Refuges, Preserves and Manatee Zones

A large share of this coast sits inside federal or state protected areas. Boundaries are not obvious from the water, and ignorance is not a defence.

Independent guide, not a club, dealer, outfitter or agency, and not affiliated with any organisation that previously used this domain. Rules on the water change — confirm anything legal with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission before you run.

National wildlife refuges

The Nature Coast includes national wildlife refuge land and water around Crystal River and Chassahowitzka. Refuge rules can restrict vessel type, entry, speed and season, and they are set by the US Fish and Wildlife Service rather than the state. Some areas are closed entirely at certain times of year.

State aquatic preserves

Florida designates aquatic preserves along this coast to protect seagrass and water quality. Restrictions vary by preserve.

Manatee protection zones

Crystal River and Homosassa hold one of the largest wintering manatee populations in the state. Seasonal and year-round manatee zones govern speed and entry, and enforcement is heavy — particularly in winter. Zone maps are published by FWC and posted on the water, but signage can be missing or damaged; carry the maps.

Seagrass

Scarring seagrass is both an ecological problem and, in places, an enforcement one. Running shallow flats is what an airboat does well, but there is a difference between crossing a flat and grinding a channel through it.

Finding the current boundaries

Rules change between seasons and between years. Before running unfamiliar water, check FWC for state zones and the refuge's own site for federal ones. A chartplotter with the zones loaded is worth what it costs here.