The Anclote River near New Port Richey is another excellent paddle, although it is one we do not seem to take advantage of nearly as often as we should. It is wider than many nearby rivers, scenic throughout and especially enjoyable when paddling upstream into the quieter stretches.
A Broad and Scenic River
The Anclote is wider than many of the rivers I regularly paddle, and much of the water is deeper. That means fewer problems with oyster bars, exposed mud and shallow obstructions than at some coastal launches.
There are not many convenient banks or places to get out, so it is best approached as a paddle where you plan to remain in the boat for most of the trip. The river feels natural and open, with stretches of old pasture, wooded banks and quiet shoreline.
The Perrine Ranch Road Launch
We usually launch near the bridge on Perrine Ranch Road. The access point is on the north side of the road and west of the bridge. It can be easy to miss, especially when approaching from the wrong direction, and the curve in the road makes traffic difficult to see.
There appears to be room for only about four vehicles if everyone parks carefully. The most important thing is to get completely off the road and avoid standing close to the travel lane while unloading or loading boats.
Once on the water, paddlers can travel either upstream or downstream. I almost always choose upstream.
Paddling Upstream
From the bridge, it is possible to paddle upstream for several miles. The farther I go, the more enjoyable the river becomes. It feels quieter and more natural, with fewer signs of roads and development.
The river is not as enclosed or wild as the upper Cotee River, but it still offers a peaceful paddle through an attractive landscape. There is enough width and depth to make the trip feel relaxed, and the scenery improves steadily as the river winds inland.
Wildflowers and Riverside Homes
One of the things I notice most along the banks is the abundance of wildflowers. Cardinal flowers and many other colorful plants grow close to the water and brighten the shoreline.
Farther upstream, there are also several unusual and beautiful homes built close to the river, some extending out over the water. I often imagine how peaceful it would be to live in one of them and sit outside watching the current and wildlife every day.
I lived on the water for four years and loved spending time on the dock more than almost anything else. But waterfront living in Florida comes with an unavoidable flood risk. The place where I lived flooded two years after I moved out, which is a reminder that even the most peaceful riverside setting can eventually be threatened by a hurricane.
Other Parts of the River
Much more of the Anclote remains for me to explore. Paddlers can travel farther upstream or downstream, and there are other launch areas along the river.
Some people launch near the lower river and paddle through the broader marshes toward the coast. I have not yet explored those routes, but they belong on my list for a future trip.