“Early Birds” Catch The Fish–Summertime Fishing on Florida’s Big Bend

There are several reasons to get up early and go fishing on hot summer days.  One, if you’re fishing from one of our busy scalloping areas (Steinhatchee, Keaton Beach, St. Marks), you’ll beat the crowds to the water.  Another, the weather is more likely to be calm, unlike the afternoons when thunderstorms usually develop. The …

Red grouper Bag Limit Changes to 2 on May 7, 2015 in Florida’s Gulf State and Federal Waters

The red grouper recreational bag limit will change from four to two fish per person in Gulf of Mexico state and federal waters, excluding Monroe County, on May 7, 2015 This change was approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at its November 2014 meeting. The Commission hopes that this change will …

Visit Gulf Specimen Marine Lab in Wakulla County–An Educational Jewel on Florida’s Big Bend

Any trip to Panacea, in Florida’s Wakulla County, should include a visit to the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab.  Here’s some information from their website:     Established in 1963, Gulf Specimen Marine Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that provides marine life to schools and research laboratories. We also study endangered species and conduct …

Try Kayak Fishing in the Wakulla Backwaters

Last weekend I left my flats skiff behind in Steinhatchee and joined a couple of other outdoor writers in Wakulla County for a kayak-fishing adventure. Of course, over the years, I’ve made numerous trips out of St. Marks, Panacea and Spring Creek, but never had much chance to fish the shallow, close-in flats and inshore …

Apalachee Bay Maritime Heritage Paddling Trail System

If you’re a paddler, you don’t want to miss an opportunity to visit historic Wakulla County and explore the coastline. Be transported to a different time and place as you paddle Apalachee Bay’s Ten Maritime Heritage Trails. Designed for enthusiasts of all levels, enjoy fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography as you explore one of Florida’s …

GULF SPECIMEN MARINE LABORATORIES at Panacea, Wakulla County–Fun and Informative For Everyone!

Gulf Specimen Marine Lab invites you to come out and visit our gift shop where you will find some unique gifts for your family and friends. Remember all proceeds helps support the aquarium and our mission.

Florida’s Apalachee Bay Maritime Heritage Paddling Trail System

Trail Overview Be transported to a different time and place as you paddle Apalachee Bay’s Ten Maritime Heritage Trails. Designed for enthusiasts of all levels, enjoy fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography as you explore one of Florida’s last great bays, its inlets, rivers, and springs. Apalachee is one of the healthiest and most productive bays …

Don’t Have A Fishing Boat Or A Kayak? Rent One!

Not everyone’s lucky (or unlucky!) enough to own their own fishing boat or kayak.  However, renting is an option at several ports in Natural North Florida.  Whether you fish, scallop or just want to go for a boat ride, renting may be right for you.  It’s always nice to return to the dock and simply …

Your Gateway to the Wakulla River: T-n-T Hideaway

You’re not supposed to stand up in a kayak, but ever since seeing stand-up paddleboarders in action, I had been eager to try paddling from a standing position. I asked my guide from T-n-T Hideaway first. I knew if I did a header over the kayak and wound up wriggling around in the Wakulla River, …