Bass World Lodge and Marina
Family-owned fishing lodge and marina on the St. Johns River at the northern tip of Lake George, a rustic Old Florida getaway two decades in the making.
Fishing & Boating
Bait shops, ramps, marinas, charters, eco-tours, and the people who know where the bass are.
Betcha Bass Bait Shack
Welaka bait shop with live wild shiners, minnows and worms, plus non-ethanol gas, tackle, snacks and drinks. One stop before you hit the water.
Boondock Springs Eco-Tours
Pontoon eco-tours from Crescent City to Silver Glen Springs, Salt Springs and the Ocklawaha, plus snorkeling, paddleboarding and sunset cruises.
Brenner Marine Construction
Residential and commercial marine contractors in Satsuma, FL, specializing in docks, boathouses and bulkheads.
Bryant’s Wharf Kayak Launch
Public kayak launch in Welaka with a floating dock, restrooms, scenic viewing area, fishing and shrimping, and two-night overnight mooring.
Captain Jeff Winkleman
Fishing guide out of Pomona Park for bass, bream, crappie and striped bass on the St. Johns River, Lake George and Crescent Lake. Tackle furnished.
Crescent Fish Camp
Family-friendly fishing camp and RV resort in Crescent City with cottages, tiny homes, a full marina, fueling station and live bait.
Eddie’s Trailers
Trailer sales in Welaka since 2006: enclosed, utility, motorcycle and car trailers.
Little Lake George Croaker Hole
Spring-fed fishing spot 3.5 miles southwest of Welaka in Little Lake George, known for largemouth and striped bass, bluegill and catfish.
Port Cove RV Resort and Marina
RV resort and marina in Georgetown, FL with colorful sunsets, warm weather, nearby attractions and a steady calendar of events.
Reel Florida Guide Service
Capt. Adam DeLaney, a fifth-generation Floridian and Georgetown dockmaster, guiding the Lake George region of the St. Johns River.
Renegades on the River
Riverside tiki bar, marina and lodging near the St. Johns in Crescent City, with live music, karaoke, bait and boat rentals.
S&A Leisure and More LLC
Welaka boat service and sales, an authorized dealer for MinnKota, Power Pole, Rhodan, MotorGuide, Garmin and Lowrance. Bow to stern.
Shell Harbour Public Boat Ramp
Free public boat ramp in Welaka with poured concrete, a dock for launching and staging, and parking. Government owned and open to everyone.
St. John’s Watersports
Watercraft rentals in Crescent City for a solo adventure or a day on the St. Johns River with family and friends.
The Lochside Restaurant, Bar & Marina
Waterfront dining with Scottish charm on Crescent Lake. Restaurant, bar, and full-service marina in Crescent City, FL. Tie up, drop in, and stay a while.
Trailboss RV and Marina
RV sites and boat slips by the day, week or month on the St. Johns River in Welaka, with gas and great bass fishing right out front.
Welaka Boat Ramp
Public boat ramp in Welaka with two lanes of poured concrete and a staging dock, open to all boaters.
Welaka Boat Rentals
Boat rentals in the heart of the St. Johns River, positioned for quick access in either direction so you don't lose a day getting there.
Welaka Fish, Crab And Bait
Welaka fixture for fresh fish, seafood and famous blue crabs, plus bait, with quality overseen by 25-year crabber Bruce 'Bull' Horning.
Welaka Marine
Boat maintenance and repair in Welaka from experienced technicians, plus boat buying, selling and trading.
Frequently asked questions
- When is the best time to bass-fish the St. Johns River near Welaka?
- Mid-February through April is peak spawning season — the biggest bass of the year. October and November are quieter and still strong. You can catch bass year-round on the St. Johns. The first two hours after sunrise are the best window any month.
- Where can I launch a boat in Welaka for free?
- Welaka Public Boat Ramp (9199 Elm Street) has two concrete lanes and a dock. Shell Harbor Public Boat Ramp (162 Shell Harbor Road) is FWC-managed and also free. Bryant's Wharf (1A Palmetto Street) is best for kayaks and small craft.
- Do I need a fishing license to fish in Welaka, Florida?
- Yes, anyone 16 or older needs a Florida freshwater fishing license. You can buy one online from the FWC before your trip. Short-term licenses are affordable and cover most visitors.
- What fish species are caught in Lake George and Little Lake George?
- Largemouth bass, striped bass, bluegill, catfish (channel and blue), crappie, and crevalle jack. Croaker Hole Spring inside Little Lake George is a deep (~48 ft) spot that holds striped bass year-round.
- Are there bait shops in Welaka?
- Yes. Betcha Bass Bait Shack and Welaka Fish, Crab and Bait both serve the local angler crowd. Renegades on the River in Crescent City also stocks bait. Hours vary by season — call ahead, especially on weekdays.
- Is there parking for a boat trailer in Welaka?
- Trailer parking is limited. There is some space at Bryant's Wharf, and the public ramps have parking, but it fills up on good weekends. Launching itself is free at the public ramps — there is no launch fee.