World’s Luckiest Fishing Village

World’s Luckiest Fishing Village

Destin, also referred to as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," has the largest commercial fishing fleet in the country, the most types of fish in the local area, and direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. Any nautical map will demonstrate that Destin stands out from neighboring ports due to its rapid and simple access to the deepest parts of the Gulf. Since different fish species inhabit different depths, fishermen may easily access all fishable water depths, which contain 20 different species of edible game fish. Snapper fish, such as gray snapper, lane snapper, mutton snapper, and red snapper, are among the most often discovered species. The red snapper is widely sought-after by fishermen because of its vivid scarlet color and greater size. Off the coast of Destin, a massive 46 pounds and 8 ounce red snapper that was the biggest ever taken in Florida was landed. Grouper is yet another fish that is regularly caught with a reel. Similar to snapper, there...
Read More
Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide Part 2

Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide Part 2

Summer in Sarasota: A Complete Vacation Guide Part 2There’s no place like Sunny Sarasota this summer! Seas the day in Sarasota county with the hottest spots of the season. Read below for a complete guide to your best vacation yet! July EventsSarasota Powerboat Grand PrixJune 29 - July 7Ready, set, go - get ready for the Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix! An annual Sarasota favorite, this family-friendly, fun event takes off on June 29th, running through July 7th. Some dates to remember: July 3rd - the festival kickoff at Van Wezel, a spectacular evening of fireworks and more! July 5th - the Boats on Main block party. July 6th - Car show and motorcycle event at Rossiter’s Harley Davidson. July 7th is the highlight of the festival, where you can watch the powerboat races at Lido Beach.  Looking for more places to sit back and watch the fireworks? Check out this guide to Independence Day Fireworks in Sarasota! Art and a Movie at The...
Read More
Historical Vacation Destinations Part 2: Matlacha, Florida

Historical Vacation Destinations Part 2: Matlacha, Florida

Historical Vacation Destinations Part 2: Matlacha, FloridaBy Hannah M.Island Living in Historic Matlacha, FloridaA historic gem with an abundance of Seminole culture, Matlacha (Mat-la-SHAY) is a prismatic and peaceful paradise. The legacy left by the Seminole tribe is scattered throughout the tiny town, making Matlacha a historical hotspot full of fun adventures. This matured fishing village, nestled on a small island between Cape Coral and Pine Island, brings a charismatic charm unlike anywhere in the world and promises a serene stay. What to do in MatlachaBridge at Matlacha Pass Not only is this historic utopia full of fascinating culture, it is a fisherman’s dream! The bridge over Matlacha Pass (nicknamed the “World’s Fishing-est Bridge”) is famed for the abundance of aquatic life. The currents sweeping under the bridge brings an array of fish that draw in locals and visitors alike. Take in Matlacha’s aesthetic with a peaceful stroll down the bridge lined with local anglers casting their lines in “Matlacha...
Read More
Hooked On Fishing?

Hooked On Fishing?

Hooked On Fishing?By Hannah M. Reel in The Big One!Are you getting ready for your fishing trip on the sparkling waters of St. John’s River or Lake George? Whether you’re a new angler or “reel” expert, good fishermen are always looking for new tricks to help lure the best catch. Reeling in the big one can be fishy business, but fear no fish! Here are some great tips that will have you ready to tackle anything!Got Bait?When choosing what kind of bait to bring for the ultimate catch, live bait is always preferred! Worms and smaller fish are most commonly used and proven to be most successful. Freshwater fishing? Here’s a basic beginner tackle box guide to start with!Location is KeyToday there are many tools available to aid your fishing needs! Electronic fish finders are widely used and a certain way of leading you directly to the best fishing spots. If you’re new to the game, make sure you bring a...
Read More

Staying Safe While Having Fun on Vacation!

Staying Safe While Having Fun!By Hannah M. Southern Florida is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. Renowned for the alluring natural habitats, gleaming white sand beaches, calm rivers, and especially the intriguing wildlife. During your relaxing vacation in Southern Florida, you’re sure to run into the indigenous inhabitants- alligators. Below are some safety tips to keep in mind for an enjoyable vacation. Sharing is Not Caring!The most essential rule to keep in mind regarding alligators is to keep your food stored away. Do not feed them! Alligators have an instinctive fear of humans, which is favorable for us, as people are natural prey in the wild. Sharing your food can be dangerous, as it emboldens the alligator, and in turn, may look for other people in search of food. A good rule of thumb is to not feed any wildlife you may encounter. Alligator Mating SeasonSpring and Summer is alligator mating season in Florida, so be extra...
Read More
Escape the hustle and bustle!  Castaway for the day on Cayo Costa Island.

Escape the hustle and bustle! Castaway for the day on Cayo Costa Island.

If you’re looking for a hideaway from the excitement of Southwest Florida for the day, Cayo Costa Island State Park is the perfect oasis. This barrier island, accessible by boat or ferry, is tucked away near Punta Gorda and North Fort Myers, making it the ideal private retreat. This remarkable Gulf Coast location, renowned for the white sand beaches and shelling, is a seclusive and relaxing getaway. Getting to Cayo Costa IslandCayo Costa Island lies at the entrance of Charlotte Harbor, nestled between North Captiva Island and Boca Grande, and is reached by boat or ferry. If you don’t have a boat to visit this breathtaking island, Captiva Cruises, the official state park concessionaire, has you covered! The ferry accommodates all kinds of family fun, offering private cruises for special events and conveniently running from several locations including: Captiva Island, Punta Gorda, Boca Grande, and Pine Island.Cayo Costa State Park FeaturesThe ferry docks at the State Park and from there...
Read More
What to Wear on Your Summer Fishing Trip

What to Wear on Your Summer Fishing Trip

What to Wear on Your Summer Fishing TripSummer is prime time for fishing trips here around Riviera Dunes Marina, which means you have to know how to dress for the season and the climbing temperatures! The thing about dressing for summer is that you want to wear breathable, comfortable clothing, but you also want to make sure you’re protected from the sun. Whether you’re taking your boat out for your summer fishing trip or you’re going boatless and heading to the shores, here’s what you should wear so that you can have a great time catching our local fish!SunscreenFirst things first, you want to protect your skin with plenty of sunscreen, especially during your summer fishing trip. Choose sunscreen that not only has a high SPF, but it is also sweatproof and waterproof! Of course if you have sensitive skin, make sure that you find a hypoallergenic formula that also fits the aforementioned requirements. Then, when you’re out fishing, reapply your...
Read More
What to Bring on Your Bradenton Fishing Trip

What to Bring on Your Bradenton Fishing Trip

What to Bring on Your Bradenton Fishing TripSummer is right around the corner, which means there’s plenty of time to take a day or more out of your schedules for a good ol’ Bradenton fishing trip. Here’s a helpful checklist to assist you when you’re ready for a day fishing out on Bradenton waters.Your fishing license or permitWhether you are a local or a visitor during your Bradenton fishing trip, you’ll need a fishing license or permit, which you can get on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website. However, you might not need a fishing license or permit if you meet the exemptions listed here. Make sure to do your homework before embarking on your fishing trip.Rods and tackle boxWhat’s a Bradenton fishing trip without your rods and a stocked tackle box? Whether you have your single lucky rod that you always reach for or a few favorites, make sure to bring them on your trip! Then, check...
Read More
5 Safety Tips for Your Spring Fishing Trips

5 Safety Tips for Your Spring Fishing Trips

5 Safety Tips for Your Spring Fishing TripsDo you have a fishing trip on the horizon? Whether it’s a solo fishing trip or you’re taking the whole family, it’s always wise to refresh your safety knowledge for your upcoming spring fishing trips. In addition to always wearing your Coast Guard-approved life jackets, here are our safety tips to ensure you and your loved ones have an enjoyable and safe time on the water!1. Make sure your first aid kids are stocked with the essentials.The last thing you want during your spring fishing trips is to have an accident. However, the best thing you can do in advance is to have your first aid kits chock-full of gauze and bandages in a variety of sizes, safety pins for the bandages and antiseptic wipes. Also, make sure to have a pair of sturdy scissors in the event that you need to cut and remove a hook from your skin. 2. Obey the...
Read More
5 Fish Biting in December Near Sarasota

5 Fish Biting in December Near Sarasota

5 Fish Biting in December Near SarasotaAmong all of the holiday parties and events, we hope that you’re still getting out on your boat to go fishing this month! The great thing about our area is that there are always fish biting, no matter what time of year it is. Here are five fish biting in December near Sarasota:TripletailWhen you spot a buoy, channel marker or other floating objects in Sarasota waters, you’re bound to find a tripletail! Known for gravitating toward floating objects, you can specifically find tripletail in brackish water bays and estuaries. They’re also known for camouflaging, so you might need to do a double take when you see weeds or debris in the water. Depending on their surroundings, they could be black to yellow to white and spotted brown! The key to catching them? Use live shrimp on minimal tackle.Speckled TroutFound in concentrated areas with vegetation, speckled trout—or spotted seatrout—can be seen wading in seagrass beds,...
Read More