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Paddle through Florida’s Matanzas River in a fishing kayak where dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds share the shallow waters with Reds, Flounder, and Trout. Discover this quiet outdoor escape near St. Augustine that blends kayaking and fishing perfectly.
Paddle through Florida’s Matanzas River in a fishing kayak where dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds share the shallow waters with Reds, Flounder, and Trout. Discover this quiet outdoor escape near St. Augustine that blends kayaking and fishing perfectly.
Book with Genung's Fish Camp
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Genung's Fish Camp · St. Augustine, Florida
Imagine gliding silently through calm, shallow waters where the Matanzas River weaves its way past scenic islands and hidden creeks just outside historic St. Augustine, Florida. This is the adventure offered by Fishing Kayaks—a unique outdoor experience that combines the quiet thrill of kayaking with the excitement of fishing in one of the region's richest aquatic ecosystems. Here, the gentle river environment hosts an abundance of wildlife, from playful dolphins and slow-moving manatees to a kaleidoscope of coastal birds, making it a prime spot for both nature lovers and anglers alike.
The Matanzas River itself is an intricate estuary system characterized by salt marshes, tidal creeks, and barrier islands made up of marsh grasses and sandy quays. These natural features create ideal shallow waters that shelter prized fish species such as Redfish, Trout, and Flounder. Paddlers, whether novice or expert, can explore the river’s many twists and turns, fishing at their own pace while soaking in uninterrupted views of Florida’s coastal wetlands.
Fishing Kayaks stands out as a gateway to this vibrant environment thanks to their perfectly suited kayaks designed for angling. Their stable craft allow you to cast and troll without sacrificing mobility or stealth, giving anglers an edge when pursuing wary fish. Beyond fishing, this spot offers a rare chance for visitors to observe dolphins breaching gracefully nearby, manatees grazing in the grass, and coastal birds like egrets and ospreys hunting overhead. The combination of water, wildlife, and fishing makes this trip a rich sensory experience, weaving together adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
St. Augustine, just minutes away, provides the perfect base for your excursion. Known for its Spanish colonial architecture and rich maritime history, the city complements this natural retreat with great local hospitality and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day on the water or an active morning casting lines amid breathtaking wildlife, Fishing Kayaks on the Matanzas River offers an accessible, unforgettable Floridian outdoor adventure.
moderate.
3–5 hours.
Suitable for those with moderate upper body strength and basic paddling endurance
Basic kayaking skills are recommended but beginners can participate with guidance from experienced staff.
The Matanzas River is home to Redfish, Spotted Trout, and Flounder, among others.
Yes, personal flotation devices (PFDs) are provided and required for all kayakers.
Spring through fall offers the best fishing conditions, with warmer water attracting more fish.
Yes, guests are welcome to use their own gear or rent tackle from the outfitter.
Children over 10 with basic kayaking skills can join; younger kids require a tandem kayak with an adult.
The Matanzas River is named for a 16th-century battle and has long been vital to St. Augustine’s maritime culture.
Efforts to protect the estuary’s delicate ecosystem include sustainable fishing practices and habitat restoration projects.
Genung's Fish Camp is a waterfront outfitter located in St. Augustine, FL, specializing in paddlecraft rentals and self-guided water experiences on the Matanzas River. The business offers stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals, single and tandem kayaks, fishing kayaks, and canoe rentals designed for recreational paddling and inshore fishing. Rentals provide access to scenic islands, oyster beds, and winding creeks, giving visitors opportunities to observe local wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, and eagles. Staff maintain rental equipment and provide brief orientation and safety guidance for each activity, including route suggestions for paddling routes and shallow-water fishing. Genung's Fish Camp supplies a range of craft suitable for anglers and casual paddlers, with options for different time lengths to match trip plans and skill levels. The location on the Matanzas River enables direct launch into calm coastal waterways popular for flats fishing and wildlife viewing. Customers can choose between solo paddling, tandem trips, or guided-style experiences from self-guided rentals. Reservations and walk-up rentals accommodate flexible visit schedules, and the business emphasizes respect for area habitats and safe paddling practices. Genung's Fish Camp works with local paddlers and anglers to support enjoyable on-water experiences in St. Augustine. The business is a practical choice for visitors seeking straightforward rental access to the Matanzas River, offering a variety of paddlecraft and clear, fact-based trip options for exploration and fishing. Rental durations are flexible to fit half-day or full-day outings, and craft are suited to shallow-water fishing for species such as redfish, flounder, and trout. Paddleboard options also appeal to wildlife viewers and photographers. Safety equipment and local route tips are provided to help guests plan productive, enjoyable time on the water.
Book with Genung's Fish Camp