Silly question

[stellablu]

I wanted to ask you guys where the best beaches for collecting or snorkeling in the area are. We're planning a mini roadtrip today and figured we'd hop over to your coast to spend some time.

I know the last time I visited the St. Pete area most of the beaches were being dredged so I wouldn't want to get there and find out the place was a mess. That was years ago but still, better to get a heads up instead of get disappointed.

If anyone could recommend some neat *free or almost free* things to do and places to check out that would excellent. It's just a nice day and a half away from home and we want an adventure.

Also, any good camping spots?

Thank you!

[college429]

Go to Ft. Desoto Park.
Great Beach. Lots of marine life. I think you may also be able to camp nearby.

[BlitzK]

Ft. Desoto ...camping and beaches (#1 rated beach last year). Though I don't know how good it is for collecting.

[stellablu]

Sounds like a winner then :) Thank youuu!

[luminary]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6958550#post6958550 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by BlitzK
Ft. Desoto ...camping and beaches (#1 rated beach last year). Though I don't know how good it is for collecting.

I'd be surprised if collecting was even allowed. I recommend asking and not just assuming...Wouldn't want the trip to end with a hefty fine.

[BlitzK]

Obviously you'll need a saltwater fishing license to take anything, if it is even allowed....

[Surferlopez]

Weekie Wachee about an hour North has some fun kayaking, etc. Worth the trip, I think.

[fish_taste_good]

Collection is illegal as far as I know.

Ft. Desoto is a good place.

I also believe that the Grass flats around Sarasota are pretty good. I can't think of the area though. Lots of urchins, puffers, etc

[Warnberg]

Depends on what you are looking to collect. You will need a saltwater fishing license and you will need to study the regulations.

http://myfwc.com/marine/recreational/recharvestmls.htm

[luminary]

I think Tripp was referring to collection at Desoto. Those are the state regulations but there are preserves around the state that have collection completely banned (for example Pennekamp down in the keys).

[PelagicMagic]

weekie is great, I grew up there. Too bad the flats are bare now and all the grass is gone, the river is clear but not as clear as it once was. You can rent canoes/kayaks to travel down it and you get picked up at the end of the river and driven back to where you parked. The upper river is still pretty clear, they also have a waterpark but I do not know if its still open since its been years since I have been home. I like anclote key, very healthy environment but you will need a boat to get to the good spots

[bugged]

Caladesi Island, take the boat shuttle You wont regret it and It is the best beach are in Fl. Boat access ONLY no road.


http://www.floridaparks.com/stprks/south_west/caladesiisland.htm

I wouldnt do much Snorkeling on this coast in a few weeks the Tarpon will be migrating and the Bull sharks follow them.

[Ann1214]

I love Caladesi. It is the best.