The Chaz February 2015

Chassahowitzka River

February 21, 2015

We set out for a weekend of exploring the Chassahowitzka River a/k/a “The Chaz,” a spring-fed river  located in Citrus County, Florida. “Chassahowitzka” is said to be an Indian word meaning “land of hanging pumpkins,” referring to a wild variety that once grew along its banks. The beginning point of the river is the first-magnitude Chassahowitzka Springs.

We launched our kayaks at the boat ramp and paddled out just slightly to watch a group of manatee passing through, probably on their way out toward the Gulf to feed.

We headed upstream toward the smaller sister springs to paddle over the underwater caves and view the beautiful rock formations seen perfectly through the stunningly clear blue water. Sadly, a sign was posted warning cave divers to use caution as a family member had lost their life while exploring the underwater caves below. 

 We turned around and headed downstream toward The Crack . 

As we paddled into the opening of the waterway, it gradually narrowed and we were surrounded with lush, tall grass and ferns on eitherside. 

This passageway eventually opened up into a pool of greenish blue water until it once again become clear and shallow surrounded by tall palms and trees.

Tree trunks stretched across the narrow waterway and various birds could be seen through

 the cover of the greenery.

 

 As we got closer to The Crack the water became more and more clear. We spotted a young boy enjoying the rope swing even though it was a cool, February day. Brrrr!!!

  

Paddling back out to the main channel, there was no shortage of various, beautiful birds to see.

 

Boat houses dotted the riverbanks on both sides – one partially submerged in the water.

 

  

We were lucky enough to come upon what appeared to be a mother

and baby dolphin swimming near us. 

 

  As we got closer to the Gulf, the light of the afternoon sun danced on the water 
and shone like diamonds in the sea. 

It was starting to get late, so we headed back toward the take out. Along the way we explored some side creeks. We stopped on one of the banks to stretch our legs before calling it a day. 

 Passing many more birds on our way back...

 

This was the first time I had been to The Chaz, but it certainly won’t be my last!