Spring is a spectacular time to visit Citrus County for a vacation in The Water Lover’s Florida overflowing with outdoor fun and value as you:
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Offshore
Guest article by Captain Doug Reeb, Crystal River
Inshore Captain Bruce Williams with the Homosassa Guides Association says spring is the “perfect time of year” for inshore fishing, with ideal weather and so many species to target. He suggests going for trout, mackerel and redfish. Bluefish are around this time of year, and although they are “not the best eatin’, they are sure fun to catch.” In May the tarpon action heats up as the Silver Kings, weighing in at about 150 pounds or more, travel through our area on their annual migration. So book your guided trip today. The fishing in and around Homosassa and Crystal River is world renowned for a reason. |
The monkeys on Monkey Island in the middle of the Homosassa River are moving on up. The five spider monkeys have a new three-story waterfront condo to call home. “It just makes their life more exciting when you change things up,” island owner Gail Oakes said. “It’s like a new home.” Gone are the monkey bars and assorted obstacles. The new condo-playhouse was designed to keep the monkeys up in the air, keeping the primates and resort guests interested. Oakes said it’s been decades since the entire island was rebuilt. The monkeys have been content with new obstacles and toys, but now they have new digs! If you haven’t taken the time to see the monkeys, you should. You can view them from Homosassa Riverside Resort. The resort has views from their restaurants and bars, as well as a “MonkeyCam” at www.riversideresorts.com. Homosassa Riverside Resort – 5297 S Cherokee, Homosassa, FL 34448 • 352-628-2474 |
 During your spring escape, be sure to treat yourself to Citrus County’s newest places to dine.
Vintage on 5th – A new restaurant has opened its doors, but we are all to familiar with the owners. Rodney & Jennifer Carr, owners of Crystal River Wine & Cheese Company. The restaurant is in a refurbished historic Cracker-style house in the historic section of Crystal River. “Refined Southern” is the menu theme according to Jennifer. They feature Shrimp & Grits like you’ve never seen them before and Fried Green Tomatoes that are to die for. 114 NE 5th Street, Crystal River, FL 34428 • 352-794-0004 McLeod House Bistro – Located in downtown Inverness in a historic home with a beautiful deck—named the RD 727 Deck—is the McLeod House Bistro. Specializing in light fare entrées and unique desserts, it is a treat not to be missed. Special happy hours dot the week, and the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. Recently opened, it is a great addition to the already bustling downtown Inverness area. 207 N Apopka Avenue, Inverness, FL 34450 • 352-637-4300 Burkes of Ireland – An authentic Irish pub has opened in Crystal River. A quaint little space laden with wood detail and a very long bar, it fits in perfectly on Citrus Avenue. The pub is open afternoons into the late evenings. So if you’re visiting the area and are in the mood for live music and a good lager, be sure stop by. 564 N Citrus Avenue, Crystal River, FL 34428 • 352-795-0956 |
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The 26th Annual Cobia Tournament happens in Homosassa in June. Whether you are fishing or just watching, it’s a great tournament with lots of fun and prizes. |
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Don’t let spring slip away without experiencing all the seasonal value and adventure of The Water Lover’s Florida. Visit www.VisitCitrus.com for all the information you need to plan a splendid escape, or call the Citrus County VCB at 800-587-6667 for free assistance. |
Hit the Rivers – Whether it’s in a kayak, a pontoon, a jon boat or a flats boat, now is the time to get out into the warm spring air and enjoy our rivers. The sun is just warm enough to entice you into the springs for a swim. Do watch for migrating manatees, as they head out to the Gulf;
The Florida grouper fishing season has begun. This is an exciting time of year when the air still carries a hint of coolness, the sun is warm, and the grouper fishing is hot. Like clockwork, once the temperature of the Gulf of Mexico hits that magical 70 degrees, the fish start becoming very active. Like bears that have been in hibernation, they wake up hungry and stay that way through the summer. Visitors to the waters 20-40 miles offshore will discover the tranquility of the blue Gulf, the abundance of life on and in the ocean, and the freshest salt air. It’s a chance to truly enjoy yourself in the silence without cell phones and the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Florida offshore grouper fishing offers much more then the opportunity to catch one of the most powerful and best tasting fish in the oceans, it offers an opportunity to regroup as a family.
Scallop season begins July 1st. Start making plans now as accommodations fill up quickly, especially on the weekends. Visit our 
