FISHING

The resort is well known for plentiful catches of speckled trout, redfish and cobia caught in shallow waters off the end of the Econfina River in depths of 6 to 10 feet. The unusual quantity of grass beds provides cover for shrimp and other elements of the food chain. That is why the "Flats" are such desirable fishing areas. Mostly shallow draft boats (24" to 30") are preferred due to the tidal effects in the shallow mouth of the river. Larger vessels drawing more than 30" may be stranded by outgoing tides.

Click here to view the latest Saltwater Fishing Regulations.

HIKING

Several hiking trails are to be found in the Econfina State Preserve. Several of the trails follow along the long abandoned logging trams, which were used to log (remove) the original forest. Hiking is largely a wilderness experience, the highlight of which is following a trail onto one of the barrier islands, which stand in the tidal marshes, unscathed by man.

Six miles east along the coast, there is a landmark constructed years ago by the Buckeye Pulp mill. "Hickory Mound Impoundment" is a dike running along the coast for 2-3 miles. A giant culvert with one-way gates pierces this dike. The gates allow the tidal waters to flow into the impoundment, and escape very slowly. It is a wonderful place to "Bird watch" and to catch blue crabs.

The hiker needs boots, a hat, long sleeve shirt and plenty of insect repellent.

Click here to view a trail map of the adjoining Econfina State Park.
Click here to view the GPS coordinates for the trail map of the adjoining Econfina State Park.

CANOEING & KAYAKING

The portion of the river available for canoeing is magnificent. The water is tanic, tea-colored "blackwater," like the Suwannee. Several extremely large, old cypress trees and cypress knees line the banks. The banks often show exposed limestone.

There is no housing or other types of development until you reach the take-out point at the resort, because paper companies own much of the land along the river. It is a quiet, tranquil experience.

The river requires some degree of technical paddling skill since, at least during higher water conditions, sections of the river are swift, there are large trees that the paddler must either duck under (very limbo-like) or portage over. The river is fairly narrow, and there are almost continuous "S" turns as the river winds its way through the forest.

During any short canoe trip you may also see gators slip into the water in front of you. Since there are many stagnant pools along the river insect repellent is a must.

Also, for those who wish an even greater challange, there is the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. This is a paddling trail leading from the Suwannee River Canoe Trail out into the Gulf. From there you can paddle north to the Steinhatchee River Camoe Trail and the Econfina River Canoe Trail. From the Econfina River you can paddle west to the Aucilla River Canoe Trail, the Wacissa River Canoe Trail and the St. Mark's River Canoe Trail.

Click here for a map of the Historic Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail.