iOutdoors Blog, Bass Fishing, Cycling, Eco Tours, Fishing Destinations, Florida Fishing, Hiking, Offshore Fishing, Orlando Fishing, Water Sports
The Ultimate Disney World Resort for Outdoorsmen
One of the most popular family bucket list items is planning a trip to Walt Disney World. While “The Most Magical Place on Earth” has a strong princess vibe within the parks, families are ditching Main Street U.S.A. in favor of finding more unique outdoor adventures at the resorts!
Even in the depth of winter, Orlando sports mild weather with afternoons calling for short sleeves before layering up at nightfall. The resulting climate presents countless opportunities to get outside for some fresh air, and of course, get in a little fishing while the rest of the country is still waiting for their season to roll around!
Fort Wilderness Campgrounds, a Favorite of Outdoor Enthusiasts
Today, we’re discussing the Fort Wilderness Campground, which has become a favorite Disney World resort among outdoorsmen and their families. With a huge variety of recreational opportunities, Fort Wilderness has become a destination worthy of a trip unto itself.
In fact, RV sites book quickly in winter months due to snowbirds spending sometimes weeks at a time at their luxurious sites. Those in the RV community that book longer stays will sometimes decorate their rig and surrounding site during the holidays. Christmas lights and inflatable lawn decor create a neighborhood vibe within the resort.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Atmosphere
The Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is a sprawling campus with several types of accommodations. Stays can include tent camping or more of a “glamping” experience in their cabins. Lobby areas, shops, and recreational buildings are designed to resemble rustic log cabins of the storied American frontier.
The resort is far more secluded than many of its counterparts. Which makes it far more likely to encounter local wildlife. Guests may see deer, armadillos, rabbits, ducks, and other Florida waterfowl.
Navigating the Fort Wilderness Transportation System
Disney World covers over 42 square miles. While bringing or renting your own vehicle can be helpful, it’s not necessary. Disney World has its own elaborate transportation network.
Disney’s Internal Bus System
One of the most reliable- and free- forms of transportation within the Disney World Resort (which includes the theme parks, the hotels, and Disney Springs) is its very own bus system.
Bus stops are scattered throughout Fort Wilderness at walkable intervals, where buses whisk you away to main buildings or to theme parks like Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
Boat Transportation to Magic Kingdom
A fun and unique way to travel to Disney’s Magic Kingdom is via a complimentary water taxi from Fort Wilderness. Boats depart every 15 to 30 minutes, hitting a handful of resorts along the edge of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake.
Golf Cart Rental
Golf cart transportation is one of the keys to zipping around Fort Wilderness without waiting on bus transportation. You’ll find most attractions within the resort will offer parking for golf carts but not other motorized vehicles.
Electric golf carts are offered to guests for $63 per night and include the charger. Rentals are available to licensed drivers, 16 years and up.
Rideshare Programs
Guests are able to take advantage of ridesharing programs like Uber and Lyft to travel between parks and also to locations off the property. Local excursions like those provided by iOutdoors meet off-site to enjoy private fishing charters across area lakes!
Types of Accommodations Available at Disney’s Fort Wilderness
Fort Wilderness has perhaps the most diverse array of accommodations available to guests. Depending on how you like to camp, you have the luxury to “choose your own adventure” when booking your stay!
Tent Camping
Sites for tents and pop-up campers come with a concrete pad of about 10’ x 25’ with the tent area just beyond. Sites also have potable water and both 30- and 50-amp hookups. If you are bringing a pop-up camper, just make sure both your camper and tow vehicle fit on the concrete pad. For mealtimes, each site also has a charcoal grill and picnic table alongside each pad.
The policy on tent rentals can vary depending on the resort’s occupancy, with rentals usually being reserved for parties of 20 or more. Tent rentals can run $30 per night, so on a longer stay, it may be better to either ship your own or pick up one in town before hitting the campsite.
RV Campsites
Fort Wilderness has some of the most well-manicured sites you’ll ever see. We’d expect nothing less from The Mouse, himself. Full hookups are available, including water, sewer, and access to both 30- and 50-amp hookups.
The pads measure 45, 50, or 60 feet long, with terms like preferred and premium denoting sites in close proximity to different amenities across the resort. We prefer a “Premium Meadow” site that’s close to the main building with access to the hub of bus transportation.
The Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort
Perhaps you have a glamper in the family that’s happy to be landing at Disney World, yet they’re not all-in on a rustic camping experience. The Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort offer amenities that you won’t find elsewhere like granite countertops, flat-screen televisions, and full kitchens including a dishwasher.
Each cabin has its own charcoal grill, picnic area, and deck to enjoy your morning coffee. Fort Wilderness is also the only resort with complimentary parking, with dedicated spots directly in front of each unit.
The resort’s sprawl provides a little extra privacy from your neighbors and plenty of room for the entire family to stretch out. Queen beds, bunk beds, and a sleeper couch can accommodate up to 6 adults.
Amenities and Facilities Found at Disney’s Fort Wilderness
Resort guests staying in tent and RV sites have access to clean and safe restrooms and shower areas at 15 different “Comfort Stations” throughout the resort. Many RVers choose to get cleaned up inside their rig, but many may opt for unlimited hot water.
Recreation at Disney’s Fort Wilderness
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is seen as an oasis in the Disney bubble. While there are certainly Disney touches, life seems to move at a slower pace here. People come here to relax, whereas other resorts on property cater to the go-go-go crowd that’s more concerned with park-going and perhaps looking more for a place to rest their heads.
Boat Rentals
If relaxing to you looks like getting out on the water, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resorts has several options to enjoy! For some motorized cruising, Disney offers Sun Tracker pontoon boats, which seat up to 10 guests.
If you are looking to explore the inland waterways at a slower pace, you and your family can rent a canoe by the hour, which can accommodate up to 3 people. Kayaks are also available for rent, which can seat up to 2 adults.
Disney does not allow guests to bring personal watercraft for use on their waterways. Rentals are available to those 18 years of age and older, with all guests 12 required to wear a lifejacket.
Fishing
If you’re up before the sun, you can make your way out to the Bike Barn for some dockside fishing. Gear rental is available, as well as bait. Shore fishing is not permitted around the waterways due to safety issues. Dock fishers will usually find catches like breen and decent-sized bass.
If you are intent on sailing Bay Lake, you can also charter a fishing excursion through Disney. Bay Lake is usually stocked with largemouth bass, although it seems catfish have found their way into the area as well.
As a quick reminder, all fishing on Disney property is strictly catch and release.
If you don’t mind a trip off property, you can treat yourself to a first-class fishing experience chartered by iOutdoor. Local area lakes are known for trophy largemouth bass. With access to both Atlantic and Gulf coastlines, you can create a truly memorable vacation when fishing for game-like grouper, snapper, mahi-mahi, redfish, and swordfish.
Archery
Families can take their best shot with a bow and arrow during a 75-minute archery experience. Staff trainers provide individualized lessons to guests 7 and older. Classes are small, with only 10 guests allowed at a time. After receiving instruction, resort guests can let their arrows fly during target practice.
All materials for the class are supplied, as Disney does not permit guests to bring their own archery equipment on site.
Bike Rentals
Disney does allow you to bring your own bicycle; however, if you’re arriving by airplane, you may want to visit the Bike Barn for some new wheels! Guests can pedal their way around the resort, taking in the fresh air, local wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. As a quick reminder, Florida law requires the use of a bicycle helmet for anyone under 16 years of age.
Segway X2 Back Trail Adventure
Guests 16 years and older can enjoy a guided tour of Fort Wilderness using an all-terrain Segway! Cast members share information about the resort and the natural surroundings via guest headsets as you traverse paved and off-road surfaces in wooded areas.
The tour lasts about two hours. Guests receive a 30 minutes tutorial on how to maneuver the Segway prior to departure.
Tri-Circle-D Ranch
One of the unique features of Fort Wilderness is Disney’s Tri-Circle-D Ranch. It’s unbelievable, the ranch is where the towering horses from Magic Kingdom’s Main Street parades are stabled. So not only does it offer guest recreation, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at the Disney magic! There’s even an exhibit featuring a historic 1907 calliope that was selected by Walt Disney himself!
For a more hands-on experience, your family can book 45 minutes, guided trail ride. For kids that may not be as experienced in the saddle, parents can lead little ones on a pony ride on an enclosed track.
Tri-Circle-D also offers horse-drawn carriage rides, wagon rides, and seasonally available sleigh rides. A quick tip: It’s strongly recommended to reserve exclusive experiences well in advance!
Pool Areas at Fort Wilderness
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campsites offers two pool areas to serve the resort. Splash pad areas are available for the littles looking to cool off in the Florida sun. Parents will also enjoy hot tubs after a long day at play.
Snack bar areas are available nearby for a quick bite, and plenty of lounge chairs surrounding the pool area are a great way to relax. All Disney pools offer complimentary life jackets for swimmers of all ages. Be sure to bring your own towels from the room, as Fort Wilderness is the only Disney resort to not offer them poolside. However, you can, however, request fresh towels from “Mousekeeping” at any time.
More Sport Activities
However, if you’re looking to satisfy your competitive streak. Fort Wilderness also has both basketball and volleyball courts. In addition, it’s easy to keep your steps upon scenic jogging trails that wind throughout the resort.
More Family Fun
For instance, if after a long day in the parks, there might still be a little energy to burn off. All Disney on-site resorts, including Fort Wilderness, have playgrounds available for your little guys. Older kids will enjoy access to two different arcade locations on the property.
Dining at Fort Wilderness
Firstly, if you’re looking for a light bite or a dinner and a show. Disney’s Fort Wilderness has several dining options available without leaving your resort. Restaurants include quick service options like The Chuck Wagon food truck and hearty grub from P&J’s Southern Takeout. For a slower pace, enjoy castiron skillet meals at Trail’s End.
One of the most notorious dinner shows on the property is the long-running Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review at Pioneer Hall. After that, buckets of fried chicken and piles of BBQ ribs are followed by their iconic Strawberry Shortcake. If the food wasn’t enough of a draw. Moreover, the live song and dance that’s been performed for over four decades will get your toes tapping!
Final Thoughts
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campgrounds is the perfect balance between a camping retreat and an immersive theme park experience. Families from all corners of the country come to unwind after a year at the grindstone, and the unique outdoor experiences of Fort Wilderness treat travelers to a rustic and welcoming stay.
In other words, now that the secret of this hidden gem is out. The event has seen a surge in popularity in recent years. Be sure to book your sites, dining, and experiences up to a year in advance. Up to six months in advance for dining! This gets access to tons of special experiences that your family will remember for a lifetime!
Have you stayed at Fort Wilderness in Florida before? How was your stay? What activities did you use? Got some other tips you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments below!
iOutdoors Blog, Kids Fishing, Surfing, Water Sports
Everyone loves spending time with their loved ones, and if you can go outside to spend quality time with family, even better. There are tons of things you can do outside to help make the most of your time together and to make sure that everyone is having a blast.
1. Plan a Picnic
For those who are spending time outside, a picnic is a great way to get their favorite food and to get some fresh air while you are at it. Choose a spot that is special to you and your family and pack everyone’s favorite items. Let the kids help set up the tents, make food or snacks. Take along some games that everyone can play like football or Jenga or water bucket relay if you are on the beachside and have a great time.
2. Plan a Treasure Hunt
Treasure hunts are much more than just looking for hidden objects. You can weave little games into the process that take up a few hours outside with your family while you play, and encourage teamwork and problem-solving. A great treasure hunt is engaging for the entire family and can make a huge difference in the overall way you see your surroundings.
3. Go Bowling
You might not consider it, but bowling is an excellent, fun game. But who says you have to head to a gaming zone or a mall for that! Yard bowling is a great idea to get outside and to get active. You can use items you have laying around the yard or invest in a lawn bowling set complete with bowling pins and a ball. It helps to hone hand-eye coordination and to build up throwing strength in younger kids. It is also an all-ages game, so perfect for everyone.
4. Grilling Fish
This activity is going to bring the perfect dinner to your table and spend some quality time with your family. You can grill fish over an open flame on the grill, or in an outdoor oven. Fish is something that kids may be hesitant to eat, but taking the time to involve them in the process can make a big difference in how willing they are to try new things. In the process of grilling fish your whole family is involved in cooking and eating a meal together, no matter what time of day it is.
5. Outdoor Games
There are so many games to play outside that won’t only give you quality time, but keep the family fit. You can play tag, hide and seek, Frisbee, and more. These are all games in which you can involve your pets as well. With outdoor games, the sky is the limit. They are a great way to get everyone moving and to let your family members have a bit of freedom depending on what they have chosen to play. If your family is competitive and athletic, you can plan a volleyball or hurdle race, or three-legged race. If family members simply want to have some fun time outdoors, twister, tug of war, Pictionary, etc. can be your go-to option.
6. Fishing with the Kids
Everyone loves fishing, especially kids. Fishing is a great way to spend quality time together. The downtime between catching fish is great to reflect and to talk to each other or just be together. Fishing with kids might become the go-to activity that both of you enjoy to the core. Later, you can grill your catch together, which we have discussed earlier. To catch exotic fish, you may need to hire fishing charters as you may not be able to catch them at the shore.
7. Camping
Camping is an opportunity to go out of your comfort zone and learn to live with bare essentials. Be it camping in the wilderness or just in your backyard, it will teach you new skills, appreciate and enjoy nature, and unhook from technology for a while, so that you can truly be yourselves and spend time together with your family. Kids love camping and setting a campfire. Complete the trip with s’mores, it’s a great way to wrap up the night before you sleep under the stars.
8. Surfing
Surfing is another great outdoor sport if you live near the sea. It provides a full-body workout and is perfect if you want some pace and adventure in your life. Surfers glide across the surface of the water until the wave breaks and lose its energy. It is also a great way to get some sun and to learn a new skill that you did not have before.
No matter what you choose, spending time outside with the family is always a win-win. These are just a few suggestions about what you can do outside with the family. Have fun, be courageous, and just do what makes you and the family happy.
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Kayaking Canoeing, Eco Tours, iOutdoors Blog, Nature Adventures, Water Sports
Kayak fishing is a fantastic outdoor activity that has been rapidly growing in popularity in the last few years. The idea of gliding to a hidden spot where boats can’t access and fish is the main reason why this activity has grown in popularity. And the introduction of fishing-specific kayaks made this outdoor activity even more fun and relaxing.
However, without proper preparation and training, kayak fishing can be quite dangerous. So, if you plan to purchase a fishing kayak or take part in this activity, you should take some time and consider the following safety tips. These tips will ensure that your fishing adventure is safe and fun.
Kayak Fishing Safety Tips for Beginners
1. Start Your Kayak Fishing Journey With an Experienced Kayak Angler
One of the best methods of learning kayak fishing safely is taking your first trips with experienced kayak anglers. Other than the buyer guides, the experienced kayak fishermen can be a great source of information on anything to do with the best fishing kayaks. Experienced fishermen can give you numerous crucial tips to help you purchase the best fishing kayak and get started.
They can also guide you through your initial sessions and help you improve your skills and confidence. The skills you will gain from the experienced anglers when starting your kayaking journey is invaluable. They can show you the best fishing spot with less traffic and help you perfect your paddling and casting skills.
If you don’t know anyone with a fishing kayak or any experienced kayak angler, look for kayaking groups in social media. Kayak fishing is a new activity that is quite popular so that you will find other beginners. You can use social media to connect with experienced kayak anglers in your home town.
2. Learn How to Predict Safe Weather Conditions
Never put yourself in unnecessary risk by going out in poor weather conditions. Instead, learn how to use weather apps to predict and understand the weather forecast. This will help you plan the exact date for your trips and also keep you safe. Take your time and learn how to predict the strength and direction of the wind.
Another thing that has a great impact on your fishing ground is the swell patterns. The swell tends to flatten when the wind is blowing from behind you. For many experienced anglers, the best time to fish is when the wind speed is below 6.2 miles/second towards the sea. There are numerous free tools that can help you predict the swell and wind. With these weather apps, you can determine the right time and date to go fishing.
3. Always Wear Your PFD (Personal Floatation Device)
Wearing a life jacket, also referred to as a PFD is a must when kayak fishing. The PFD can save your life from numerous unpredictable situations. Therefore, you should always wear your PFD regardless of where you are fishing or weather conditions. Look for a fitting non-inflated PFD with waterproof pockets.
These jackets have canisters that inflate when they detect that you are in the water. So, make sure they are serviced regularly. After all, nobody wants their PED to fail them when they go overboard.
4. Look for a Reliable Kayak Fish Finder
Other than helping you find the best fishing grounds, a fish finder can keep you safe. Fishfinders can help you understand the water depth and temperature. They can also help you navigate using a GPS tracker. A finder can help you maneuver in low visibility situations or new territories.
5. Make Sure You Have a Kayak EPIRB and PLB
Even though these devices are not mandatory, they can come in handy when you get lost or need emergency services. The EPIRB (Emergency-Position Indicator Radio Beacon) is designed to stay on your kayak while the PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) should be with you. You can contact the emergency service using these devices when you need rescuing or assistance.
6. Be Visible to Others
Wear highly visible clothes when kayak fishing and, if possible, mount a flag on your vessel. This will show the others where you are on the water. Keeping a small distance between your vessel and the others, particularly the big boats or powered watercraft, will allow you enough time to react. This will guarantee you enough time to get out of dangerous scenarios.
If you plan on kayak fishing when it’s dark, make sure you have a kayak light. These lights will allow others to see you and also help you navigate. Look for a visibility kit that has a flag.
7. Communicate With Others
The most basic but crucial safety tip is informing your family member or pals exactly where you are. Tell them where you plan to launch from, who you have gone fishing with, and the time you plan to return. Tell them any potential or predicted risk that might occur on that day. You can also communicate with other anglers using a walkie talkie. Walkie talkies are affordable and can be quite fun.
8. Be Organized
Even though loading your kayak with your fishing gear and setting sail is tempting, you should always be organized. Being disorganized when kayak fishing can be almost impossible for you to navigate and fish. So, don’t carry several fishing rods on your vessel. Make sure you have a secure spot for all the sharp equipment like scissors, pliers, and knives. A great fishing kayak should have space for your catch, bait, and tackle box.
9. Be Ready for the Sun
The Ultraviolet rays tend to reflect strongly on the water and can easily cause sunburn. So, you should be sun smart. Try and protect a huge percentage of your skin when kayak fishing under the sun. Don’t forget to pack the following:
● UV gloves
● A hat
● Multiple UV shields for your neck and face
● Sunscreen
● Ample water to keep you hydrated
Final Thoughts
Eco Kayak tours are a great outdoor activity that is loved by many anglers. It can be a fun way to fish, relax, and also keep fit. However, without proper preparations and training, your fishing experience can turn hazardous in no time. So, before venturing into the water alone, make sure you spend some sessions with experienced anglers. You can learn everything you need to know about kayak fishing from them.
iOutdoors Blog, Surfing, Water Sports
Surfing in Florida
One of the best places to get stoked about surfing & water sports is in Florida. Here, there are 1,350 miles of coastline, quite a lot to explore, and is also known as the surfing Mecca of the East Coast. Approximately 40% of the East Coast surfing population is located here in Florida.
Great Swells in Florida Beaches
Perhaps one of the most popular reasons for surfing in Florida is the great swells or waves that come up to the coastline which are perfect for surfing. However, though Florida may be home to some quality surfing spots, the swells are also pretty inconsistent. So before heading off to surf in Florida, it is best to know when the great swells appear.
The best time to surf in Florida is during the summer cyclone season from August to October. The swells coming in at this time come from the cyclones tracking from Africa to the Caribbean which produce great waves measuring up to 10 feet. This type of wave is perfect for surfing because it provides surfers the opportunity of a long, continuous surf which is open for any exhibition a surfer would dare.
Best Surfing Spots
The most famous and also the busiest surfing spots in Florida would be Cocoa Beach and Sebastian Inlet. However, any beach in Florida can be great for surfing because of its warm water, sandy beaches, and the warm sun.
Cocoa Beach
Home to many surfers, but none bigger than six-time world champion Kelly Slater. For Surfing in Florida to be popular locally it takes having famous surf shops. Cocoa Beach is a legendary spot for being a top spot in Florida. It has big crowds, with great waves for beginners and experts-a-like. The destination is also home to many local surf contests, lie the Easter Surf Festival. These types of contest promote surfing locally and include categories that range from men’s and women’s surfing, single and tandem. Even a dog surfing contest.
A legendary location for surfing is Ron Jon Surf Shop, this is the location of its flagship original store. is stocked with more beach gear than any other single location. Cocoa Beach Surf Company is also another excellent stop for loading up on watersport gear.
St Augustine
In Florida, St Augustine is known as it’s the oldest city. Which make sense its also one of the oldest surfing location in Florida. Now, the city of St Augustine has started to recognize the sport louder and prouder than ever before. Suffers are still not a primary activity in the area, but the surfers that do visit there experience with the most intimidating waves from the Atlantic Ocean. Common in these markets is that you will find the tightest communities of local surfers.
St Augustine has both a Surf Station and a Surf School. They offer surf lessons, camps, and rentals. The Surf School will even deliver boards straight to your hotel door.
Miami Beach
Miami’s South Beach is home to many things, fancy hotels, great restaurants, and incredible after-hours nightlife, and some of the most glorious beaches in Florida. Miami has always provided very wide beaches, centralizing spots for local surfers, and out-of-towners alike to hang in tandem. Known for its incredible spring breaks and summer fun from June to November. Like most surfing spots, the handout is at nearby jetty or pier. First Street is one of the best surfing spots in Miami.
A legendary location for surfing information and supplies is Island Water Sports. Miami store is the location of its flagship original store. They provide the area with the latest gear and best equipment for board sports. They also provide lessons, just Google Island Water Sports or South Beach Surf School.
New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna has a 10-mile stretch of sandy white beaches on the Atlantic ocean. One of the original surfing locations in Florida that set the standard for the state of Florida. Many things stand out about New Smyrna that makes it should a popular surfing location in Florida but none more than the capability of loading up your car and drive right onto the shore with all your equipment. They say the harder packed beaches add consistency to the wave’s size, gap, and speed. More so than anywhere in the entire state of Florida.
Gnarley Charley’s Surf Series provides the area with the newest gear and best equipment for board sports. They offer private, group, or family instruction. And a complete specialty coaching for students wanting to surf competitively.
Conclusion
Florida has produced a massive fan base for surfing that there are surf shops and surfing schools available throughout the coastal areas of Florida. First-time surfers don’t have to bring anything including experience because everything can be provided for you right near the beach.
iOutdoors Blog, Animal Park Experience, Bass Fishing, Bottom Fishing, Cape Canaveral Fishing, Inshore Fishing, Largemouth Bass, Nature Adventures, New Smyrna Fishing, Offshore Fishing, Orlando Fishing, Redfish Fishing, Water Sports
Best Orlando Outdoor Activities
Are you planning on bringing your family to Orlando to visit the theme parks? Have you been here before and don’t know what to do on your additional days here? Orlando is filled with endless hidden treats that you can embark on outside the theme parks. The best Orlando outdoor activities are just within a car ride away.
When you are visiting Central Florida and specifically Orlando, there is one outdoor activity that trumps them all: Fishing. Florida fishing here in Orlando is absolutely exceptional all year round. Whether you want freshwater bass fishing or saltwater fishing, you have access to it. Florida bass fishing is easily accessed as Orlando is surrounded by hundreds of freshwater lakes.
We specialize in fishing here at iOutdoor. Our local experts have years of experience that provide them knowledge to put you on the biggest fish of your life. Orlando has two dominate lakes that produce fantastic trips all year: the Butler Chain of Lakes and Lake Tohopekaliga. Both of these beautiful lakes are within minutes of the theme parks in Orlando. If you are looking for a quick getaway and want to get the rod bent, this is one of the best opportunities.
If saltwater fishing is a better alternative or more appealing to you, the east coast holds the most exceptional fishing the state has to offer. Just a short drive away you can be on some excellent species whether in New Smyrna Beach or Daytona Beach along with Cape Canaveral. Most noteworthy, the inshore fishing for trophy bull redfish is by far the best experience. You don’t have to worry about sea sickness on this fishing trip. While you cruise the backwaters, you will be able to experience endless wildlife and hard-pulling inshore species.
Don’t count out though battling the seas for big pelagic species including sailfish, mahi-mahi, wahoo, kingfish as well as bottom fish like grouper and snapper. Furthermore, offshore or deep sea fishing is a great opportunity to get the whole family on the water especially larger parties for some outdoor fun. 
If you want to stay closer to Orlando, you can also experience several other awesome outdoor water activities. Staying cool and refreshed is not a problem in Central Florida especially if you visit the Orlando Watersports Complex. While you won’t be setting the hook into your dream fish, you can learn how to wakeboard, wakesurf, kneeboard or waterskii with professional, kind and attentive staff. This is a great addition to your Florida outdoor vacation
The outdoors truly can enhance your Florida vacation. One of the other amazing experiences you can encounter is Gator Land. Learn all about our wildlife at this incredible place. You will not only educate yourself on Florida’s wildlife but you can zip line through the park along with watch reptile shows that can amuse your family. Add this to your freshwater fishing trip and you will truly get to explore all Orlando has to offer. 
Above all, when you visit Florida, don’t miss out on getting outdoors. Enjoy the beautiful weather, get some sun in your face and experience everything Florida has to offer. Each time of year will give you a breathtaking view and most certainly a different fishing experience. Fishing along with the additional outdoor activities mentioned can help you create memories worth a lifetime. Orlando, Florida is the ultimate family destination that can satisfy all your needs in one location. We look forward to sharing the experience with you!
Your Adventure Starts Today while Visiting Orlando.
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Sail Fishing, iOutdoors Blog, Kayaking Canoeing, Sport Fishing
Broken Arrows Chris Thomas
Vegas oddsmakers missed a golden opportunity last week as a pair of Oklahoma kayak bass fishermen entered the nation’s first offshore sailfish tournament — and won.
Broken Arrow firefighter Chris Thomas and friend Ryan Jones of OKC Kayak in Oklahoma City took first and second place, respectively, in the Extreme Kayak Fishing Sailfish Smack Down at Pompano Beach, Fla. on Jan. 25-26.
Thomas landed a nice trophy, $3,000 and some Costa sunglasses. Jones brought in $1,000 and some Costa shades. The prizes were secondary to the experience, however. It was the first sailfish for Thomas and a first time fishing offshore, ever, for Jones.
Thomas often fishes Texas offshore waters, but it’s hard to find a sailfish down there, so he has had his eye on the Florida coast for some Saltwater Fishing in Florida.
The tournament came along as an off-chance opportunity and, as Thomas put it, “we accidentally won it.”
Entering a tournament seemed like a good way to learn.
“I figured I could spend money and hire a guide or pay a $150 entry fee and fish with some of the best around,” he said.
Thomas and Jones researched in advance and quizzed locals upon their arrival and went offshore before the tournament to troll for king mackerel and use their electronics to scan the bottom for structures and depths. “We kind of pre-fished it like a bass tournament,” Thomas said.
While scouting they spotted sailfish “free jumping” and planned to return to that spot the next morning for the tournament. It paid off as Thomas hooked up first, then Jones.
As the anglers catch the fish they are required to radio a help boat that documents the catch and takes the fish from the angler for safe release. The fish are not weighed or measured. “The fish only comes out of the water for the picture,” Thomas said.
Winner of the tournament is determined by who catches the most fish. Twelve anglers in the tournament last week caught three fish on the weekend, “which I guess isn’t bad for kayak anglers,” Thomas said. He won by virtue of being the first to land a fish. He almost caught a second sailfish, but it spit the hook, he said.
Sailfish are the fastest fish in the world and can swim up to 68 mph. Thomas said his fight with a 30- to 40-pound sailfish lasted about 20 minutes and ended three-quarters of a mile from where it began. He described the fight as “a sleigh ride of a lifetime.”
Extreme Kayak Fishing is the biggest offshore kayak tournament series in the country, said founder Joe Hector. Their main summer series often has 150 to 200 entrants.
Radio chatter as Thomas hooked up relayed local anglers’ feelings on the matter. All the anglers carry VHF radios so all can hear it when the help boat is called, he said. “When Chris got on and said, “Oklahoma’s hooked up” you heard guys moan, but Ryan, then when he called in “Oklahoma Two” the locals were cursing, ‘Oh, crap! You gotta be kiddin’ me!’ We even asked him if he was joking and he said, ‘No, I’m hooked up!’ ”
Hector credited Thomas and Ryan for doing their research and listening to advise of locals and getting it done.
“For them to come down and beat those guys, it was unbelievable and awesome,” he said.
“All I wanted to do on the trip was catch a sailfish and I did that,” Thomas said. “And I got an incredible looking glass trophy.”
