The Treasure Coast is verifiably diverse in its attractions, offerings and activities to visitors who chose the area as a vacation destination. Most locals and visitors are attracted to the area for our beaches, waterways, small town charm, arts/culture, and more. But there is more to the Treasure Coast than the coast. As we have discussed on prior shows, the western portions of Indian River, Martin and St. Lucie counties offer vistas, activities and experiences that differ dramatically from a beach experience.In Florida, and many other states, hunting and fishing represent millions in tourism dollars. A few hunting and fishing factoids for you to digest:
• Sportsmen support more jobs than Disney World (85,000 vs. 61,000)
• There are 214,000 resident hunters in Florida
• Florida sportsmen spend $4.8 billion annually.
• Florida ranks number two in the nation in total economic impact from hunting and fishing. Texas is number one in the nation.
J&R Outfitters, the largest preserve east of the Mississippi River, is located in Martin County. Guest Joe O’Bannon will describe the fascinating and unique hunting opportunities to be experienced at this hunting lodge. But it is more than just hunting. The 3,000-acre preserve is home to dozens of Florida native species. Some of the topics we'll explore with Jim this week is how hunting at J&R Outfitter’s compares with hunting in Africa. Two more factoids: Mr. O’Bannon is one of the few hunters licensed in several African countries. And, swamp buggy photo safaris are one of the adventures offered by J&R Outfitters.
Are the Bahamas getting closer? It certainly seems so to many Treasure Coast residents with the announcement this week by Treasure Coast Airlines beginning service to the Bahamas from Witham Field in Stuart and from St. Lucie County International Airport, Ft. Pierce. Guest Danny Krachun will be a guest in the studio this Friday to provide details on this much needed airlift to the Bahamas. Some of the questions Talkin' Tourism on Florida's Treasure Coast plans to explore is what destinations will be serviced and will Bahamians utilize this service to come to the Treasure Coast? Talkin' Tourism hosts Gary Guertin and Robin Hicks-Connor predict the new service will be a HUGE success.
Tune in this Friday, December 11, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. by radio (WPSL 1590 AM) or computer (http://www.wpsl.com/). 'See' you then!
