Plan A Perfect Summer Barbecue

Enjoying lazy days in the sun and on the water is a great time to plan a perfect summer barbecue party. Family and friends will want to be included in all the fun, and of course the main attraction will be the food.

As for what is on the menu, it will depend on a variety of factors like who is doing the cooking, how many people are attending, and what time the food will be served? Will it be an all-day affair or have a designated timeline? Will food be served in shifts? Served at a specific time? These are questions you’ll need to answer up front so your guests know what to expect.

It’s best to have an idea early on of how large the gathering will be to determine how much food will be needed. This will help with the overall food shopping and delegating who can supply what item.

Before we get too far along, let’s clear up a question that may be a matter of preference. Is it a barbecue or cookout? Technically the two can be considered the same in terms of events. There is no right or wrong menu item when it comes to chowing down. A barbecue just means cooking outside on the grill.

How to Plan A Perfect Summer Barbecue Party

So now that we’ve settled that, let’s move on to figuring out the menu. The typical summer barbecue party menu includes burgers and hotdogs. Some gatherings may include more elaborate fare to enjoy such as the days’ fresh catch from the St. Johns River.

The seasonal fishing calendar forecasts it’s a good time to catch Bass, Bluegill, Redear, Specks, Stripers and Catfish. So anglers let’s see what you add to the barbecue. When you return to the boat dock here at Castaways, use the convenient fish cleaning station to get everything ready for the grill just a few steps away.

And don’t forget about all the great side dishes to go along with the main entrees from salads, beans, and other tasty treats and appetizers. Invite everyone to provide their favorite dish to help feed the masses. Get ready for recipe sharing or be prepared to protect the secret ingredient.

And since we are talking about summer time, get the ice cream churn out and put the popsicles on ice so everyone young and old can enjoy a variety of cool goodies.

castaways-summer-barbeque-grill — A good grill master must be included to plan a perfect summer barbecue .

Barbecue Grill Duty

Before everyone digs in to enjoy the spread of food, make sure to thank the person who handled the grill duties. This is often a hard, hot and thankless job. Remember without someone on the grill, it’s just eating out. Tips to show your thanks is to make sure the grill master has a cold, refreshing beverage close by to enjoy. It’s likely to already be hot, then add to that the heat and smoke from the grill. Keep the cook cool and comfortable.

It’s also a good idea to designate helpers for the grill master so they can play close attention to the food and not have to worry about carrying it to the serving area. They may need other tools and supplies so extra pairs of hands are often appreciated.

Plan Ahead

Consider creating a list of all the items needed to pull off the perfect summer barbecue party. It’s always the little things like forgetting a special condiment that can derail a good plan. If you are heading to a remote area, it may be difficult to run to the nearest supermarket or big box retailer to pick up a few items. So pack what you’ll need ahead of time to ensure everything arrives at the barbecue.

Also who is bringing the plates, cutlery, napkins, drinks, ice etc.? Yes those are all the things that round out your barbecue that need to go on the plan ahead list.

It may also be wise to have a backup plan in case of rain on the day of the barbecue. A quick rain shower or rolling thunderstorms is a daily occurrence in Florida during the summer months. Check the local weather report to see when rain is forecast. The information can help if you need to change the start or end time of the barbecue. You’ll also want to keep a close eye on the clouds if those attending the barbecue go out on a boat.

Barbecue Party Accessories

Bring a few board games for all to enjoy or a deck of cards to see who has the best hand. This is where the fun begins with plenty of laughter and great memories are made. Pose for a selfie or two to capture the moment.

Board games also come in handy while waiting for the weather to clear up outdoors.

And what’s a party without some good tunes on the speaker? Designate a DJ to make sure the music is playing and everyone gets to hear a favorite song. Create a play list to get the party started. Dancing is a good way to work off a few of those calories you enjoyed from the grill.

Don’t forget to plan for everyone to enjoy time in the sun or get out on the water. All that fun is sure to work up hearty appetites which will be ready to feast on a barbecue spread.

Let us know how we can help you plan a perfect summer barbecue party here at Castaways.

Plan Your Party Along the St. Johns River

Castaways On The River in Astor, Florida has space, outfitted with grills, to plan the perfect summer barbecue party. The resort has rental cottages and motel rooms to accommodate guests. Also inquire about our fleet of rental boats to get out on the St. Johns River to fish and to enjoy nature at area attractions like nearby freshwater springs. Castaways is nestled on the eastern edge of the Ocala National Forest, located between Ocala and Ormond Beach along State Road 40. Call Castaways On The River at (352) 759-3442 to book a rental boat, reserve rooms and to arrange additional plans.

Planning the Perfect Father’s Day Fishing Trip

Father’s Day weekend is almost here. For kids looking to spend more quality time with dad and dads looking to do the same with their kids, a fishing trip is the perfect time to do some bonding. We’ve got the tips for planning the perfect Father’s Day fishing trip on the St. Johns River.

son and father fishing trip — A Father’s Day fishing trip is the perfect time to do some bonding with dad.

Tips for First Timers with Your Kids

Are you spending Father’s Day fishing trip on the river with some first time fishers? Teach your kids how to cast and reel on a beginner’s rod before the trip. Make sure you celebrate the first fish your children catch on the line. It’s a big deal to a little one and you will hook them into becoming fishing friends of yours for life.

family fishing trip — Make Father’s Day memories on the St. Johns River during a fishing trip.

Time To Talk

A fishing trip is the perfect time to catch up with dad and have some meaningful conversations. There is something about being on the river that relaxes dad and allows him to loosen up. Take advantage of it.

Pick the Right Fishing Spot

Finding the perfect fishing spot on the St. Johns River is crucial to your perfect fishing trip. Here are some tips to find that ideal spot so you can concentrate on spending the extra time enjoying your trip with dad. Read up on a St. Johns River fishing report and a local fishing forum to get you familiarized for the trip so you can impress dad with the perfect fishing trip.

Tacklebox Tricks and Tips

While we’re on the subject of impressing dad, rock his world by knowing these seven fishing tricks to improve his chances will make this a Father’s Day weekend he will never forget.

Choosing the Right Boat

Celebrate Father’s Day weekend by renting a boat on the St. Johns River. Wondering what kind of boat will suit your weekend plans? We will show you how to choose the best boat rental and boat rental tips you need to know before you rent that boat.

grandson and grandpa fishing trip — Celebrate the first fish your children or grandchildren catch on your fishing trip.

Summer Fishing Trip Tips

The fish are biting, the St. Johns River is warmer and the temperatures are climbing in north central Florida this time of year. Use these summer apparel fishing tips to keep you cool and poised while you enjoy the summer season on the river.

Take a Camera

Making memories is what this fishing trip is all about. Boating and fishing on the St. Johns River with dad is peaceful, special and fun. Make sure you take your camera and have your cell phone charged so you can record the special weekend. Documenting the trip on camera will also act as evidence when dad starts to embellish about the size of the big fish he caught on the river.

Now that you have all the tips you need to make this Father’s Day fishing trip a memorable one, it’s time to rent a boat at Castaways on the River. We offer cottages and motel rooms right on the river next to a marina full of rental boats. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to plan your fishing 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!

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.

How to Take Your Dog Fishing

Do you have a loyal fishing partner who always shows up for your fishing trips, stays by your side to keep you company and keeps quiet while you fish? If so, that loyal companion is quite possibly your dog.

If you’ve never taken your dog fishing with you, you’ll want to train your dog properly before your first venture. Training will take time and several fishing outings before your dog becomes a fishing companion pro. Here’s how to take your dog fishing on the St. Johns River.

dog on a boat — Make sure your dog has a canine life jacket for your fishing trip.

Pay Close Attention to Fishing Safety

Dogs are curious and they’ll gravitate toward interesting objects and the curious items sticking out of your tackle box. Avoid hooks getting stuck in your dog’s mouth by keeping all your fishing equipment and hooks stowed away and inside the tackle box.

Keep a Water Bowl Handy

Whether on a boat or dry land, one common mistake anglers with pups forget is a supply of fresh water. Water bowls ensure your dog stays hydrated during a long day of fishing. Make sure your dog has some shade to sit in too during the hot afternoon hours.

how to fish with a dog on a boat — Make sure your dog has some shade to sit under during your fishing trip.

Pups Need Bathroom Breaks Too

Don’t forget that Fido has to go to the bathroom too. To avoid fishing trip interruptions from a dog that’s got to go, let your dog off the boat once or twice during the day to go to the bathroom. If they run off into a wooded area to do their business, you might want to follow them in case they stumble upon a snake or other wild animal.

Boating: Backing Up Protocol

Before you start backing up the boat during a fishing trip, make sure you know where your dog is located. While an experienced fishing dog knows to stay put and stay out of the way, novice fishing pups can jump off the boat right in the path of your boat when the boat changes direction.

girl fishing with a dog — Do you have a loyal fishing partner who always shows up for your fishing trips, stays by your side to keep you company and keeps quiet while you fish?

Life Jackets for Everyone

Even dogs can get scared if they fall or jump off the boat and hear you screaming, “Dog Overboard!” Make sure you get your companion a canine life jacket to avoid any incidents. Plus, your dog will feel just like one of the crew with a life jacket.

Remember the Leash

You probably won’t need the leash for most of the fishing trip while your dog roams the boat. That leash, though, will be valuable when your dog needs to be tied to the dock while you unload the boat.

dog and a tackle box — Avoid hooks getting stuck in your dog’s mouth by keeping hooks stowed away and inside the tackle box.

Treats for Good Behavior

The fishing trip is now over and you might get a beer or a pat on the back for catching the Big One. But what about Fido? You dog deserves multiple treats for staying by your side and following the rules throughout the fishing trip. Treats also come in handy to reinforce good behavior as you train your dog to become the perfect fishing trip companion on your adventures.

At Castaways on the River, we offer everything you need for the perfect fishing trip in a pet-friendly environment on the St. Johns River. Our cottages are pet friendly and our boats welcome pets. Call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect fishing trip with your favorite canine on the river.

5 Tips for a Romantic River Trip

If you’re looking for something different to do with someone who loves the outdoors as much as you do, we have just the trip for you.

Below are 5 tips for a romantic river trip on the St. Johns River for Couples Appreciation Month that will have you coming back again and again to enjoy the natural beauty of the St. Johns River in Central Florida.

couple fishing on the river — Catching fish and enjoying each other’s company on the St. Johns River is a great idea for Couples Appreciation Month.

Lure your Partner With a Fishing Trip

Imagine the peace and serenity of a quiet day on the river, catching fish and enjoying each other’s company on the crystal clear water of the St. Johns River. Spring is a great time to catch fish. If your loved one isn’t an angler but is interested in taking up your hobby, you’re in luck. This weekend you can take advantage of Florida freshwater license free fishing days. So grab the tackle boxes and rods and get moving.

Boating on the River

You don’t have to enjoy fishing to enjoy the St. Johns River together. Rent a boat and spend the day on the river enjoying the wildlife and each other’s company. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy your surroundings as you and your loved one spend quality time on the river.

Rent a Cottage

Stay awhile and enjoy a romantic weekend on the St. Johns River. There are plenty of quaint cottages and motel room options, including our cottage and motel room options, that allow couples to settle in for the weekend, relax in the evenings and even fry up that day’s catch from your fishing adventure.

couple on the river — Enjoying the beauty of the St. Johns River and looking for wildlife is a great way to spend quality time with your loved one.

Wildlife Watching

You’ll see more species of wildlife on the St. Johns River than you will at the beach. Enjoy a day on the boat with your special someone looking for manatees, alligators catching some sun along the river shoreline and blue crabs. If you’re adventurous, get off the boat and head inland where you may see some deerr even a Florida black bear in the Ocala National Forest.

This is also a great time of year for bird watching on the St. Johns River as birds migrate north. You’re likely to see bald eagles, white pelicans, sandhill cranes, wood ducks and other species enjoying the river.

Soothing Springs will Relax You

Did you know that you’re near some of Florida’s most beautiful warm water natural springs when you visit the St. Johns River in Central Florida? The constant 72-degree water springs disperse crystal clear water for those couples looking to unwind. Grab a raft or a tube and enjoy the water and serenity of the area’s freshwater springs.

couple on a romantic river trip at sunset — Enjoying a sunset on the St. Johns River is a great way to enjoy the river’s natural beauty.

Watch the Sun Rise and Set Over the River

The beach isn’t the only place to see a beautiful sunset in Florida. The sun rising and setting over the St. Johns River is a site to behold with the natural beauty of the area reflected in the river while the sky turns hues of orange and pink. If watching the sunset together is on your “romantic to do list” you won’t want to miss this.

At Castaways on the River, we offer everything you need to plan the perfect romantic trip on the St. Johns River. We offer cottages with access to all of the features on the river. You can also rent a boat or a Jet ski. Pick up the phone and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect romantic getaway on the river.

How to Choose the Best Boat Rental

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

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

Pontoon Boat Cruising is Fun

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

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

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

Try a Pontoon Fishing Experience

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

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

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

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

Deck Boats are a Family Alternative

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

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

Try a Fishing Boat Classic

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

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

Time to Rent a Boat

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

How to Use Florida License Free Fishing Days

Fellow freshwater anglers and non-anglers unite! Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River will be held the first Saturday and Sunday in April this year and you’ll want to be prepared. License free fishing weekends this year fall on the weekends of April 2-3 and June 11-12.

We have the scoop on how to use Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River and why these days are important for both experienced fishermen and those seeking to try freshwater fishing for the first time.

Teach New Anglers the Ropes

Dad and son fishing outdoors — Florida license free fishing days are the best time to teach both your children and your buddies seeking freshwater fishing lessons.

Florida license free fishing days are the best time to teach both your children and your buddies seeking freshwater fishing lessons. Parents can use these days to teach teenagers 16 and over the ins and outs of fishing to see if they become addicted before purchasing a license. Those under the age of 16 don’t need a license but could be required to provide proof of their age while fishing. Anglers can also introduce their friends to the sport to see if they become hooked. #seewhatwedidthere?

These license free days are useful, as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) requires Florida residents and visitors to have a freshwater fishing license on all other days you are catching fish. Annual freshwater fishing licenses are $17 and five-year licenses are $79. You can purchase licenses at your local tax collector’s office.

How to take freshwater fish

Game fish, which include bass and black crappie that are abundant in the St. Johns River, can only be caught using a fishing pole and line or with a road and reel. There’s no limit on the number of poles fishermen can use to catch game fish. Unlike saltwater fishing, you can’t catch freshwater fish by underwater swimming or diving. It’s also illegal to use a spear gun, firearm or any other weapon with ammunition to catch freshwater fish. Cast nets with mandatory stretched mesh sizes, though, can be used. Non-game fish, which is everything that isn’t labeled as game fish by the FWC, are well, fair game.

Fish you can catch and keep

Unrecognizable fisherman, How to use Florida License Free Fishing Days — Remember that license free fishing weekends this year fall on the weekends of April 2-3 and June 11-12.

While non-game fish have no limits placed on them, there are special bag and length limits for game fish. For the St. Johns River, those requirements include just one to remember: Black bass must be released immediately. The possession limit for game fish is a two days’ bag limit that includes:

50 Panfish
25 Black Crappie
20 striped, white or sunshine bass (six of those may be 24 inches or longer in total length)
2 Butterfly peacock bass (one of those may be 17 inches or longer in length)
25 American eels (must be 9 inches or greater in length)

couple taking advantage of Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River — Grab a partner and take advantage of Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River next month.

Now all that’s left to do is grab a partner and take advantage of Florida license free fishing days on the St. Johns River. Remember that license free fishing weekends this year fall on the weekends of April 2-3 and June 11-12.

Need a perfect place to stay for your fishing trip? We offer cabins right on the river and boat rentals. Grab the phone and call Castaways on the River at (352) 759-3422 to plan your perfect 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.

Tackle Box for Freshwater Fishing

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

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

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

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

Know the lingo

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

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

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

Additional Tools of the Trade

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

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

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