If you love being outside next to nature then The St. John’s River is the place to be on the day of love; Valentine’s Day at Castaways On the River. The St. John’s River area is truly a sample of old Florida’s pristine beauty. And what a wonderful backdrop to spend time with the one you love.
Your Valentine’s Day at Castaways on the River itinerary can include:
Surprise your honey with a weekend trip. Plan to arrive on Friday and spend the weekend away from it all. We offer a variety of cottages and motel rooms to accommodate guests.
A fishing excursion followed by cooking the catch of the day for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You reserve the time to serve up a great meal. We have grills for guests to use or set up a romantic atmosphere in one of our guest cottages.
Spend the day on the boat. The whole day can be spent enjoying the beautiful St. Johns River. Cast off from our dock at first light and log the hours just relaxing on the water. Head north and explore Lake George or south to Lake Dexter.
Snorkeling for two is a great way to spend the day.
Snorkel in one of the area springs. Just the two of you underwater taking in the sheer beauty can be a memorable time. These are valuable hours of alone time spent exploring nature.
Another favorite activity in this area is to look for manatees. This time of the year it is easier to spot them as they seek the warm waters of area springs when the outside temperature dips. Make sure to slow your boat down to idle speed in manatee zones.
Spend the day enjoying a boat ride along the St. Johns River.
Enjoy the beauty of the area. While the river has a lot to offer, remember it’s in the middle of the OcalaNational Forest, so that means hiking, bird watching or other fun eco-related activities to enjoy for a day or over a weekend.
Bring your boat and we can launch it and store it for you while visiting. Or you can rent one of ours along with other water craft including kayaks. Give us a call at (352) 759-3422 and let us help you plan the perfect trip to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
February is American Heart Month – the perfect time to begin your journey to better heart health while cruising down the St. Johns River. American Heart Month focuses on knowledge and the promotion of healthy lifestyles for the prevention of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Some foods proven to be beneficial for your heart are fish, nuts, berries, oatmeal, red wine, dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), cruciferous vegetables, citrus fruits, whole grains, avocado, and olive oil. A varied diet is the key to a healthy heart. All of these foods offer different benefits such as omega-3 fatty acids in fish, the phytonutrients in berries, and vitamin C in citrus.
A varied diet is the key to a healthy heart.
Speaking of fish – known as the Bass Fishing Capital of the World, the St. Johns River is rich in fisheries including ample crappie, bluegills, catfish and other varieties freshwater fish. Exceptional areas for bass fishing include western shorelines at Juniper, Salt and Silver Glen springs, which are accessible by Lake George. In the winter, you might also find bass in schools to the south end of Lake George through early spring. When you visit Castaways on the River, you can keep a heart healthy diet and relax at all these great fishing locations.
EXERCISE
While on vacation at the beautiful St. Johns River is the perfect opportunity to switch your routine and be more active. Regular exercise is required to maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress hormones and assist to lower blood pressure, which benefits the heart and mood.
Keep active during your vacation at St. Johns River.
When visiting Castaways on the River you can also stop by the St. Johns River Water Management District which maintains approximately 700,000 acres of land that offer a variety of recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, hunting, cycling and equestrian riding.
LAUGH
In order to achieve optimal health we have to take into consideration our emotional health and look beyond the physical markers of being fit. If you remember that your heart is not just about pumping blood, it will make sense. Endorphins help ease stress and minimize pain, both literally and metaphorically. At Castaways on the River, we promote healthy living by providing a family friendly and relaxing atmosphere.
Make Heart Month count and put these tips into practice at Castaways on the River! Give us at (352) 759-3422 to to learn about all the activities you can do while visiting to keep your heart active.
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!
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.
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.
Watching wildlife in the Ocala National Forest and along the St. Johns River is a panoramic view of nature. The area is home to a large variety of wildlife from birds to fish which draws visitors from all walks of life to get a closer look.
Manatees are popular sightings along the St. Johns River especially when temperatures dip.
Whether visitors are on a casual outing or an enthusiast viewing a particular species, it won’t take long for the show of wildlife to delight spectators. Few can say they saw a manatee, an alligator or a bear all in the same day. Oh my! In this area of Florida, it’s just another day.
Manatee Watching on the St. John’s River
While manatees are known as gentle giants, you have to be purposeful and patient to see them in their natural habitat. They are shy and will gracefully avoid boats, other vessels and noise in the wild. If you turn your boat motor off and sit for a bit, you may catch a quick glimpse as they surface for a fresh breath of air. A manatee won’t come close to investigate so have your camera ready and stay quiet.
A diverse group of wildlife can be found in the Ocala National Forest and along the St. Johns River.
Wild Gators on the St. John’s River Shores
Seeing alligators catching a little sun along the shoreline of the St. Johns River is commonplace. Remember this is their natural habitat so observe at a distance and be careful. Alligators are swift swimmers and prefer marshy areas or open water. The slow moving river flowing through the Ocala National Forest is ideal to see an alligator while enjoying a day of boating.
Watch out for Bears
While there are no lions or tigers in the region, there are bears in the wild. The black bear population is mostly concentrated in this region, hence the name of the scenic Florida Black Bear Highway. The 60-mile route is the best place to sight a bear in the area.
Birds on the Wild Side
We’re not talking about snowbirds here. The Ocala National Forest is home to approximately 200 species of birds; especially a large concentration of American Eagles. The area is considered somewhat of a paradise for bird watching enthusiasts. If you are staying with us, be sure to meet the pelicans. Don’t worry they won’t let you ignore them for long along the dock, they keep a close eye on newcomers and old alike.
Watching out for Wildlife on the St. John’s River
Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie and Blue Crab are plentiful in the region attracting both sport and casual anglers. Get advice from the veterans to learn the best spots to snag your catch. While all have their prime seasons, it’s best to check ahead to see what’s biting and where to plan your strategy for the day on the water.
Watching Wildlife – Entertainment at its Finest
Did you know there are several groups of wildlife comedians? Yes, they would be the squirrels who can be seen whizzing around in a rush everywhere and checking things out. And don’t leave out the cute turtles peaking from their shells to see who is stopping by for a visit. These are cute pictures for sure to remember your trip.
Check with the Castaways On The River staff to learn the best spots to watch wildlife in the area. We’ll be glad to accommodate your stay for a bird watching expedition or for those boating or fishing trips. Contact us via Facebook or Twitter, through our website or call us at (352) 759-3422.
Cast away the old and usher in New Years Reolutions
The flip of the calendar signals that it’s time to cast away the old and usher in the New Year. Yes, it’s time to draw up that list of resolutions for the year ahead.
We thought you might like to take a peek at our New Year’s resolutions to get started. And in a place like Castaways on the River in Astor, FL, it’s hard not to incorporate the beauty of the area into our list. It’s stuff you’ve always wanted to do but just don’t make time to do. So get ready to cast out the old and usher in new experiences in 2016!
Watch the sunrise. Make a New Year’s Resolution to watch the sunrise over the St. Johns River at least once a month; more often if you can swing it! You’ll be glad you have those beautiful memories.
Dinner by sunset. It’s nice to spend some time enjoying dinner, reflecting on the day and relaxing as the day draws to an end. It’s so peaceful.
New Year’s Resolution: Fish More
Fish more. So who does not want to block out time in their schedule to make this happen? Explore other new fishing spots and see what you catch! Whether you catch the big one or nothing at all, the time spent is well worth it. #FishMore
Spend a weekend boating. You may get a few hours on the water, but this year increase that time to an entire weekend! Before you know it, you’ll spend every weekend on a boat. It’s the life!
Plan a Day Trip. There are so many places to discover near Astor, FL along the St. Johns River that make perfect day trips. Just pick one and then pick another! You may discover one we haven’t tried yet!
Kayak the Big River. You may be fine taking the kayak out on the smaller creeks and narrow rivers off the St. Johns River but you’ve yet to navigate the big river. This is the year to make it happen! Then tag us in your selfies so we can share the proud moment too!
New Years Resolution: Find a Manatee
Find a Manatee. On a morning when the air is a little crisp, set out for a lazy day on the river in a boat at idle speed or turn it off completely to watch for the graceful glide of a manatee. It takes patience but they will be there keeping warm, usually near the area springs. Yes, this is a must-do on our list.
New Year’s Resolution: Count Gators
Go On a Gator Count. Now be careful with this one. Yes, there are alligators along the St. Johns River, it’s their natural habitat. So counting the alligators along the shore line or in shallow spots will not be difficult, especially on a clear day. Warning: you must have a license to capture an alligator during the designated hunting season so don’t get any ideas beyond counting them.
Coordinate a Getaway. There’s always one person in the group who takes the lead in planning the group getaway. You’ll find enough to keep the adventurous members of the group busy. And there’s plenty of peace and quiet for those who want a laidback getaway.
If you’ve added some or all of these resolutions to your list, let us know how we can help you stick to them and have a great New Year! Here at Castaways, we can handle the accommodations for your getaway, rent you a boat for counting alligators, and suggest spots to see a great sunrise or sunset. Reach out to us via Facebook or Twitter, go to our website or call us at (352) 759-3422.
The waters of the St. Johns River and nearby springs are popular to spot manatees here in Florida. And as the air temperature begins to dip, manatee stay close to springs seeking warm water. The month of November is designated as Manatee Awareness Month in hope of better protecting these gentle giants.
Manatee Fact: Manatees are an endangered species.
Manatees are considered endangered and are protected by law. Boaters will find signs along waterways where manatees are known to swim reminding them to shift to idle speed in these zones.
A Gentle Giant
As a distant relative of elephants, manatees are often referred to as gentle giants because of their bulk, slow moving and non-aggressive nature. Manatees can swim up about 5 miles per hour and travel a distance of 15 miles in short bursts. They use their powerful tail to propel them through the water while using their front flippers to steer.
Manatee Fact: Manatees breathe air but never leave the water.
Manatee Habitat
There’s a lot to know about manatees and their habits. For starters, did you know that while they must breathe air manatees never leave the water. A quick scan of the water’s surface can usually find a nose or two sticking up for a breath. They can hold their breath underwater in excess of 15 minutes.
Manatees can go between freshwater and saltwater and can be found along the eastern U.S. from Florida and south to Brazil in South America along the Amazon River and also on the west coast of Africa. Can you say international?
The manatees found in Florida are known as the West Indian Manatee.
Manatee Fact: Manatees are big eaters.
Time to Eat
Manatees like to eat! And they eat a lot! These vegetarians eat grass and other plants found along the shoreline and in the water. If they are not sleeping or swimming, manatees are eating! Manatees are big…usually weighing an average of 1,500 to1,800 pounds as an adult.
In the wild, manatees live an average of 30 to 60 years. Seeing a manatee for the first time in the water or after many times is remains a priceless experience for many. The Blue Springs Park Manatee Refuge is a short boat ride away. Visit us here at Castaways on the River, bring your boat or rent one of ours to see manatees up close. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates about the area, check out our website or give us a call at (352) 759-3422.
Just like driving a vehicle on the road, operating a boat is much the same but in the water. There are a few general rules of boating etiquette tips to follow for safety but also to be courteous to follow boaters.
A good boating etiquette tip is to control the wake of the boat.
Wake Etiquette
Remember other boats are on the water and a large, rough wake may cause the other boats to rock or cause damage. Consider slowing your speed when passing near other boats to decrease the wake. Keep in mind to also control the wake upon your arrival and departure from the dock.
Signs are in place along the river for boaters to follow. In manatee zones the boat needs to maintain a slow speed.
Boating Signs of the St. Johns River
Waterways like the St. Johns Rivers are popular for boaters to enjoy. The river is home to a diverse eco-system that requires careful attention by boaters to protect these areas, especially when it comes to manatees. Posted signs in manatee zones require a slow speed and minimum wake so that the slow moving mammals have time to evade oncoming boats.
Accessing the many springs along the river also requires going slow or idling in order not to disturb the pristine, sensitive environment.
Take time to understand what the various signs and buoys mean while the boat is operating in the water.
Nautical Lingo
Do you know which side of the boat is port and which is starboard?
Port – the left side of the boat if looking at the bow.
Starboard – the right side of the boat.
So why don’t we just say left and right sides of the boat? The term starboard dates back to the days when all boats were operated by oars which were typically placed on the right side of the stern. The side opposite the oar was eventually referred to as the port side; the side used for loading the boat on the dock.
Now you’ll know which side is which when you pull into dock.
Litter is a no-no in boating. Please keep the water clean.
Keep the water clean
Littering is a definite no-no of boating. The water is not a place to discard trash. Provide a receptacle for everyone on board to place trash that will be disposed of once on shore.
Boating Etiquette Tips
Most boaters have at least one thing in common, their love of the being out on the water. So it’s a nice gesture to wave in greeting other vessels. Those using a boat to get to their favorite fishing spots will often chat with other anglers about what’s biting. While there is lots of good advice along the way, be respectful of others who want to enjoy the solitude and quiet on the water.
Ready, Set, Launch!
It’s good boating etiquette to be ready to launch your boat upon arrival at the ramp. If you have to still load gear and park the tow vehicle, others waiting behind you may become impatient. Have everything in place before you get to the launch ramp.
Likewise when you return, clear the path the boaters following you in for day.
Contact Us
Launch your boat from our ramp and spend the day enjoying all that the St. Johns River offers. If you need a boat, we have plenty available to rent for the day or just a few hours if you prefer. Let our staff get you ready for a day of fun on the water. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates about the area, check out our website or give us a call at (352) 759-3422.
The St. Johns River offers boaters access to some of Florida’s most beautiful freshwater springs along the Ocala National Forest.
Recreational Activities and Wildlife Exploration
Popular among tourists and locals alike, the Florida Springs provides unique opportunities for recreational activity and wildlife exploration.
Visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear spring water, which remains at a refreshing average temperature of 70 degrees year round.
The springs are also home to a large bird population and many species of marine wildlife, including manatees.
Benefits of Boating to the Florida Springs
Although you can drive to almost all of the Florida Springs, boating offers a scenic experience we encourage you to try. There are also many great fishing spots along the way.
If you do not own a boat, we have rentals! Start planning your next boating adventure on the St. Johns River to some of Florida’s most breathtaking springs. However, please note that not all springs are accessible from Castaways On The River, so be sure to inquire about available routes and destinations to ensure a delightful and safe journey.
Salt Springs
Salt Springs, on the northern edge of Lake George off the St. Johns River along Salt Springs Run, is a popular spring within the Ocala National Forest.
Visitors can swim and snorkel in the spring. While the spring is home to a variety of turtles, Blue Crabs and bass, fishing and motorized boats are not permitted.
Since Salt Springs is in the Ocala National Forest, the area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The spring can also be accessed via U.S 19.
Silver Glen Springs
Also off the St. Johns River is Silver Glen Springs at the end of Silver Glen Springs Run off Lake George. The area is another popular spot for tourists. During the cooler winter months, manatee sightings are frequent as they seek warmer water than that of the river.
Silver Glen Springs also sits within the Ocala National Forest. The crystal clear water gives way to swimming, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. Did you know that the spring’s two vents produce an average of 65 million gallons of water daily?
Juniper Springs
A leisurely boat ride along Juniper Creek off the St. Johns River or by land traveling along S.R. 40 will lead to Juniper Springs. The surrounding complex dates to the 1930s making it one of the oldest in the region.
Like other springs in the area where swimmers can enjoy the pristine waters, the spring is also an access point to the Florida Trail/Florida National Scenic Trail in the Ocala National Forest.
The St. Johns River offers boaters access to some of Florida’s most beautiful freshwater springs.
The Land of Springs
Several other springs to consider for day trips include Alexander Springs, De Leon Springs and Blue Spring. You can take the St. Johns River or a feeder creek to reach any of these springs.
The First Magnitude Spring
Considered a first magnitude spring, Alexander Spring in Altoona on C.R. 455 is an 8-mile boat ride east of the St. Johns River.
De Leon Spring’s Rich History
De Leon Springs, east of the river, is steeped in history dating back to when the native Mayaca inhabited the area for 6,000 years and the 1500s when the Spanish began building missions in the region.
Manatees at Blue Spring
If you are looking to spot manatees during the winter months, then head to Blue Spring. It’s the largest spring on the St. Johns River and is known as the winter home of manatees in this part of the state. The spring discharges 165 million gallons of water daily.
Boat Rental and Contact Information
Checking out any of the springs in the area is a great way to spend a few hours or make it an all-day outing to enjoy the unique bodies of water. There is really no better way to access many of these sites than by boat. Hop in one of our boat rentals at Castaways on the River.
For St. Johns River news, updates and more, follow us on Facebook, visit our website or give us a call at (352)759-3422.
The St. Johns River is known for it’s size, lakes and great bass fishing. Also known as the River of Lakes and the Bass Fishing Capital of the World, the St. Johns River offers anglers endless access to many bass fishing spots including Lake George.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), Lake George maintains an excellent habitat for bass, rich in aquatic vegetation, primarily eelgrass. Whether you are an experienced bass angler or just a beginner, Lake George is a great place to start!
Spots for Bass Fishing on Lake George
Some of Florida’s best bass fishing can be found on Lake George, especially along the shoreline where it is rich in vegetation.
Exceptional areas for bass fishing include western shorelines at Juniper, Salt and Silver Glen springs, which are accessible by Lake George. In the winter, you might also find bass in schools to the south end of Lake George through early spring.
Tips for Bass Fishing on Lake George
Other fishing tips include surface feeding, which is known to attract large schools of striped bass and sunshine bass. The FWC also recommends casting deep-diving crankbaits near old dock structures along the northeast shore and off Drayton Island.
St. Johns River Boat Access
Conveniently located just a few miles from Castaways on the River, visitors can easily access Lake George by boat or jet ski in one of our rentals. We also offer waterfront accommodatons along the St. Johns River, perfect for the weekend or your next extended bass fishing adventure.
Guests can book a boat rental before they stay or bring their boat and dock it onsite. For direct access to Lake George, there is a public boat ramp on the south end of Lake George on Blue Creek Lodge Road, located north of Highway 40.
Learn More About Bass Fishing
For more information about bass fishing along Lake George and other areas of the St. Johns River, visit us online or contact us at (352) 759-3422. For daily updates about fishing and boating along the St. Johns River, follow us on Twitter or Facebook.
“Florida is known as the lightning capital of the United States, with storms occurring approximately 100 days out of the year, compared to California’s low of only five,” UF/IFAS states. “Although our entire state rates as a high risk area, the most dangerous area runs from St. Augustine (north) to Lake Okeechobee (south) and from east to west coasts.”
To ensure the safety of swimmers, boaters and anglers on the St. John’s River, adjoining lakes and nearby springs, we have provided the following tips for avoiding lightening before it strikes:
Check the Weather
Weather predictions, storm warnings and safety precautions should not be ignored. Staying up-to-date with what’s going on with the weather can mean life or death while on the water where fatal strikes are more likely to occur.
Pay Attention to Warning Signs
If you see storm clouds approaching or hear thunder, head indoors. Thunder travels faster at the speed of sound, while lightning travels at the speed of light. Don’t assume it’s not coming for you. Better safe, than struck.
Plan Ahead
If you have ever spent longer than two weeks in Florida, you’ve probably called the weather reporter a liar. Florida’s weather conditions are unpredictable and sporadic. It might be raining on one side of the highway, but not the other. Therefore, plan ahead in case weather takes a turn for the not-so-sunny.
Call Ahead
If you are coming from out-of-town, give us a call before your visit. We can tell you what kind of weather expect to expect and help plan your next fishing adventure on the St. Johns River. Looking for a jet ski or boat rental? We can help you with that too. Give us a call at (352) 759-3422.
