East Palatka sits right on the St. Johns River, so getting on the water is easy whether you trailer your own boat, keep one at the dock, or rent a jet ski on site. Here is how to launch and where to go.
Launch or keep your boat right at the house
The simplest option is to skip the ramp entirely. Sunset River House has a 175-foot private dock and boathouse, and you can moor up to four watercraft at the dock for the duration of your stay. That means you can be on the water within minutes of waking up, fish at first light, and pull right back up to the house. We also rent jet skis on site, fueled and ready, with a briefing before you head out.
The closest public ramps
If you are trailering a boat, the Palatka Riverfront Park ramp at 301 River Street is the easiest, just across the river from us. It is free, open 24 hours, has a deep concrete ramp, and offers paved parking for about 70 vehicles and 40 trailers with staging docks near the water. On the east side of the river, the Pico Road ramp in East Palatka is another close public launch.
Ramps for Rodman Reservoir
To fish Rodman Reservoir, the trophy largemouth water south of town, use the public ramps near Rodman Dam and the Rodman campground. This is the spot if your goal is a giant bass in the flooded timber and hydrilla.
Heading south toward Lake George
For Lake George, the second largest lake in Florida, and the lower stretches of the river, the Welaka public boat ramp gives you good access to the south.
Kayaks and small craft
If you are paddling, you can put a kayak or canoe in right from our dock. Palatka also maintains a hand-launch beach for kayaks and canoes just south of the Memorial Bridge, with parking nearby.
Plan your days on the water
Ramp hours, fees, and conditions can change, so it is worth checking Putnam County's current boat ramp list before a trip. But the easiest plan is the one that starts at the dock. Keep your boat tied up at the house, wake up on the river, and spend your days fishing, cruising, and watching the sunset. Check our availability and book direct.