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With far fewer tourists, now is the time for area's outdoor enthusiasts
By MIKE SCARANTINO
© St. Petersburg Times, published September 21, 2002
It is no secret that the Panhandle is a tremendous drive-to destination for people from the southeastern United States.
Equally, it's no secret that right after Labor Day weekend, the area's activity comes to a near halt -- a perfect time for outdoor enthusiasts from peninsula Florida to visit.
My family takes its annual vacation during this period. In spite of some negatives -- 9/11, Friday the 13th and landfall from tropical storm Hanna -- the trip was fantastic.
The five of us fished, boated Saint Andrews Bay, beach combed and swam. We enjoyed trap, skeet and clay shooting, and the group visited the quaint fishing villages that mark the coastline. Panama City Beach was the destination for our exciting week. It's a time when crowds are non-existent and the area is relaxed and unhurried. With summer vacation over, tourism winds down, leaving the little towns that dot the coastline along route 98 unfettered.
Hanna, nevertheless, was on her way. The surf roiled the beach furiously before the storm came. Surfers accessed the area any way they could for their brief but exciting interlude with Mother Nature.
Fishing commercially and recreationally is a big part of Panhandle life, so my sons, Michael and Anthony, and I set out for a half-day trip the morning after our arrival.
The plan was to head offshore to fish deep wrecks, but a quick glance at the horizon changed our minds. The sea was bumpy. Judging by the swell just outside the inlet, our captain advised us we'd be running 18 miles west along the beach to some tall coral heads in 60 feet of water. Compared to our area, 60 feet is only a mile or so off the beach.
Even though we had a rough ride and an off tide, we picked up a modest-sized red snapper, beautiful lane snapper, some big triggerfish, a few small amberjack, a short black grouper and a large flounder. All are great fun on light tackle.
The area is a remarkably diverse fishery. Whether you prefer a private backcountry charter, working the beaches or jetties, or the party atmosphere of a headboat, there's something for every angler.
If the time of year is carefully selected, an angler can capture an amazing array of species -- redfish and sea trout in the back bays to large cobia, tarpon, snapper and grouper just off the beaches.
Long-distance boats can venture to the Desoto Canyon, about 50 miles away, in search for larger species -- sailfish, mahi-mahi and blackfin tuna.
The region is home to many magnificent state parks.
Saint Andrews is among Florida's most visited parks. On 1,260 acres, there is two fishing piers, great hiking and biking trails and waterfront camping on the bay side.
This part of the state boasts a rich history. Florida Heritage museums are scattered throughout the area, and taking a tour of the countryside can reveal a region less visited by tourists.
As for natural beauty, you can savor National Wildlife preserves, spectacular barrier islands and sugar-white beaches that run most of the coastline from tiny Carrabelle to Pensacola.
Plus, there's the marvelous sand dunes. Some, such as on the Cape San Blas peninsula, reach a height of nearly 100 feet.
West Coast travelers should take U.S. 19 north to route 98, then head west. Mid-state residents can use I-75 north to I-10, then go west to route 231 south. East Coast drivers take 95 north to Jacksonville, then pick up I-10 west to 231.
Seafood lovers traveling route 98 west will find an extra benefit -- freshly-caught Apalachicola oysters that are some of the world's finest.
If you have a question or comment, call Capt. Mike Scarantino, (352) 683-4868.