Few destinations in Florida can claim the attraction of St. Johns River Country, a true fisherman�s paradise. Every year countless anglers are lured from around the world to cast from boats, banks and bridges in the hope of landing a trophy-size black bass or one of the other abundant freshwater fish found in the area�s lakes, springs and river. Throughout the 14 distinct communities that make up St. Johns River Country, fisherman find plenty of favorite fishing spots and easy access to water teeming with crappie, blue gill, shell cracker, catfish and the ever-popular bass.

Measuring 310 miles in length, the St. Johns River, one of only three in the U.S. that flows south to north, continually feeds the region�s diverse, lush environmental landscape. Most freshwater fish species flourish year-round in this environment, but visitors will find that area guides can lend a hand for those in search of a specific catch. Locals know largemouth bass and crappie are more common in winter months prior to spawning, and blue gill and shell crackers are caught in the spring and summer.

Skilled and novice anglers alike will appreciate the fish camps and marinas along the river, providing all the necessary amenities, including bait, tackle, licenses, rods and reels. Outfitters and guides offer half-day and full-day trips, each with their own favorite spot for reeling in the big ones. Touted the �Bass Fishing Capital of America,� the area is often the site for programs on ESPN, ESPN2, Outdoor Adventures and Sports Channel America.

With many marinas and State Parks offering boat slips on-site or nearby, visitors will find it easy to bring their own boats. But for boat rentals, guided fishing trips and accommodations, the DeLand area is also home to marinas such as Boat Show Marina, Highland Park Fish Camp, Tropical Resort & Marina and Riviera Resort & Marina. Holly Bluff Marina and Hontoon Landing Resort & Marina offer a unique fishing alternative with houseboat rentals, as well as full marina services. Highbanks Marina & Campground, located in DeBary, offers river tours and a variety of rentals, from bass boats to pontoons.

St. Johns River Country represents many delightfully diverse communities in West Volusia County, each offering superb angling adventures. Centrally located between Orlando and Daytona Beach, the cities of Barberville, Cassadaga, DeBary, DeLand, DeLeon Springs, Deltona, Glenwood, Enterprise, Lake Helen, Orange City, Osteen, Pierson, Seville and Volusia serve as a great vacation home base.

For information on local marinas, boat rentals, fishing guides and accommodations, contact the St. Johns River Country Visitors Bureau at (800) 749-4350, (386) 775-2006 or visit www.StJohnsRiverCountry.com.

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