Boating in Citrus County, FL: Rentals & Marinas

Boating

Whatever Floats Your Boat

From the Gulf to the Lakes, Florida’s Citrus County is built for that special brand of fun that only being on the water with family and friends provides.

You’ll see the name Seven Rivers a lot when you come here. It’s a tribute to the rich labyrinth of spring-fed rivers flowing into the Gulf of Mexico that make this region of Florida so unique.

The character of these coastal waters reflects original Florida. Oyster shell islands interspersed with huge stands of mangrove, make the inshore waters of the Gulf—fed by the Withlacoochee, Crystal, Salt, St Martins, Halls, Homosassa & Chassahowitzka Rivers—some of the most healthy recreational fishing grounds in the State.

There are plenty of boat ramps and marinas for putting in just where you want to be.

The longest of the Seven Rivers, the Withlacoochee (prounounced: With-la-coo-chee) shapes the inland terrain and creates the freshwater Lakes portion of Florida’s Citrus County.

The Tsala Apopka lakes (Hernando and Henderson Lakes, along with Floral City Pool) stretch for twenty-five miles along the eastern boundary of Citrus County. Downstream, the river creates Lake Rousseau before crossing the Florida Barge Canal and making its final run to the Gulf at Withlacoochee Bay.

This is as original a piece of Florida as the Gulf side only huge stands of bald-knob Cypress and impressive stands of hardwood define the water and landscape. 

A few notes on boating: This portion of Florida is sometimes referred to as the Springs Coast because it’s one of the few parts of the state where springs are accessible from the Gulf of Mexico. It’s what makes Kings Bay, the Homosassa & Chassahowitzka Rivers the Manatee Capital of the World.

Manatees use these springs for thermal refuges when the Gulf of Mexico becomes cold in winter and many manatees linger in these waters throughout the summer. Pay attention to all No Wake-idle speed zones.

Please Note: Within Kings Bay, idle speed zones are in effect year-round.

Mind Your Manatee Manners

Whether you’re here to fish or go scalloping or just want to take in the scenery and enjoy the lively waterfronts, welcome and safe boating!

Aquatic Activities
releasing fish into the water

Hooked on Florida Fishing

swimming with the manatees

Welcome to the Manatee Capital of The World! Let an experienced guide take you through the crystal clear waters of our local springs where you can swim alongside these gentle giants!

girl snorkeling for scallops

Dive for Your Dinner

A New World of Beauty