A Canoeing and Kayaking Guide to the Streams of Florida: Volume I: North Central Peninsula and Panhandle

This book is a guide to virtually every good paddling stream or river in the northern half of Florida, from the panhandle to the east coast and down as far as the Ocala National Forest and Orlando area. It leaves off a few rivers along the Northern Atlantic Coast but these are covered in the companion book. For each river, there is a general description, typically with a B & W photo or two. Then, each covered section of the river is addressed individually, with difficulty ratings, access points, river mileage, and a description of the river section with interesting details or features, such as major shoals or safety hazards. Maps are included covering each section, typically based on the state canoe trail maps. For readers familiar with the other Menasha Ridge canoe guides, this one will look a little different. There is less technical data such as river gradient, rainfall, etc., because Florida rivers aren't whitewater and don't really need it. However, the descriptions of the river sections are usually much more detailed than other books in the Menasha series. The book also has a general introduction to paddling in Florida, including discussion of issues visitors to the state might not have thought of. For example, some basic alligator safety points are included, as well tips on insects, sun exposure, and riparian rights. When my wife and I first started canoeing in Florida, we bought this book. Turns out it was the most essential piece of canoeing equipment we ever bought. We have used it literally hundreds of times in the thousands of miles we have paddled. The four stars instead of five is the result of the book being somewhat dated. Menasha very recently released a long-awaited update (ISBN 0897325885) which combines this work and the original companion book on Southern Florida paddling. While I haven't seen the new edition, interested parties should consider it also.