6 Tips to Stay Safe Around Wild Alligators

There isn’t a more beautiful place to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of north central Florida than on the St. Johns River. When you’re boating, fishing or hiking trails near the river, you’re likely to run into longtime residents of the river – alligators. If you do, we offer these tips to stay safe around alligators while you’re enjoying the St. Johns River.

Don’t Feed the Alligators

This is the most important alligator rule. Alligators are naturally afraid of humans. Feeding them with food other than their natural prey only makes them bolder and makes them want to seek out people to find more food. So keep the people food to yourself. You also don’t want to feed ducks, turtles or other natural wildlife along the St. Johns River.

Be Cautious During Mating Season

Alligators can be a bit testy and do peculiar things during mating season, which happens in the spring and the summer months. Alligators only leave their marked territories this time of year to look for females, so you may see larger alligators more frequently and in places you don’t normally see them. Just wave to them, give them their space and leave them alone.

190 — Never disturb alligator nests or baby alligators because their mom is always nearby ready to protect her babies.

Keep Your Dogs on a Leash

Everyone likes to take their dogs boating and fishing on the St. Johns River. Just be sure to keep them on a leash when you disembark the boat for a restroom break. You don’t want them running off alone, especially during alligator mating season.

Keep your Distance

Alligators may look lazy and slow, but when they want to move, they can move fast! You should stay at least 60 feet away from alligators at all times. If an alligator hisses or lunges at you, you’re way too close. Also, never disturb alligator nests or baby alligators because their mom is always nearby ready to protect her babies.

alligator on the river — Don’t swim in areas where you can’t see your arms or legs to avoid alligators.

Water Safety

The cool refreshing water of the St. Johns River is enticing when you’re on the boat and want to take a swim. But if you can’t see your arms, legs and feet when you’re in the water, you shouldn’t swim in the water. Stick to swimming in the cool, refreshing springs like Silver Glen Springs and other springs you can access from the St. Johns River. The water is shallower, crystal clear and alligators aren’t likely to be there.

Fishing Around Alligators

Be cautious when casting a line near alligators. Some alligators will try and grab a hooked fish. Also stay away from fishing in heavy vegetation and near the water’s edge where alligators like to hang out. You don’t want to catch an alligator on your line.

Plan Your Trip

It’s time to plan a trip to the river. Rent a hotel room or book a cottage at Castaways on the River to make your trip perfect. Once you step outside your room, there’s a variety of rental boats sitting in the marina 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.

St. Johns River Fun Facts

It’s BIG

The St. Johns River is the longest river in Florida at a whopping 310 miles long. It flows through 12 counties, moving from northeast Florida to the Atlantic Ocean. At its largest point, the St. John’s River is almost 3 miles wide.

It is also separated into three river basins and two watersheds. The Upper Basin of the St. Johns engulfs approximately 2,000 square miles, and the largest basin is the Lower Basin covering 2,600 square miles. Thanks to its massive size, the river transports about 16,000,000 tons of freight through the ports in Jacksonville, Fla. per year.

It Flows North

The vast majority of rivers in the world flow from north to south. This is usually due to the river’s source, mostly mountains, is to the north of the mouth causing the water to flow downward. However, it is said that fewer than 30 rivers in the United States are the exception to the rule and flow northward, including the St. John’s River.

The reasoning behind the unusual flow is the slight slope in the river itself. Beginning in the Saint John’s Marsh, the rivers course slowly lowers about 30 feet to the mouth meeting the Atlantic Ocean. This extremely gentle slope causes a very lazy river; it’s actually one of the slowest in the world.

It’s VERY Connected

About 3.5 million people live within the various watersheds that feed into the St. Johns River. It’s the main water body in the St. Johns River Water Management District that covers about 21 percent of Florida or about 7.8 million acres.

It has a Salty Side

The St. Johns River begins as a network of marshes, consolidating into a blackwater stream. This means that due to its groundwater and marsh beginnings, the River is predominately fresh water.

It’s not until the River hits the Jacksonville area that the water becomes brackish. This is due to the sides pushing seawater into the mouth of the St. Johns River, creating a estuarine ecosystem in the area. This means animals usually seen out to sea such as dolphins and sharks are sometimes found thriving here.

It has…monkeys?

Where the St. Johns River meets the Wekiva River, troops of Rhesus Monkeys can be found monkeying around. Known for their adept swimming abilities, the origins of the Rhesus Monkeys transports remain unknown. However, several theories exist. Many believe they were brought in during the 1930’s filming of Tarzan. Whatever the case, they have adapted well to their new Florida home off the St.Johns River.

It’s Fun

There is never a shortage of fun in the sun on the St. Johns River, known as the most significant recreational river in Florida, and for good reason.

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. During the spring and summer months, visitors can enjoy clear waters for swimming, boating, and scuba diving along the river’s connected watersheds.

Ashore, the St. Johns River Water Management District maintains approximately 700,000 acres of land for hiking, camping, hunting, biking and equestrian riding.

Blue Springs State Park

The St. Johns River is also linked to 14 lakes and numerous Florida Springs including Blue Spring State Park, a protected Manatee Refuge. During the winter season, hundreds of manatees inhabit the surface of the spring for onlookers to enjoy.

Boat Rentals on the St. Johns River

At Castaways on the River, we offer boat rentals at our Volusia County location in Astor, FL. Looking to stay awhile? Rent a cool cottage or a motel room today at Castaways on the River, which is right on the St. Johns River.

Share your Favorite Spot

Do you have any favorite spots along the river? Leave a comment, below. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Don’t forget to tag us! We’d love to hear from you.

10 Fishing New Year’s Resolutions

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

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

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

Study Your Electronics

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

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

Fish in the Moment

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

Keep Your Mind Open to New Techniques

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

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

Exercise on Off Fishing Days

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

Get Your Tackle Box Organized

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

Help Others on the St. Johns River

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

Take a Camera

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

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

Be More Patient

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

Make More Weekend Fishing Plans

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

Rent a Boat

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

9 Holiday Gift Ideas for Your Anglers

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

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

Waders

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

Rods and Reels

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

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

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

Fishing Books

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

Fishing Magazines

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

Monthly Tackle Subscription

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

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

Polarized Sunglasses

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

Fishing Tools

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

YETI Coolers and Tumblers

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

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

Book a Fishing Trip Stay

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

Rent a Boat

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

The 7 Best Live Freshwater Fishing Bait

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

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

Minnows

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

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

Clams and Mussels

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

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

Crayfish

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

Insects

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

Worms

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

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

Shrimp

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

Dough Balls

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

Book Your Next Fishing Visit

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

Top 8 Florida Cold Weather Fishing Tips

Does Florida even have a winter season? The answer is yes. Lows in North Central Florida can dip into the 30s and 40s from November through March. The chilly mornings typically make way for warm afternoons with highs in the 60s and 70s. The fish in the St. Johns River adapt to the cooler weather, so we have the top eight Florida cold weather fishing tips to make your cold weather fishing experience a great one.

Castaways-cold-weather-fishing-1-11-14-16-compressor — Stay dry and warm with rain gear when you’re fishing as cold fronts approach.

Search in Deep Holes and Shallow Flats

Water temperatures are the main factor when you are looking for fish. When you are cold water fishing, look for fish congregating in the warmer waters they can find. The warmest spots are in deep holes and shallow flats. Use a depth finder to find these deeper spots on the bottom of the river.

Follow the Flow

The current always triggers how fish feed. Currents can come from strong winter winds and tides. Fish like to swim on the down tide and the wind side of a point that has a current sweeping across it. Position yourself accordingly to catch fish in cooler weather.

Take Rain Gear

It is not very rainy in Florida during the winter but you should still bring along your rain gear. Water spray and wave action on the river brings more water than usual into the boat this time of year on the St. Johns River. Cold days make the water spray feel even colder so stay dry and warm with your rain gear.

Monitor the Cold Fronts

Passing cold fronts come one after the other in the winter season in Florida, bringing with them a day of stormy weather followed by at least two days of windy conditions. Once the front’s storm and windy weather subsides, the fish become very active. Take advantage of that calm and warmer weather by getting out on the water and catching some fish before the next cold front comes through.

depth finder on a boat — Use a depth finder to find spots on the bottom of the river where fish are hiding to stay warm.

Rising Barometers = Good Cold Weather Fishing

Barometers measure atmospheric pressure. A rising barometer means it’s time to grab a rod and get on the St. Johns River. When the barometer goes up and down (pressure increasing and decreasing over the course of a few hours), that’s also a great time to go fishing. When the barometer stays steady or decreases, fishing becomes poor.

Hint: find a good barometer app for your smartphone to keep tabs on the atmospheric pressure.

Increase the Scent of Your Bait

You need to give fish that don’t like cooler weather more incentive to be attracted to your bait in the winter. Clip the tails of your live bait, which puts additional scent in the water and increases the chances of your fish taking your bait.

When you are cold weather fishing, attract fish with fresh bait.

Move Your Location

Be willing to move your boat and change up your fishing spots to adapt to the windy conditions that cold fronts bring to the area. Sometimes moving the boat from a shallow shoreline to grass flats can yield great fishing results.

Book Your Fishing Visit

You are now ready to handle Florida’s cold fronts and become a cold weather fishing pro. Book a stay at Castaways on the River to do some fishing. The marina can handle all of your boat rental needs. We also offer cozy cottages and motel rooms that are just steps from the beautiful St. Johns River. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to book your boat rental winter fishing trip 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.

Take a Second Anchor

If the wind picks up on your fishing adventure, it’s difficult to keep a pontoon boat in place with one anchor. Take along a second one and anchor the boat both in the front and the back during windy conditions.

Take Removable Bimini Tops

Most pontoon boats have Bimini tops to provide shade from the boat deck. Make sure the tops are removable. This allows you to cast your line feely and avoid getting it caught on the fabric top. The Bimini tops will be useful later in the day when you need some shade too.

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.

Find a Place to Grill

One of the perks of pontoon boat fishing is all of the parks and wide open recreational space you can dock at to have a cookout. Your fishing friends will love you for holding a barbecue at an approved grilling spot at a local park or natural springs location.

Bring a Ladder

Take advantage of your time on the St. Johns River to do more than just fishing. Consider bringing along a boat ladder so your friends can take a break from fishing and take a dip in the river.

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

Plan a Pontoon Boat Fishing Party

Twenty-two foot pontoon boats are a great boat to hold a fishing party of up to 12 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. The marina 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.

8 Tips for Trout Fishing in Florida

It’s the time of year to do some trout fishing in Florida! Do you have the tips you need to bag some trout successfully on the St. Johns River? Grab your rod and reel and follow these 7 St. Johns River trout fishing tips.

man trout fishing in Florida — Now is the time of year to do some trout fishing in Florida.

Follow the Water Currents

Trout love a good hiding spot. Since water currents can create deep pools in the river banks, that is where you’re likely to find trout hanging out. Follow the water currents and look for trout hangouts in deep pools.

Try Trout Fishing in Florida Under Docks

Trout are also notorious for hiding under piers and docks. When you are trout fishing in Florida, try casting some lines in some hard to reach places and see if you can find a hiding place for some hungry trout.

Utilize Dawn and Dusk

Trout love to hang out in their deep water pools together during the hours of dawn and dusk. If you’re looking to find large trout in one place that are ready for a morning or evening snack, take advantage of these hours.

trout fishing Pinterest image — Try some trout fishing in Florida along the St. Johns River.

Try Night Fishing

If you’re a night owl, you should also consider doing some trout fishing in Florida past dusk. Trout are known for burning the midnight oil and like to take the bait when the sun goes down. Remember to be careful and keep your boat lights on.

Go Slowly

It’s important to be patient and move your boat slowly when you are trout fishing in Florida. Stay in one place for a while and be patient before moving on. Never jump on the throttle too fast and cause a big wake or you could scare trout away in other spots further away too.

Use Night Crawlers

If you’re looking for the best live bait to use for trout, look no further than night crawlers. Favorite live bait choices for trout include night crawlers, crayfish and minnows.

Young woman holding a trout in a fishing net — Book your next fishing trip today along the St. Johns River at Castaways on the River.

The Silver Spoon Trick

Have you ever heard of the trout silver spoon trick? For some reason, trout are fascinated with biting shiny silver spoon-shaped lures. Find lures that resemble shiny silver spoons to get those trout to bite.

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

Book a Trout Fishing Trip

Now it’s time for you to rent a boat at Castaways on the River. The marina can accommodate all of your boat rental needs when you’re trout fishing in Florida. We also offer comfy cottages and motel rooms right along the St. Johns River. Through the end of October, guests staying on site Monday through Friday can receive 50 percent off boat rentals and one night free for those that rent a boat for a full day. This offer isn’t valid on weekends or holidays. Give Castaways on the River a call today at (352) 759-3442 to book your trout fishing trip today!

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!