At 310 miles long, the St. Johns River is Florida’s longest river and one of the few that flows north. Stretching half the length of this beautiful state, the St. Johns River is home to manatee, the gentle giants of the sea, and gators, who earn a much different reputation. The animals that make their homes along the banks of this natural treasure are hundreds of species of birds including herons, osprey and bald eagles and plenty of the four-legged animal variety, like deer, as well.
Fish show up in the St. Johns River in voluminous amounts too. Seasonal rainfall gives rise to moving water within the St. John, which stimulates feeding. As a result, the fishing options here are extremely diverse. There are, of course, the usual suspects such as large and smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegills and catfish, but you can also find redfish, snook, flounder, tarpon and more!
One of the earliest routes used by the Europeans during their explorations, the St. Johns River is also rich in history. Before the arrival of Europeans, Native Americans including the Timucua called the river home for thousands of years. French Huguenots established a colony at the mouth of the river in 1562. The river was used to transport troops and supplies during the Seminole Indian Wars from 1836 to 1841 and in 1890, Henry Flagler completed the first railroad bridge across the St. Johns River. In 1921, the first of seven automobile bridges was built over the St. John. A bit more recently, in 1988, St. Johns River was designated an American Heritage River by President Clinton – one of only 14 rivers in the United States to receive that prestigious title.
If you are interested in purchasing a quality new or pre-owned boat to enjoy your own adventures on the St. Johns River (or anywhere else), Gerry’s Marina – conveniently located on the North Causeway in New Smyrna Beach – can meet all of your boating needs.
