By Amanda Gilbert
It is time to take a well-deserved winter vacation. Escape from your daily routines and discover a new realm of excitement by trekking over to one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. Experience the pristine beauty of Mother Nature’s Theme Park located along the west coast of Florida in Citrus County. There is no better place to call your getaway than the Plantation on Crystal River. This eco-friendly resort is located on one of the largest aquifers in Florida, Kings Bay. It offers a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained, and the friendly hospitable staff will make your stay truly remarkable.
Indulge in the crab eggs benedict at West 82º Grill and then stroll over to the conveniently located dive shop. Sign up for a manatee tour and get suited up for a once in a lifetime snorkeling experience. During the winter months, over 400 West Indian Manatees migrate to the warmer 720F spring water. There are several rules and regulations protecting these gentle giants; however, it is perfectly legal to place one hand on their back as they curiously swim up next to you.
Crystal River also has some of the best inshore and offshore fishing in the state of Florida. Head out to the salty gin clear flats and cast out toward the shoreline. Whether you are soaking live bait or working a top water lure you are sure to have a great time catching redfish, trout, snook, flounder, sheepshead, or black drum. Don’t be surprised to add a keeper grouper to the mix as well. If you are targeting fish by land then walk through the many flats or meander onto a jetty. Cast your jerkbait or live shrimp into the shallow water, and work the bait very slow until the drag screaming game of tug of war begins.
On your next trip take your escape to a new level and leave civilization completely behind by heading out to one of the many reefs, wrecks, or ledges located 20-50 miles offshore. Be prepared to hold on to your rod and reel because grouper in the 10-30 lb class are very common in this area. In between the grouper bites you will enjoy a wide variety of snapper, amberjack, and sheepshead. While fishing the bottom do not neglect putting a live bait out on the surface. Kingfish are known to skyrocket on these baits giving you an unbelievable aerial show.
If you are still looking for more excitement trade in your rod for a spear gun and drop into the silent world beneath you. During this challenging hunt you must stalk prey with stealth. Swim close enough to make sure the fish is of legal size, then aim just behind the gill plate and make your shot.
A long day of fishing can put a beating on you so head back to land, grab a cold beer, and enjoy dinner at the Plantation. The chefs there will be happy to fix you a mouthwatering dish made from your fresh catch of the day.
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