By Dawn V. Perez
If you’re looking to get away from it all for a peaceful outdoor adventure, then Steinhatchee, Fla., is the place to be.
Taylor County Florida is blessed with the longest undeveloped coastline in the entire state of Florida, which makes for a beautiful, unique getaway.
Each of the following itineraries – one inshore, one offshore and inshore – is a two-day family-friendly adventure that will take you paddling, fishing and dining in a relaxing and beautiful setting.
Inshore Fishing/Kayaking Adventure
Day One
Begin your adventure with a stay in a quaint bungalow-type cabin at the Sea Hag Marina, situated along the scenic Steinhatchee River.
Your first day begins with a chartered fishing adventure with Chase-N-Fish Charters, where Captain Chase will take you on a memorable fishing experience. A day of inshore fishing along the endless marsh and crystal-clear waters makes for the best fishing for speckled trout and redfish you’ll find anywhere.
Bring a packed lunch for the family, so you can stay on the water and enjoy the day; you’re likely to witness wildlife such as sea turtles, manatees, and a large variety of sea birds.
After your day on the water, your captain will clean and pack your fish for you to deliver to the famous Fiddler’s Restaurant and Resort, where they will prepare your catch for you. If you prefer to take your catch home, not to worry: the menu has great selections to choose from.
Day Two
Explore one of the most beautiful rivers in the entire Southeastern United States, the Steinhatchee River.
Your family will arrive early to be shuttled with kayaks to the Steinhatchee Falls Park. Steinhatchee Falls is the widest waterfall in Florida, a scenic treat for the beginning of your day’s adventure. This area is geologically intriguing and an important part of Florida history.
The Steinhatchee Outdoor Adventures group will meet you at their location to help you begin your adventure’s next phase. Bring a packed lunch for your 7-mile trip and enjoy an abundance of wildlife in a beautiful scenic setting.
When you return from your adventure, enjoy a relaxing evening at Roy’s Restaurant, nestled on the mouth of the Steinhatchee River with a great view of the Gulf of America. Enjoy a spectacular sunset; it’ll out-do any fireworks show around.
Offshore/Inshore Fishing Adventure in Steinhatchee
Day One
Start this adventure with a stay in a cabin at the Sea Hag Marina, situated along the scenic Steinhatchee River.
Your first day begins with a chartered fishing adventure with Chase-N-Fish Charters. A day of inshore fishing along the marsh and crystal-clear waters makes for the best fishing for speckled trout and redfish to be found anywhere. Pack snacks, refreshments, and lunch to bring along so you can stay on the water, where it’s quite likely you’ll see wildlife such as sea turtles, manatees, and a large variety of sea birds.
Back on land, your Captain will clean and pack your fish for you to take home -- or be delivered to Fiddler’s Restaurant and Resort, where your catch will be prepared for you. Fiddler’s Restaurant offers fantastic food, cocktails, and entertainment. Most weekends feature bands that play throughout the evening.
Day Two
Be up and at ‘em early for a 20+ mile boat trek out onto the Gulf of America, where you can enjoy a full day of offshore fishing with Chase-N-Fish Charters, in pursuit of massive grouper, snapper (when in season) and swordfish. This intense fishing experience will excite those who’ve never fished these beautiful waters before, but also challenge even the most experiences anglers.
Spend the evening relaxing at Kathi’s Crab Shack, listening to music and enjoying a fresh coastal classic seafood dinner with a twist. Kathi’s is a lively establishment, lovingly called “The Shack” by the locals. Inside, it’s far from a shack but a cozy, quaint setting with food that will impress.