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Forest Service. Special forest permits to cut down a Christmas tree can be obtained at the Lake George Ranger District Station or the Seminole Ranger District Station. Permits are $7 and are available from Thanksgiving Day through Dec. 23 each year.

Finding the Perfect Tree Takes Time

The Ocala National Forest has more than 380,000 acres of protected land. It takes a longer period of time to find the perfect tree in a forest full of native plants and wildlife. Rangers will provide you with a map for three Christmas tree harvesting areas that help narrow down your search parameters. Make sure your tree will fit in your living room before you cut it down. Trees in the forest can look deceiving.

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Choose a Healthy Tree

A freshly cut Christmas tree will last longer than a tree that was cut down weeks ago and transported to a tree lot. Look for trees that do not have a lot of dead or browning needles. Gently stroke branches to make sure the needles bend and don’t fall off the tree.

Check for Live Animals

Before you begin the process of cutting down your tree, shake it and inspect it for live animals that may have made your Christmas tree their home. The last thing you want to do is place your new tree inside your home and discover there is a squirrel inside it.

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Take a Tarp

Place a tarp on the ground on the location where you anticipate your tree will fall when you cut it down. This will help your tree from falling into dirt and grass in the forest, which makes bringing the tree home much less messy.

Bring Tools

Don’t pull a Clark W. Griswold and forget to bring something to cut down your tree. You don’t want to dig up a tree and its root system. Take one of the following with you to make your job much easier.

Battery-operated handsaw
Battery-powered chainsaw
Hatchet
Bow saw
Handsaw

Remember to bring along a pair of work gloves and some rope to secure the tree to your vehicle.

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Do Not Create Trunk Base Friction

Refrain from using reciprocal saws or any blade that moves so fast it creates friction. Too much blade friction causes the truck to get too hot, which seals the trunk up with hot sap that acts like a permanent glue to prevent your tree from absorbing water.

Cutting Your Tree for the Base

Using a handsaw or one of the above methods to cut your tree trunk, cut approximately a half-inch off the bottom of the tree trunk before putting your tree in its base. This allows the tree to absorb more water.

Do not cut the trunk base at an angle or a V-shape and don’t drill a hole in the base. These methods actually make it more difficult for your tree to absorb water.

Mount Your Tree Within 8 Hours

A fresh tree can go without water for eight hours after you cut it down before further water absorption becomes more difficult. Place your tree in a safe stand that can hold a quart of water for every inch in trunk diameter.

Do not remove the bark of the tree to get the base to fit in the tree stand. The bark is the layer that absorbs the most water.

Allow the Tree to Settle

Once the tree is safely and securely in the tree stand, allow it to settle into its shape or fall, for anywhere from an hour to overnight before you begin decorating the tree. This allows the branches to settle.

Ensure Christmas Tree Safety

Inspect light cords and make sure they are not frayed before you weave the lights into the tree. Keep your tree away from heat sources and also never leave your home unattended with the Christmas tree lights on.

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Plan a Holiday Trip Along the St. Johns River

Are you looking to get away for a holiday trip that culminates with finding the perfect Christmas tree in the Ocala National Forest? Before you find the right tree, make sure you spend some time in nature along the St. Johns River.

Castaways on the River offers comfortable cottages and motel rooms right along the St. Johns River near the Ocala National Forest. Castaways also has a fleet full of rental boats for your use. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to book your Christmas tree adventure trip today!

5 Must Stop Dining Spots Along the St. Johns River

The St. Johns River in North Central Florida is a beautiful place to enjoy nature and a nice meal along the river. The fall season and cooler temperatures make November a great time of year to experience the area. We have the five must-stop dining spots along the St. Johns River in Astor, Florida that should be on your list.

dining along st. johns river feature image — We have the five must-stop dining spots along the St. Johns River in Astor, Florida that should be on your list.

Castaways Restaurant

Known as a quaint restaurant near the St. Johns River, Castaways Restaurant offers a great seafood menu selection. Castaways is known for its menu variety. The restaurant also offers a great salad bar, fresh seafood sandwiches, and drinks at the upstairs bar that longtime patrons say are “generous.” Make sure you head to the restaurant on Friday for live entertainment.

Menu selection tip: Try the bacon-wrapped shrimp and the lobster bisque.

Blackwater Inn Restaurant & Lounge

Another restaurant that sits directly on the banks of the St. Johns River, the Blackwater Inn Restaurant and Lounge has quaint outdoor seating areas that are built within the shade of big trees and offer spectacular views of the river. A haven for fresh seafood the Blackwater Inn offers everything from fresh seafood platters and catfish fillets to sirloin steaks on its menu. Longtime patrons rave about the Blackwater Inn’s hush puppies recipe too. Arrive by boat and take a seat at the bar or the restaurant. Looking for something different and unique to the North Central Florida area? Try the frog legs for an appetizer and the grilled quail or gator tail for an entree. Don’t leave the table without trying a piece of the Chocolate Drizzled Key Lime Pie for dessert. You won’t be disappointed.

dining along st. johns river image — November is a great time of year to enjoy fresh seafood dining along the St. Johns River.

Old Sugar Mill & Griddle House

You’ve hit the breakfast jackpot when you visit Old Sugar Mill Restaurant & Bakery. Known as the Old Spanish Sugar Mill to locals, it’s a unique restaurant inside De Leon Springs State Park that has working griddles at each table to make your fresh pancakes. Servers bring you pitchers of homemade Early American pancake batters made from five fresh stone ground flour to pour on your hot griddle and flip right at your table. You can order an assortment of blueberries, bananas, chocolate chips, apples, and more to add to your special pancakes. The restaurant also serves up some tasty sausage, bacon, ham, and eggs. Don’t forget to take home some homemade bread and dessert treats at the homemade bakery before you leave.

The Old Sugar Mill also offers an assortment of salads and fresh sandwiches and burgers for lunch.

Arrival Tip: Unless you’re arriving by boat, entry to the Old Sugar Mill Restaurant & Bakery requires you to pay $14 per person for entry to De Leon State Park. Children under four are free. Before or after your meal, immerse yourself in the history of De Leon Springs State Park, which is thought to be the site where Ponce De Leon discovered his famous Fountain of Youth.

Sparky’s Place Restaurant

Sparky’s Place Restaurant on Highway 40 near the St. Johns River is known for serving the best pizza along the river. Sparky’s makes homemade sauces and fresh dough to serve up pizza that longtime patrons can’t live without. It’s a great place to visit and refuel after a day of swimming and exploring at Juniper Springs. If you’re a burger aficionado, you must order the Swamp Burge on the menu, which comes topped with fries topped with cheese, bacon, and special sauce.

Sparky’s is also known for its breakfast offerings. Celebrate the Florida Black Bears of the nearby Ocala National Forest by ordering some bear cakes (pancakes with berries and nuts) and red neck biscuits, which are served with sausage, fried eggs, and sausage gravy.

dining along st. johns river fish sandwich — The St. Johns River area near Astor, FL is known for its fresh seafood offerings.

Essex Seafood House

Essex House Seafood House is known for its fresh seafood menu offerings. Their most popular offering is their whole belly fried clams appetizer, which can also act as a meal. Many call their New England-style seafood the best you can find outside of New England.

Don’t forget to bring cash. Bikers are welcome here too.

Book Your St. Johns River Visit

Is your mouth watering now from all the fresh seafood and other menu offerings available to you along the St. Johns River? It’s time to book a stay at Castaways on the River to do some fishing and rent a boat. We offer comfortable cottages and motel rooms so you can enjoy the area and spend time on the river and at the local restaurants. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to book your boat rental and fishing adventure today.

7 North Central Florida RV Campground Tips You Need to Know

Are you ready to do some RV camping in North Central Florida? The fall and winter months are the best time of year to take advantage of the RV Florida campgrounds and enjoy the cooler weather and amazing scenery along the St. Johns River. Load up the RV as we review an RV campground tip checklist for you.

rv campgrounds florida — The fall and winter months are the best time of year to take advantage of the RV Florida campgrounds and enjoy the cooler weather.

Reserve Camp Site Locations Now

January, February and March are the most popular months to find a campsite in North Central Florida. If you’re seeking a camp site for your RV, the time is now to book a reservation.

For Florida State Parks RV campsite reservations, call (800) 326-3521 or book a reservation online.

Book a RV Florida Campground Site in the Off-Season

Seeking to do some Florida RV camping in the off-season when it’s not as busy? There’s still time. October and November, as well as April through May, are good times to reserve an RV campsite and have some more peace and quiet in natural surroundings. You’re beating the snowbirds to the sites before they drive south for the winter and you’re taking advantage of the spots after they head back north after Easter.

rv campgrounds florida Pinterest image — Load up the RV as we review an RV campground tip checklist for you.

Review and Know the RV Campground Rules

Whether you are staying in a Florida State Park or a private campground or RV park, it’s important you read the rules of the specific spot you are visiting ahead of time. This helps you know what you’re allowed to bring and allows you to set up your RV properly when you arrive.

Hookups May Be Limited

We know that the point of RVs is so you can camp without really roughing it. Know ahead of time, though, that if you’re seeking to park your RV at a North Central Florida location, you may not have access to certain amenities that regular RV parks do. This means that the following RV amenities may not be available to you:

Water Hookups
Sewer Service
Electric Service
Cable television connection

Make sure you review what your campground site offers before you book your trip so you can plan ahead of time. If your campground doesn’t offer these services, bring fresh water and have a generator with a full tank of gas to accommodate your RV.

RV at Florida campsite — Make sure you book a spot ahead of time that accommodates the length and width of your RV.

Plan Your RV Spot Carefully

Make sure you book a spot ahead of time that accommodates the length and width of your RV. Large RVS require proper planning. You should also inquire about the width of the campground trails and how smooth they are. Tree limbs and unpaved roads can be difficult to maneuver for RVs.

Ask for RV Assistance

Is this your first time in a North Central Florida RV campground? Don’t be afraid to ask before check-in or during check-in if the campground provides an escort service for first-time visitors to your RV site. It’s likely a guide will accompany you to your site and help you get settled.

Bring Food and a Grill

If you’re not planning on hunting your food, bring coolers full of food to plan for meals while you’re camping. A portable grill with small propane tanks and an electric skillet can cook anything you need while you’re in the wilderness. Don’t forget your coffee and a coffee pot.

Castaways-RV-2-10-20-16-compressor — Know the rules of the specific Florida RV camp site spot you are visiting ahead of time.

Plan a Florida RV Trip Along the St. Johns River

Are you an RV camper that enjoys an RV site close to the water? Castaways on the River offers two RV sites just steps away from the river with 30 amp and 50 amp electrical offerings that include cable, water and sewer hookups. The sites have access to barbecue grills on-site and are steps away from the St. Johns River and a marina full of rental boats so you can satisfy your river adventure and fishing cravings.

Embrace and enjoy the river by reserving an RV site along the river and renting a boat at Castaways on the River. We also offer cottages and motel rooms too. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to reserve your RV spot and plan your trip along the river today!

8 Pontoon Boat Fishing Tips You Need to Know

Fishing on a pontoon boat is very popular. Fishers love the stability of the boat while they are fishing. Pontoon boats are also known for their ability to turn on a dime. Grab your fishing gear as we present you with 8 pontoon boat fishing tips to make your day on the St. Johns River a successful one.

pontoon boat fishing image — Most pontoon boats have removable Bimini tops to provide shade from the boat deck.

Usage of Anchors

If the wind picks up on your fishing adventure, it’s difficult to keep a pontoon boat in place with one anchor. Castaways on the River ensures to have a second anchor in place in all boats. The second anchor on pontoon boats is essential for providing increased stability and safety, especially in changing water conditions.

Bring Towels

Bring along lots of old towels to spread over seats and underneath coolers and bait storage containers. This will keep your seats clean and your pontoon boat deck safe and free of water.

pontoon boat fishing Pinterest image — Castaways on the River can handle all of your boat rental needs on the St. Johns River.

Bring a Fish Container

Don’t forget a place for all the fish you are going to catch. Bring a separate container to act as a cooler that can hold the fish that you and your fishing friends catch.

Ladder Safety

At Castaways On The River, utilizing the ladder on pontoon boats is essential for ensuring a safe and enjoyable boating experience. The ladder serves as a key tool for easy and secure access to and from the water, whether it’s for swimming, snorkeling, or simply taking a refreshing dip.

fishing from a pontoon boat — Rent a pontoon boat at Castaways on the River and enjoy a pontoon boat fishing day.

Visit Silver Glen Springs

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day of swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking in the sun on the sandy shores, Silver Glen Springs offers a refreshing escape from the bustle of everyday life. Read our blog on How to Plan the Perfect Day at Silver Glen Springs to gain tips on creating an ideal day at the Silver Glen Springs.

Plan a Pontoon Boat Fishing Party

Twenty-two foot pontoon boats are a great boat to hold a fishing party of up to 10 people comfortably with enough room to hold all of your bait, tackleboxes and coolers. Equipped with everything from radios to stowaway storage, they are the perfect boat to both fish and hold a pontoon boat party at the same time.

Read our blog on how to plan a pontoon boat party on the St. Johns River to get some pontoon boat fishing party tips.

Rent a Pontoon Boat

Ready to hop aboard and enjoy some pontoon boat fishing on the St. Johns River? Rent a pontoon boat at Castaways on the River. We can handle all of your boat rental needs. We also offer cozy cottages and motel rooms so you can stay awhile and enjoy the peaceful St. Johns River. Pick up the phone and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to book your boat rental adventure today.

How to Plan a Pontoon Boat Party on the St. Johns River

Summer is still in full swing on the St. Johns River. It’s a great time of year to plan a pontoon boat party while you enjoy the scenery and wildlife from the comfort of a boat. Follow us as we charter your path for the perfect party on the St. Johns River.

Pontoon River Party — Tips on how to plan a pontoon party on the St. Johns River.

Make a Pontoon Party Theme

Consider coming up with a theme for your cruise down the St. Johns River. If you’re planning an upcoming Labor Day weekend pontoon party, consider an American flag theme. Other theme suggestions include:

Nautical
Tropical
Fiesta
Pirate
Game day tailgate with your favorite sports team colors

Prepare a Meal

Pontoon boats are perfect for a lunch or dinner party because they can accommodate up to 12 people. There is enough seating and tables that make pontoon boats the perfect sit down dining boat. Prepare a meal in advance to bring on the boat in a cooler.

Finger foods work best so you have less cleanup to do. Always make sure you bring enough disposable napkins and any utensils you might need. Avoid using glass cups, trays and any other breakable items.

Play Some Games

Do you and your fellow boaters like to play board games or cards? Make sure you bring some games, playing cards and poker chips along. Your party can accommodate more than one game going on at a time because pontoon boats have multiple tables. Make it fun and host a card playing tournament.

boy fishing near a pontoon boat — Pontoon boats are also a great boat choice for fishing trips with large groups.

Make a Music List

The St. Johns River is a great place to listen to the sound of nature both in the water and in the canopy around the water. We understand though that sometimes a pontoon party needs some tunes.

A great perk of pontoon boat rentals at Castaways on the River is they come equipped with AM/FM radios that come with an iPod connection. So you can listen to your favorite radio station or prepare an iPod playlist before your pontoon party.

Go Swimming in the Springs

The great part about planning a pontoon party in the St. Johns River is you’re close to several natural freshwater springs that constantly spew fresh water at a constant 72 degrees. The fresh water is a great place to cool off and get refreshed during the warm summer months. Bring along some tubes and snorkel equipment to see the marine life up close and personal in the crystal clear water. Read our blog on 7 tips for swimming in freshwater springs to learn more. There are some springs that don’t allow boats to enter so watch the boating signs closely.

Plan a Pontoon Fishing Trip

Pontoon boats are also a great boat choice for fishing. Selecting a 22-foot pontoon boat for a fishing trip gives you and up to 12 fishing partners a comfortable boat with enough room for all of your bait, tackleboxes and coolers.

A 20-foot Harris pontoon boat can still fit up to eight people and works as a great fishing boat too. Those looking for the perfect fishing spot should know pontoon boats are known for their fantastic turning ability. They are easy to maneuver down the St. Johns River.

Pontoon party boat docked at the lake, ready for boarding. — Your last step is to rent a pontoon boat at Castaways on the River.

Rent a Pontoon Boat

You have all the tips you need now to plan a pontoon party trip on the St. Johns River. Your last step is to rent a pontoon boat at Castaways on the River. The marina can handle all of your boat rental needs. We also offer comfortable cottages and motel rooms so you can stay awhile and enjoy the peaceful St. Johns River. Pick up the phone today and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to book your boat rental adventure today.

Planning a Family Reunion River Trip

Summer is still in full swing in Florida and Labor Day weekend is quickly approaching. This is a popular time of year for annual family reunion trips. The best place to hold a summer family reunion adventure trip is in North Central Florida along the St. Johns River in Astor, FL. Follow our tips to plan the perfect family reunion river trip.

Survey The Family

If you’re in charge of pre-planning the family reunion, the first step is polling the family to get a consensus of where the majority of family members want to go this year and what they want to do. This allows you to pinpoint a location for your next family reunion trip.

Pick a Date

The most important and most time consuming part of planning a family reunion is picking a date that your entire family agrees upon. The larger the family you have the more difficult it is to find a date that works for everyone. The sooner you can pick a date, the better off you will be. Planning 12 months to 18 months out is not too early.

Remind Family Members

As the date draws near for your family reunion, make sure you send save the date notices and reminders to family members. Don’t be pressured to change the date if the majority of the family has already committed to the original date. Stay strong.

Castaways family reunion Pinterest pin — Make sure you pick a location that has things to do for both adults and children.

Make the Family Reunion Affordable

It’s important to plan a family reunion trip that’s affordable for everyone in the family. Not all of your family members and their families have the same income or financial resources. Places like Castaways on the River on the St. Johns River have affordable lodging and boat rental opportunities just steps away from the water in a relaxing spot. Make sure it’s a trip that won’t break the bank or force family members to decline the invitation.

Plan For Families

When you’re planning a family reunion, make sure you pick a location that has accommodations and things to do for both adults and children. Outdoor activities like boating, swimming and fishing are great summer family reunion activities that can keep both adults and children happy and spending quality time together.

summer fun boating — Enjoy the summer on the St. Johns River by planning a family reunion river trip.

Plan Activities You Can Do Together

Does your family enjoy the sport of fishing? Consider a location on the river that has amenities for lodging and boating opportunities. For those anglers that take the sport seriously, consider setting up competitive fishing tournament teams among family members. Have fun setting up fishing tournament rules and prizes. Guess what the best part of a family fishing tournament is for the winning team? Bragging rights in the family for the entire year!

Rent a Boat

It’s time to have some fun on the St. Johns River with your family! There’s not a better way to have fun on the river than by renting a boat at Castaways on the River. Your marina rental boat operator has all the fishing and swimming spot tips at freshwater springs you need for a great trip on the river. Castaways on the River also offers quaint cottages and motel rooms for your entire family during your family reunion stay. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your summer family reunion river trip 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!

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.

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.

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!

Fishing Safety on the St. Johns River

Summer is in full swing and the St. Johns River and the fish that call it home are calling your name. Need a quick refresher on fishing safety? Here are 8 safety tips you need to know to have a fun and safe summer fishing trip on the St. Johns River.

First Aid Fishing Safety

Accidents happen when you are fishing on the river. Always make sure you carry a fishing first aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, disinfecting liquid and antibiotic cream.

Did you hook your skin instead of a fish? Follow these steps to remove a fishing hook from your skin:

Cut the hook away from the rest of the fishing lure.
Put a loop of fishing line around the bend of the hook and then hold down the eye and shank of the hook, pressing it lightly to the skin.
Grasp the loop in the line and with a sharp yank, pull the hook free.
Treat small cuts with adhesive bandages and antiseptic. For large or deep cuts, use clean gauze pad to reduce the bleeding.

Fish Hook Accident Must Read Tip: Never remove a hook from around a person’s eyes, face, the back of the hands or anywhere near ligaments tendons or blood vessels. Seek medical treatment to remove those hooks to prevent further injury.

Wear a Life Jacket

If you’re on board a boat, wear a life jacket. Make sure you have life jackets for each passenger.

Respect No Fishing Signs and Wildlife

Don’t fish in areas that are clearly marked as no fishing zones. These areas are off limits for a reason to protect wildlife and the river’s vegetation.

hook fishing safety tips — Never grab a fish near the hook because the fish could wiggle the hook into your skin.

Bring Safety Items

Bring along items that keep you safe. Some of these items include:

Drinking water
Flashlights
Maps
A cell phone

Spray, Spray, Spray

Make sure you bring along both bug spray and sunblock. This will protect your skin and keep the pesky mosquitoes away.

Coordinate Your Clothing

Wear thin layers of clothing that you can shed as the weather warms up. Wear proper footwear that protects your feet from loose hooks and a hat to protect you from the sun.

Know Your Knives

Keep your fishing knives sharp and cover the blade when it’s not in use to avoid unnecessary injuries.

fishing safety tips — Make sure no one is behind you when you are making a cast.

Hook Happenings

Be careful when baiting and removing hooks. Before you make a cast, make sure no one is behind you. Once you catch a fish, never grab it near the hook because the fish could wiggle the hook into your skin.

Book Your St. Johns River Trip

Now that you are equipped with the fishing safety tips you need to have a fun and safe summer boating trip on the St. Johns River, all you need to do now is rent a boat at Castaways on the River. We have cottages and motel rooms right on the river so you can stay awhile and enjoy the natural and peaceful surroundings. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3442 to plan your summer fishing trip today!

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!