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Santa Fe River

Boat Ramps
15
Access Points
20
Species
28

The Santa Fe River in Florida is a popular fishing destination that offers anglers a unique and diverse fishing experience. This 75-mile river begins at Santa Fe and Little Santa Fe lakes northeast of Gainesville, flows westward in an arc, and eventually joins the Suwannee River. What makes this river particularly special is that it disappears underground at O'Leno State Park before resurfacing at River Rise near High Springs. The lower stretch after it resurfaces offers excellent fishing opportunities with a mix of slow, deep sections and limestone shoals. The Santa Fe is heavily influenced by springs, creating vast areas of submerged vegetation in its middle and upper reaches that harbor abundant aquatic life, supporting excellent growth rates for various fish species.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Santa Fe River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

River Rise Preserve State Park access

River Rise Preserve State Park access

Access Point
O'Leno State Park access

O'Leno State Park access

Access Point
River Rise Preserve State Park access

River Rise Preserve State Park access

Access Point
River Rise Preserve State Park access

River Rise Preserve State Park access

Access Point
River Rise Preserve State Park access

River Rise Preserve State Park access

Access Point

Know where you can legally fish on Santa Fe River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

Florida licenses and regulations

Florida Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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Florida Fishing License

Youth under the age of 16 do not need a fishing license, although they must abide by all other fishing regulations such as gear type, bag and size limits. They may, however, be asked to provide proof of age.

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Florida Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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Florida Stream Access Laws

Florida access law holds pretty close to the federal definition of navigability, but some state cases suggest that it’s a bit more lenient, and recognizes recreation as a determinant of what’s navigable. The public may use navigable waters up to the high water mark so long as they access through public lands. There are, however, some exceptions where submerged land was either granted into private control before statehood, or sold by the state into private hands.

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Take Santa Fe River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Santa Fe River to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Santa Fe River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Santa Fe River and check the forecast before you go.

SANTA FE RIVER NEAR GRAHAM, FLA.

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