Fishing

Cast a line and settle into the laid-back rhythm of North Central Florida’s fishing scene. From quiet freshwater rivers to salty coastal flats, it’s the kind of place where families can reel in memories, whether you’re after the big catch or just enjoying the moment together by the water.

Cast a line and settle into the laid-back rhythm of North Central Florida’s fishing scene. From quiet freshwater rivers to salty coastal flats, it’s the kind of place where families can reel in memories—whether you’re after the big catch or just enjoying the moment together by the water.

If you love to fish, Levy County will spoil you with options. At Cedar Key, you can cast a line right from the big pier or hire a friendly captain for a family charter out on the Gulf. Speckled trout, redfish, and mackerel are common catches, and if you venture a bit further out you might hook a cobia or grouper. Kids will have a blast catching pinfish or catfish off the dock – those smiling “first fish” photos are priceless. On the freshwater side, the Suwannee and Waccasassa Rivers provide peaceful spots to reel in bass, bream, or catfish under mossy oak canopies. Yankeetown’s Withlacoochee River boat ramp is a great launch if you want to mix fresh and saltwater in one trip (the river flows right into the Gulf). Serious angler or casual cane-pole caster, you’ll find Levy County’s waters plentiful and the vibe always relaxed – making every fishing trip a good time.

Anglers come from all over to cast a line in Taylor County’s fertile waters. Steinhatchee is renowned for sea trout and redfish – you can wade the grass flats or hire a charter captain to take the family out on the Gulf. Inshore fishing is calm and kid-friendly, with catches like speckled trout, redfish, Spanish mackerel, and maybe a surprise flounder. If you venture offshore on a calm day, the deeper waters can yield grouper, snapper, or amberjack – local guides know just where to find them. No boat? No problem – you can cast a line off the Keaton Beach fishing pier or even from the shore at Hagens Cove Park. You might reel in something exciting right from land. Fishing here is both productive and laid-back. Many local cottages and marinas have fish-cleaning stations ready for your catch. By evening, you could be frying up your own fish and swapping tales under the stars – the perfect end to a Taylor County day.