Croaker Hole is one of the most unique spots on the St. Johns River. It is a deep underwater spring tucked inside a wide, shallow lake. It is a fish magnet. It is also a chance to see Old Florida from the water. Here is what to know before you go.
What is Croaker Hole?
Croaker Hole is a second-magnitude spring. That means it pushes out a lot of fresh, clear water from deep below the riverbed.
Most of the river around it is shallow. Five to nine feet deep is normal. But right at the spring, the bottom drops fast. The hole goes down about 48 feet. That sudden drop is what draws so many fish.
Where is it?
Croaker Hole is in Little Lake George, on the St. Johns River. Little Lake George is part of the river just south of Welaka. The spring sits about 3.5 miles southwest of town.
You cannot drive to Croaker Hole. There is no road, no trail, and no shore access. You must reach it by boat.
How do I get there?
Most people launch a boat at the Welaka Public Boat Ramp at 9199 Elm Street. From there, head south on the river. Pass under no bridges and stay on the main river channel.
Once you reach Little Lake George, the lake opens up wide. Croaker Hole is on the west side. The drop in depth on your fish finder is the easiest way to know you are there. The bottom will go from about 7 feet to 48 feet very fast.
If you don't have a boat:
- Rent one in Welaka. Some lodges and marinas rent fishing boats.
- Hire a fishing guide. A local guide will know exactly where the hole is and what is biting.
- Bring a kayak. It is a long paddle from town and the lake gets choppy in the wind. Only good paddlers should try it.
What can I do there?
1. Fish
This is the main draw. Croaker Hole is one of the best fishing spots on the St. Johns River. The deep water draws fish year-round.
Common catches include:
- Largemouth bass
- Striped bass
- Bluegill
- Blue catfish
- Channel catfish
- Crevalle jack
- Ladyfish
- Flounder
Striped bass do well at Croaker Hole. They like the cool, deep water. Grass shrimp, dead shrimp, and large jigs work well. Live bait is usually a safe bet.
You will need a Florida fishing license if you are 16 or older. Buy one online before you go.
2. Watch for manatees
Researchers have tracked manatees in this part of the river. The Welaka and Mud Springs area has been called a sustainable manatee habitat. The cool spring water helps manatees in the colder months.
If you spot one, slow your boat. Stay back. Do not touch. It is also against federal law to touch a manatee.
3. Scuba dive
Some divers come to Croaker Hole because of the depth. The water at the spring opening is clear. The rest of the river is darker. Diving here is for experienced divers only. The current is strong near the spring vent.
4. Just see it
Even if you do not fish or dive, the spot is worth a visit. The bottom drops in a way you can feel as you cross over. The water has a slight color shift. It is a strange and quiet place.
What to bring
A good packing list for a Croaker Hole trip:
- A fishing license (if you plan to fish)
- Rods and tackle (heavy enough for striped bass)
- Bait — grass shrimp, dead shrimp, or large jigs
- A cooler with ice
- Plenty of water
- Snacks or lunch
- Sunscreen (no shade out here)
- A hat
- Sunglasses (polarized helps you see into the water)
- Bug spray
- A first aid kit
- A trash bag (pack it out)
- A life jacket for everyone on the boat (required by Florida law)
Tips for a good day
- Go early. Sunrise is the best time. The water is calm and the fish are active.
- Watch the wind. Little Lake George is wide and shallow. It gets choppy fast in any wind over 10 mph.
- Mark your spot. Once you find the drop, drop a marker buoy or save the GPS pin. You'll want to come back.
- Be patient. Fish move with the water temperature and the season. Some days are slow. The river has a mind of its own.
What you should not do
A short list of don'ts:
- Don't touch manatees or feed wildlife
- Don't leave trash in the water or on the bank
- Don't anchor on top of the spring vent (the current is strong and it can be dangerous)
- Don't run your boat fast near other anglers
- Don't drink the river water
One last thought
Croaker Hole is the kind of spot that rewards a slow trip. You can fish for hours. You can drift over the drop and watch the depth change on your screen. You can sit and listen to nothing but birds and water.
That is the real point. Croaker Hole is not flashy. It is quiet, deep, and full of life. Plan a calm day, pack smart, and let the river show you why locals keep coming back.