Tag: boating

Full Moon Fishing on the St. Johns River

“The sun, moon and stars are there to guide us.” – Dennis Banks

Did you know that the phases of the moon can have a huge impact on the feeding habits of fish? A full moon like the one hovering over the St. Johns River right now is a great time to go fishing. Other moon phases have benefits too. We’ve got tips and the reasons why full moon fishing on the St. Johns River is one of the best times to catch fish.

full moon fishing
Full moon fishing on the St. Johns River is one of the best times to catch fish.

Moon Phase Fishing Benefit

Moon phases have an effect on the behavior of all animals, including fish. Both the movement of the sun and the moon has an effect on the oceans of the world and their tides. But the effect of the moon is easier to predict because it’s closer to Earth than the sun. As the moon passes around the Earth, the pull of gravity causes cyclical movement of the Earth’s rivers and oceans that perk up fish, which in turn keeps your fishing poles busier.

Two Best Phases for Full Moon Fishing

Serious fishers keep an eye on a moon calendar at all times when planning their fishing excursions. While there is disagreement among anglers which phase of the moon is best for fishing, there is uniform agreement that the different phases of the moon alter fish movement and fishing patterns. Here what you need to know about the top two best moon phase patterns for full moon fishing.

  • New Moon: Many fishers claim the easiest time to catch fish is four days on either side of the new moon phase. It’s well known that fish are more active and visible during a new moon phase.
  • Full Moon: It’s well documented that fish are more active during a full moon, especially in the evening hours because there is more light for them to feed and more light for you to find them.

Moon Trumps Sun

Fishers already know that great times to fish are dawn and dusk as the sun rises and sets. But avid anglers know there are two other times in a day the fish are biting: When the moon rises and sets. The moon has a stronger influence on fish than the sun because the different phases of the moon affect the behavior of fish and when they are likely to bite.

full moon fishing
The moon has a stronger influence on fish than and when they are likely to bite.

Full Moon Feeding Tips

Right now on the St. Johns River, a full moon is in effect through Friday. When there is a full moon, the fish are more active and feeding more than usual. You’ll increase your catching chances if you follow a moon calendar and get those fishing poles ready for summer fishing when the moon rises and sets. Moon fishing tip: Some say fish are most active 45 minutes before and after the moon rises and sets.

Weather Make a Difference

Storms and clouds can affect the behavior of fish regardless of the moon cycle. When a storm is brewing and there is a lot of cloud cover, fish will be more active and your chance of increasing the big one multiplies. Watch weather patterns closely though and stay safe before and after a storm.

Seasonal Fishing Patterns

Moon phases work great but if you keep an eye on the moon calendar and seasonal changes at the same time, you’re likely to have a perfect fishing day. Most fish are likely to bite more during seasonal transitions. The season transitions from winter to spring and summer to fall are the best two seasonal times to fish. Fishing weather pattern tip: If a cold front is approaching, the fish are likely to move deeper into the water and become inactive to stay warm.

full moon fishing
The moon illuminates the surface of the river to help you fish.

Time Moon Fishing with Tides

Timing a fishing trip with a full moon and a low tide at the same time is fishing gold. The movement of the water, combined with a full moon, causes active fish to come to the surface looking for food. Keep tabs on the tides here.

Don’t have time to keep tabs on the tides or get out on the water this week during the full moon? Luckily for you, The Old Farmer’s Almanac has done your research for you, picking these future fishing days this summer that make for the best summer fishing days when you factor in phases of the moons:

  • July 4-19
  • Aug. 2-18
  • Sept. 1-16

Fish by the Light of the Moon

Fishing at night isn’t as popular for obvious reasons but full moon fishing offers lighting benefits. The moon illuminates the surface of the water and allows bait to be seen more easily by hungry fish. So thank Mother Nature for the extra light and enjoy fishing by the light of the moon.

There is a full moon illuminating the St. Johns River all this week! It’s time to rent a boat at Castaways on the River. We offer cottages and motel rooms right on the river with a marina full of rental boats. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to plan your perfect full moon fishing trip on the river today!

castaways lodging pin

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!

6 Summer Fishing Apparel Tips

The St. Johns River is warming up and so is the thermostat in north central Florida. While you are out on the fresh water river enjoying nature, we’ve got 6 summer fishing apparel tips to keep you cool on the St. Johns River.

man summer fishing on the river
We have six tips you need to stay comfortable while summer fishing.

Base Layer

Modern technology has blessed anglers with fabrics made with polyester blends that help keep you cool and wick away moisture. How does it work? Wicking fabric pulls moisture from the body to the exterior of the shirt so it can evaporate, similar to how a candle draws wax up a wick to a flame.

Many of these fabrics have water repellent, stain resistant and anti-odor options. While more expensive than cotton choices, this material (available in T-shirts, collared shirts, pants and even socks) is essential for anglers who typically spend their day in the heat, surrounded by water.

Shorts

Long days in the summer heat can take a toll on the body. Versatile clothing options are important, such as zip-off leg pants that convert to shorts. This functional clothing option allows you to start your day in pants and stay cool in the afternoon. Hint: Combine form and function with shorts that come with extra pockets that are moisture resistant.

Shoes

When you’re fishing in Florida in the summer, there are two pairs of shoes you need. Flip flops and water shoes. Lightweight sandals with flexible, lightweight and durable material will keep your feet cool and solidly planted on that boat when you’re reeling in a big catch. If you would rather wear shoes, make sure they are water shoes made of waterproof materials that remove water quickly. Some water shoes even include drainage tubes to funnel the water out quickly.

father and son summer fishing
Versatile clothing options are important, for summer fishing.

 

Gloves Offer Sun Protection

Some anglers don’t like wearing gloves because it can obstruct their control while casting and reeling. However, you will want to keep a pair with you. Gloves will protect your hands from the summer sun. Get a pair with built-in UV ray sun protection to protect those hands.

Take Cover

A wide-brimmed hat made of breathable material will allow you to stay cool and protect your face, neck and ears from the sun. Hats don’t replace sunscreen though. Bring sunscreen and reapply it often.

summer fishing
It’s time to plan your perfect summer fishing trip to the St. Johns River.

Shades that Work For You

You need a good pair of sunglasses if you’re going to fish in Florida. Polarized sunglasses protect your eyes and help you catch more fish! The lenses allow you to see down deep in the water to find fish that are hiding while you are protecting your eyes.

Plan Your Summer Fishing Trip

It’s time to plan your perfect summer fishing trip to the St. Johns River. Rent a hotel room or book a cottage at Castaways on the River. Once you step outside with all the summer apparel you need for a warm fishing day, you’re ready to rent a boat docked in the marina right on the river. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your fishing trip on the 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 Plan the Perfect Fishing Day

“Fishing is much more than fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers.” – Herbert Hoover

The St. Johns River is full of fish this time of year. There you can spend time with good companions and enjoy wildlife on the crystal clear freshwater river. Here are 6 tips you need to plan the perfect fishing day.

fishing day
We have six tips you need to plan the perfect fishing day.

Decide Who You’re Inviting on the Trip

Planning the perfect fishing day revolves around who you feel most comfortable with on the water all day.

Maybe the perfect fishing day is spent with your significant other or your closest friends. Or maybe it’s spent with your most loyal companion, so you’re planning a fishing trip with your dog. Or just maybe the ideal fishing trip is just getting out on the water alone, decompressing and reflecting while fishing. Decide ahead of time so you know your trip involves the perfect number of invited guests or maybe no guests at all.

Gear Up for Your Fishing Day

Be aware of what’s biting on the St. John’s River before you go. Right now, bass is plentiful in a river that’s still enjoying more bites than usual. Make sure you pick the right fishing bait, rod, reel, flies and whatever else you need in that tackle box to make the trip go smoothly.

Bring Polarized Sunglasses

This is not a fashion tip. Polarized sunglasses help you catch more fish. Polarized sunglasses allow you to see down deep in the water to find fish that are hiding. The glasses will also protect your eyes from the bright Florida sun.

Fisherman sitting in a boat fishing.
When you’re fishing on the river on your boat or a rental boat, be patient before picking up your anchor.

Maneuver Your Boat Wisely

When you’re fishing on the river on your boat or a rental boat, be patient before picking up your anchor. A big mistake people make while bass fishing is moving from one part of the river to another part too quickly. Remember boats are loud and scare fish. Cast in different spots in the same location before giving up and moving the boat. Patience makes for a perfect fishing day.

Check the Weather

Know the forecast before leaving for your fishing trip as the weather affects the mood and behavior of fish. Overcast days make fish more likely to move and grab your bait.

Hint: The best time to catch bass in the St. Johns River is in the early morning hours.

You also want to check the weather for your own benefit too. A surprise rain that leaves you soaked for the rest of the day on the boat can dampen both the boat and your mood. There’s nothing perfect about walking around in wet clothes all day.

men on a boat fishing
Planning the perfect fishing day revolves around who you feel most comfortable with on the water all day.

Practice and Plan

Have a goal before you head out for your perfect fishing day. Are you looking for the big one or do you have a certain amount of regular sized fish you’re looking to catch and bring home? Having a goal before you go gives you a better chance of success and allows you to focus.

Grab your rod and reel and practice your casting in the backyard so you’re on your game for the trip.

Rent a hotel room or book a cottage, rent a boat and head to Castaways on the River to truly make this fishing trip perfect. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 today to plan your fishing trip on the river.

Top 7 Fishing Tips and Tricks on the St. Johns River

When you’re fishing the pristine freshwater of St. Johns River and Lake George for large mouth bass, specs (crappie) and catfish, you want to be prepared. Even the most experienced love to learn a trick or two from their fellow anglers if it will help them reel in the big one. So sit back, relax and take the bait we feed you that will help you come home with quite the catch on your next St. Johns River fishing excursion. We have the top 7 fishing tips and tricks on the St. Johns River.

Take the Bait

fishing tackle on a wooden table
The better the bait and lures are, the better fish you will catch.

Live bait is always more effective than fake or static baits. Widely used live baits include worms and smaller fish. The better the bait, the better fish you will catch. And if you need tackle box help for freshwater fishing, we have you covered with our tackle box guide.

Follow the Fish

Even the most hardcore fishermen have succumbed to technology if they want to find out where the fish are biting. An electronic fish finder is a sure bet to finding fish, including the spawning grounds where they procreate and the areas where they hunt for smaller fish. If it’s your first visit to the St. Johns River, an electronic fish finder can be your best friend. You’ll also want to use a topographical map that shows you how deep the water is.

Watch the Weather

Group of Heavy duty fishing reel set to catch a big game fish
When it’s sunny out like it usually is here in Florida, head to darker waters where fish are more likely to snag your line.

The weather affects the mood and behavior of fish. Overcast days make fish more likely to move and be fooled by your enticing bait. Sunrise and sunset times are also great times to fish for the same reason. And if it’s sunny out like it usually is here in Florida, head to darker waters where fish are more likely to snag your line. When you need a break for lunch, do it during the noon hour when fish can see better and are more hesitant to take your bait.

Practice Safety First

Fishing is fun but safety is an important part of the process that shouldn’t be overlooked. Make sure you know how to tie knots and bait a sharp hook before you set out for the day. This way you’ll avoid equipment-related injuries that will otherwise cut your fishing trip short.

Trust the Moon

The moon and its phases are keys to a good fishing trip. A full moon is a great time to go fishing, while moonless nights keep the fish at bay. The brighter the moon, the better you can see the fish too.

to 7 fishing tips and tricks Pinterest pin
Rent a cabin and a boat and head to Castaways on the River for a fishing trip.

Know your Fish

Want to know how to hook the most popular freshwater fish on the sparkling water of the St. Johns River? Here’s your guide:

  • Bass: The best time to catch largemouth bass is in the spring in the early morning hours when the water temperatures begin to rise. If lures aren’t producing a catch, don’t be afraid to try some live bait.
  • Specs (crappie): Small 1/8 ounce artificial bait jigs work best. Your best live bait bet is using a small split shot, a live minnow and a slip bobber.
  • Catfish: Catfish hunt with their whiskers and most catfish artificial bait is stinky and oily but has proven effective in reeling in big ones. Use circle hooks that make it hard for catfish to shake off the hook. Chicken liver is the live bait of choice for catfish and should be placed on a treble hook that keeps the squirmy liver in place on the hook when casting your line.

Make your Own Fish Hook Remover

Here’s a great tool you can make yourself to remove a hook from the mouth of a fish easily. Lock the handle of a slim flathead screwdriver (at least 10-inches in length) in vice grips with the metal shank vertical and the blade tip in a horizontal position. Set the sharp edge of a three corner metal file on the center point of the screwdriver and the blade tip perpendicular to it. Cut down the blade to 3/16 inches deep and file the sharp tips off the inside corners. Wrap the handle with rubber electrical tape to make it slip resistant. Now you have an easy tool that will remove hooks that are stuck in a fish’s mouth with a quick push and twist action.

Now all that’s left for you to do is rent a cabin and a boat and head to Castaways on the River for a fishing trip you won’t forget. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 today to plan your perfect fishing trip on the river.

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Valentine’s Day at Castaways On The River

Valentine's Day-Castaways-Surprise
Surprise your sweetheart with a weekend getaway.

If you love being outside next to nature then The St. John’s River is the place to be on the day of love; Valentine’s Day at Castaways On the River. The St. John’s River area is truly a sample of old Florida’s pristine beauty. And what a wonderful backdrop to spend time with the one you love.

Your Valentine’s Day at Castaways on the River itinerary can include:

Surprise your honey with a weekend trip. Plan to arrive on Friday and spend the weekend away from it all. We offer a variety of cottages and motel rooms to accommodate guests.

A fishing excursion followed by cooking the catch of the day for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You reserve the time to serve up a great meal. We have grills for guests to use or set up a romantic atmosphere in one of our guest cottages.

Spend the day on the boat. The whole day can be spent enjoying the beautiful St. Johns River. Cast off from our dock at first light and log the hours just relaxing on the water. Head north and explore Lake George or south to Lake Dexter.

Valentine's Day-Castaways-Snorkel
Snorkeling for two is a great way to spend the day.

Snorkel in one of the area springs. Just the two of you underwater taking in the sheer beauty can be a memorable time. These are valuable hours of alone time spent exploring nature.

Another favorite activity in this area is to look for manatees. This time of the year it is easier to spot them as they seek the warm waters of area springs when the outside temperature dips. Make sure to slow your boat down to idle speed in manatee zones.

Valentine's Day-Castaways-Boat
Spend the day enjoying a boat ride along the St. Johns River.

Enjoy the beauty of the area. While the river has a lot to offer, remember it’s in the middle of the OcalaNational Forest, so that means hiking, bird watching or other fun eco-related activities to enjoy for a day or over a weekend.

Bring your boat and we can launch it and store it for you while visiting. Or you can rent one of ours along with other water craft including kayaks. Give us a call at (352) 759-3422 and let us help you plan the perfect trip to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

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.

AMERICAN HEART MONTH
February is American Heart Month

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.

American Heart Month
A varied diet is the key to a healthy heart.

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.

American Heart Month
Keep active during your vacation at St. Johns River.

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.