Homosassa River and Hell's Gate

[suncat33770]

Hi ,

We are thinking of taking our sailboat to the Homosassa Area for scalloping. Has anyone recently gone up the river? We draw 4 feet. I have read that the Hell's gate area will be a problem. Just looking for some current knowledge!

Thanks,
Randy and Carla
suncat33770@yahoo.com
s/v Noctiluca

[billangiep]

suncat I don't know much about the Homosassa area but Crystal River is just to the north . From the outer mark to Kings Bay I never saw less than six feet. The trip up the river is beautiful and definitely worth a look see if you haven't done it. After arriving in Kings bay you can drop the hook most anywhere with 6'-8' depths. There are a few eatery's with dingy docks and a marina with fuel dock.
Bill,

[Izabella01]

WE used to go scalloping north of the Barge canal in the grass flats..
They are fairly shallow. I am five foot three and found the water chest deep. My dad pushed me overboard more than a few times.. he thought it was funny.

I would suggest a dingy or flats boat with outboard.

Previous poster is correct about depths in Crystal River, my hometown.
However be very careful going up the river and keep a good lookout for manatees..they are everywhere and can trash a prop in a heartbeat.

The island at the beginning of the river, just inside used to be a great stopping of point.

Weekends in the summer can be a real PIA, with the powerboats going flat out up the river to the Gulf. I strongly suggest mid week if you crave peace and quiet.

Lots of gators in the swamp just west of the Indian mound.

Winter river depths can be shallow, stay IN the channel.

fair winds...
'bella