Random facts about Steinhatchee, Florida

Tucked into the southern tip of Florida’s big bend area, the quaint village of Steinhatchee is steeped in history and rich in abundant saltwater flats that offers an annual bounty of fishing and scalloping. With its unique blend of southern charm and old-salt character, it is no wonder that folks travel hundreds of miles to get a glimpse this picturesque town that offers amazing sunsets and limitless opportunities for boating, fishing, scalloping, hiking and birding. The Wall Street Journal recently called Steinhatchee the “backroad to paradise.”

Those who’ve visited Steinhatchee are well aware of its fishing prowess, but did you know these random facts?

• Steinhatchee, Florida has always been a fisherman’s paradise. The mouth of the Steinhatchee River, called Deadman’s Bay since the 1830′s, was the home to thousands of Native Americans.

• The Steinhatchee River is one of several rivers that empty into the Gulf of Mexico, giving the river a brackish color that fish love! Don’t be surprised to see a dolphin or two close to the mouth of the river.

• Steinhatchee is located in Taylor County. Taylor County was named after General Zachary Taylor who, after fighting to end the Indian uprising in Steinhatchee and other areas, later became President of the United States—following in the footsteps of another famous general who came to quiet the Seminoles, President Andrew Jackson.
• In the early 1900’s, sponge fishing was a thriving business for the local residents. History has the hook spongers coming first to the area, working in a rich wool sponge fishery around Rock Island. The hook method was most often used in shallow waters. Further offshore, the “hard-hat” fisherman were also busy diving for sponges. Older generations talk of the sponge era with fondness, telling that it was common to see upwards of a hundred boats moored in the river.

• Steinhatchee River became the 50^th designated state paddling trail in September 2014. The approximately eight-mile paddle begins just below the historic Steinhatchee Falls. The Steinhatchee Falls (a county maintained park) was a river crossing for early settlers, which still shows the wagon ruts of bygone times. Paddling downriver, nature enthusiasts will find the Florida-famous mossy trees on either side of the river, abundant water life in both freshwater and saltwater species and enough wildlife on the banks to keep you checking your guidebook for more information.

If you know of any other interesting facts about Steinhatchee, Florida, please post a comment below. Click the following link to read about other Random Factoid Friday destinations.