Big Bend & The NATURE COAST
Activities: Inshore Fishing, Birding, Nature Trails Best Times: Fall, Spring & Winter
“Such a unique place”
“I have heard people talk about “Old Florida,” but never really knew what they meant until I visited the Nature Coast. Small coastal fishing towns spattered between crystal clear rivers and hidden among live oak forests are typical here. The fishing is great, nature is everywhere, and people are few and far between. “Stephen S.
About the Nature Coast
There’s a ton to unpack along the nearly two hundred mile stretch of Florida shoreline known as the Nature Coast. Starting on the Western edge of the sprawling Big Bend and ending just north of Tampa Bay, the Nature Coast is probably the largest, least populated of Florida’s coastal regions.The aptly named Nature Coast is replete with fish and game, breath-taking scenery, and unique geological features. From scalloping in the bays to hunting in the dense pine forests, this slice of Floridian paradise offers something for every outdoorsman. And when you aren’t on the water or in the woods, there are tons of places to visit, from “old-Florida” downtowns to crystal clear springs. And if you enjoy watching wildlife as much as pursuing it, the Nature Coast is perfect for you.
Fishing & Scalloping
If you are looking for an entertaining way to spend your time and come home with a delicious meal, try chasing some Nature Coast Bay Scallops. While slightly (well, noticeably) smaller than the Diver Scallops you may be used to getting at a restaurant, chasing these mollusks around is as fun as it is rewarding.The Nature Coast has some of the best fishing in the country. Inshore fishing throughout these reaches produce some behemoth (and plentiful) seatrout, with occasional specimens over 30 inches. If you’re headed down during the late spring or summer, be sure to make at least one run for Tarpon, as these gamefish roll through the area seasonally. Redfish, black drum, sheepshead, and flounder can also be targeted along the Nature Coast as well, and although not the prime Florida locale, Snook can be caught in the southern stretch of the Nature Coast, starting a bit North of Crystal River.
Nearshore and offshore fishing is also great in this part of the world. Limits of snapper and grouper are routine, and many other species can be targeted from Cobia and Amberjack to Mahi-Mahi and Wahoo.
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RELIABLE RESOURCES TO AID YOUR ADVENTURE
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Perry, FL
SLEEPS: 4
Bedrooms: 1
Pets: allowed
Chase / activities:
$150 / NIGHT
Perry, FL
SLEEPS: 6
Bedrooms: 1
Pets: allowed
Chase / activities:
$150 / NIGHT
Perry, FL
SLEEPS: 4
Bedrooms: 1
Pets: allowed
Chase / activities:
$150 / NIGHT
Perry, FL 32348
SLEEPS: 4
Bedrooms: 1
Pets: allowed
Chase / activities:
$175 / NIGHT
Perry, FL 32348
SLEEPS: 8
Bedrooms: 3
Pets: allowed
Chase / activities:
$275 / NIGHT
