The World's Leading Fishing & Boating Destination

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FLORIDA THE WORLD’S LEADING FISHING & BOATING DESTINATION

AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA 2014 EDITION It’s time to plan your fishing getaway. From locating thousands of places to boat and fish to tips on how to help your kids land a lunker, it’s all here. Learn, plan and equip for a memorable day on the water.

OFFICIAL PARTNERS

49073_TMF_Map_Full_Pg_A_v2.indd 1 1/6/12 4:14 PM FLORIDA FISHING & BOATING

It’s time to plan your fishing getaway. From locating Published under contract with Florida Sports, thousands of places to boat and fish to tips on how a division of Enterprise Florida, Inc., by: to help your kids land a lunker, it’s all here. Learn, plan and equip for a memorable day on the water. Destination Media, Inc. PO Box 897 Melrose, FL 32666 352.475.2200

Gary A. Jones President/CEO OFFICIAL PARTNERS [email protected] Deborah J. Green Executive Vice President

PARTNER DEVELOPMENT

NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA Dick Myers 352.697.1432 [email protected]

SOUTH FLORIDA & NATIONAL Ryan Kessler 727.385.0054 [email protected] Northwest Design and Production by Muddy Creek Creative Northeast Emily R. Young North Project Coordinator Central Nile Young Jr. Contributing Photographer

Central Contents A Division of Enterprise Florida, Inc. West Central 2930 Kerry Forest Parkway Tallahassee, FL 32309 Northwest 10 Central East 850.488.8347 John Webb 18 North Central President Nick Gandy Northeast Communications Director 28 Southwest All contents are fully protected by Copyright 2013, Central Florida Sports and Destination Media, Inc. Contents 32 Southeast may not be reproduced without written permission. For additional copies: www.flasports.com 40 Central West

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information herein. However, the State of Florida, Florida Sports, Enterprise Florida, Inc. and Destination Media are not responsible 44 Central East for any errors or omissions which might occur. Also, advertising material and information is the responsibility of the individual advertiser, and appearance in FLORIDA FISHING & BOATING does not necessarily reflect endorsement of the product or 48 Southwest service by the State of Florida, Florida Sports, Enterprise Florida, Inc., or the publisher, nor are the State, Florida Sports, Enterprise Florida, Inc. and the publisher responsible for the contents of the individual advertisements. The publisher thanks Florida Sports 58 Southeast On the Cover: Fishing the Crystal River. staff for its efforts on behalf of this guide.

Courtesty of StreamSong Resort Courtesy of Plantation on Crystal River.

49073_TMF_Map_Full_Pg_A_v2.indd 1 1/6/12 4:14 PM WELCOME Sincerely, your returntriptotheSunshineStateanditsabundanceoffishingboatingopportunities. talking abouthowyoureeledinthebigoneratherthanthatgotaway planning guidetomakeyourtripinFloridaamemorableexperience. endless amountofactivitiesuntilthenexttimeyoudropahookinwater December whentheseasonisclosed.Onceyou’redoneonwater freshwater fish. With Florida’s temperateyear-round climate,there’s notadayfromJanuaryto Florida offers agreatdiversityofsaltwaterfishesandanequallyimpressiveamount miles ofriversandstreams. That’s greatwaterforfishingandboating. miles oftidalshoreline.Ifthat’s notenough,theinlandareasoffer 7,750lakesand10,500 vast naturalresourcesthestateoffers. you’re here.OneofthereasonspeoplevisitFloridaisforadayonwaterandenjoy Thank Dear FishingandBoatingEnthusiast; Enjoy yourstayinFlorida,the“FishingCapitalof World,” andwelookforwardto The FloridaSportsFoundation’ sannualFloridaFishingandBoating Guideistheperfect A peninsulasurroundedbythe Atlantic OceanandGulfofMexico,Floridaoffers 2,276 youforchoosingFloridaasyourdestinationfishingandboating. FloridaSportsFoundation John Webb May 1,2014 President , Floridaalsoprovidesan You’ll headbackhome . . We’re glad

Rick Scott Governor WELCOME

June 1, 2014

Dear Outdoor Enthusiast:

On behalf of the State of Florida and Florida Sports, a division of Enterprise Florida, Inc., and the state’s lead organization in promoting and developing Florida’s sports industry, I am pleased to provide Florida Fishing & Boating, a valuable resource complete with useful information on the state’s most popular visitor and recreational activities — fishing and boating. This annual guide gives visitors and residents alike, practical tips on saltwater and freshwater fishing, information on license requirments, and a listing of guides and charters in the state.

Florida has earned the title of Fishing Capital of the World, as the Sunshine State offers more than 7,700 lakes, 10,550 miles of rivers and streams, and 2,276 miles of tidal shoreline — all waiting to be explored. In addition to our abundance of waterways for fishing and boating, Florida offers an unmatched variety of attractions, unique historic and cultural corridors, and outstanding restaurants filled with Florida-style favorites.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy our award-winning state park systems and miles of wilderness hiking and biking trails. Our state parks are the nation’s only three-time winner of the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence. This award shows that the Sunshine State is working hard to ensure Florida families and tourists are able to enjoy our national treasures.

Florida’s natural resources are vast, yet vulnerable. Please help perserve those areas by leaving them in the same condition as when you arrived, which will ensure that they can be enjoyed for many years to come.

Welcome to Florida! We are glad you are here!

Sincerely,

Rick Scott Governor

3 THE CAPITOL @ItsWorkingFL Tallahassee, Florida 32399 • (850) 488-2272 www.FLGOV.com 2014 EVENT CALENDAR JUNE June 15–16 - PENSACOLA JUNIOR ANGLER up for grabs. Competition is open to all anglers TOURNAMENT and there is no limit on the number of anglers that June 1 - BLUE WATER OPEN Pensacola, 850-453-4638 can participate. Sebastian Inlet, 727-388-5609 www.pbgfc.com www.bluewateropen.com July 12–13 - SAILFISH MARINA BIG DOG & FAT June 16–20 - GOLD CUP TARPON TOURNAMENT CAT KDW SHOOTOUT June 1 - NORTH LIGHT RED SNAPPER CHALLENGE Islamorada, [email protected] Lake Park 561-315-3722 Niceville, 850-678-2350 www.fishska.com June 18–22 - EMERALD COAST BLUE www.NorthLightChallenge.com MARLIN CLASSIC July 13–16 - DEL BROWN PERMIT TOURNAMENT June 2–7 - TREASURE CAY BILLFISH TOURNY Sandestin, 866-216-2271 Key West, 305-360-6969 Treasure Cay, Abaco, Bahamas (954) 525-7711 www.fishebc.com Anglers fly-fish on the flats in a challenge that honors www.treasurecay.com June 20–22 - KEY WEST GATOR CLUB the late angling pioneer Del Brown, who caught and DOLPHIN DERBY June 6–7 - SECOND ANNUAL LADIES released more than 500 permit off the Keys. DOLPHIN TOURNAMENT Key West, 305-304-1348 July 16–19 - DRAMBUIE KEY WEST Islamorada, 305-522-4868 June 27– 28 - FOURTH ANNUAL UNIVERSITY MARLIN TOURNAMENT OF MIAMI SPORTS HALL OF FAME CELEBRITY June 6–9 - THE 4TH ANNUAL JACKSONVILLE Key West, 305-304-0317 DOLPHIN TOURNAMENT FISHING RODEO Anglers ply the waters once fished by novelist Ernest Islamorada, 305-925-3660 Jacksonville 904-819-0360 Hemingway, vying for $50,000 in guaranteed cash This annual event invites you to fish with some of your www.jacksonvillerodeo.com/rodeo/ prizes. Held in conjunction with Key West’s annual favorite former ‘Cane All-Stars! Cash prizes for the Hemingway Days, the event awards $25,000 to the June 6–9 - POMPANO BEACH SALTWATER SLAM heaviest dolphin, a charity auction and more highlight first-place team. Pompano Beach, 954.725.4010 the one-day tournament. Headquartered at Postcard Inn www.saltwaterslam.com Beach Resort & Marina. Up to four-angler teams July 21–26 - GREATER JACKSONVILLE KINGFISH TOURNAMENT & FESTIVAL June 7–8 - ED ALBER TARPON RODEO June 28–29 - THE DOLPHIN & BLACKFIN Jim King Park & Boat Ramp at Sister Creek TUNA FUN FISHING TOURNAMENT Tierra Verde, 727-867-8166 Jacksonville 904-251-3011 Marathon 305-743-5317 An all-release fishing tournament with cash and prizes www.kingfishtournament.com totaling $5,000. Anglers will fish in Tampa Bay in an Top prizes of $700, $350 and $200 await individual July 19–21 - PENSACOLA LADIES expanded field this year, including all of Tampa Bay to adult anglers who catch the tournament’s three heaviest BILLFISH TOURNAMENT one-mile offshore running north to Clearwater Pass and dolphin, with additional cash awards for the heaviest Pensacola, 850-453-4638 south to Sarasota Big Pass. blackfin tuna and wahoo. Headquartered at Burdines www.pbgfc.com www.tampabaywatch.org Waterfront restaurant, the 14th annual challenge is open to adult and junior anglers. June 7–8 - FLORIDA SPORT FISHING AUGUST ASSOCIATION: 45TH ANNUAL SLAM June 27–30 - PENSACOLA INTERNATIONAL August 7–10 - POMPANO BEACH Sunrise Marina, Port Canaveral, 321.403.5241 BILLFISH TOURNAMENT SALTWATER SHOWDOWN www.FSFAclub.org Pensacola, 850-453-4638 www.pbgfc.com Pompano Beach, 954-725-4070 Jun 8–9 - 29TH ANNUAL COBIA www.saltwatershowdown.com BIG FISH TOURNAMENT June 28–29 - VFW GASKIN PARK CATFISH August 8–10 - 33RD ANNUAL PENSACOLA Homosassa, 352-628-2602 or 352-628-0200 TOURNAMENT Wewahitchka, 850-814-3180 LADIES BILLFISH TOURNAMENT

FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING Registration by May 24 www.floridacatfishclassic.com Pensacola, 850-453-4638 June 13–14 - PENSACOLA JUNIOR www.pbgfc.com/ladies-billfish/ ANGLER TOURNAMENT August 30–31 - GATOR CATFISH CLASSIC Pensacola, 850-453-4638 JULY July 2–6 - OUR 43RD ANNUAL PENSACOLA Wewahitchka, 850-340-1029 June 13–16 - BIG BEND SALTWATER CLASSIC INTERNATIONAL BILLFISH TOURNAMENT www.floridacatfishclassic.com Port St. Joe, 850.216.2272 Pensacola, 850-453-4638 August DTBD - THE GROUPER GRAB www.saltwaterclassic.com www.pbgfc.com/international-billfish/ Royal Schell Port Sanibel Marina, Fort Myers, June 15 - THE 29TH ANNUAL DOLPHIN DAYS July 11–13 - ISLAMORADA DOLPHIN TOURNAMENT 239-850-1707, www.thegroupergrab.com 4 FISHING TOURNAMENT Islamorada, 305-522-4868 Miami, 305-322-3471 This annual event features $15,000 in cash and prizes www.kiwanisfishing.com Courtesty of Lee County CVB SEPTEMBER September 28–29 - GULF COUNTY SHERIFF’S boats and sea vessels will be on display including OFFICE ANNUAL BASS TOURNAMENT runabouts, sportfishers, high performance boats, center September 5–7 - ROBERT JAMES SALES White City Boat Ramp, 850.227.8615 S.L.A.M. CELEBRITY TOURNAMENT consoles, cabin cruisers, flats boats, skiffs, express www.gcsotournament.com Key West, 305-664-2002 cruisers, sailing yachts, motor yachts, bowriders, EVENTS In the first of three tournaments in the annual Redbone catamarans, ski boats, jet boats, trawlers, inflatables, Celebrity Tournament Series, also called The Trilogy, OCTOBER canoes, and extraordinary superyachts. anglers target tarpon, permit and bonefish to achieve October 1–31 - DESTIN FISHING RODEO http://bit.ly/9KfE5p the coveted “flats grand slam.” Destin, 850-837-6734 www.destinfishingrodeo.org NOVEMBER Sept 6–8 - SOUTHERMOST LIGHT TACKLE ANGLERS MASTERS Established in 1948, free to angler’s fishing aboard a Nov 7–10 - REDBONE TOURNAMENT Key West, 305-664-2002 registered boat in the Rodeo, over $100,000 awarded in Islamorada, 305-664-2002 www.redbone.org cash and prizes. Daily, weekly and overall prizes. www.redbone.org October 5–6 - MAD DOG MANDICH CLASSIC September 12–13 FLORIDA SCALLOP & MUSIC Nov 9 –10 - HOMOSASSA SEAFOOD FESTIVAL FESTIVAL AND SCALLOP DROP Islamorada, 305-667-0399 Homosassa, 352-628-9333 Port St. Joe, 850-227-1223 www.maddogclassic.com www.homosassaseafoodfestival.org www.scallopfest.com October 8–10 - BAYBONE TOURNAMENT November 7–10 - ROBERT JAMES SALES Key Largo, 305-664-220 REDBONE CELEBRITY TOURNAMENT September 18–21 - MARATHON www.redbone.org Islamorada, 305-664-2002 INTERNATIONAL BONEFISH TOURNAMENT Marathon, 305-304-8682 October 10–12 - ROBERT JAMES SALES November 14–16 - CHEECA LODGE & SPA ALL- BAYBONE CELEBRITY TOURNAMENT AMERICAN BACKCOUNTRY TOURNAMENT For more than 50 years, this challenge awards individual Key Largo, 305-664-2002 Islamorada, 305-517-4449 and team champions scoring the largest bonefish and The second of three tournaments in the annual Compete for prizes and trophies in this second annual permit, the top anglers in fly and grand slam divisions Redbone Trilogy, the Baybone targets permit and event, targeting snook, redfish, bonefish, tarpon and (for the top spin or fly angler who releases the largest bonefish to raise money for cystic fibrosis research. permit. bonefish, permit and tarpon “slam”), as well as the Among the celebrities who have fished recent Baybone tongue-in-cheek “wet pants” champion titles for November 17–18 - INGLIS YANKEETOWN ARTS, tournaments is legendary angler Stu Apte, former anglers wading from shore. The event is one of the CRAFTS AND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL Denver Bronco and Tampa Bay Buccaneer Mark Cooper few tournaments where anglers can fish without a Yankeetown and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Wade Boggs. professional guide. Notable and celebrity participants Food vendors, over one hundred arts & crafts vendors, have included crooner Perry Como during the early October 13–15 - ISLAMORADA FALL ALL-TACKLE and entertainment fill this coastal village, on the 1960s, former U.S. Rep. Dante Fascell, Broadway actor BONEFISH & PERMIT CHAMPIONSHIP Withlacoochee River. David Wayne and Heublein Inc. magnate John Martin of Islamorada, 305-587-1460 www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/inglisyankeetown/page-6.php. A-1 Sauce fame. Known locally as the “Fall All-Tackle,” the three-day November Date TBD - RIGHT WHALE FESTIVAL challenge attracts energized newcomers to face September 19 –21 - HERMAN LUCERNE Seawalk Pavilion, Jacksonville Beach (904) 247-6100 seasoned veterans, in a competitive format since 1970. MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT www.jacksonvillebeach.org/events/ Up to 25 participants can fish in the tournament. One Islamorada angler per boat pairs with a licensed captain to vie for Named after the man known affectionately as “Mr. DECEMBER division winners’ trophies. Permit was added to the Everglades,” fishing is set against the backdrop of 2013 challenge for the first time, and the three largest December 4–7 - ISLAMORADA SAILFISH Everglades National Park, challenging anglers who seek TOURNAMENT bonefish and three largest permit are to be scored by the hard-to-reach yet fruitful fishing areas that Lucerne Islamorada, 305-522-4868 length, not weight. favored. Lucerne spent nearly 40 years exploring the The first leg of the triple-crown Florida Keys Gold Cup FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING backcountry’s labyrinth of canals, water trails and October 17–20 - FLY FISHING EXPO Championship Series is characterized by high-flying sail mangrove mazes, earning the affectionate moniker. The Crystal River, 850-942-9776 action, conservation and sportsmanship. It’s also the tournament distinguishes the overall grand champion www.fedflyfishers.org/Councils/Florida only tournament in the Gold Cup series to offer a junior as an individual angler who catches at least four of the October 19–20 - THE IRISHWATERDOGS division for anglers aged 16 and younger. Unlimited seven eligible species: black drum, bonefish, redfish, INVITATIONAL - KAYAK FISHING TOURNAMENT anglers are allowed per vessel. snook, snapper, tarpon and sea trout. Jacksonville 904-657-8038 December 9 - THE 50TH ANNUAL POMPANO September 21 - FLORIDA CATFISH CLASSIC www.irishwaterdogsinvitational.com BEACH BOAT PARADE Wewahitchka, www.floridacatfishclassic.com October 20–21 - 43RD ANNUAL CEDAR KEY Along the Intracoastal Waterway in Pompano Beach SEAFOOD FESTIVAL September 26–28 - 4TH ANNUAL TAKE STOCK IN and is one of the oldest Holiday Boat Parades in the CHILDREN BACKCOUNTRY CHALLENGE Cedar Key Nation. Special events such as the Captain’s Party Key Largo, 305-304-0421 The festival offers fine food, entertainment, shopping with the culmination of approximately 50-75 brightly For philanthropic anglers, this popular annual gathering and family fun. The 43rd Cedar Key Seafood Festival decorated boats illuminating our waterway. The boat proffers an important fundraising opportunity while celebrates the area’s fishing heritage, offering two days parade has no boat entry fee. fishing trout, snook and redfish. Proceeds benefit both of fantastic food, a Seafood Festival parade, 250 arts http://bit.ly/Tcnv1J. and crafts exhibitors, free live music and family fun local Rotary Club of Key Largo scholarships and Take December 15 - THE 41ST ANNUAL SEMINOLE Stock in Children, a statewide scholarship program for State Route 24 and Second Street and at the Gulf front HARD ROCK WINTERFEST BOAT PARADE children in seventh through 12th grades. Trophies for City Park. Fort Lauderdale first through third place are to be awarded anglers in www.VisitLevy.com http://winterfestparade.com/index.php. adult and pro divisions, as well as first-place snook, October 30–Nov 3 - FORT LAUDERDALE 5 trout and redfish prizes for juniors age 17 and under. INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW SHOW Exhibits range from yacht builders and designers to exotic cars and brokerage yachts. A wide variety of FLORIDA FISHES FRESHWATER This section describes some of Florida’s most popular freshwater fishes and identification information. For regulations, please visit MyFWC.com/Fishing or pick up a copy of the Florida Fishing Regulations—Freshwater Edition, wherever licenses are sold.

Note: “Big Catch” refers to a free angler recognition State Record: 3.75 lbs. REDEAR SUNFISH program. Copies of the application form and rules Big Catch: 16 inches or 2 lbs. OR SHELLCRACKER: are available in the printed Regulations and online Habitat: They prefer at MyFWC.com/fishing. The sizes listed are adult Appearance: A bright small to medium qualifying weights; youth qualify with slightly red mark on the back edge streams and rivers with smaller catches, and “Specialist,” “Master” and of the gill cover is very clear, slow-moving “Elite Angler” classifications are available. A frame- distinctive. water, and gravel or rock bottoms. Seldom found in able certificate and window sticker are sent to natural lakes, and they do not enter brackish water. State Record: 4.86 lbs. qualifying anglers. Big Catch: 12 inches or 2.25 lbs. Habitat: Redear prefer hard bottoms, congregating LARGEMOUTH BASS BLACK CRAPPIE OR in deeper water than bluegill. SPECKLED PERCH/SPECKS: Appearance: The largemouth bass is the best Appearance: A deep body with nearly symmetrical known and most popular game fish in North REDBREAST SUNFISH: America. It is distinguished from other black bass dorsal and anal fins because the upper jaw extends beyond the rear and a speckled pattern Appearance: A very long black ear flap edge of the eye, and the on the body and fins distinguishes this fish from other Florida bream. first and second dorsal identify the black crappie. State Record: 2.08 lbs. (back) fins are separated Big Catch: 10 inches total length or 0.75 lbs. by an obvious deep dip. State Record: 3.83 lbs. Big Catch: 14 inches or 2.0 lbs. Habitat: Also known State Record: 17.27 lbs. (Note several larger fish as river bream and have been documented but not certified.) Habitat: Unlike most other panfish, crappie spend redbellies, these are the Big Catch: 24 inches or 8.0 lbs. much of their time offshore feeding on small fish in flowing water cousins of Habitat: The Florida largemouth bass is the state lakes or in large slow-moving clear water rivers. bluegill. Redbellies often can be found in backwater freshwater fish. Found statewide in lakes and areas with less flow, especially where there are rivers, they are commonly found along vegetation, sandy bottoms. Common in rivers of north Florida, or underwater structure, but schooling bass are also BLUEGILL but absent from south Florida. found in the middle of lakes. Appearance: Bluegill have the deep-bodied TIP: The best live bait is a golden shiner, fished SPOTTED SUNFISH under a float or free-lined. Typically, the shiner is look of “bream,” with hooked through the lips or back with a large hook, a long dorsal fin and OR STUMPKNOCKER 2/0 to 5/0. A medium to medium-heavy rod with 14- slightly forked tail. A Appearance: Spotted FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING to 20-pound test line is preferred, particularly when dark ear covering and a blotch at the dorsal fin’s sunfish are olive-green fishing in areas with thick vegetation or cover. back bottom edge set them apart. to brown in color, with State Record: 2.95 lbs. black or reddish spots on Big Catch: 11 inches or 1.25 lbs. the base of each scale SPOTTED BASS forming rows of dots on its sides. Habitat: Bluegill are common throughout Florida but Appearance: Spotted bass are similar to are best known in lakes and ponds. State Record: 0.83 lbs. largemouth bass, but unlike the largemouth, the Big Catch: 8 inches or 0.50 lbs. spotted bass has scales on the base portion of the TIP: Live worms or crickets are the best bait, either 6 second dorsal fin; their first and second dorsal fins fished on the bottom or suspended below a float. Habitat: The preferred habitat is slow-moving, are clearly connected, and its upper jaw does not Crickets, grubs, sand maggots or grass shrimp will heavily vegetated streams and rivers with extend past the eye. also catch bedding bluegill. limestone, sand, or gravel substrates. FLORIDA FISHES

WARMOUTH Big Catch: 18 inches or 3.75 lbs. OSCAR Appearance: It has a stout, deep body similar Habitat: Butterfly peacock Appearance: Adults are olive blue-green with to other panfish. A red eye and large mouth are bass were stocked, mustard colors, and a bright conspicuous field marks. Three or four dark stripes after research showed red eyespot on the tail fin. radiating back from the eye across the cheek and temperature would limit their range. Biologists Habitat: Oscars are illegally/ gill cover like war paint confirm the identity. sought to control exotic fishes and to provide a high quality sport fishery. Many miles of canals accidentally established State Record: 2.44 lbs. in Miami-Dade and Broward counties now have nonnative fish. They are abundant in Water Big Catch: 10 inches self-sustaining peacock fisheries worth millions of Conservation Area canals and occur throughout or 0.75 lbs. dollars locally. south Florida. Native to South America. Habitat: Warmouths inhabit swamps, marshes, shallow lakes, slow- moving streams and canals with soft, muddy CHANNEL CATFISH: CHAIN PICKEREL bottoms. They stay around aquatic vegetation, Appearance: Catfish are easy to distinguish by Appearance: Chain pickerel are deep olive-green stumps and snags and under the banks of streams their whisker-like sensory barbels and a forked on the back, shading to a creamy yellow on the and ponds. They have more tolerance for muddy tail. Channel catfish have a rounded anal fin and belly, with the back and anal fin about the same water than most species. scattered black spots along their back and sides. size and located far back on an elongated body. A Males become especially dark during spawning distinct black chain-like or interwoven marking on season and develop a thickened pad on their head. the sides give them WHITE BASS their name. State Record: 44.50 Appearance: White bass look like short stripers. lbs. State Record: 5.75 lbs. They are silvery-white with five to eight dusky black Big Catch: 31 Big Catch: 27 inches or 4 lbs. stripes on the sides. Stripes below the lateral line inches or 15.0 lbs. Habitat: Found statewide, normally in vegetated are faint and may be uneven. Whites are stockier lakes, swamps and backwaters of small to large than stripers, with a smaller head, and dorsal fins Habitat: Channel catfish are found throughout rivers. are set closer together. Florida, and spawn in holes and crevices State Record: 4.69 lbs. BEHAVIOR: Primarily bottom feeders, channels also Big Catch: 15 inches or 2.5 lbs. feed higher up. Major foods are aquatic insects, FLORIDA GAR crayfish, mollusks, crustaceans and fish—not Habitat: White bass are found mostly in the detritus or decaying material. Appearance: Prehistoric fish with ganoid (bony) Apalachicola and Ochlockonee river systems. scales that have peg-and-socket joints forming a hard armor. Irregular round, spots occur on top of FLATHEAD CATFISH the head, all over SUNSHINE BASS: the body and fins. Appearance: A flat head, tiny eyes, squarish tail Appearance: Sunshine bass were first produced and protruding lower jaw distinguish flathead from State Record: 9.44 lbs.

in Florida by state hatcheries, and all sunshines are other. They are yellow-brown, usually mottled Big Catch: 28 inches or 5 lbs. FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING still produced and stocked. This is because they are above, with a creamy colored belly. Habitat: They are found in the Ochlockonee River a hybrid of a female white bass and male striped and waters east and south in peninsular Florida bass that does not occur naturally. Sunshines often State Record: 48.4 lbs. where they inhabit streams, canals and lakes with have broken stripes on the front half and straight Big Catch: 36 inches mud or sand bottoms near underwater vegetation. lines on the rear half of or 25 lbs. the body. Habitat: Flathead are found in the Apalachicola and State Record: 16.31 lbs. Escambia rivers, where they recently arrived from AMERICAN SHAD Big Catch: 24 inches or 7.0 lbs. Georgia and Alabama. Flatheads prefer long, slow- flowing, moderately-turbid rivers. Appearance: Green or greenish blue with metallic Habitat: Sunshines occur where they are stocked luster on back and silvery sides. The chest and by the FWC--typically in community lakes or waters abdomen have bony with an abundance of shad. WHITE CATFISH scutes. They typically have several spots Appearance: Sides are blue-gray to blue-black along their side. PEACOCK BASS: and may be mottled. The tail is moderately forked, and the anal fin is shorter and rounder than that of State Record: 5.19 lbs. Appearance: Color is very vivid— generally golden channel or blue catfish. Big Catch: 18 inches or 4 lbs. with three black vertical bars that fade with age. Habitat: In Florida, it occurs only in the northeast, A black spot with a yellow halo on the tail fin is State Record: 18.8 lbs. mostly in the St. Johns River and Nassau River distinctive. Big Catch: 22 inches or 5 lbs. 7 when it returns from the ocean to spawn, typically State Record: 9.08 lbs. Habitat: found statewide in rivers and streams and between late December and early April. in slightly brackish coastal waters. Images courtesty of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Art by Duane Raver, Jr. FLORIDA FISHES SALTWATER This section highlights some of the great diversity of saltwater fishes that Florida has to offer and identification information. For regulations, please visit MyFWC.com/Marine or pick up a copy of the Florida Fishing Regulations wherever licenses are sold.

BONEFISH SPOTTED SEATROUT PERMIT Appearance: Silvery, with torpedo-shaped body Appearance: Spotted seatrout have a distinctive Appearance: Permit are and conical snout. pair of canine teeth that deep-bodied fish with a State Record: 15.75 lbs. protrude from the upper very deeply forked tail jaw. that gives them the speed to catch crabs and other Habitat: Bonefish invertebrates in seagrass flats. Pompano are similar primarily inhabit inshore State Record: 17.44 lbs. but not as deep bodied and rarely grow larger than shallows of the Florida Keys, often in water that is Habitat: Seatrout abound in seagrass meadows, 6 pounds. less than 1 foot deep. mangrove-fringed shorelines, deep holes and State Record: 56.13 lbs. TIP: Live shrimp or jigs tipped with fresh shrimp are channels and above oyster bars. the best baits for conventional fishermen. Fly fisher- Habitat: These coastal fish inhabit tropical grass and sand flats, near reefs and wrecks. men patiently pole through shallow flats stalking REDFISH (RED DRUM) these elusive fish. Bonefish are very seldom eaten and should be carefully released. Appearance: Redfish are easily recognized by the spot or spots at the base of their tails. COBIA State Record: 52.31 lbs. Appearance: Cobia are SNOOK long, slim fish with a Habitat: In winter, redfish Appearance: Snook are identified by their black broad depressed head. are found in seagrass, lateral line and protruding lower jaw. The lower jaw extends past the upper jaw, and they over muddy or sand have a dark lateral stripe that extends through the State Record: 44.19 lbs. bottoms, or near oyster tail. These fish are also known as ling, or lemonfish, bars or spring fed creeks. Habitat: “Linesides” and resemble remoras. are found in coastal and State Record: 130.06 lbs. brackish waters, along TARPON mangrove shorelines, and Habitat: Cobia are found in nearshore and inshore near seagrass beds, seawalls, jetties and bridges. Appearance: Tarpon have a distinctive dorsal fin waters with inlets and bays. Cobia are frequently Snook abound on both coasts of Florida from central ray that extends into a long filament, a large upward found around buoys, pilings and wrecks in these Florida south, because they cannot tolerate water pointing mouth and very large scales areas. temperatures below 60˚F. State Record: 243.00 lbs. Habitat: Primarily RED SNAPPER GAG GROUPER inshore fish, preferring Appearance: Most snapper are bottom fish with Appearance: Grouper are bottom fish that range shallow estuaries around varied shapes, sizes and colors, a terminal mouth, from several pounds to 700 or more pounds. They mangrove forests, salt and broad tail. Florida has FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING vary in color with massive under-slung jaws, chunky marshes or hard-bottom/seagrass communities of 15 species of snapper, bodies, a tenacious attitude and large, broad, the Keys. They tolerate a wide salinity range, and as including mangrove (gray), powerful tails. juveniles, enter fresh waters. lane, mutton, yellowtail and red. State Record: 80.38 lbs. BEHAVIOR: Tarpon can gulp air and remove oxygen by means of lung-like tissue near their swim blad- State Record: 46.50 lbs. (red). Habitat: Adults inhabit rocky bottoms, reefs and der. This “rolling” effect is one way to spot tarpon. drop-off walls in water over 60 feet deep; young Habitat: Larger snapper are found further offshore. Anglers catch tarpon that weigh 40 to 150 pounds occur inshore in waters Lane snapper inhabit grassbeds and shallow reefs. on average. Tarpon do not mature until 7 to 13 years around seagrass beds, Yellowtail snapper are common over grassbeds, 8 of age. They spawn offshore between May and mangrove forests and reefs and sandy areas near reefs. Unlike most September. hard-bottom communities. snapper, they are up in the water column and

FLORIDA FISHES

take chunks of fish for bait. Mutton snapper are with reefs and rubble offshore, although smaller BLUE MARLIN common over grassbeds or mangroves with larger specimens are found in inshore finger channels. Appearance: A cobalt blue color shading to silvery individuals occurring on reefs. Red snapper are most white on bottom gives this large billfish its name. common on the continental shelf in northern Florida The dorsal, pectoral and near structure. Mangrove snapper are common SHEEPSHEAD anal fins are all pointed. throughout Florida in many habitats. Appearance: Sheepshead have 5-6 broad vertical (Note in white marlin they dark gray bars, a forked tail and human-like teeth. are rounded). State Record: 15.13 lbs. DOLPHIN State Record: 1046 lbs. (blue) Habitat: Look for Appearance: Dolphin, or Mahi-Mahi, are brightly Habitat: A deep-sea fish that makes major trans- sheepshead inshore colored fish, with a high Atlantic migrations. around oyster bars, forehead. The dorsal fin bridges, pilings and extends from just behind artificial reefs. the head to just before TRIPLETAIL the tail. Males have a nearly vertical head profile, Appearance: The rounded second dorsal and anal and females have a more sloping head contour. KING MACKEREL fins are similar in size and State Record: 77.75 lbs. along with a rounded tail Appearance: Mackerel are long-bodied fish with fin, give the fish its name. Habitat: Dolphin are open-ocean fish. The young a deeply forked tail and a series of finlets behind The bases of those fins live in floating sargassum weed. the dorsal fin. Kings are have scales. iridescent blue-green along the back; the lateral State Record: 40.8 lbs. SAILFISH line starts high and Habitat: Frequently associated with structure. Appearance: The sailfish is Florida’s state drops sharply below the second dorsal fin. Spanish saltwater fish. Its name mackerel have golden yellow irregular spots above originates from the greatly and below the lateral line. Cero have yellow spots GULF FLOUNDER enlarged first dorsal fin forming lines above and below a bronze stripe from Appearance: A flattened bottom fish. The eyes that runs almost the pectoral fin to base of the tail. have migrated to one side of the body so that when length of its back and is covered with spots. State Record: 15.5 lbs. (king). laying flat both eyes can State Record: 116.63 lbs. see upward. The Gulf Habitat: Found both nearshore and offshore, often flounder has a brown back Habitat: Sailfish are found throughout Florida; year- around piers. round in the Keys, during the summer in the Gulf and three eyespots in a and off the Atlantic during summer and fall. triangular pattern; the SWORDFISH southern flounder lacks those spots. State Record: 20.6 lbs. (Gulf). BLUEFISH Appearance: A rather unique billfish, with a flattened bill formed from an elongated upper jaw. It Habitat: Inshore or nearshore lying on sandy or mud Appearance: Bluefish has a single high dorsal bottoms. FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING are greenish blue on their fin and one keel on back, with silvery sides each side in front of the and a large mouth filled tail fin. BLACKTIP SHARK with prominent, sharp teeth. State Record: 612.75 lbs. Appearance: Blacktips have a dark bluish gray State Record: 22.18 lbs. (young paler) back, with a distinctive whitish stripe Habitat: Deep sea fish found from the surface on the flank; and the inside tip of the pectoral fin is Habitat: Young usually are inshore during spring down below 2,000 feet. They are heavily overfished conspicuously black, as are the dorsal and anal fin and summer and move offshore to join adults during internationally. fall and winter. Large numbers of bluefish migrate tips, and lower lobe of BEHAVIOR: Swordfish over 200 pounds are to Florida from northern stocks during winter. caudal in young blacktips. generally females and tend to migrate to the surface Anglers on the east coast catch larger bluefish than Numerous other shark at night, when most drift fishing occurs. fishermen on the west coast. species exist in Florida waters. All have multiple gill openings, and rough skin with embedded scales WAHOO BLACK SEA BASS that make the skin feel like sandpaper. Appearance: A member of the mackerel family, Appearance: These fish have a three-lobed tail fin State Record: 152 lbs. (blacktip). long and streamlined with about 30 dark wavy bars with a dark body and a sharp spine on the gill cover. for camouflage. Habitat: Most sharks are pelagic (offshore), but State Record: 5.06 lbs. blacktips often come inshore in large schools, State Record: 139 lbs. particularly in association with Spanish mackerel. Habitat: Sea bass are Habitat: Found offshore; Frequently the most common shark in clear-water 9 typically found along generally not in schools. cuts and along beaches in Florida and Bahamas. structure, associated Images courtesty of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Art by Duane Raver, Jr. 10 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING NORTHWEST NORTHWEST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 11

ESCAMBIA, SANTA ROSA, OKALOOSA, WALTON, HOLMES, WALTON, ROSA, OKALOOSA, ESCAMBIA, SANTA is not only home to the state’s capital; is not only home to the state’s COUNTIES: FRANKLIN, LIBERTY, JACKSON, CALHOUN, GULF, BAY, WASHINGTON, JEFFERSON, MADISON, TAYLOR GADSEN, LEON, WAKULLA, NORTHWEST THE PANHANDLE REGION OF FLORIDA OF REGION PANHANDLE THE it also houses Florida’s largest river, Florida’s river with the greatest variety of native Florida’s largest river, it also houses Florida’s North American freshwater fish and stretches more than 200 miles along the Gulf. IS06968_Florida_fishing_boating_FIN.indd 1 12 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING NORTHWEST East Point,andHoward'sCreekofftheBrother's be foundatseveralmarinasinApalachicola, Hwy. 98bridge.Privatelaunchingfacilitiescan Apalachicola andattheCityDockunder from thepublicdocksonwaterfrontin East River. Shorelineaccessisavailableonly the St.MarksRiver, LittleSt.MarksRiver, and and thedistributarieswhichformdelta: Apalachicola consistsofthemainriverchannel and itsstoppingpointintheGulf.Thelower the extremeends:itsoriginatLakeSeminole the Gulf.Fishingopportunitiesarebestat 106 milessouththroughthePanhandleto on theFlorida-GeorgiaborderatChattahoochee, Florida’s largestriverrunsfromLakeSeminole, Apalachicola River luckiest. who useliveminnowsandshrimpwillprovethe stick totheshallowgrassbeds.Earlyanglers the deepend,whilesheepsheadandflounder bay. Kingmackerel,cobiaandgrouperprefer a largevarietyoffishmaketheirhomeinthe From shallowseagrassbedstodeeperwaters, Apalachicola Bay Perfect weather. Emerald green waters. Itdoesn’t getmuchbetter thanPanama City Beach. visitpanamacitybeach.com | .PCBEACH (.) Try beetlespins,earthwormsandcricketsas is agreatplacetocatchbluegillandsunfish. Blackwater River, especiallythelowersection, and enterFloridainOkaloosaCounty. The Conecuh NationalForestofSouthernAlabama 49 miles.Theriver’s headwatersstartinthe The BlackwaterRiverrunsthroughFloridafor Blackwater River mately 2mileseastofMunson,FLonSR4. within theBlackwaterStateForest,approxi Lake islocatedinnortheastSantaRosaCounty campground, andparkingisavailable.Bear jigs. Aboatrampislocatedwithinthelake’s spond welltocrappieminnowsandcurly-tailed plastic wormsandlizards,whilethecrappiere crappie andcatfish.Bassarebestbaitedwith This 107-acrelakeishometobass,bluegill, LakeBear Hwy. 90onthewestbank. miles) ontheeastbank,andfromdamto from JimWoodruff DamtoRaceShoal(0.9 upper ApalachicolaRiverhasgoodshoreaccess River, andonSearcyCreekinWhiteCity. The

When you’re here, every memory’s a “keeper.” a memory’s every - - during lowwater. TheChipolaRiveris shoals whilerunningtheirboatsinthisriver should becautiousoftheseshallowlimestone depending onthewaterlevel.Boatoperators redear andbluegill)fishinginthespring also providesexcellentsunfish(redbreast, coldwater riverhasfastwatershoalsand crickets asattractors.Thisspring-fed for shoalbasstrybeetlespins,wormsand to theuniqueshoalbass.Whenfishing The scenic95mileChipolaRiverishome Chipola River ter RiverCanoetrail. River StateparkisdesignatedastheBlackwa Munson, FLtoDeatonBridgeintheBlackwater mile sectionofriverfromKennedyBridgenear ramps, asdoesHighway191inBagdad.A31- Milton’s CarpentersParkoffersplentyofboat the spring;trycrankbaitsandartificialworms. bait. Adequateamountsofbasscanbefoundin Spring Rd,andSR20atClarksville. Creek), SR274westofAlthaonHamilton Rd), PeacockBridgeRd(locatednorthofSink accessible inMariannaoffCR280(Magnolia

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EmeraldCOASTING. 877-574-5123 “Top 25DestinationsintheU.S.” “Top 25DestinationsintheU.S.” “Top“Top PlacetoVisit” PlacetoVisit” “Top BeachintheU.S.” National Geographic National Geographic USA TODAY USA TODAY TripAdvisor TripAdvisor COASTING . com com 4/24/14 9:51 AM NORTHWEST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 13 4/24/14 9:51 AM com com . COASTING TripAdvisor TripAdvisor USA TODAY USA TODAY National Geographic National Geographic

“Top Place to Visit” Place to Visit” “Top “Top U.S.” 25 Destinations in the “Top Beach in the U.S.” Beach in the U.S.” “Top “Top U.S.” 25 Destinations in the “Top 877-574-5123 877-574-5123 . EmeraldCOASTING Emerald 132-01-OKAT_FLBoatFshGuide_8.375x10.875.indd 3 14 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING NORTHWEST into theGulfatChoctawhatchee Bay. Bluegilland tawhatchee River originates inAlabama,flowing Florida’s thirdlargestriversystem,theChoc Choctawhatchee River in itsopenwaters. amberjack, triggerfish,dolphin,wahoo andmarlin common catches.TheDestinareayieldsalotof spotted seatrout,sheepsheadandtroutare tawhatchee Bay;Redfish,Spanishmackerel, Nearly twodozenspeciesoffishinhabitChoc Choctawhatchee Bay Northwest Marinas Northwest Santa Rosa Bay Bay Bay Bay Bay Bay Bay Bay Bay Okaloosa Okaloosa Okaloosa Okaloosa Okaloosa Okaloosa Okaloosa Okaloosa Wakulla Wakulla Wakulla County Gulf Gulf Gulf Escambia Escambia Escambia Escambia Escambia Escambia Escambia Escambia Escambia Escambia Franklin Franklin Franklin Franklin Franklin Franklin Franklin The Boat Marina Boat The Moorings The Marina Beach Pensacola The Yacht Harbor Marina Harbor Yacht Alligator Point YachtAlligator Basin Panacea Harbor Marina Panacea Harbor Resort &RV Marina Bayside Presnell’s Inc. Marina, Joe St. Port &Marina Resort RV Cove Perdido Boatyard and Marina Perch Pelican’s Marina Cove Pirate’s Marina 98 Pier Marina City Panama St. Andrews Marina Andrews St. Shields Marina, Inc. Marina, Shields Club &Boat Yacht Rosa Santa Marina Creek Scipio Bay City Lodge &Restaurant Lodge City Bay Inc. Service, Marine Bell City Panama of Marina Bayside Bay Point Marina Bayside Marina Marina Bay Bluewater Inc. Blanchita, Harbor Walk Marina Walk Harbor Holiday Harbor Marina Marine Harbor View C-Quarter’s Marine C-Quarter’s Marina Carrabelle Anderson’sCaptain Marina Marina Bayou Cook Island Cove Marina Cove Island Day Break Marina Break Day Destin Marina Destin Marina Fleet Fishing Destin Mexico Beach Marina Beach Mexico Service Marine Miller Mac’s Marina Marina Lighthouse Marina Lighthouse Legendary Marina Legendary Fort Walton Beach Yacht Basin Yacht Beach Walton Fort - - lake is accessible from Dead Lake State Park and lake isaccessiblefrom DeadLakeStateParkand the townofWewahitchka. West ArmCreekofthe tannic watersislocatedontheChipola Rivernear This strangelybeautiful6,700-acrelake withdark Dead Lake allowed atalllocations. house LandingandWard Landing.Bankfishingis 179 inHolmesCountyatCurryFerry, OldWare artificial worms.BoatrampscanbefoundoffC.R. Largemouth bassrespondwelltocrankbaitsand redear canbeluredwithcricketsandwigglers. Phone 850-925-5612 850-984-5844 850-984-5548 850-934-1005 850-897-2821 850-244-5725 850-244-2722 850-337-8200 850-837-0961 850-650-2400 850-837-2470 850-837-3400 850-229-2710 850-227-9393 850-648-8900 850-349-2511 850-697-2800 850-697-8400 850-697-3351 850-653-8030 850-653-9521 850-653-9294 877-402-7873 850-455-4552 850-453-3775 850-455-4552 850-492-0555 850-455-2628 850-434-9022 850-453-3471 850-455-7639 877-650-3474 850-872-7240 850-234-3939 850-874-8723 850-872-7272 850-234-3435 850-874-8300 850-234-7650 850-234-5609 850-235-6911 Alligator Bay Alligator River Apalachicola River Apalachicola St. Andrews Bay Andrews St. Bay Andrews St. Bay Andrews St. St. Marks River Marks St. Bay Josephs St. Bay Josephs St. Bay Josephs St. Creek Scipio Bayou Chico Bayou Grande Bayou Chico Bayou Chico Bayou Chico Bayou Chico Bayou Chico Bayou Ochlockonee Bay Oyster Bay Okaloosa Sound Water Body Water Choctawhatchee Bay Choctawhatchee Bay Choctawhatchee Bay Choctawhatchee River Carrabelle River Carrabelle River Carrabelle Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Grand Lagoon Grand Lagoon Mexico of Gulf Grand Lagoon Gulf of Mexico of Gulf Waterway Intracoastal Mexico/ of Gulf Destin Harbor Destin Harbor Destin Harbor Destin Little Sabine Bay Sabine Little Bay East Bay East

- bluegill, shellcracker andcrappie.Bluegillare home toawidevariety offish,includingbass, located 7milesnorthofPanamaCity. Itisalso Deerpoint Lakeisa5,000-acreimpoundment Deerpoint Lake its bluegillandredearfishinginthespring. stumps. Thislakeenjoysanexcellentreputationfor motorboat hereasitisfilledwithcypresssnagsand the lakeandcareshouldbetakenwhenoperatinga Wewahitchka. Therearefishcampslocatedaround Recreation Area,locatedoffSR71justnorthof 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Restaurants 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Lodging 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Accepts Transients 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fuel 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Mechanical Repairs 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Store 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fishing Guides

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NORTHWEST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 15 Photo courtesy of Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau Visitors & Convention Beach City Panama of courtesy Photo with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish (shellcracker), and channel catfish. Plastic worms Try and topwater lures work best for bass fishing. earthworms or crickets for bluegill, concentrating on the oyster shell and gravel beds, both popular spawning sites for bluegill and shellcracker. Concrete boat ramps are available at the north and south sides of the lake, along with restroom, shower and picnic areas. Bank fishing is permitted. considerable amount of flooded timber remains, providing fish habitat. The lake has been stocked

Karick Lake is a 65-acre man-made impoundment constructed in 1965, opened to fishing in 1966, and is designated as a Fish Management Area. A to increase the harvest. Bass fishers should try shiners, but dark-colored plastic worms work well. Bream prefer crickets and worms. Juniper Lake has two boat ramps, and bank fishing is offered as well. Restroom and picnic areas are available. Karick Lake -

and bream, and fish attractors have been added Juniper Lake Juniper Lake is regularly stocked with catfish maintained by DOF, are also available. Bait, maintained by DOF, supplies, and other conveniences are available in Blackmon, and Munson. nearby Baker, and docks are located in the campgrounds of the Blackwater State Forest. Restrooms, picnic areas and campsites with electrical and water hookups, shellcracker and catfish. Shellcrackers will like earthworms or crickets, while bass anglers should try plastic worms. Concrete boat ramps ment constructed in 1971, opened to fishing in 1973, and is designated as a Fish Management Area. Hurricane Lake is a haven for bass, bluegill, Hurricane Lake Hurricane Lake is a 318-acre man-made impound Ramp is located 7.5 miles south of Century on U.S. 29; another boat ramp is located on the northeast side of Escambia Bay. in Florida and with 85 native freshwater fish; it sports the widest variety of native North Ameri can freshwater fish in the state. The McDavid The Escambia River is a 92-mile river of which 54 miles are found in Florida ending in Pensacola The Escambia is the fourth largest river Bay. accommodations are small and clean. Escambia River plenty of cobia, sea trout and redfish. The boat ramp is always Econfina River State Park’s open for saltwater angling in the Gulf. Overnight Econfina River Econfina The shallow waters of the Econfina River yield mackerel, whiting, flounder, redfish and sea mackerel, whiting, flounder, State Park offers two trout. St. George Island boat ramps. East Pass Island and Dog Located between St. George with Spanish Island, the east pass is thick Boaters should be careful of the vegetation Boaters should be careful around the ramps. C2321 on either side of the dam. A fishing pier side of the dam. A fishing C2321 on either west side the boat ramp on the is located near is permitted. of the dam and bank fishing especially partial to crickets and earthworms, to crickets and earthworms, especially partial worms best caught with plastic while bass are located on There are boat ramps and crankbaits. VISIT FLORIDA Beaches of South Walton TDC Beaches of South Walton Western Lake

Lake Jackson 30 feet. Five public boat ramps exist around the fish habitats, and plastic worms work well. Located just north of Tallahassee, this 4,000-acre lake’s shore. Gadsden County offers three public boat ramps lake has been nationally known for its largemouth and two public piers. Leon County has seven bass fishery. The best bass fishing time of year Lake Talquin public ramps and five public piers. Several fish is the spring through early summer (February Lake Talquin offers 8,000 acres, where crappie camps are open to visitors around the lake. through May). This lake has a high diversity of fishing is quite favorable. The best crappie are aquatic vegetation, but hydrilla, eelgrass, and caught during the winter and early spring. Live Lake Seminole maidencane are the best habitats to fish for bass minnows and jigs work best as bait. Also popular Nestled next to the Georgia border, Lake in this lake. This lake is shallow with an average are largemouth bass, bluegill and redear. Seminole is a 37,500-acre haven for freshwater depth of about 7 feet and a maximum depth of Plenty of tree stumps and logs are excellent fishing. Catfish, bream and black crappie are all

Northwest Boating & Fishing in State Parks Freshwater Saltwater Boating/ Park Location Phone Camping Fishing Fishing Canoeing Boat Ramp Alfred B. Maclay Gardens Tallahassee 850-487-4556 8 8 8 State Park Big Lagoon State Park Pensacola 850-492-1595 8 8 8 8 Blackwater River State Park Holt 850-983-5363 8 8 Camp Helen State Park Panama City Beach 850-233-5059 8 8 8 8 Econfina River State Park Lamont 850-922-6007 8 8 8 Florida Caverns State Park Marianna 850-482-9598 8 8 8 8 Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Niceville 850-833-9144 8 8 8 8 8 Grayton Beach State Park Santa Rosa Beach 850-231-4210 8 8 8 8 8 Henderson Beach State Park Destin 850-837-7550 8 8 Lake Talquin State Park Tallahassee 850-922-6007 8 8 Ochlockonee River Sopchoppy 850-962-2771 8 8 8 8 8 State Park Perdido Key State Park Pensacola 850-492-1595 8 St. Andrews State Park Panama City 850-233-5140 8 8 8 8 St. George Island State Park St. George Island 850-927-2111 8 8 8 8 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING St. Joseph Peninsula Port St. Joe 850-227-1327 8 8 8 8 State Park Three Rivers State Park Sneads 850-482-9006 8 8 8 8 Northwest Boating & Fishing in National Parks & Refuges Boating/ Park Phone Camping Fishing Canoeing Boat Ramp Apalachoicola National Forest 850-643-2282 8 8 8 8 16 Gulf Islands National Seashore 850-934-2600 8 8 8 8 St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge 850-925-6121 8 8 8 St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge 850-653-8808 8 8 NORTHWEST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 17 - -

8 8 8 8 8 Boat Ramp Fish Attractor Fish 8 8 8 8 8 Fish Attractor Fish 8 8 8 8 8 Rest Rooms 8 8 8 8 Rest Rooms an arm of Pensacola Bay. into Blackwater Bay, Bass and bream are popular catches. Plastic to minnows work best worms and floater-diver catch bass, while the bream can be hauled in Fish Camp with live worms and crickets. Brown’s Fish Camp near the mouth of the and Lindsey’s Access to the river offer access to the water. lower river is provided by two fish camps near the mouth of the river. Perdido Key are all great places for saltwater fish ing. Red snapper and grouper can be found in the off-shore reef, but large game fish such as tuna, sailfish, wahoo and marlin are the trophy catches. River Perdido the Perdido northwest border, Marking Florida’s River Wildlife Management Area includes 15 miles along the river and plenty of fishing opportunities. The public is welcome all year for fishing and frogging. Josephs Bay St. Conveniently located near Port St. Joe, the bay’s shallow waters and seagrass beds harbor plenty of catches. Spanish mackerel, bluefish, sheeps head, redfish and sea trout are popular catches; stick to live bait and jigs to land them. Skin divers will find sweet scallops with a little work. River Yellow River is a 92-mile-long river of which The Yellow 61 miles occur in Florida; flowing southwesterly Pensacola Bay Pensacola Pensacola, Navarre Beach, Gulf Breeze and - -

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Barrier Free Ft. Walton Beach Location Pensacola Beach Pensacola Panama CityBeach Panama CityBeach west of Monticello northeast Munson of six miles west of Blackman southwest of Century Lake Talquin State Park Location Madison Chattahoochee High BluffHigh Road White City White bays usually harbor grouper and flounder, while bays usually harbor grouper and flounder, black the open waters typically yield red snapper, sea bass, sailfish and king mackerel. Flowing from Georgia into the Gulf of Mexico, the Ochlockonee River is known for its snags and deep water holes. Catfish, crappie and sunfish are or crickets will lure sun popular catches. Worms fish, while crappie prefer minnows and jigs. The river is a great spot for canoeing, about a dozen shores. boat ramps are available along the river’s City Beach Panama With an abundance of black drum, bluefish, Span ish mackerel, pompano and whiting, Panama City Beach is a great place for a full day of fishing. The boat ramp is available off Hunter Fish Camp Road. Ocheesee Pond Covered with cypress trees, 2,225-acre Ocheesee Pond is a great spot for bluegill; crickets and grass shrimp work well as bait. Redear sunfish and largemouth bass are best found with worms or live shiners. The Shady Grove Ramp off of C.R. 69A will provide boat access to the pond. River Ochlockonee Merritt’s Mill Pond Merritt’s This is a unique 202-acre spring-fed impoundment with crystal clear waters near the city limits of Mill Pond is famous for Marianna. Merritt’s redears. A 4.86-lb. redear from the pond holds the state record and until recently the world and plastic worms or crickets as bait, record. Try concentrate on the eelgrass beds. A single-lane

Gulf of Mexico/Intracoastal Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico/Intracoastal Gulf of Mexico/Intracoastal Water Body Lake Talquin Lake Francis Lake Talquin Lake Miccosukee Lake Stone Intracoastal Waterway Hurricane Lake Water Body Bear Lake Apalachicola River Fort Fishing Pickens Russell-Fields Pier Leon Escambia Madison M.B. Miller County Pier Gulf Gadsden Gadsden County Okaloosa Island Fishing Island Okaloosa Okaloosa Santa Rosa Santa Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier Pier Name Pier Jefferson ramp is only accessible by small boats, as the water is very shallow. will be abundant during the summer months. Two will be abundant during the summer months. Two boat ramps with parking are available on the east and west sides of the lake, but be aware the west Victor is a great place to find bass, bluegill and Victor redear sunfish. A rotating population of black crappie seems to peak every five years, and catfish Deepest areas are near the dam and along the old stream bed. A considerable amount of timber Lake remains, providing fish habitat and cover. Lake Victor Lake is a 130-acre artificial impoundment Lake Victor constructed in 1966 and opened to fishing in 1968. while electric trolling motors are allowed, gasoline motors are prohibited. livers and earthworms are effective for catching livers and earthworms are effective for catching catfish. A single-lane ramp with 30 spaces of parking is available. Boaters should be aware, catching crappie, largemouth bass, redear sunfish catching crappie, largemouth bass, redear sunfish and catfish. Bass are best baited with plastic worms or top-water lures, while chicken and designated as a Fish Management Area. A considerable amount of flooded timber remains, providing fish habitat. Lake Stone is great for Lake Stone Lake Lake Stone in a 130-acre man-made impoundment constructed in 1967, opened to fishing in 1969 is available off C.R. 271 with unpaved parking for about 10 cars. popular catches, and the lake is annually stocked popular catches, and the lake is annually stocked earthworms, crickets, plastic with bass. Try worms and top-water lures as bait. A boat ramp Northwest Saltwater Piers Fishing Northwest Freshwater Piers Fishing 18 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING NORTH CENTRAL Snorkeling withthe Manatee,courtesyofPlantationInnon CrystalRiver NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 19

HAMILTON, COLUMBIA, SUWANNEE, LAFAYETTE, DIXIE, DIXIE, LAFAYETTE, COLUMBIA, SUWANNEE, HAMILTON, nature is North Central Floria’s theme nature is North Central Floria’s

COUNTIES: MARION, CITRUS ALACHUA, UNION, BRADFORD, LEVY, GILCREST, NORTH CENTRAL NORTH UNLIKE OTHER PARTS OF THE STATE, THE OF PARTS OTHER UNLIKE park. Taking to the water; be it for fishing, paddling or boating, is well...second to the water; be it for park. Taking nature for those who frequent this region of The Sunshine State. 20 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING NORTH CENTRAL Lake SantaFe A single-lane boat ramp is available on the north A single-laneboatrampisavailableonthenorth plastic bait.Catfishcanbeluredwithchickenliver. and worms,whilebassrespondwelltosoft live minnows.Redearandbluegillprefercrickets aquifers. Hereyoucanattractblackcrappiewith ing somethatconnectdirectlytounderground Alligator Lakeisfilledwithsinkholes,includ Management Arealieswithinthecitylimits. Lake City. Nearlytwo-thirdsofthis800-acreFish Alligator LakeislocatedinColumbiaCountynear Alligator Lake Marinas Central North Citrus Citrus Citrus Citrus Citrus Citrus County Dixie Dixie Levy Levy Levy Twin Rivers Marina Rivers Twin Yankeetown Marina Yankeetown Pete’s Pier, Inc. Pier, Pete’s Suwannee Marina Suwannee B’s Marina &Campground Marina B’s Homosassa Riverside Resort Cedar Key Marina Key Cedar Marina Miller’s Marina of Suwannee, Inc Suwannee, of Marina Miller’s Magic Manatee Marina Homosassa of Rae’s Mac Riverhaven Marina Riverhaven - beds, respectively. Try shrimpandjigsasbait. usually sticktotheoysterbarsandseagrass trout andbluefish.Redfishspeckledsea with Spanishmackerel,pompano,ladyfish,sea The GulfwatersoffofCedarKeyareteeming Cedar Key and northsouthmarshes. is requiredtofishinnorthandsouthlakebasins fishing ispermittedforboat-freeangling.Alicense side ofthelakewithroomforabout20cars.Bank Phone 352-447-2529 352-447-5888 352-543-6148 352-342-9159 352-342-7349 352-628-5545 352-628-7334 352-628-2474 352-628-2602 352-795-3552 352-795-3302 Withlacoochee River Withlacoochee Homosassa River Homosassa River Homosassa River Homosassa River Suwannee River Suwannee Gulf of Mexico of Gulf Mexico of Gulf Mexico of Gulf Crystal River Crystal Water Salt River Salt

Body Anglers shouldfindstocksofsnook,redfish,and warm, spring-fedwateraffectsfishingallyear. river shouldbenavigatedwithcaution.Relatively Pronounced “chess-a-whiskey,” thisshallow Chassahowitzka River plentiful withcrabs,minnowsandbaitfishasbait. gathering placeforsnook.Catchesshouldbe The docksandseawallsinCrystalRiverarea Crystal River sea trout. 8 8 Restaurants 8 8 8 Lodging

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Accepts Transients 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fuel

8 8 8 8 8 8 Mechanical Repairs 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Store

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fishing Guides

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Boat Charters

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Overnight Dockage

Head southto Gainesville, Florida where you’ll findcoldwatercanoeing springs for for swimmingandrivers that are perfect or kayaking. After your adventures, fare step andaward outfor deliciouslocal beerinthevibrantdowntown. winningcraft 352-374-5260 VisitGainesville.com visitgainesvilleflorida @Gainesville Gainesville, where nature meet. andculture Head south to Gainesville, Florida where you’ll find coldwater springs for swimming and rivers that are perfect for canoeing or kayaking. After your adventures, step out for delicious local fare and award winning craft beer in the vibrant downtown. Gainesville, where nature and culture meet.

352-374-5260 VisitGainesville.com visitgainesvilleflorida @Gainesville 22 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING NORTH CENTRAL North Central Freshwater Fishing Piers Freshwater Central North & Refuges & Fishing in Parks National Boating Central North Parks & Fishing in State Boating Central North largemouth bass,andbream.Theinshoreflats mullet, andsheepsheadcanbefoundnexttogar, and freshwaterspeciestofreelymingle.Snook, The river’s uniqueheadwatersallowbothsalt Homosassa River trolling motorsmaybeused. motors maybeattachedtofishingvessels,butonly and winter. Boatersshouldbeawarethatgasoline crappie andstockedsunshinebassarebestinfall bullhead catfisharebestinthesummer;black best inspring;bluegill,redearsunfishandbrown that characterizeit.Largemouthbassfishingis with pointsandsandbarscattailsinthecoves Eagle Lakehassteepsides,amazeofnarrowcuts excellent fishingyear-round. At200acres Old andveryfertileEagleLakeprovides Eagle Lake yield seatrout. harvest oncoolerdays,andthegrassyareaswill Deep holesneartheshoreshouldprovideagood Alachua Alachua Paynes Prairie Preserve Preserve Prairie Paynes Park Park Suwannee Park State Park State Park State Bradford O’Leno State Park State O’Leno Osceola National Forest National Osceola Forest National Ocala Columbia Columbia Citrus Crystal River Preserve Preserve River Crystal County Refuge Wildlife National River Crystal Refuge Wildlife National Keys Cedar Ichetucknee Springs Springs Ichetucknee Manatee Springs State Park State Springs Manatee Levy Lafayette Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge Wildlife National Suwannee Lower Union Fort Cooper State Park State Cooper Fort Suwannee Lake River Suwannee Watertown Lake Watertown Body Water Lake Butler Lake Koon Lake Montgomery Apopka Tsala Lake Sampson Lake Lochloosa Lake Lake Johnson

High Springs Chiefland River Crystal Inverness Micanopy Location Fort White Fort

Starke Hawthorne Hawthorne city of Lake Butler Lake of city Inverness Pool Inverness Manatee Springs State Park State Springs Manatee Lake City Lake City Lake Location east of Mayo of east northeast of Live Oak Live of northeast some speciesofbreamareavailablethroughout bream areabundantfromApriltoSeptember, but for summerangling.Bluegill,redearsunfishand with grassbeds,LochloosaLakeisagreatspot rounded byancientcypresstreesandspotted of HawthornenearthetownLochloosa.Sur Fish ManagementArealocated5milessouth Lochloosa Lakeisa5,700-acredesignated Lochloosa Lake only), buttheycanbeattachedtotheboat. motors maybeusedonthelake(trolling launching andrecoveringyourcraft.Nogasoline four-wheel-drive vehicleswouldbehelpfulin popular catches.Bewaryoftheboatramps; Largemouth bassandbluegillarethemost reclaimed pitandisfullofvegetationfish. This 86-acreLakeFishManagementAreaisa LakeLang mullet orshrimp. can yieldtarponwithbaitsuchasflies,crab, Phone 352-493-0238 352-563-2088 352-493-0238 352-625-2520 386-752-2577 Phone 352-466-3397 386-454-1853 352-493-6072 386-497-4690 352-726-0315 352-563-0450 Barrier Free Barrier Camping Camping 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

- Freshwater Freshwater Fishing Rest Rooms Rest areas ofthelakeofferbluegill,redearsunfish, often preventshallow-waterangling.Thedeeper ment Areahasvastamountsoflilypads,which A giantofalake,this12,550-acreFishManage Orange Lake on Highway20. Area locatedabouttwomileseastofGainesville Newnans Lakeisa5,800-acreFishManagement catfish; breamwillbefoundalongtheshoreline. catches. Try thedeeperareasoflakefor high. Catfishandbreamarethemostpopular Lake offersthebestfishingwhenwateris Surrounded bycypresstrees,Newnans Newnans Lake from Highway301. A publicboatrampprovidesaccesstothelake bring infullcatchesofcrappietheopenwater. the deep-watergrassbeds.Summerandfallwill the year. Try grassshrimpasbaitandfocuson bass andcrappie.Aboatrampafishingpier 8 8 8 8 Fishing 8 8 8

8 8 8 Saltwater Saltwater Fishing 8 Fish Attractor Canoeing Boating/ 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Canoeing Boating/ 8 8 8 8 8 8 Boat Ramp Boat Boat Ramp Boat Boat Ramp Boat 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 - NORTH CENTRAL FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 23 - - - - the Florida Wildlife Commission maintains 12 fish attractors throughout the lake. Bay Waccasassa Bordering the Gulf Hammock Wildlife Manage Bay harbors large ment Area, Waccasassa amounts of redfish and sea trout. Stick to the oyster bars and sand bars through fall, as these are popular areas for fish. here for a relaxing fishing vacation. River Withlacoochee This 157-mile stream originates in Green Swamp at in Hernando County and flows north to the Gulf The stream has many limerock areas Yankeetown. the area below the and associated swamps. Try source of dam at Lake Rousseau for a year-round catfish. Mullet have been caught downstream, using handfuls of meal combined with BB-sized pellets of plastic white grub on small hooks. Public boat ramps can be found along the length of the river. Weir Lake is a 5,600-acre lake in Marion County Lake Weir acces is an easily Lake Weir east of Bellview. sible lake with two county parks offering well maintained launch facilities. It is unusual for Florida lakes because it is relatively deep (depths also unusual in that crap common to 30 feet). It’s pie fishing on this lake is continually productive, unlike other lakes that tend to have strong and assist anglers in pursuing crappie, weak years. To reaches. Numerous boat ramps can be found can be found boat ramps Numerous reaches. shoreline. the river’s along Apopka Lake Tsala of heavily- more than 19,000 acres Made up of ponds, marsh and open water vegetated shallow oppor is a vast span of fishing Apopka Tsala Pool and Little Lake tunities, but the Hernando productive. Panfish and Henderson are the most found near the boat largemouth bass can be are abundant along ramps and bluegill and redear the shorelines. Lake Wauberg in a state park (electric This fertile 254-acre lake for black crappie trolling motors only) is famous The fertile green more than any other species. water supports shad and a deep grass line is good to hold fish. Big largemouth bass are caught in spring, and redear sunfish and bluegill during There is a nice campground spring and summer. - - at low tide. Tree roots and rocky shelves provide roots and rocky shelves provide at low tide. Tree habitats for plenty of fish in the upper Suwannee area; a greater amount of vegetation makes the lower Suwannee more habitable for bass. Bait resembling crawfish bring the most success, as Suwannee bass prefer this particular shellfish. The Suwannee drains from the Okeefenokee Swamp through limestone shoals stretches to become a large flood plain river in the lower ment is stuffed with both cypress trees and ment is stuffed with both largemouth bass. It is a Fish Management Area fishing piers, one and a license is required. Two fully handicapped accessible, and several earthen fishing fingers provide boatless angling opportuni ties. The lake is shallow around the edge with good vegetative cover and several old sink-holes out in the trees providing deep cover. Rivers and Santa Fe Suwannee Frequent and extreme changes in water level keep the fishing interesting, with the best fishing many areas of cypress and healthy maidencane of cypress and healthy maidencane many areas grass beds. River Santa Fe scuds and aquatic Freshwater shrimp, water the heavily vegetated insects are abundant in As a result, tributary. waters of this Suwannee Redbreast sunfish the fish growth is phenomenal. most common catches. and stumpknocker are the Lake Suwannee state-owned impound This 63-acre manmade, docks and ski boats; fishing is always best earlyalways best fishing is and ski boats; docks of In spite and on weekdays. or at night and late with the fish habitat is outstanding development,

Snorkeling for Scallops Numerous homes surround the lake, most with and a "big" southern arm connected by "the pass" where shad school and fishing is usually good for schooling largemouth and stocked sunshine bass. Lake Santa Fe Lake This 5,850-acre lake has a "little" northern area the masses of vegetation away from shore. Big catches of largemouth bass are quite likely in the deeper waters of Lake Rockwell. earthworms and crickets, is a good choice for bream and can be fished around vegetation in the shallower portions of the lakes and around hydrilla growths. Good numbers of bluegill and redear sunfish are known to be in the south and southwest side of the lake. Live bait, such as Lake Rowell is connected to Lake Sampson by a canal and lies upstream. It is considered bottom and mucky very fertile due to a shallow, the backwaters. Rowell Sampson and Lake Lake and largemouth bass. The deeper river channel isand largemouth bass. The fish underwater bends.always good to locate and to as the "flats" orThe rest of the lake is referred hyacinth and pennywort islands and sometimeshyacinth and pennywort and structure grow plentyhydrilla. Abundant cover catfish, black crappieof bluegill, redear sunfish, Lake Rousseau Lake of the WithlacoocheeAn impoundment lake is full of cypress trees, this large River, can launch from Mike’s Fish Camp. Orange Lake is Fish Camp. Orange Mike’s can launch from Gainesville. 20 miles southeast of located about with fish attractor is located at Heagy-Burry Park at Heagy-Burry is located attractor with fish also lake. Boats of the southwest portion at the

Florida’s Finest FISHING & BOATING DESTINATIONS

Plantation on Crystal River

WHEN IT COMES TO BOATING & FISHING leaving you with all kinds of options to plan the of records, the world record tarpon* caught on a the one word that comes to mind is relaxation! most ideal Florida fishing trip. In addition, we are fly rod was taken in our waters! (*Jim Holland, Jr. There is no better place to do that than Crystal a popular spot for our nationally known famous May 11, 2011 / 202lb 8oz – 20 lb tippet) River, Florida. It is the Florida of old, unspoiled by scalloping grounds. Scalloping season is July Bring your own boat; we have a boat ramp and development with no overcrowding and all the 1st till September 24th (2013) and is a great plenty of trailer storage along with over 1,600 amenities you could want to create those relaxing experience for the whole family. feet of sea wall where you can tie your boat up memories of a lifetime. Visit Citrus, the area visi- right outside your room. We also work with the tor’s bureau, has named this the “Water Lover’s WHAT CAN YOU CATCH? area’s top fishing guides and can arrange you to Paradise” and the city of Crystal River is the Simply put, Central Florida fishing doesn’t get be picked up right at the Plantation. Need a loca- perfect example of that life style. The Plantation any better than this. Whether you prefer to fish tion for your group to fish or have a tournament on Crystal River is located on the head waters of for largemouth bass, crappie, and brim, or snook, that needs a home? We are the perfect location. the Crystal River at Kings Bay and just minutes redfish, and grouper, you’re sure to find it here, And don’t for get to bring your catch back so the from the main spring, the King Spring, which then on top of local lakes and reservoirs, the area chef can prepare it at the West 820 Bar & Grill. leads directly to the Gulf of Mexico. Our Adven- features over 25,000 acres of water for you to ture Center, Marina & Dive Shop can provide the discover your new “honey hole”. There’s never BOATING, DIVING & MANATEES services you need to help make this the perfect been a better time to plan the Florida fishing With our convenient location, Crystal River is one headquarters for all your water fun. vacation you’ve always dreamed of. If you dream of the best places to go boating in all of Central

FISHING & SCALLOPING If you’re hooked on fishing, then there’s no better place to cast out your lines than the Plantation on Crystal River, with a convenient waterfront location alongside the Crystal River inlets and inviting King’s Bay. That’s only the beginning, because we are also located nearby Seven Rivers, a wide assortment of local lakes, and the Gulf of Mexico, PCR full-pgFishingad_final.indd 1 o Starting From Starting From s p per personnight* per personnight* n c l p p T A A A A n lloping A ck he ck TAT

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& F or atgreat savingswithourpackages. including our“cook yourcatch.” Socomeforaslongorlittleyoulike,alacarte golfing, nature tours,spatreatments anddelectablediningatthe West 82Bar&Grill, Make usyourplacetoStay&PlayalongTheNature Coast.You canalsoenjoygreat of Tampa, weoffer unrivaledwater-lover experiencesforthesportsmanorentire family! than thePlantationonCrystalRiver!AhiddengemlocatedGulfofMexicojustnorth If you’re hookedonfishing&boating,thenthere’s nobetterplacetocastoutyourlines packages alsoavailable) &are 2-nightmidweek stays. Weekends, highseason ratesmay behigher. Tax &gratuity notincluded. Callfordetails. *Subject toavailability. Prices perpersonnight, basedondoubleocc. inagarden-view room; bothpackagesinclude professional guide(non-guided @ @ @ @ @ @ ish s over 1,600feetofseawall Launch yourownboatfrom our ramp andtieuprightoutsideyourroom with Reserve oneofourrental boats for youandyourparty Snorkel ourshallowwatergrassflatsforscallopsduringsummers Freshwater FishingoptionsincludeLargemouthBass,Bluegill,Crappie&more Offshore, targetGrouper, Snapper, Kings&Cobiatonameafew Fish inshore foraslamofTarpon, Redfish& Trout, plusdozensofotherspecies norkel F or See Your Travel UsOnlineorCall800-632-6262 Agent,Visit 26 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING A NORTHEAST n F 9301WFortIsland Trail, CrystalRiver, FL34429

or i underwater caverns,andawidevarietyofwild perature of72degrees(hotspringfedwaters), crystal-clear water, anaverageyear-round tem get muchbetterthanCrystalRiver. Featuring full day, orevenmultipledays. pontoon boatswhichyoucancharterforahalfor able rentalsonkayaks,canoes,Jonboats,and 25,000 acresofwatertoexplore.We offerafford roar aroundinyourpowerboat,you’llhaveover cast upyoursails,paddlefromshoretoshore,or Florida. Whetheryouprefertolazilydriftalong, Southern Hospitality withFloridaCharm nshore When itcomesto divinginFlorida,doesn’t www.PlantationOnCrystalRiver.com

s c A llops

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i T n T he - he - A - Councils/Florida. We hopeyoucanattend! Federation ofFlyFishers atwww.fedflyfishers.org/ For moreinformationyoucanvisittheFlorida which willbeheldOctober10-11,2014. host siteforthe Plantation onCrystalhasbeenselectedas the We areproud toannouncethatonceagain DESTINATION NOTES

has beendescribedasaCentralFloridaboating fill youtanksifneedcompressedair. shop thatoffersthelatestequipmentandwecan itself? We canhelp.Andwehaveandfulldive dives tofinishyourcourseorthefull certifications. Doyouneedtodoyourcheck-out lead thetoursweofferbutcanhelpwithdiving have PADI certifieddiveinstructorswhonotonly home tothebest Floridadivingaround.We also and theWest IndianManatee, CrystalRiveris life suchastarpons,redfish,grouper, dolphins, FT m Come explorewhyourwaterfrontlocation ernoon orning 2014 FloridaFlyFishingExpo 1/11/13 9:23AM

with theWest IndiaManatee! Whilethereare where youcanstillgetinthewaterandinteract River andCitrusCountyisoneoftheonlyplaces the oldrelaxedFloridalifestyleisfactCrystal lover paradisebesideitspicturesquesceneryand you’ll agree. tration oflocalmanateesinthewinter, we’resure range ofnativewildlife,includingalargeconcen 72 degreeaveragewatertemperature,andwide picturesque riverinlets,withitsidealclimate, paradise. Afteronlyafewminutesoutonthe Florida manatee,sourceofthemermaidlegend. be preparedtomeetthegentlegiantofriver, the If divingtheCrystalfromNovemberthroughMarch, SWIM WITHTHEMANATEE professional orcallustoday! treasure withfamilyandfriends.Seeyourtravel we offeratrulyuniqueFloridaexperiencesto golf courseandthefullserviceAVEDA Spa,and all thewaterlovers’activitieswithour27-hole by thenaturalspringsofKing’s Bay. Combine preserve landwithemeraldgreens,surrounded lodging resort issituatedon232acresoflush River theplacetoPlay&Stay! within easydrivingdistancefromThePlantation. Devil’s Den,andBlueGrotto,allofwhichare its amazingvarietyofmulticoloredfishandplants), lent Florida divingatRainbowSprings(namedfor grottoes inKing’s Bay. Donotmisstheexcel Sisters Spring’s andtherearemanycaves giants nestledbythespringsinriver. best timeofyeartoseehundredsthegentle in theBay, fromNovemberthroughMarch,isthe is ayearroundresidentpopulationofmanatees What makesthistheabsoluteuniquewater Our beautiful,eco-friendlyandcertifiedgreen All thismakesthePlantationonCrystal Popular sitesincludeKing’s Springs,Three - - NORTHEAST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 27

The best way to insure The best way Show up on time with an Like any service business it Book your charter as soon as you Book your charter as soon

charter is equivalent to at least a ten-hour workday for the guide. Base your tip on the services rendered and recognize when a guide goes beyond the call of duty to make your day an enjoyable one. policy. policy. Let your chosen captain know what you would like to accomplish on the trip. Find out if lunch is provided or if you should bring it; let him know it you want to bring your own equipment; and identify any special needs. open mind ready to follow your guides instruc hired him for his local tion and advice. You knowledge so take advantage of the opportunity to learn and increase your own knowledge base. Professional guides pride themselves in the equipment they use. It is chosen for specific applications and is normally of the highest Use this opportunity to learn about quality. the equipment and why the guide chose it and how he maintains it. is traditional to tip your guide. An eight-hour a quality fishing experience is to spend some a quality fishing experience qualifications, time researching a guide’s and knowledge. background, experience, you may have to know your date. Otherwise you want. Make compromise to get the date your date and your deposit on time to secure the guide the day mark your calendar to call before to confirm. Be sure you know the price of the charter and any charges related to additional anglers if applicable. Also inquire about a cancellation For more information and a list of Professional Charter Fishing Guides from the Florida Guides Association, please visit www.florida-guides.com. CLARIFY YOUR DESIRES AND EXPECTATIONS: CLARIFY YOUR DESIRES AND EXPECTATIONS: SHOW UP ON TIME: RESPECT YOUR GUIDE’S EQUIPMENT: TIP YOUR GUIDE: Hiring a Guide Checklist Hiring a DO YOUR HOMEWORK: BOOK EARLY: POLICY: AND CANCELLATION VERIFY RATES -

A NEW license opportunity allows youth to buy their Try it today by visiting MyFWC.com/Boatramps. it today by visiting MyFWC.com/Boatramps. Try The Florida Public Boat Ramp Finder provides several options to search for a desired boat options to search for a desired The Florida Public Boat Ramp Finder provides several The Florida Public Boat Ramp Finder helps fishermen by showing them the wide variety of by showing them the wide The Florida Public Boat Ramp Finder helps fishermen Florida, the Fishing Capital of the World, boasts seemingly limitless opportunities for great boasts seemingly limitless opportunities Florida, the Fishing Capital of the World, GETTING ON THE WATER GETTING WATER THE ON in Sport Fish Restoration funds. them a fewdollars and most importantly each of the years between when they purchase and turn 17 the state with receive approximately $7.00 in Federal Aid age, and yet it will stay valid until their 17th birthday. age, and yet it will stay valid until their 17th birthday. Since they would normally buy their first license when cost them anymore, may save they are 16, it doesn’t license fees go to fish and wildlife conservation. first license, as a matter of pride and community at any $17 (freshwater or saltwater fishing, $34 for both). For your money, you not only get great $17 (freshwater or saltwater fishing, $34 for both). For your money, a host fishing opportunities and to build year-round f memories, but you are guaranteed by law that your Anglers should view fishing licenses not only as an inexpensive ticket to healthy outdoor Anglers should view fishing licenses not only as an inexpensive ticket to healthy and boating recreation, but also as a contribution to nature and sustaining those great fishing costs just opportunities. An annual fishing license or three-day license for non-residents Getting Your License Getting Your The public ramp finder is a great reconnaissance tool. The public ramp finder is a great reconnaissance distance of a street address or GPS coordinates. You can even call up a map or satellite image can even call up You distance of a street address or GPS coordinates. about ramp finder provides basic information showing the general area of interest. The public there in person. see each ramp as if they are each boat ramp. Onsite photographs let fishermen from primitive gravel launch sites to fully equipped mega boat ramp facilities. from primitive gravel launch sites to fully equipped or within near a specific city, of water, can search for boat ramps on a particular body ramp. You which to choose from. waterways. These ramps range public Florida’s public boat ramps that provide boating access to ramps from Pensacola to Key West. ramps from to have a wealth of public boat fishing adventures. Fishermen are also fortunate Public Boat Ramp Capital of the World World Public Boat Ramp Capital of the your next ad throughout Florida. It is easy to plan your boat to new fishing destinations Trailer public boat maps and photographs for 1,800 venture by searching one website for information, 28 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING NORTHEAST NORTH CENTRAL NORTHEAST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 2929

BAKER, NASSAU, DUVAL, CLAY, ST. JOHNS, ST. CLAY, BAKER, NASSAU, DUVAL, serves up a great mix of inland and open

COUNTIES: FLAGLER, PUTNAM NORTHEAST water opportunities including one of Florida’s most famous rivers, The St. Johns, water opportunities including one of Florida’s original marine attraction opened to the public in 1938. and Marineland, Florida’s Florida’s Northeast Coast Florida’s Crescent Beach but a combination of full moon, deep water and dock or through Gamble Rogers Memorial State Crescent Beach, a short distance from St. Au- vegetation won’t disappoint. The intersection Park. Boatless anglers can fish from the Flagler gustine’s Anastasia Island and Vilano Beach, is a of US 17/92 and I-4 features a public boat ramp Beach Pier. great spot for coastal angling. Redfish, floun- as does the Monroe Harbor Marina in Sanford. der, mahi, sea trout and marlin are all popular St. Mary's and Nassau Rivers catches. Fish from the pier or take a deep sea Doctors Inlet, St. Johns River, This 125-mile river starts in the acid swamps of charter for larger sport fish. and Black Creek Okeefenokee and becomes a tidal river below US Both the inlet and the hard sand bottom areas 17 north of Jacksonville. Upstream is redbreast Lake Crescent in this stretch of the St. Johns River support sunfish and small largemouth bass territory. This 15,960-acre lake is a tributary of the St. healthy stands of eelgrass and great fishing for The salt marsh zone is famous for striped bass Johns River. Public access to Crescent Lake can largemouth bass and redear sunfish. Schooling and the same is true for nearby Nassau River. be obtained on the west shore off of Highway 17 bass are present all year and redear are caught Live baits, such as worms and crickets, are in Crescent City. Private access can be obtained spring, summer and fall. Nearby Black Creek is great choices for sunfish in these waters. Both from Lake Crescent Resort. deep with vegetated shorelines. It’s a good water the Nassau and the St. Mary’s River have good body for black crappie year-round and all riverine populations of largemouth bass as well. Lake George panfish during spring, summer and fall. This lake is a 46,000-acre natural impoundment Rodman Reservoir of the St. Johns River with extensive vegetation Fernandina Beach This premier largemouth bass fishery covers that provides excellent habitat for fish. There are Fernandina’s warm waters make it the perfect 9,500 acres and is about 15 miles long. It is jetties located on the south end of the lake where spot for variety—trout, cobia, bluefish, sheeps- located south of Palatka off of Hwy 19. A the St. Johns River enters the lake. Public access head, sea bass, king mackerel, flounder, pompano four-gate spillway controls the water levels of can be obtained from Blue Creek Road to Lake and grouper. Five-foot-long, 140-lb amberjack have the reservoir. Submersed vegetation like hydrilla, George Road off of Highway 40. been harvested here. coontail and eel grass is common in the pool section of the reservoir. Lake Monroe Flagler Beach A 9,406-acre lake in the middle of the St. Johns Nestled between the Intracoastal and the Atlantic, St. Johns River River, Lake Monroe should provide excellent the deep channel of Flagler Beach offers an One of the most famous rivers in Florida, the St. opportunities in the bulrushes, as long as water abundance of snapper, tarpon, snook, redfish and Johns is known primarily for its bass population. level remains high. The bulrushes on the west whiting. Blue crab is a potential catch when lured Stick to live bait for the most success. Deep wa- 30 side have seen plenty of bass and redear. with raw chicken. ters and the areas around submerged structures Bluegill and crappie harvests will be spotty, Boat access is available from the county

NORTHEAST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 31

Dockage Overnight Overnight

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Charters 8 8 8 Boat Boat 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 Boat Ramp

Guides Boat Ramp Fishing Fishing

8 8 8 8 8 8 Fish Attractor Fish Store 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

Boating/ Repairs Canoeing Mechanical Mechanical

8 8 8 8 Fuel

Fish Attractor Fish

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Transients

Fishing

Accepts Accepts Saltwater

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8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Restaurants 8 8 8 8 8 Rest Rooms Nassau River Nassau bass in deliver the largest The colder months lures and live eels deep-diving Try Nassau River. and sea trout Redfish, drum for the 20-pounders. as well. should be plentiful Fishing Freshwater 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Trout Creek Barrier Free Water Body Crescent Lake Camping Barrier Free St. Johns River St. Johns River St. Johns River St. Johns River St. Johns River St. Johns River San Sebastian River Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway 386-517-2084 386-517-2086 386-446-6780 904-461-2033 904-794-0997 Phone Flagler Beach Location St. Augustine St. Augustine Beach St. Augustine Beach 386-446-6370 386-325-1055 386-467-2002 386-467-2464 386-467-2319 386-467-2229 386-328-2944 386-325-7764 904-829-8646 904-471-0398 904-827-0520 904-824-3328 904-825-1026 904-284-5356 Phone and drop-offs near shallow bars. Swimming plastic shallow bars. near drop-offs and running baits and twitching shallow worms/jerk many are the choice among minnow imitations bass fishermen. as water levels fall and fish become somewhat and fish become levels fall as water edges of Anglers should target more concentrated. bends, along banks, sharp submerged vegetation north of St. Augustine Rodman Recreation Area Recreation Rodman below the dam at Raceway East Palatka Location Flager Beach Location Bunnell St. Augustine St. Augustine Palm Coast Intracoastal Intracoastal Water Body Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean

Rodman ReservoirRodman ReservoirRodman Lake Ponte Vedra Water Body St. Johns River Marina Devils Elbow Fishing Elbow ResortDevils Georgia Boys Fish Camp Georgetown Marina & Lodge Conch House MarinaResort Crystal Cove Marine Center Oyster Creek Marina Boathouse Marina Sea Love Charters St. Augustine Municipal Marina Stegbone’s Pacetti’s Marina & Fishing Resort Palm Coast Marina Acosta Creek Marina Trail Boss Campground Marina Faver-Dykes State Park Flagler Beach Municipal Pier Municipal Flagler Beach Flagler Usina Waterway Park Recreation Area Gamble Rogers Memorial State County County Historic State Park Washington Oaks Gardens State Bulow PlantationBulow Ruins St. Johns St. Johns County St. Johns St. Johns St. Johns St. Johns St. Johns St. Johns Park Park Putnam Putnam Putnam Pier Name Pier Putnam Putnam Putnam Putnam Putnam Putnam Putnam Vilano FishingVilano Pier Anastasia State Park Northeast Boating State in & Fishing Parks Northeast Freshwater Piers Fishing Northeast Saltwater Piers Fishing Northeast Marinas Bass anglers can expect to find bass hiding in can expect to find bass Bass anglers docks eelgrass, and around shoreline vegetation, should become easierand pilings. Locating fish and bass. Lakes and Johns River St. Lower should produce a good amount of catfish, bluegill of catfish, amount produce a good should 32 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING CENTRAL Meritt abouttherecord41-lb.Longnose GarhepulledoutofLakePanasoffkee. freshwater options.Andifyoudon’t thinkyoucanlandthebigoneinland...ask Evan only withoutcostalanglingoportunites, itdoesserveupcountlessacresofrenowned While thebassbountiful Central Region CENTRAL OKEECHOBEE, HIGHLANDS,DESOTO,HARDEE,POLK COUNTIES: SUMTER, LAKE,SEMINOLE,ORANGE,OSCEOLA, ofFloridamaybethe

VISIT FLORIDA 32 BOATING AND FISHING FLORIDA

CENTRAL FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 33 Bass Fishing at StreamSong Resort 32 Clermont Chain Lake Ivanhoe rewarded. A public boat ramp is available on C.R. Eleven lakes make up this Fish Management Wacky-rigged plastics or fluke juniors help lure 470 on the Outlet River. Area; most of the lakes have dark water, but Lake bass near the lake’s many drop-offs. Aerator Minneola is relatively clear. Bluegill and redear diffusers, easily located by bubbles, may draw Lake Monroe sunfish hang around the shallow water near veg- schooling activity. The St. Johns River flows through this 9,406-acre etation. Worms, crickets and grass shrimp should lake. The city of Sanford borders the southern be productive as bait. Catfish and bass are also Lake Jessup shoreline. Public access can be utilized off the popular catches, using chicken liver and plastic One of the top fishing areas in this section of the Seminole County side of the intersection of High- worms as bait, respectively. Black crappie isn’t as St. Johns River, this massive lake is a great spot way 17/92 and I-4; the north side of the lake off plentiful, but still a good catch. Use minnows as for bluegill, redear sunfish and black crappie, of Enterprise Road; and at Monroe Harbor Marina bait around deep grassy areas. which prefer minnows and spinners. in downtown Sanford.

Lake Conway Lake Kissimmee Lake Tohopekaliga The hard, sandy bottom and vegetation of this Lake Kissimmee is a 34,948-acre lake located Known to locals as Lake Toho, the 18,810-acre 1,800-acre chain is a great place to catch bass. 40 miles south of Orlando and 18 miles east of lake offers fish attractors for successful fishing. Try jig spoons, spinnerbaits, topwater lures and Lake Wales. The vegetation in Lake Kissimmee Largemouth bass are often found near Goblets soft jerk baits. Jigs and beetle spins should bring provides a terrific home for plenty of largemouth Cove, Lanier Point, Brown’s Point, and Little in a good catch of crappie. bass. Spinnerbaits will act as the prime artificial Grassy Island. Live and artificial bait should lure here, as will soft jerkbaits and plastic yield good catches, especially golden shiners Lake Harris worms. Full moon should induce bluegill spawn- and dark-colored plastic worms. Bluegill are This 13,788-acre lake, located south and east of ing, providing the best fishing opportunities. especially prolific during the full moon. Sandy, the City of Leesburg, offers decent largemouth Live bait with a split-shot sinker about 5 inches vegetated areas pocked with small holes are bass with plastic worms, crankbaits or live shin- above the bait will work best in areas with a signs of bedding; try live bait or small jigs.

FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING ers as bait. Stick to the areas around the S.R. 19 clean, sandy bottom. bridge and the grassy shoreline. The full moon Lake Istokpoga should produce a good amount of bluegill and Lake Panasoffkee Located five miles northeast of Lake Placid, redear spawning. Try grass shrimp, crickets and Shallow, spring-fed and more than 4,000 acres Highlands County, this 27,692-acre lake has worms as bait. Singletary Park on Highway 27 large, Lake Panasoffkee offers a good amount quality fishing for black crappie (specks) and offers access to the lake, as does a public boat of bass, bluegill and redear. Bass will be prolific one of the highest bass catch rates in the state. ramp in Leesburg’s Venetian Gardens. Florida Av- around grassy areas both early and late in the The best speck fishing occurs during winter 34 enue in Astatula provides another ramp. Hickory day; try topwater lures and plastic worms as bait. months drifting over open water. Predominant Point recreational area’s boat ramp has a usage Redear and bluegill will flee when they see a aquatic vegetation includes spadderdock,

fee. Lake Harris Lodge is another option. boat through the clear water, but patience will be bulrush, cattail, and pondweed. Jr. Osprey Photo: Nile Young

CENTRAL FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 35

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8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Restaurants 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 popular. A Visitors Welcome Center is located at Welcome A Visitors popular. the intersection of S.R. 40 and C.R. 315. River Oklawaha Oklawaha begins in Lake County and flows to the Black crappie fishing will become St. Johns River. slower as warm weather sets in, while bluegill, redear and catfish should be plentiful year-round. grass shrimp and worms to bait the redear; Try through lakes Conine, Rochelle, and Haines. Fish attractors are located and marked in lakes Summit, Winterset, Cannon, Smart, and Haines. Bass anglers achieve success by "flipping" plastic worms around shoreline plants such as cattail and maidencane, as well as docks. Orlando Fish Many people do not know that the greater Orlando urban region houses over 60,000 acres angling providing many exciting of freshwater, opportunities for the 2 million local residents and over 40 million yearly visitors from around the world. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's mission through Fish Orlando! is to create, conserve, and promote convenient quality fishing opportunities in the greater Orlando area. Lakes Ocala Forest There are approximately 600 natural lakes in the Ocala National Forest with lakes Bryant, Mill Crooked, Wildcat, Lou Echo, Grasshop Dam, Kerr, Eaton and Quarry Fish Pond being the most per, - Lake Eustis Lake Harris Lake Harris Lake Harris Lake Harris Water Body Lake Rosalie Wekiva River Lake Monroe Haines CreekHaines Cypress Lake St. Johns River Alligator Chain St. Johns River St. Johns River St. Johns River Lake IstokpogaLake West Lake Toho Lake KissimmeeLake 863-696-1194 863-465-5241 386-749-4407 352-759-2795 352-728-5939 352-728-0901 352-343-7951 352-343-1233 352-343-4111 352-343-6146 407-436-1966 407-892-3195 407-322-1610 407-322-2910 407-862-1500 407-846-2124 407-957-3135 352-589-8370 Phone shore access to the South Chain are available at lakes Summit, Shipp, Howard, Cannon, and Hartridge. The North Chain can be accessed largemouth bass fishing, Lake Walk-in-Water Walk-in-Water largemouth bass fishing, Lake provides both large numbers and trophy-sized fish. Drifting live shiners over offshore hydrilla is the most consistent technique, but many bass are caught on artificials as well, particularly topwater lures. There is a county boat ramp on the west shore at the end of Boat Landing Road. of Lakes Chain Haven Winter Located within the city of Winter Haven, nine lakes compose this 6,000-acre chain where fish Boat and ing and boating are extremely popular. these fish and appropriate fishing techniques are updated quarterly in this report. Walk-in-Water this 7,528- Also known as Lake Weohyakapka, acre anglers' favorite is located south of State off Walk- Route 60, 10 miles east of Lake Wales Predominant Road in Polk County. in-the-Water vegetation is cattail, bulrush, Kissimmee grass, Creek flows in from the and hydrilla. Tiger Creek flows from southwest and Weohyakapka the north end of the lake. Nationally known for register at the area headquarters where a daily use is nationally noted fee of $3 is charged. Tenoroc for largemouth bass and provides excellent fishing for panfish, black crappie and several varieties of catfish. Seasonal patterns are well established for - - Front Street Bait & Tackle Fisherman’s Cove Lake Harris Lodge Monroe Harbor Marina Harbor Monroe Middletons Fish Camp Cypress Lake Fish Camp & RV Cypress Isle RV Park & Marina Harbor RV Resort & Marina Haines Creek RV Village Wekiva Island Boat Tree Marina Big Toho Enterprises, Inc. Banana Cove Marina Venetian Cove Marina Astor Bridge Marina Bridge Astor Marina Pier 44 Marina Sales & Service The Lakeside Inn & Café Triangle Marine Center Triangle Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Highlands Osceola Osceola Osceola Osceola Seminole Seminole Seminole Polk Lake County Central Marinas ranging in size from seven to 227 acres provide quality public fishing. All anglers are required to Tenoroc Fish Management Area, located northeast Tenoroc of Lakeland, offers a unique fishing opportunity. is an old phosphate mine where 14 lakes Tenoroc are popular with Saddle Creek anglers. Tenoroc Fish Management Area. Channel catfish are stocked regularly by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and largemouth bass The park provides convenient opportunities for family outings, picnics, boating, and fishing. An abundance of bank fishing makes this a unique on 740 acres of mined phosphate land east of Lakeland off U.S. Route 92 in Polk County. Saddle Creek Park Saddle Creek Saddle Creek Park is a series of phosphate pits mee grass, bulrush, and cattail are the predomi nant vegetation. There are three boat ramps on Lake Parker. popular all year and don't be surprised to find a popular all year and don't be surprised to find a black crappie at the end of your line. During low water the canal can be tough to navigate. Kissim largemouth bass fishing, particularly during the largemouth bass fishing, particularly during the winter and spring. The canal can be a real hot is spot for large bass. Bluegill and catfish fishing Lake Parker is a 2,272-acre Fish Management Area in North Lakeland. A canal on the northwest shore connects to Lake Crago. Both offer good Lake Parker Lake 36 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING CENTRAL Bass, snook,andcatfish preferdeepholesaround caught yearround asfarnorthFortMeade. pounds migratefromCharlotteHarbor andare bream, andcatfish.Snookweighing over30 offers excellentfishingforlargemouth bass, Harbor. Popularwithcanoeists,thePeaceRiver from LakeHancock,northofBartow toCharlotte This scenicriverrunssouthforover100miles Peace River try livewormsandgrassshrimpforthesunfish. Drift shinersinholesalongtheriverbankforbass; largemouth bassandspottedredearsunfish. lower, clearerwatersofthelowerportion harbor catfish willrespondtochickenlivers.Theshal Central Freshwater Fishing Piers Central & Boating Polk Polk Polk Polk Polk Polk Polk Polk Polk Polk Polk Polk Polk Polk Park Seminole Osceola Orange Orange Orange Okeechobee Wekiwa Springs State Park State Springs Wekiwa Highlands Highlands Highlands County Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Lake Park State Louisa Lake Park State Griffin Lake Rock Springs Run State Reserve State Run Springs Rock Peace River Park Patterson Secret Lake Secret Saddle Creek Park Big Lake Harris Lake Big Bear Pond Water Body Water Crystal Lake Crystal Lake Clear Grasshopper Lake Grasshopper Derby Lake Derby Canal Dora Lake Kissimmee Howard Lake Lake Hollingsworth Lake Cannon Ariana Lake Tohopekaliga Lake Santiago Lake Lake Lawne Okeechobee Lake Minneola Lake Harris Lake Griffin Lake Griffin Lake Winter in June Lake Jackson Lake Lake Istokpoga Lake Summit Shipp Lake McLeod Lake Peterson John Lake Fishing in State Parks Apopka Apopka Clermont Location Fruitland Park Fruitland - Altamonte Springs Altamonte Auburndale Singletary Park Singletary Area Wildlife Forest Seminole Sebring Barnett Park Barnett Orlando Forest National Ocala Winter Haven Winter Haven Winter Haven Winter Haven Winter Homeland Leesburg at Park Herlong Hickory Point Marina Clermont Demetree Park Demetree Lakeland Lake Eagle Lakeland Park State Kissimmee Wales/ Lake Lakeland Area Fish Tenoroc Lakeland, Lakeland Kissimmee Eustis Lake Park Bishop H.L. Placid, Lake Park Istokpoga Lorida, Location U.S. 441, south of Okeechobee of south 441, U.S. Fort Meade Fort Park Fruitland with yellowbuoys. Texas riggedplasticworms stick closetofish attractors, whicharemarked To catchsomeofthe plentifullargemouthbass, Starke Lake Program forasmallfee. anglers canchoosetoparticipatein a BoatLoaner found. Althoughpublicboataccessisrestricted, grassy bottlenecks,wheretheyarecommonly mouth bassmaybepulledoutofdeeperpadsand Using liplesscrankbaitsandspinnerbaits,large Turkey Lake caught inthelowerPeaceRiver. tree snagswhereflowisstrong. Tarpon arealso

407-884-2008 407-884-2008 Phone 352-394-3969 352-360-6760 Barrier Free Barrier Camping 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 - Freshwater Freshwater Fishing Rest Rooms Rest bank fishing. side ofthelake.Marsh MemorialParkpermits available inMarshMemorialParkand thenorth should bringinagoodhaul.Boatramps are and cricketsasbaitnearshorelinevegetation spawning continues.Usingworms,grass shrimp Bluegill andredearsunfishwillbe plentiful as water plugsandspinnerbaitsworkwellasbait. around vegetation;shiners,plasticworms,top Largemouth bassfishingshouldbedecent Lake Yale grass below5-10feetofwater. degrees, trysubmergedeelgrassandpepper usually baitwell.Iftemperaturesarebelow80 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Saltwater Saltwater Fishing Fish Attractor 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Canoeing Boating/ 8 8 8 8 Boat Ramp Boat Boat Ramp Boat 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

- - Paddling Paradise There is no better way to explore Florida’s waterways

THE FLORIDA PADDLING TRAIL ASSOCIATION (FPTA) is the proud interest are accessible along the way with colorful fishing communities and steward of all Florida’s water trails. This includes Florida’s longest and urban centers. The CT is divided into 26 segments, ranging from the remote most ambitious sea kayaking trail, the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Big Bend Coast and Everglades/Florida Bay wilderness, to the more urban- Paddling Trail. It begins at Big Lagoon State Park near Pensacola, extending ized coastlines of Pinellas County and Fort Lauderdale. Some hardy souls around the Florida peninsula and Keys, and ending at Fort Clinch State Park have paddled the entire trail, and others seek to complete the trail near the Georgia border. The Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling in segments over several years. Trail (commonly referred to as The CT) is a 1,515-mile sea kayaking para- The CT is only the beginning of the unbelievable paddling opportunities dise; exposed to every Florida coastal habitat type, from barrier island dune here in Florida. Following is a list of some of our favorite places to put your systems to salt marsh to mangroves. Several historical sites and points of oars in the water and begin your paddling adventure.

1 Coldwater Creek 3 St. Joseph Bay 4 Chipola River Located in the Panhandle approximately three In Port St. Joe, the St. Joseph Bay is 15 miles long Beginning at the bridge on State Road 166 in FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING miles southwest of Munson, Coldwater Creek and the only body of water in the eastern Gulf of Marianna, this scenic 51-mile canoe trail flows flows through the Blackwater River State Forest Mexico that does not have any rivers or streams through river swamps and hardwood forests. and is said to be some of the swiftest water in flowing into it. The clear waters of the St. Joseph Limestone bluffs and caves, visible from the Florida. Because it is spring-fed, the shallow Bay Aquatic Preserve provide homes and nurseries water, add a unique touch. Several shoals are water is always pleasantly cool and makes a for numerous fish and sea animals such as sea found in this pale-colored stream, especially dur- perfect paddle for all ages. Flowing for 20 miles urchins, scallops and snails. A popular destination ing low water, and should be attempted only by through undeveloped land, Coldwater Creek is a along the bay is the St. Joseph Peninsula State intermediate or experienced paddlers. fun, shallow and easy paddle. Park Wilderness Preserve, one of only six in the state park system. 5 Wakulla River 2 Blackwater River Wildlife is abundant along the 10-mile, clear, This 31-mile trail near Milton flows through the spring-fed river located just 30 minutes south unspoiled Blackwater River State Forest with of Tallahassee. Manatees are often spotted in trees often forming a dense canopy over the warmer months. Paddlers can choose between river. High bluffs occur in some sections where a four- or six-mile trip below Wakulla Springs pine and cedar trees tower above paddlers. The State Park. water is coffee colored, the reason why Creek Indians called the river “Oka Lusa” (“water 6 Suwannee River (left) 37 black”). Along the bends, white sandbars provide The Suwannee originates in the Okefenokee a perfect place for camping or picnicking. Swamp in Georgia and meanders for 207 miles

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10 L. Iamonia 16 St. Johns River/Blue Spring Run L. Talquin Tallahassee Pensacola Located in Blue Spring State Park near Orange Dead L. 10 Aucilla R. City, the Blue Spring Run is a half-mile stretch Jacksonville Panama City APALACHICOLA R. 95 ATLANTIC of crystal clear water. Plant life is abundant Apalachee Bay Sante Fe R. OCEAN ST JOSEPH BAY along the shoreline up to the spring boil, which

releases close to 100 million gallons each day Gainesville at 72 degrees. This helps draw Florida’s favorite

mammal, the West Indian Manatee, during the Suwannee R. Orange L. L. George winter months resulting in the run being closed Daytona Beach

L. Rousseau to swimmers and paddle watercraft, usually from Waccasassa Bay Wi th November 15 through March 1. lacoochee 75

R. 95

L. Harris before reaching the Gulf of Mexico near the town Plantation Ruins State Park and leads upstream 17 Wekiva River/Rock Springs Run

of Suwannee. Numerous access points and outfit- and back and then downstream to the entrance Beginning just north of Kelly Park in Apopka, Rock Orlando

Suncoast ters along the trail make it easy to customize your of the Intracoastal Waterway. The sugar mill, a Springs Run winds it way swiftly downstream to Parkway

T trip or do it in sections. spring house and the foundations of the mansion join the spring run flowing out of Wekiwa Springs oll

4 St Johns R. oll oll are all that remain of the plantation today. State Park. The trail continues north approxi- T Clearwater Tampa 7 Ichetucknee River (above) mately 15 miles to the St. Johns River. Traveling L. Kissimmee

Located four miles northwest of Fort White, off 12 Juniper Creek through sand pine scrub, pine flatwoods, ham- St. Petersburg

of State Roads 47 and 238, the pristine Ichet- This seven-mile creek is in the Juniper Springs TAMPA 275 mocks and swamps, paddlers will see a variety BAY Kissimmee R. 95 ucknee River flows for six miles through shaded Recreation Area, in the heart of the Ocala of wildlife. Bradenton 75 hammocks and wetlands before it joins the Santa National Forest, 20 minutes east of Ocala. Many L. Istokpoga Sarasota Fe River. Since the river is spring fed, it is crystal people consider Juniper Creek to be among the 18 Indian River Lagoon Peace R. clear and always 72 degrees. best paddles in Central Florida because of its The Indian River Lagoon extends 156 miles along L. Okeechobee intimate character and lush, wild setting. Florida’s East Coast from Ponce de Leon Inlet

8 Santa Fe River to Jupiter Inlet and is considered to be North Charlotte Harbor Ft. Myers West Palm Beach This beautiful trail begins in O’Leno State Park, 13 Ocklawaha River America’s most diverse estuary. Premier paddling where the Santa Fe reappears after flowing The Ocklawaha River is approximately 110 miles opportunities along the lagoon include the Pelican underground for more than three miles. For the long. It originates in several lakes and flows 95 Island National Wildlife Refuge, Turkey Creek, the Fort Lauderdale next 30 miles, this tributary of the Suwannee northward from Central Florida, along the edge of St. Sebastian River, the Banana River, Merritt Is- Naples 75 oll

T River curves past hardwood hammocks and the Ocala National Forest and through the Cross land National Wildlife Refuge, and the Mosquito through river swamps. Florida Greenway, until it joins the St. Johns River Lagoon in Canaveral National Seashore. near Palatka. Clear water runs gently through Miami 9 St. Mary’s River semi-tropical forests and moss-draped trees. 19 St. Sebastian River

Picturesque hardwood forests frame the gentle Located along Florida’s East Coast near Vero Whitewater Bay curves of this river, originating in the Okefenokee 14 Withlacoochee River Beach, the meandering St. Sebastian River starts Swamp in Georgia. Cypress and tupelo trees and Flowing out of the Green Swamp in West Central out narrow with overhanging branches before

snow-white sandbars contrasting with the tea- Florida near Brooksville, this river twists and it opens up into a sunny, peaceful river. Wildlife FLORIDA BAY colored water dominate the scenery. There are bends through lush cypress swamps, hardwood such as manatee, scrub jay, red-cockaded wood- several access points along the 60-mile trail, and and pine forests. Overhanging limbs form a lacy pecker, southern bald eagle, bobcat, river otter, the gentle current makes for easy paddling. canopy. Camping is available at Silver Lake deer and turkey can be seen along the river. Recreation Area. Although the trail is 83 miles FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 10 Florida Sea Islands Trail long, numerous access points enable paddlers to 20 Hillsborough River Four rivers and their salt marshes, plus several choose shorter trips. The Hillsborough runs from Crystal Springs to the barrier islands, create the perfect location in City of Tampa’s Rowlett Park. From nearly pristine northeast Florida for exceptional coastal saltwa- 15 Homosassa River conditions, this 31-mile trail winds its way to ter paddling. Enjoy the tranquility of estuaries and The Homosassa River is a beautiful, six-mile me- Tampa Bay through rural, suburban, and urban tidal creeks while observing a vast array of birds andering river flowing to the Gulf of Mexico. The settings. and wildlife. source is a crystal-clear spring located within the 38 Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. One of the 21 Honeymoon Island/Caladesi Island 11 Bulow Creek largest herds of West Indian Manatee in Florida Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island State Bulow Creek is 13 miles long and begins at Bulow gathers near the constant 72-degree headwaters. Parks are two unspoiled jewels that lie side-by-

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10 10 L. Iamonia 9 4 10

L. Talquin Tallahassee

Pensacola 10 Dead L. 5 Aucilla R. Jacksonville

Panama City APALACHICOLA R. 7 95 ATLANTIC Apalachee Bay Sante Fe R. OCEAN ST JOSEPH BAY 3 8 6 Gainesville

Suwannee R. Orange L. 11

L. George side, within easy reach of the mainland. Paddlers 25 Daytona Beach Boca Grandes/Placida 12

L. Rousseau can cruise along Honeymoon Island’s 80-acre old- Charlotte Harbor Blueways Trails in Waccasassa Bay Wi th growth slash pine forest with its high density of the Boca Grande/Gasparilla Island lacoochee 75 16

R. active osprey nests, or paddle an easy three-mile, and Placida area take paddlers to 95 15 L. Harris 17 round-trip trail through a mangrove forest along every extreme – from remote creeks 14

Caladesi Island. to the Intracoastal Waterway and the Orlando

Suncoast ultimate in sea-kayaking on the Gulf Parkway

T 22 oll Little Manatee River of Mexico. Paddlers will feel right 18

4 St Johns R. oll oll Near Bradenton, this tannin-tinted river has a at home in the mangrove canopies T 19 Clearwater 21 20 Tampa sandy bottom and steep banks. With numerous of the Woolverton Trails. Along the L. Kissimmee access points along this 7-mile trail, paddlers will way, paddlers are treated to sight- St. Petersburg 22 journey through a variety of habitats including TAMPA 275 ings of magnificent birds, diverse BAY Kissimmee R. 95 sand pine scrub, willow marsh, and hardwood marine life, uninhabited keys, cypress Bradenton 75 forest. The trail ends on the south bank at Little forests, sand beaches, fish-house res- L. Istokpoga Sarasota 23 Manatee River State Park. taurants, and glimpses of Old Florida. Peace R. 24 L. Okeechobee 27 23 Myakka River 26 The Great Calusa Blueway

Few rivers in Florida equal the short but scenic The Great Calusa Blueway is a meandering Charlotte Harbor 25 Ft. Myers West Palm Beach Myakka when it comes to an all-around paddling 100-mile paddling trail with easy-to-find mark- experience. The river begins in a hardwood ers that guide canoeists and kayakers through 26 swamp and runs through more than 60 miles of 95 shallow areas away from powerboat traffic. The Fort Lauderdale varied terrain before emptying into the fertile trail stretches along the pristine waters of Estero Naples 75

oll

T fishing grounds of Charlotte Harbor. Bay to Sanibel and Pine Island Sound. The trail is

perfect for a one-hour trip for beginners as well 28 as avid and experienced back-country paddlers. Miami

27 Loxahatchee River Whitewater Bay Over nine-miles of the upper portion of this river is worthy of its status as Florida’s first National

Wild and Scenic River, the first in Florida to re- FLORIDA BAY ceive such designation. The Seminoles named the 29 river “Loxahatchee”, which means river of turtles. The coffee-colored stream meanders through an unspoiled subtropical river swamp where bald opportunities for beginners and experienced cypress, pond apple, orchids, and ferns line the paddlers alike. 24 Peace River (above) shores while heron and osprey fly overhead. The Peace River, true to its name, is a serene, 29 Florida Keys slow-moving river with few signs of civiliza- 28 Oleta River Paddling in the Keys is full of both tropical tion. Along the 67-mile trail, from Ft. Meade to Oleta River State Park resembles a coastal splendor and unique culture. Just a short distance Arcadia, the pale, tea-colored river shows many Central Park in its urban Miami metropolitan from launch areas are lush, uninhabited islands different faces. The Peace River is split by tiny setting located on Biscayne Bay. Exceeding 1,000 and winding tunnels through mangrove forests. islands and joined by numerous creeks. Sandy acres, this is the largest urban park in the state. Civilization in the form of great restaurants, lodg- 39 beaches and sloping banks provide excellent The beautiful mangrove-lined, seven-mile, Oleta ing, and entertainment is often within easy reach camping spots. River is the dominant feature, offering kayaking of the water, along with several historic sites. 40 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING CENTRAL WEST You’ll alsofindtheworld’s longestfishingpiersattheSunshineSkyway. Tampa Bay, extendingtoover 400milesandformingcoastlinesinthreecounties. The Central West Region CENTRAL WEST COUNTIES: ishometoFlorida’s largetopen-waterestuary, HERNANDO, PASCO, PINELLAS,HILLSBOROUGH

St. Petersburg/Clearwater CVB 40

CENTRAL WEST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 41 Nile Young, Jr. Young, Nile 42 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING CENTRAL WEST largemouth basspopulationandsizestructureis Area nearTarpon Springs,inPinellasCounty. The Lake Tarpon isa2,534-acreFishManagement Lake Tarpon catfish areveryabundant. bass arestockedonaregularbasisandchannel cattail arethepredominantvegetation.Sunshine and swimming.Kissimmeegrass,bulrush boating, canoerental,picnicking,camping,hiking, Recreation Department,hasfacilitiesforfishing, maintained bytheHillsboroughCountyParksand State Route60onTurkey CreekRoad.Thepark, six mileseastofBrandon,onemilesouth Edward MedardParkislocatedapproximately This 770-acrereclaimedphosphateminewithin Edward Medard Reservoir Central West Freshwater Fishing Piers Pinellas Pinellas Pasco Pasco Pasco Hillsborough Hillsborough Hillsborough Hillsborough Hillsborough Hillsborough Hillsborough Hernando Hernando County Al Lopez Park Pond Park Lopez Al Withlacoochee River Withlacoochee River Withlacoochee Body Water Hillsborough River Hillsborough River Hillsborough River Hillsborough River Hillsborough River Crews Lake Crews Middle Lake Medard Reservoir Lake Tarpon Lake Lake Maggiore Park Regional Townsen Lake larger, fullymaturedfish. and theinshallowflats.Openwaterharbors Tarpon arethebestcatches,bothatbeaches St. Petersburg Beaches Clearwater & County Road611. located atthecountyparksoffU.S.Route19and during thesummermonths.Publicboatrampsare bass willschoolandchaseshadinopenwater with submergedvegetation,areproductiveand good placestotry. Offshorehumps,particularly line. Bulrush,cattail,andtapegrassbedsare are foundamongtheweedswhichrimshore biologists. Primarylargemouthbassfishingareas lakes inthestateofFloridabyFWCfisheries excellent anditisratedoneoftheTop 10bass Trout Creek Park Creek Trout John B. Sergeant Park Sergeant B. John Al Lopez Park Lopez Al Palm Harbor, Chestnut Park Chestnut Harbor, Palm St. Petersburg Park Petersburg St. San Antonio Brooksville Hillsborough River State Park State Hillsborough River Nobleton Growers Corner Growers Dade City Dade Morris Bridge Road Park Road Bridge Morris Edward Medard Park Medard Edward Park Lowry Location Barrier Free Barrier 8 8 8 8 8

- New Flats Port Richey fromthepier. catching Spanishmackerel,ladyfishorjack crab asbait.Shrimpalsoworkwellwhen Black drumcanbeluredwithshrimpandfiddler redfish, seatroutandsnookarepopularaswell. Summer isprimetimefortarponfishing,but Tampa Bay shrimp andjigsasbait. sticking toshallowwaterareas.Try spoons, crab andsardines.Redfisharepopularaswell, plenty ofsnook,whichcanbecaughtwithpinfish, The saltwaterflatsofNewPortRicheyharbor Rest Rooms Rest 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fish Attractor 8 8 8 8 Boat Ramp Boat 8

CENTRAL WEST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 43

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8 8 Restaurants 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fishing Freshwater 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Tampa Bay Tampa Bay Tampa Bay Tampa Bay Tampa Bay 8 8 8 8 Barrier Free Cotee River Alafia River Water Body Anclote River Anclote River Anclote River Anclote River Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Camping Boca Ciega Bay Boca Ciega Bay Boca Ciega Bay Boca Ciega Bay St. Joseph Sound St. Joseph Sound Hillsborough RiverHillsborough Clearwater Harbor Pithlachascotee River Pass-A-Grille Channel Pass-A-Grille Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway 813-672-5320 813-987-6771 863-696-1112 863-375-4717 Phone 727-865-0668 727-469-5942 727-469-5918 727-893-2627 727-469-5942 Location Bradenton Anna Maria Redington Shores Clearwater Beach Spring Hill Spring Hill Spring Hill Spring St. Petersburg Palmetto 727-937-2200 727-867-2600 727-393-1947 727-393-2090 727-784-1443 727-784-1998 727-784-0143 727-360-0100 727-392-4922 727-821-6347 727-867-1102 727-867-2585 727-343-4500 727-893-7329 727-934-7616 727-943-8489 813-677-2739 813-645-2411 813-239-2526 727-937-9737 727-869-1840 727-868-3411 727-842-4065 727-849-5092 727-863-9093 727-462-6954 727-733-1102 727-893-1071 727-595-2956 Phone Lake Wales Location Litnia Dunedin Dunedin Dunedin Bowling Green St. Petersburg St. Petersburg Thonotosassa Fishing in State Parks State in Fishing Water Body Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Tampa Bay Tampa Bay Tampa Bay Tampa Bay St. Marina Petersburg Municipal Anclote Harbors Marina Belle Harbor Yacht & Marina Marina Port Tarpon Loggerhead Club and Marina Hubbard’s Marina Marino’s Marina Marino’s Pass-A-Grille Marina Bay Pines Marina Harborage Marina Maximo Marina, Inc. O’Neill’s Marina Pasadena Marina City of Clearwater Municipal Marina Pirate’s Cove Marina Marina Gulfport Municipal Indian Springs Marina, Inc. ABC Marina of Madeira Beach Home Port Marina Marina Shores Ozona Jean Street Shipyard Marina Anclote Village Port Marina Hudson Skeleton Key Marina & Yacht Sales, Inc. American Marina Marina Landing Sunset Marina Beach Hudson Inter-Bay Moorings,Inter-Bay Inc. Little Harbor Marina Marina Rod and Reel Pier Pier Name Pier Anna Maria City

Redington Long Pier Lake Kissimmee State Park Egmont Key State Park Linda Park Pedersen Caladesi Island State Park N. Skyway State Fishing Hillsborough RiverHillsborough State Park Honeymoon Island State Park Bayport Park Skyway Fishing Pier State Park S. Skyway State Fishing Paynes Creek Historic State Park Park Pier 60Pier Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pinellas Pasco Pinellas Pinellas Pasco Pasco Pasco Pasco Hillsborough Hillsborough Pasco Hillsborough County Alafia River State Park Anclote Key Preserve State Park Jenkins Creek Park

Central West Marinas Central West Central West Boating & West Central Central West Saltwater Piers West Central Fishing St. Petersburg/Clearwater CVB Petersburg/Clearwater St. 44 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING CENTRAL EAST CENTRAL EAST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 45 45

BREVARD, INDIAN RIVER, ST. LUCIE, VOLUSIA INDIAN RIVER, ST. BREVARD, in this stretch of Florida’s east in this stretch of Florida’s COUNTIES: CENTRAL EAST CENTRAL anything that swims. All things aquatic come together come things aquatic All coast. This active area is a hotbed for paddling, surfing and reeling in just about Banana River tion of largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, most popular fish species include: black crappie, Anglers can expect to find shallow seagrass and black crappie, and catfish. bluegill, largemouth bass and catfish. mangrove-based ecosystems at Banana River. The Indian River Lagoon northern part is an important spring habitat for Farm 13/Stick Marsh This 155-mile stretch of water is extremely the east coast population of manatees. Activities The St. Johns Water Management Area, known fertile, offering more than 1,300 plant species, such as sail boarding, kayaking, duck hunting and to most anglers as the Farm 13/Stick Marsh, is a 300 bird species and 700 fish species, both fresh bird watching are year-round. 6,500-acre impoundment located along the east coast of central Florida in northwest Indian River and saltwater varieties. Crevalle jack is plentiful Miami Lakes-Ansin Garcia County. Popular sportfish include largemouth in the lagoon and feeds on baitfish close to the The Lake Garcia Reservoir is a 3,149-acre section bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, black crappie and surface. The eight-pound sheepshead is another of the Blue Cypress Water Management Area in several catfish species. popular catch. Stick to seawalls, oyster bars north Indian River County. This impoundment is and inshore tidal creeks, as these are good noted for good numbers of smaller largemouth Fort Pierce Inlet congregating spots. CENTRAL EAST bass, but does produce its share of trophy bass Although late summer to early spring boasts great each year. Largemouth, bluegill and black crappie lobster catches, there are still plenty of fish to be Sebastian Inlet are the sportfish most often targeted by anglers. found by anglers. The large reefs close to shore The prime fishing hotspot on the East Coast, this Facilities include a double lane concrete boat offer nooks and crannies where lobsters, as well gem of a beach harbors blue marlin, grouper, ramp, air boat launch site, paved parking lot, as fish, are most commonly found. amberjack, wahoo and dolphin in its warm picnic pavilion and restroom. waters. Spotted sea trout are another common Kenansville Lake-formerly Blue catch, especially around grassy areas in the sum- Lake Blue Cypress Cypress Reservoir mer. In colder weather, follow them to the deeper Blue Cypress is a 6,555-acre lake located in Once a cattle pasture, Kenansville Lake is a open water. Snook, redfish, bluefish and Spanish Indian River County. It is a scenic body of water shallow 2,500-acre impoundment with an average mackerel should be plentiful as well. with a shoreline structure composed of cypress water depth of 3 feet. Most anglers fish this area and spatterdock. Several fish attractors have been by boat, bank fishing is available along the access St. Lucie River constructed in open-water areas and are marked canal and north end of the lake for those willing St. Lucie River and estuary, one of the largest with buoys. Lake Blue Cypress has a good popula- to walk or ride a bicycle to those areas. The brackish water systems on Florida’s east coast, provide an ample habitat for substantial fish populations. Snook, trout, redfish, flounder, permit, sand perch, whiting and more can be found in these waters. At St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, try for snapper and sheepshead from the dock, or visit the beach for pompano and bluefish.

Savannahs Along the Savannahs Chain of Lakes and marshes, largemouth bass, bluegill and black crappie can be found. Vegetation is plentiful, and the area is perfect for wade angling or smaller boats. Gas • World Famous Sebastian Inlet Fishing Jetties motors are prohibited. • Over 13,000 acres of freshwater wilderness famous for trophy bass • Over 40 species of fish in the diverse Indian River Lagoon Lake Washington At 4,362 acres, Washington is Brevard County’s • Deep sea fishing adventures & challenging sportfish await you off largest lake. Largemouth bass make up a good our Atlantic Coast number of prime fishing; stick with crankbaits, FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING PREMIER INSHORE & OFFSHORE FISHING spinnerbaits and live worms. Black crappie respond best to minnows and small jigs.

Upper St. Johns River & Lakes Except for Lake Washington, many of the lakes including lakes, Winder and Poinsett, may be too Our diverse fishing will shallow to fish the traditional habitats around 46 their shorelines. Bass anglers may have to target lure you back again and again! habitat around the deepest water.

Get Hooked at www.gofishsebastian.com

772-589-5969

CENTRAL EAST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 47

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8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Charters

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8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fish Attractor Fish 8 8 8 8 Store

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Fishing Restaurants 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Rest Rooms Fishing Freshwater 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Ponce Inlet Ponce Barrier Free Indian River Indian Indian River Indian River Indian River Indian River Indian River Indian Water Body Crane Creek Crane Barge Canal Halifax River Halifax River Camping Turkey Creek Turkey Banana River Camping Barrier Free Atlantic Ocean Port Canaveral St. Johns River St. Johns River Lake Beresford Indian River Lagoon Indian River Lagoon Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway 561-562-3909 321-267-1110 386-985-4673 321-861-0667 386-775-3663 386-985-4212 386-736-5309 386-676-4050 Phone 772-562-3909 Phone Location Daytona Beach Shores Cocoa Beach Ponce Inlet Ponce 386-428-3063 386-428-7827 386-756-2180 386-761-3221 321-254-4199 321-453-0160 321-723-0851 321-267-1667 386-523-3100 386-675-0742 386-671-3600 386-767-0683 386-668-4491 386-822-9992 386-734-3080 321-783-8410 321-783-9535 321-632-5445 321-733-3390 321-773-2468 321-773-3620 321-725-9054 Phone 772-589-4345 772-564-0040 772-770-4470 Location Ed Stone Park Mary Forams Units; Lake George Wildlife Area Bluffton Area; Recreation Dexter/ Location DeLeon Springs Deland Orange City Ormond Beach Ormond Intracoastal Water Body Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean Water Body St. Johns River St. Johns River Fishin’ Marina Cove Loggerhead Club and Marina Loggerhead Club and Marina Lighthouse Boat Yard & Marina Marker 57 at Cameron’s Melbourne Marina Harbor Marina Captain Hiram’s Resort Cape Marina at Port Canaveral Marina Village Cocoa Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort Holly Bluff Marina Halifax Harbor Marina Halifax Harbor Harbortown Marina Westland Marina Seven Seas Marina & Beyond Sunrise Marina & Tiki Bar Pineda Point Marina Point Pineda Palm Bay Marina Adventure Yacht Harbor Aqua-Marine Services, Inc. Daytona Aquamarina Anchorage Basin Yacht Tropical Resort & Marina Telemar Bay Marina Treasure Coast Marina & Boat Yard Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge MerrittIsland National Wildlife Refuge Canaveral National Seashore Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge DeLeon Springs State Park Inlet Harbor Inc. Inlet Harbor Indian River Indian River Indian Indian River Indian County Cocoa Beach Pier Beach Cocoa County Hontoon Island State Park Brevard Brevard Brevard Brevard Brevard Brevard Brevard Brevard Brevard Brevard Brevard Blue Spring State Park Sun Glow Pier Pier Name Pier Park Park Volusia Volusia Volusia Volusia Volusia Volusia Volusia Volusia Volusia Volusia Volusia Volusia Volusia Tomoka State Park Central East Marinas East Central Central East Freshwater Piers Fishing Central East Saltwater Piers Fishing Central East Boating State in & Fishing Parks Central East Boating National Parksin & Fishing Refuges & 48 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING SOUTH WEST nestled betweenNaplesandMarco Island. is hometooneofthecounty’s lastremaining,undisturbedmangrove estuaries ofthestateThe section SOUTHWEST HENDRY, COLLIER COUNTIES: offers manysmallislandsforexploringand MANATEE, SARASOTA, CHARLOTTE,LEE, GLADES,

VISIT FLORIDA SOUTH WEST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 49 49 Day’s last cast, Bull Bay, Charlotte Harbor last cast, Bull Bay, Day’s DESTINATION NOTES Each spring, anglers armed with rods and dreams converge on Charlotte Harbor and Boca Grande Pass, often referred as the “Tarpon Capital of the World”, with hopes of reeling in a tarpon, a spectacular game fish known for putting on challenging fights with the thrill lasting a lifetime. Tarpon usually visits Charlotte Harbor’s waters between April and October. Web: www.charlotteharbortravel.com

Charlotte HarborPreserves Marco Island canoe launch is available for canoes, kayaks and Five Charlotte Harbor aquatic preserves can be The largest island in the Ten Thousand Islands low-horsepower boats within Little Manatee explored through their tidal creeks and bay backs National Wildlife Refuge, Marco Island’s intricate River State Park. Please note motors are via kayak, canoe, or a shallow draft flat-bottomed channels and bays make excellent fishing restricted to 20 horsepower or less. power boat. Lemon Bay, the smallest preserve, habitats. Anglers can expect to catch sea trout, holds 200 species of fish. Seagrass shallow, grouper, pompano, shark, mackerel, snapper, Myakka River artificial reefs, and mangrove fringes are lucrative snook and tarpon. Catfish, bass and panfish are popular year-round, fishing spots in Gasparilla Sound, the deepest and with access to the river available at Upper most diverse. Near Boca Grande Pass, tarpon and Sanibel Island Myakka Lake in Myakka River State Park. goliath grouper can be caught. With warm waters and mangrove forests, Sanibel The colder months see an influx of snook in the Island is the perfect habitat for snook. Sea trout lower portion of the river. A semi-roofed fishing Lake Trafford and snapper are common as well, preferring pin- pier offers fishing as well as an interactive Lake Trafford, located in Collier County, en- fish, shrimp and live sardines. Stick to the man- alligator display. compasses approximately 1,500 acres. Aquatic grove areas and your patience will be rewarded. vegetation consists of cattail, spatterdock, and Tarpon and redfish inhabit the island’s various hydrilla. Fish species present in the lake include inlets, while grouper live in the coquina ledges largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, redear off the coast. Shallow waters harbor cobia, shark, sunfish, and large brown bullheads. Access to crevalle jack, king mackerel and tripletail. Lake Trafford is mainly by boat. However, there is a small county park located on the Lake Trafford lake that with a nice public fishing pier. This 1,500-acre lake offers a plethora of vegetation and fish. Bluegill, bass, crappie, redear and Rookery Bay bullheads are all popular catches. Bank fishing is Webb Lake One of the county’s last remaining, undisturbed available from a small county park on the lake. Located on the Babcock/Webb Wildlife Manage- mangrove estuaries lies nestled between Naples Boaters have plenty of access opportunities, with ment Area, this nearly 400-acre lake offers fish and Marco Island. The National Estuarine a county park and Lake Trafford Marina each feeders to encourage catches. Bluegill, bass, Research Reserve is home to a variety of habitats offering boat ramps. Boaters should take caution snook, catfish and tilapia are all popular with and endangered species, making it an educational around shallow areas and rocky outcrops. some unusual baits. Dough balls and hot dogs hot spot for both students and scientists. Among will attract bluegill. Catfish like chicken livers and the backwaters, anglers can catch snook, redfish, Manatee River/Lake Manatee dough balls, while small bits of hot dog will catch mangrove snapper and tarpon. Shell Island Road Largemouth bass, snook, catfish and bream call tilapia. A daily use permit or a Wildlife Manage- provides a boat ramp, and more access points can Manatee River home, while catfish, sunshine ment Area stamp is required to use the lake, and

FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING be found at Bayview Park and the 951 ramp. bass and crappie live in Lake Manatee. A small three boat ramps give access.

Southwest Freshwater Fishing Piers County Water Body Location Barrier Free Rest Rooms Fish Attractor Boat Ramp Charlotte Webb Lake & Ponds Babcock, Webb Wildlife Area 8 8 Glades Caloosahatchee River La Belle, Franklin Locks 8 8 Glades Lake Okeechobee Lakeport Park 8 8 50 Lee Lakes Park Fort Myers 8 8 8 Manatee Manatee Reservoir Bradenton 8 8 Sarasota Myakka River Myakka River State Park 8

SOUTH WEST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 51

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Fishing Restaurants 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fishing Freshwater 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Lemon Bay Lemon Bay Lemon Bay Barrier Free Naples Bay Naples Peace River Peace Water Body Camping Barron River Camping Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Manatee River Manatee River Big Marco River Charlotte Harbor Gasparilla Sound Gasparilla Sound Gasparilla Lake Okeechobee Coloosahatchee River Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway 941-964-0375 941-575-5861 941-964-0375 941-964-0375 941-361-6511 941-964-0375 Phone 239-394-3397 239-597-6196 239-992-0311 239-463-4588 Phone 239-472-1100 Ft. Myers Beach Location Englewood Bradenton Beach Bokeelia Port Charlotte Punta Gorda Punta Gorda Punta Gorda Punta Gorda Venice Naples Palmetto 800-541-4441 800-226-3625 863-983-9421 863-675-4371 941-778-1977 941-383-1311 941-729-4878 941-729-6021 941-698-1110 941-575-3000 941-575-0142 941-697-2206 941-964-0154 Phone 239-394-2076 239-394-2797 239-394-9333 239-774-0222 239-430-4994 239-695-2101 Ft. Myers Beach Estero Englewood Location Naples Naples Boca Grande Boca Grande Boca Grande Sarasota Punta Gorda Lemon Bay Myakka River Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Gulf of Mexico Charlotte Harbor Charlotte Harbor Water Body Peace River Peace River Peace Anna Maria Sound Gulf of Mexico Tampa Bay Fishermen’s Village Marina Village Fishermen’s Uncle Henry’s Marina Uncle Joe’s Marina & Motel Regatta Pointe Marina Rod & Gun Lodge & Restaurant Laishley Municipal Marina Laishley Municipal Marina Gasparilla Marina Gasparilla Gulf Shores Marina Shores Gulf Catchers Marina Marina Cannons Cut’s Edge HarborMarina Cape Haze Marina Calusa Island Yacht Club Cedar Bay Yacht Club Marina Naples Boat Club Walker’s Coon Key Marina Belle Hatchee Marina Stump Pass Marina Palm Island Marina Ft. Myers Beach Pier Laishley Park El Jobean Pier El Jobean Gilchrist Park City of Bradenton Beach Seaport Bocilla Island Seaport Bocilla Ponce de Leon Park Port Charlotte Beach Park Pier Name Pier Venice Municipal Fishing Municipal Venice Anger Fishing Pier City of Naples S. Skyway State Fishing Koreshan State Historic Site Lovers Key State Park Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Myakka River State Park Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Pass Delnor-Wiggins Park Don Pedro Island State Park Glades Gasparilla Island State Park Charlotte Charlotte Charlotte Charlotte Charlotte Charlotte Collier Collier Collier Charlotte Collier Collier Collier County Cayo Costa State Park Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park Collier-Seminole State Park Hendry Stump Pass Beach Park Park J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge Southwest Saltwater Piers Fishing Southwest Marinas Southwest Boating State in & Fishing Parks Southwest Boating National Parks in & Fishing & Refuges Florida’s Finest FISHING & BOATING DESTINATIONS

Your Boating and Fishing Paradise. Refined and Redefined

IF YOUR IDEA OF PARADISE IS NONSTOP AN- also include a stop on an island for shelling. Or you coastline at ParadiseCoastBlueway.com, which GLING action or island hopping through a water can bring your own boat, rent one or even hire a will lead you on an exciting journey from the wonderland, you’ll find it here on Florida’s Paradise captain. cypress, through the mangroves and out to the Coast. Thirty-seven miles of barrier island coastline By boat you can explore countless islands edge of the Gulf of Mexico utilizing GPS waypoints. extend from Naples to Marco Island and then deep (though it’s rumored to be 10,000), offering private Another water activity not to be missed is an into the mangrove forests of the Ten Thousand sanctuaries of soft white sand, gentle Gulf waters airboat ride through the Everglades, providing Islands and the Everglades, giving you the chance and a wealth of wildlife and seashells. If you want an exciting view of the coastal wildlife and an to experience Florida’s best boating and fishing. some quality time with your family, there’s nothing exhilarating ride. You’re sure to see alligators From calm backcountry to deep sea, no place like a deserted island to escape the distractions and many different types of wading birds. Many has a stronger lure to serious anglers than Florida’s and reconnect. Some favorite places to explore captains provide a running commentary on the Paradise Coast. Saltwater action will have you include Keewaydin Island, Kice Island and Cape area’s amazing eco-system, making the ride as playing tug of war with tarpon, snook, redfish, Romano. Or check out the pristine beaches on educational and it is entertaining. seatrout, pompano, permit,grouper, snapper, king Pavilion Key or Indian Key in Everglades National Additionally, Florida’s Paradise Coast is home mackerel and more. You don’t have to worry about Park just a short ride from Everglades City. to a one-of-a-kind experience aboard the Dolphin the weather here – even when it’s blowing 20 If your idea of fun is visiting the more inhabited Explorer. When you climb aboard this 30-foot knots offshore, there’s plenty of calm backwater islands, cruise over to Tin City or Naples City Dock catamaran, you’ll join expert naturalists in conduct- and protected bays to fish. Even freshwater fishing in downtown Naples to explore eclectic shops and ing research on wild dolphins – the only project is exciting on the 1,500-acre Lake Trafford in Im- great dining on the water. The Esplanade on Marco of its kind in the U.S. that lets the general public mokalee, famed for its crappie and bass action. Island offers a variety of boutiques, a day spa and participate. You’ll marvel at these beautiful and Your fishing holes are limitless, from the estuar- restaurants including CJ’s On The Bay, home to playful creatures, which are known to swim up to ies of the Ten Thousand Islands, to wonderful the island’s largest outdoor gazebo bar celebrating the boat and observe you as well. Researchers will spots right off the highway such as Clam Pass daily happy hour from 4 to 7pm. Farther south tell you the names of the more than 200 recorded in Naples, to offshore wrecks and reefs that are you can explore the historic fishing village of dolphins and if you spot a new dolphin, you get to home to 10-footers. Whether you choose to launch Goodland. Dock up at the Old Marco Lodge Crab name it. The cruise was in Keith Bellows’ National your own boat or head out with one of the many House and enjoy dining on their large outside Geographic book, “100 Places That Can Change experienced charter captains in the area, you can deck offering panoramic views of the Marco River Your Child’s Life: From Your Backyard to the Ends be sure of enjoying a day filled with beautiful and Goodland Bay. of the Earth.” scenery and opportunities to catch a wide variety If you’re bringing your own boat, you’ll find many Whether you’re casting a line or simply enjoy- of fish. The area’s calm backcountry is also perfect hotels with marinas or dockage including the Port ing the ride, when you get out on the water in for kayak fishing. of the Islands Resort & Marina, Naples Bay Resort, Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades, you’ll be You’ll also discover a wealth of boating pos- Bayfront Inn 5th Ave., Boat House Motel, Parkway rewarded with magnificent scenery and adventure. sibilities on Florida’s Paradise Coast, from island Motel & Marina and the Rod & Gun Lodge. So come find your boating and fishing paradise on hopping in the famed Ten Thousand Islands to You can also enjoy the water in a variety of Florida’s Paradise Coast. amazing eco-tours that will give you a fascinating water sports, including sailing, canoeing, kayaking, Learn more and plan your trip at ParadiseRe- look at wildlife including birds, dolphins, manatees waverunning, parasailing, kite surfing and paddle fined.com. and sea turtles. Many of these sightseeing cruises boarding. Access mapped paddling trails along the PARADISE IN A N D E XPL O R I N G

REFINED MY H AV E T H E

A N D PARADISE , T H E FA M E D

REDEFINED. I WILL B E S T 10,000

FIGHT FISHING I S L A N D S

TARPON H O L E S A N D

A N D A L L EXPERIENCING

SNOOK T O A

MYSELF, T RU E

PARADISE.

naples • marco island everglades

CCT-0481 Floridas Finest Destination FP.indd 1 11/18/13 4:21 PM Yes. Fishing heaven does exist.

Where the Peace River meets the Gulf of Mexico, Charlotte Harbor and its surrounding waters create a fishing destination teeming with everything from freshwater to inshore to deep sea. Long recognized as the Tarpon Capital of the world, the area also teems in snook, trout, redfish, snapper, mackerel, ‘cuda, cobia, shark and more. Area guides can put you on a school everywhere from backcountry to offshore – even take you fly fishing. Or hit the shallows solo in a kayak.

Ready for heaven? Learn more about Charlotte Harbor fishing online.

Plan online at: CharlotteHarborTravel.com

CHVCB-0000 Fishing_Boating Guide 2014 v2.indd 1 5/28/14 2:26 PM Florida’s Finest Yes. FISHING & BOATING DESTINATIONS Fishing heaven does exist.

Why Do Anglers Like to Fish in Charlotte Harbor? By Capt. Ralph Allen

SOMETIMES A SIMPLE QUESTION GENERATES biggest fish in the world are caught (think Aus- Numbers of Fish. Fishing everywhere has a lengthy answer. Here are the top reasons tralia’s Great Barrier Reef for 1000 pound marlin), its ups and downs, but when the fishing in why Charlotte Harbor is a world class fishing but between tarpon, sharks, Goliath grouper and Charlotte Harbor is “on”, look out. A boat on a

destination: a few other “big boys”, this area provides anglers hot mackerel bite can land 90 fish in less than 90 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING

with about a good a chance at a 100-pound-plus minutes. Lucky (or knowledgeable) anglers can Charlotte Harbor is one of the largest, cleanest, fish as anywhere. hook 75 snook in a day, catch almost countless least developed, most protected and most productive estuaries in the country. Hundreds of square miles of water include a wide variety of habitats including lush mangrove shorelines, rich tidal creeks, lively oyster bars, extensive grass flats and several manmade fishing reefs. Where the Peace River meets the Gulf of Mexico, Charlotte Harbor and its The variety of fish found in local waters is surrounding waters create a fishing destination teeming with everything from staggering. A dedicated angler who spent a fish- freshwater to inshore to deep sea. Long recognized as the Tarpon Capital of the world, the area also teems in snook, trout, redfish, snapper, mackerel, ‘cuda, cobia, ing career in the Midwest might hope to collect shark and more. Area guides can put you on a school everywhere from backcountry 12 or 15 species of fish in a lifetime, but contrast to offshore – even take you fly fishing. Or hit the shallows solo in a kayak. that to Southwest Florida where 15 or more species of fish can be landed in a single day. Ready for heaven? Learn more about Charlotte Harbor fishing online. Big fish live here. There are good numbers of 55 big fish in Charlotte Harbor and in the nearby Gulf of Mexico. This isn’t the place where the very Plan online at: CharlotteHarborTravel.com

CHVCB-0000 Fishing_Boating Guide 2014 v2.indd 1 5/28/14 2:26 PM 56 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING SOUTH WEST

Courtesy Black Water Charters use andnooneiseverworriedaboutfrostbite. snow shovelsandicescrapersdon’t getmuch every fewyearswegetastormwithname,but of thenation. Sure,it’s hotinthesummerand action that’s incrediblefun. measured inacres,providingfish-on-every-cast are sometimesfoundinschoolswhichcanbe less glamorousspeciessuchasjacksandladyfish where everyrodstaysbentforhours. Eventhe trout ontheflats,ormakebottomfishingstops Let’s faceit,ourweatherisoftentheenvy Florida canbeacomparativebargain. Compared during blusterydays. protected watersinwhichtofishcomfortably creeks andcanalsthatit’s usuallypossibletofind Charlotte Harborofferssomanyshelteredbays, Windy weatherissometimesaconcernbut As abonus,someofthebestfishingyear many otherrelatedexpensesarerelativelylow. accommodations, licenses,fishingguidesand with some(moreexotic)locations,thepricesof Web: Harbor’s watersbetween AprilandOctober. thrill lastingalifetime.Tarpon usuallyvisitsCharlotte fish knownforputtingonchallengingfights withthe with hopesofreelinginatarpon,spectacular game often referredasthe“Tarpon CapitaloftheWorld”, converge onCharlotteHarborandBocaGrande Pass, Each spring,anglersarmedwithrodsand dreams DESTINATION NOTES Fishing isn’t cheap,butfishinginSouthwest

www.charlotteharbortravel.com What’s nottolike? conservation ethicamongareaanglers. tackle shops,guideservices)andastrong good fishinginfrastructure(boatramps,marinas, easy accessthroughlocalairportsorviaI-75, appealing include: Friendly, helpfulresidents, during thetimethatanglersmostwanttovisit. many restaurantswillbeofferingreducedprices season fortourism,meaningthatmosthotelsand in SouthwestFloridaoccursduringthe“off” Other featureswhichvisitinganglersfind

$5.00 off (With $25 food purchase) It’s not whether you wIn or lose, It’s where you celebrate the game.

60¢ Wing Tuesdays® • 60¢ Boneless Thursdays® • 21 signaTure sauces and seasonings local crafT Brews • ouTdoor PaTio • over 50 Big screens and hdTvs PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS ONLY

Limit one coupon per person, per visit. Must present original coupon; no photocopies. Not for resale. Not valid with any other discounts, offers or coupons. Valid at participating locations only. No cash value. buffalowildwings.com Excludes tax. Excludes alcohol. Code: FishBoat5. Expires 12/31/14. 58 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING SOUTHEAST SOUTHEAST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 59

FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 59 VISIT FLORIDA VISIT

through the wild and MARTIN, PALM BEACH, BROWARD, DADE, MONROE DADE, BROWARD, BEACH, PALM MARTIN, COUNTIES: SOUTHEAST Florida’s largest county and largest lake, lake, and largest county largest Florida’s Southeast in Key West; southernmost point wonderful Everglades to our country’s only glamor and glitz. Florida isn’t 60 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING SOUTHEAST Southeast Saltwater Fishing Piers Saltwater Southeast Fishing Piers Freshwater Southeast yielding oneofthelargestcatchratesinFlorida Largemouth bassisthemostpopularcatch, consistently producedtop-qualitybassfishing. Water Conservation Areas2and3have Everglades Conservation Areas green jigs. later intheday. Breamareluredwithwhiteand early morning;switchtoaredorblackshadworm water luresworkwellforcatchingbassinthe and breamarepopular, too.Silverorblacktop- butterfly peacockbassfishing.Largemouth Live shinersaretheangler’s bestbetforprime Broward County Canal Anglins Fishing Pier Anglins Fishing Pompano Beach Fishing Pier Name BeachPalm BeachPalm BeachPalm BeachPalm BeachPalm Broward Broward Broward Broward County Trade Winds Park Lake Park Winds Trade Brian Piccolo Park Lake Park Piccolo Brian Okeeheelee Lake Okeeheelee Water Body Water Catchment Lake Lake Park Smith C.B. Delevoe Park Lake Lake Osborne Lake Ida Lake Biwa Lake Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Water Body Water

thispopularfishingspot. crevalle jack,seatroutandsnookalsoinhabit Cobia, tripletail,grouper, redfish,snapper, saltwater crocodilescoexistwithalligators. being theonlyplaceinworldwhere This townatthetipofFloridaisfamousfor Flamingo Beach fishing altogether. arshy landscape,providingadifferenttypeof fish populations,buthigherlevelscreatea are popular. Lowwaterlevelsmakeforample redear, pickerel,oscarandMayancichlidalso when thewaterlevelisgood.Bluegill, Sample Road Boulevard Sistrunk West Palm Beach Palm West Beach Palm West Beach Palm West Beach Palm West Davie Morikami Park Morikami Location Flamingo Road Flamingo Pompano Beach Pompano Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Location Coconut GroveMarina Barrier Free Barrier

Barrier Free Barrier

8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8

its sunshine,largemouthandbutterflypeacock within minutesfromhomeatLakeIda.Knownfor Located inanurbanarea,fishermancanstay Lake Ida infamous bluemarlin. wahoo, tarpon,permit,barracudaandthe for largesportfish,suchasgrouper, snapper, Cuba andtheFloridaKeys,areagreatspot Florida Straits,thecurrentpassingbetween the area’s flats,shipwrecksandreefs.The grouper, yellowtailandsnapperliketoinhabit the colderwintermonths.Cobia,kingmackerel, spectacular sailfishpopulations,especiallyin redfish arepopular, aswell.KeyLargooffers king mackerelandsailfish.Seatrout,snook of theWorld,” ishometotuna,wahoo,dolphin, Islamorada, knownasthe“SportFishingCapital fish, includingbonefish,tarponandmarlin. The Keysboastmorethan225speciesofgame Florida Keys &Florida Straits but bluegillandredearpopulationsaredecent, largemouth bassarearguablythebestcatches, for fishtohideandspawn.Blackcrappie extensive selectionofvegetationprovidesplaces of onlyabout9feet,fishingoddsaregood.An a surfaceareaof730squaremilesanddepth Okeechobee isthelargestlakeinstate.With Meaning “bigwater”inSeminolelanguage,Lake Lake Okeechobee and jigsasbait. tity offish.Sticktominnowimitations,crankbaits bass population,thislakeproducesalargequan Rest Rooms Rest 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Rest Rooms Rest 8 Fish Attractor 8 8 8 8 8 Fish Attractor Boat Ramp Boat 8 8 8

SOUTHEAST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 61

T Pompano Beach Pompano sailfish, grouper and Amberjack, snapper, dolphin inhabit the large, man-made reef located off-shore at Pompano Beach. More than 20 freighters at 100 feet deep create an ideal spot for fish. The Hillsboro Inlet offers access to the reef. peacock bass. Catch-and-release of this fish is strongly encouraged, especially during April’s spawning season. Live shiners and minnow imitators are great for this catch. Bluegill, redear sunfish, Mayan cichlid and oscar are popular; try wigglers, crickets and night crawlers for the urban areas can often most success. The canal’s yield snook and tarpon; entice these critters with live shiners. Canal Beach County Palm For largemouth bass fishing, live shiners and shad best bet. Clown knifefish are are the angler’s another possible catch with shad bait. Bridges are a common congregating point for these fish. Butterfly peacock bass like this canal as well; small shiners and minnow imitators will get the best response.

K -

make for interesting fishing and boating. A boat make for interesting fishing and boating. A boat ramp is available in Jonathon Dickinson State Park, although boaters must mind the idle speed limit. Canal Miami-Dade County Part of a more extensive man-made canal system, the Miami-Dade Canal harbors large butterfly mouth bass and the ever-popular

Sailfish,Wahoo, Marlin,Dolphin, Goliath Grouper and Kings. Here in The FloridaKeys, got plentywe’ve of ways your to make reel scream and your line dance. shake babySo, fla-keys.com shake. 1.800.fla.keys MCTG-8591 Florida Fishing & Boating Guide LO1 • July 2013 MCTG-8591 Florida Fishing & Boating Guide LO1 • July A whole lot of shakin’ goin’ on. A lot of goin’ whole shakin’ groves, tidal flats, seagrass beds and oysters bars Blue crabs, mullet, snook and tarpon inhabit the Creek Aquatic Loxahatchee River/Lake Worth Preserve. Freshwater and tidal marshes, man with fish feeder. with fish feeder. River Loxahatchee deeper water is the best spot for warmer mid-day fishing. John Prince Park surrounds the lake, providing a public boat ramp and fishing dock upwards of 20 bass per trip, especially during early morning. The fish attractors and vegetation are good places to look for any fish species, and buoys around the lake mark the location of fish attractors. Using shiners and live shad as bait around the shoreline has been known to catch Lake Osborne Lake catfish and Mayan Bass, crappie, bluegill, redear, cichlids flourish in this 356-acre lake. Nine uncommon. Stick to deep water, and keep moving and keep uncommon. Stick to deep water, until you find a school. the best harvest of bass, especially with golden the best harvest of bass, especially with golden shiners as bait. Spring is a slow season for black crappie, but decent-sized specimens aren’t too. Vegetation around the shoreline will provide too. Vegetation 62 FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING SOUTHEAST Southeast Marinas Southeast Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward Broward County Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Miami-Dade Miami-Dade Miami-Dade Miami-Dade Miami-Dade Miami-Dade Miami-Dade Miami-Dade Miami-Dade Miami-Dade Miami-Dade Martin Martin Martin Martin Martin Martin Martin Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Martin Martin Treasure Harbor Marine, Inc. Marine, Harbor Treasure Center Marine TNT A&B Marina A&B Marina American Offshore Pelican Landing of Key West Key of Landing Pelican HousePilot Marina Inc. Marina, House Power &Marina Resort Cove Pirate’s Inc. Pennell’s Marine, Sugarloaf Marina Sugarloaf Marina Bird Sea Marina Sunset Marina Harbour Safe Smuggler’s Resort Cove &Marina Hotel Harbor Sands Marina Sundance Blowing Rocks Marina Rocks Blowing Marina Billfish Center Yachting Mar Bahia Bud N’ Mary’s Marina Mary’s N’ Bud Jupiter Hill Lighthouse Marina Jupiter Hill Lighthouse World Wide Sportmans Wide World Islamorada of Marina Watermark Waterways Marina Haulover Marina Marina Fame of Hall Holiday Isle Beach Resort and Marina and Resort Beach Isle Holiday Cable Marine, Inc. Marine, Cable Marina Cove Inc. Marina, Cove Cozy Conch Harbor Marina Harbor Conch &Marina Resort Cove Coconut &Marina Sales Boat Caribee Marina Park Crandon Grove Isle Marina Isle Grove Marina Indiantown Grove Key Marina Key Grove Dinner Key Marina Key Dinner Marina Miamarina at Bayside at Miamarina Marine Marina Stadium Inc. Marina, Manatee Lighthouse Point Marina, Inc. Lighthouse &Marina Club Loggerhead Center Marine Lauderdale Key Colony Beach Marina Bar &Cabana Restaurant Lorelei &Marina Club Loggerhead Robbie’s Marina Inc. Marina, Riverfront Marina Bend River Basin Yacht Palm Royale Finest Kind Marina & Tackle Store &Tackle Marina Kind Finest Marina Fish Four Bay Marina at Falls Center Marine Freedom Sunset Bay Marina &Anchorage Marina Bay Sunset 772-287-2500 772-288-2888 772-223-4110 772-334-0936 772-597-2455 Phone 772-283-9225 954-942-8118 954-942-9100 954-457-8557 954-522-2800 954-527-1829 954-523-1832 954-527-0040 954-791-7600 954-764-3975 954-587-4000 954-587-6226 954-764-2233 954-426-2628 954-418-0777 954-427-9747 954-923-5900 954-921-8800 954-924-9555 305-664-2321 305-745-3135 305-664-2871 305-296-7101 305-294-9797 305-293-9730 305-294-2933 305-294-2535 305-451-3452 305-289-1310 305-664-4615 305-852-2458 305-664-5564 305-664-9814 305-664-8884 305-664-4656 305-664-0123 305-664-3431 305-664-2461 305-258-3500 305-579-6955 305-935-4295 305-947-6088 305-858-6527 305-892-2628 305-361-3316 305-361-1281 305-579-6980 305-858-4753 305-947-3525 561-746-3312 561-744-0727 Florida Bay/Atlantic Ocean Bay/Atlantic Florida Okeechobee Waterway Atlantic/Gulf of Mexico of Atlantic/Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Hillsborough Canal Dania Cutoff Canal Cutoff Dania Hillsborough River Sugarloaf Sound Manatee Pocket Manatee Pocket Manatee Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Gulf of Mexico of Gulf Mexico of Gulf Mexico of Gulf Mexico of Gulf Garrison Bight Garrison St. Lucie River Lucie St. Florida Straits Florida Biscayne Bay Biscayne Bay Biscayne Bay Biscayne Bay Biscayne Bay Biscayne Bay Biscayne Bay Biscayne Bay Biscayne Fat Deer Key Deer Fat Dania Canal Dania Indian River Water Body Water Florida Bay Florida Bay Florida Bay Florida New River New River New River New River New 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Restaurants 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Lodging 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Accepts Transients 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fuel 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Mechanical Repairs 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Store 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fishing Guides 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Boat Charters 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Overnight Dockage

SOUTHEAST FLORIDA FISHING AND BOATING 63

Dockage Overnight Overnight

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Charters 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 Boat Boat

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

Boat Ramp

Guides Boat Ramp Fishing Fishing

8 8 8 8 Store 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

Boating/ Repairs Canoeing

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Mechanical Mechanical 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

Boating/ Canoeing Fuel

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Transients

Fishing Accepts Accepts Saltwater

8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Lodging 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

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Fishing Restaurants 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Fishing Freshwater 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 Camping Florida Bay Florida Bay Water Body Camping Gulf of Mexico Altantic Ocean Altantic Ocean Bootkey Harbor Bootkey Harbor Marathon’s Reef Marathon’s Lake Worth Inlet Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway Intracoastal Waterway 561-624-6950 305-872-2353 305-361-5811 305-289-2690 305-292-6713 305-451-1202 305-664-4815 305-919-1844 954-564-4521 954-923-2833 Phone 239-394-3397 561-735-6030 561-546-6141 305-872-2239 305-872-2239 305-230-7275 305-242-7700 305-242-7700 305-743-2437 305-872-2239 Phone 772-219-1880 772-546-2771 561-627-6688 561-746-2600 561-627-6358 561-626-0200 561-746-4300 561-848-7469 561-655-4757 561-276-0376 561-276-7666 561-588-1211 561-588-9911 800-278-4665 561-276-0376 305-743-5317 305-289-0505 305-289-8877 305-743-4353 305-852-5218 305-852-8380 305-664-9814 305-743-3500 Phone Fort Lauderdale Key BiscayneKey West Key Largo Key Key Long Location Marathon Dania Naples North Palm Beach North Miami Hobe Sound Hobe Big Pine Key Stuart

Loggerhead Club & Marina-Palm Beach Marina Delray, Inc. Delray, Marina Delray Harbor Club Marina Club Harbor Delray Gateway Marina Cannonsport Marina Bluff’s Marina, Inc. PGA Marina Center PalmHarbor Marina Palm Beach Yacht Center Robbie’s Marina Robbie’s Keys Fisheries Market & Marina Mangrove Marina Marina Delray Harbor Club Marina Club Harbor Delray Curtis Inc. Marine, Captain Hook’s MarinaDive & Center Harbor Point Marina Point Harbor Jib Yacht Club & Marina JupiterPointe Marina & Club Banana Bay Resort & Marina Burdines Waterfront Bootkey Harbor City Marina Palm Beach Palm Beach Palm Beach Palm Beach Palm Beach Palm Beach Palm Beach Palm Beach Palm Beach Palm Beach Palm Beach Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Fort Zachary Taylor Historic Key West National Wildlife Refuge Everglades National Park Long Key State Park Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Monroe Dry Tortugas National Park Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge County Collier-Seminole State Park Curry Hammock State Park National Key Deer Refuge Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge Hugh Taylor Birch State Park Oleta River State Park Biscayne National Park National Biscayne Bahia Honda State Park BillBaggs Cape Florida State Park State Park St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park State Park State Park Park Park Palm Beach Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge John Pennekamp Coral Reef John U. Lloyd Beach State Park Jonathan Dickinson State Park John D. MacArthur Beach Southeast Boating National Parks in & Fishing & Refuges Southeast Boating State in & Fishing Parks Southeast Marinas TrophyCatch is a free program that provides valuable rewards to anglers who document Catch-Document-Release and release largemouth bass over eight pounds. Bass legally caught anywhere in Florida are eligible. Go to TrophyCatchFlorida.com for details on for Conservation & Prizes how to register and submit your catches.

Photo © GlenLau.com Enter for a FREE chance to win a Phoenix bass boat, powered by Mercury and equipped with a Power- Pole, trailer and cover. Just register at TrophyCatchFlorida.com.

Len Andrews, Hall of Fame entrant, with a Florida largemouth bass. 33 EasyEasy StepsSteps 1 Photo with weight visible 1 Photo on with scale weight and ENTIREvisible onbass scale body and visible. ENTIRE9.0 bass body visible.

9.0

3 Easy Required Reco

Required Reco Steps 2 Bass must be released. 2 2- Bass Bass mustmust bebe released. released. Prizes begin at $100 in 3 Easy Steps gift cards from Bass Pro 1 Photo with weight Shops, Rapala and/or 1-visible Photo withon scaleweight andvisible on Dick’s Sporting Goods scale,ENTIRE ENTIRE bass bass body body visible. visible. for verified catches. 9.0 3 Submit3- Submit entry entry at: at: TrophyCatchFlorida.com. 3 TrophyCatchFlorida.com. Submit entry at: TrophyCatchFlorida.com. RequiredRequired RecommendedReco P. Gabrielse holds a lunker bass, showing the fish Visit TrophyCatchFlorida.com with weight visible on a scale. 2 Bass must be released. TrophyCatch_2pgAd12.indd 1 4/23/14 3:56 PM

3 Submit entry at: TrophyCatchFlorida.com. TrophyCatch is a free program that provides valuable rewards to anglers who document Catch-Document-Release and release largemouth bass over eight pounds. Bass legally caught anywhere in Florida are eligible. Go to TrophyCatchFlorida.com for details on for Conservation & Prizes how to register and submit your catches.

Photo © GlenLau.com Enter for a FREE chance to win a Phoenix bass boat, powered by Mercury and equipped with a Power- Pole, trailer and cover. Just register at TrophyCatchFlorida.com.

9.0

3 Easy Required Reco

3 Submit entry at: TrophyCatchFlorida.com. Destin Palm Bay Miami 4301 Legendary Dr. 750 Bass Pro Dr. NE 11551 NW 12th St. Destin, FL 32541 Palm Bay, FL 32905 Miami, FL 33172 Tallahassee Port St. Lucie Islamorada 4059 Lagniappe Way 2250 Gatlin Blvd. 81576 Overseas Hwy. Tallahassee, FL 32317 Port St. Lucie, FL 34953 Islamorada, FL 33036 Orlando Dania Beach Ft. Myers 5156 International Dr. 200 Gulf Stream Way 10040 Gulf Center Dr. Orlando, FL 32819 Dania Beach, FL 33004 Ft. Myers, FL 33913

COMING SOON! St. Johns County Daytona Beach Brandon