Genung’s Fish Camp

Genung’s Fish Camp has operated along the Matanzas River south of St. Augustine’s historic core as a genuinely old school fish camp, the kind of waterfront operation that has become increasingly rare along Florida’s more developed coastline. The property is run by the Morley family, and that family ownership shapes the character of the place, which combines a working bait and tackle shop with boat rentals, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and slip and storage services for local boat owners in a single, unpretentious waterfront setting. Anglers can pick up live, frozen, or artificial bait along with tackle before heading out, and the camp also rents fishing rods for visitors who did not bring their own gear, making it a convenient one stop launch point for a day on the water without requiring guests to own or transport their own equipment. Boat rentals allow visitors without their own vessel to explore the Matanzas River and surrounding waterways independently, while kayak and stand up paddleboard rentals offer a quieter, more active alternative for those who want to explore the marsh grass shoreline and tidal creeks at a slower pace. For visitors who prefer a guided experience, the camp works with independent local guides who lead kayak tours through the surrounding waterways, pointing out wildlife and sharing knowledge of the tides and currents that shape the local ecosystem. Boat owners in the area rely on Genung’s for slip rentals and both wet and dry storage, and the presence of an active local boating community gives the camp an authentic, working waterfront atmosphere rather than the polished feel of a purely tourist oriented rental counter. The property has also developed into a modest event venue, with a waterfront setting that has hosted casual gatherings and celebrations for locals looking for an outdoor space with river views. A small convenience selection rounds out the retail offering, with beer, wine, ice, and snacks available for anyone heading out for a day on the water or simply stopping by to enjoy the view. The camp’s laid back, unpolished character is very much intentional, reflecting a style of Florida waterfront business that has largely disappeared as coastal development has accelerated across the state, and regulars often describe Genung’s as one of the few remaining places in the area that feels like the Old Florida fish camps that once lined much of the state’s coastline. Its location south of the main tourist district, closer to Crescent Beach, means it draws a mix of local residents and visitors staying in the quieter, less crowded stretches of Anastasia Island, offering an alternative to the busier downtown marina scene.