Blue Spring Fishing Site

Description:

• A handicapped fishing pier is one of the most popular areas for catching fish at Blue Springs State Park. The other popular location is launching a boat or canoe and venturing out into the St. Johns River. Many restricted areas apply due to the presence of endangered manatees sharing the water.

  From the pier, anglers will find an abundance of bluegills and blue cats, in addition to largemouth bass, shellcrackers and speckled perch. Gazing into the waters, you might see the prehistoric-looking gar fish which sometimes reaches 5 feet long. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required for individuals age 16 years and older.

  Canoe rentals are available at the concession area that also offers limited snacks, camping supplies, trinkets, T-shirts, and groceries.

  Visitors to Blue Springs State Park may also be interested in knowing that the park offers a tour boat that follows a 2.5-hour route that travels from the mouth of Blue Springs Run and through a canal that leads to Dead River. At Dead River, the tour boat picks up more tourists as it passes Hontoon Island State Park then circles back to Blue Spring Run. The trip includes a restaurant stop. Reservations can be made by calling the park office.

  Historians will find it interesting to learn that three-story Thursby House is located at the park. Before settling at Blue Springs, Louis Thursday abandoned New York to become a soldier in the Mexican War. After the war, he became one of the first successful citrus fruit growers and tradesman from Central Florida.
  Directions: Take exit 114 off Interstate 4 and follow the signs. Go south on 17/92 to Orange City, about 2.5 miles. Make a right onto West French Avenue.