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!

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 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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

How to Find the Perfect Fishing Spot

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

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

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

Planning is Key

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

Talk to the Locals

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

Take a Topographic Map

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

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

Watch the Birds

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

Patience = Perfect Fishing Spot

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

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

Plan Your Trip

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

Know the Boating Signs on the St. Johns River

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

Idle Speed No Wake Signs

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.

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.

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.