Steinhatchee,
Florida has always been a fisherman's paradise. The mouth of the Steinhatchee
River, called Deadman's Bay since the 1830's, was the home to thousands
of Native Americans. Early explorers wrote of large mounds of oyster and
muscle shells along the banks of the Steinhatchee River. Early settlers
told friends and relatives in far off places about the plentiful supply
of fish and wild game found in the Steinhatchee area.
The Steinhatchee River is one of several rivers that empty into Apalachee Bay of the Gulf of Mexico along Florida's Big Bend. For thousands of years the Suwannee, Wa-cissa, Econfina, Steinhatchee, Fenholloway and St. Marks rivers have deposited soils rich in minerals and foodstuffs into Apalachee Bay. These deposits have formed one of the richest and most productive eco-systems in the world. The slope of the Gulf bottom is very gradual making the water shallow for vast distances. The mean tidal range of approximately three feet means there is always shallow water for great fishing. The fertile grass flats support a variety of species of fish, including shellfish, making this part of Florida an incredibly exciting fishing ground. Most anglers choose saltwater species but area rivers and countless creeks provide an abundant supply of freshwater fishing. Offshore fishing for grouper and Sheepshead is popular along Taylor County's 60-mile coastline. In addition to rock-based natural reefs in waters from 25 to 65 feet deep, there are three artificial reefs 10 miles offshore from Steinhatchee. Regardless of the season, fishing can be great fun in Taylor County. Here is what you can expect.
Spring also offers some fantastic fishing offshore. Grouper, Black Seabass, and Red Snapper can be caught on the bottom in about 35-foot to 55 foot of water. Spring also brings a run on King Mackerel. Every spring and fall the Kingfish travel through Steinhatchee on their quest to stay in the perfect water temperature, approximately 72° F. Trolling rigged baits or large flashy lures will often bring a sizable hit. Some of the rigged baits include a tinsel duster on a blueback or ballyhoo or you can try trolling a chrome-colored Stretch 25+ lure. SUMMER (July, August, and September) fishing includes a few more fish such as Cobia, will often seek shelter from the hot sun by hiding in the shade of your boat. Tarpon often chase baitfish on the flats. You can also expect to catch Flounder, and Shark.
FALL (October, November, and December) brings another awesome run of fish. Expect the Spotted Seatrout, Redfish, Bluefish, and Spanish Mackerel to congregate on the flats. Offshore Grouper again will pickup along with Black Seabass, Red Snapper and another Kingfish run. As the water temperature grows cold around October and November, the large Spotted (gator) Seatrout will flood the Steinhatchee River. To be present and to participate in this phenomenon can be the fishing experience of a lifetime. Steinhatchee is also a great place to learn salt-water fly fishing techniques from local guides with years of experience.
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Sea Hag
Marina offers facilities for just about any fishing need including boat
storage, overnight wet slips, boat launching, boat repairs, engine repairs,
towing, complete bait and tackle shops, marine supplies, dive gear, air
fills. minimal groceries, sandwiches & drinks, ice, fish cleaning tables,
and fuel. A free public boat ramp is also available.
Steinhatchee marinas offer boat rentals for those who cannot bring their own. Click here for BOAT RENTAL info.
Reservations and information: 352-498-3008 Fax 352-498-3008 Web address www.seahag.com E-mail info@seahag.com |
Steinhatchee
Landing Resort
Twenty-ones upscale fully furnished Victorian Cottages with choice of one, two, or three bedrooms. Dockage on first come, first serve basis. Swimming pool, scenic walkways, petting zoo, tennis, bicycles & complimentary breakfast. Reservations and information 1-800-584-1709 Sea Hag Waterfront
Rentals - And Full Service Marina
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provided by SEA HAG MARINA (352)498-3008
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