With forecasted 20-knot winds today, getting anywhere in a boat will not be easy, especially Tampa Bay for the Gasparilla festivities. When northwest winds hammer the west coast, divers have few choices to dive locally beyond hitting bridges for stone crabs. And with water temperatures in the 50s, not to mention poor visibility and a strong current, bridge diving should only be for the advanced. The best move for die-hard divers in February may be to leave town.
Freshwater springs and rivers in north central Florida offer yearlong opportunities to see gentle manatees or hunt for fossils and artifacts. From Jupiter to Miami, the coastline is sheltered during these fronts and dive boats usually can handle the short runs to the prolific reefs and numerous wrecks. Gulf Stream waters with temperatures in the low 70s and clear visibility provide an advantage.
It's the best time on the southeast coast for spearing black grouper, hogfish, mutton and mangrove snapper. Wreck enthusiasts might prefer land and visit Tampa's MOSI IMAX Theater, now showing Ghosts of the Abyss, Disney's 2001 film on the Titanic by James Cameron. It's also showing Titanica, National Geographic's 1991 film.
- Chad Carney teaches scuba and spearfishing and charters out of St Petersburg. Call 727 423-7775 or e-mail at www.mobilescuba.com
