We ran the skiff only 30 minutes away from the boat ramp before Rami hopped on the poling platform and began pushing us through the labyrinth of spartina marsh creeks. Evan, posted on the front deck, fly rod in hand, scanned the grass flats for any sign of the targeted species, Sciaenops ocellatus, aka redfish. This was no regular day fishing the creeks, though, but an unusually early flood tide for the season, and I was sharing a boat with two of the most dialed fishermen from the area. Evan Tucker and Rami Ashouri of Cowford Conservation are two local …
Read More »Shrimpin’ Ain’t Esay
Let me start off by telling you how much shrimp I eat: A LOT, but it wasn’t until a international journalism course with Professor Nicolas Tatro that I really began to question the source of my seafood and the importance of sourcing seafood locally. Shrimping has been a vital aspect of Northeast Florida’s commerce since the early 1900s when Greek boat builders Michael Tiliakos and Demetrios Deonas moved to Fernandina Beach. Using larger engined boats with the ability to trawl larger nets, they helped establish Fernandina as the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry. By …
Read More »Fishing in Northeast Florida: Jacksonville is a Fisherman’s Paradise
Numerous fish species, unbeatable weather, and a healthy fishing infrastructure make the First Coast a fisherman’s paradise. Our state offers 2,276 miles of tidal shoreline, 10,550 miles of rivers, 7,700 lakes, and countless ponds. The First Coast offers a multitude of options. From offshore saltwater fishing, surf fishing, bridge fishing, river fishing and plenty of freshwater ponds or lakes around, there are options far and wide. Inspiration That Lasts a Lifetime Former Jacksonville Beach Councilman and Mayor Rick Hale has been a fisherman in Florida’s waters for close to 70 years. The native’s passion for fishing was largely influenced by …
Read More »10 Facts About Fishing in Florida
Florida is a killer place to cast a line. In addition to 4 million resident anglers, approximately 2 million people visit Florida to fish annually. Fishing is a multi-billion dollar industry. From major tournaments to laid-back fishing along the , there’s a bit of something for every taste and talent. Here are 10 facts you should know before you catch fish in Florida. If you’re 16-65, you need a freshwater fishing license. For those under 16 or developmentally disabled, a license is not required. Florida residents 65+ qualify for a free Senior Citizen Hunting and Fishing Certificate. For those ages …
Read More »March Park-of-the-Month: George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier State Park
George Crady Bridge Fishing Pier in northeast Duval County/southeast Nassau County is a popular Florida State Park. This one-mile long, pedestrian-only fishing bridge spans Nassau Sound and provides access to one of the best fishing areas on Northeast Florida. Location: The George Crady Bridge is located seven miles north of Little Talbot Island State Park on State Road A1A or eight miles south of Fernandina Beach. The south end of the bridge can be accessed from the parking lot at the north end of Big Talbot Island. For access to the north end of the bridge, visitors park at Amelia …
Read More »River Ruckus 2014
715 Riverside Drive, July 5th at 10am – 9pm www.riversideartsmarket.com and the are partnering to host River Ruckus on Saturday, July 5, under the . is a family festival that shows Jacksonville our River provides more than just a scenic view. The river is also a recreational asset for enjoyment and exploration. The day’s events include a flotilla, celebrity jump, fishing clinic, SUP board lessons, kids crafts, live music, SweetWater Brewing Co. craft beer, plus all the great art, crafts, and produce that the Riverside Arts Market offers each Saturday. The St. Johns River in the downtown area is full of …
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