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New Port Richey and the Pithlachasotee River

New Port Richey is a city located in Pasco County, Florida. A suburban city, it is situated near the larger metropolitan areas of Tampa and St. Petersburg. Tampa, in fact, is only 35 miles to the south. New Port Richey has a population under 30,000, which gives it a charming small-town ambiance.



The Pithlachasotee River



Also known as the Cotee or "Cootie" River, the Pithlachasotee River crosses through the downtown area of New Port Richey. This river is unusual in that it is classified as a blackwater river, which means that it is both deep and slow moving as it flows along and through swamps and other wetlands. The persistent decay of vegetation leads to the release of tannin, a natural substances that tints the water the shade of coffee or tea. Most blackwater river systems are located in the Amazon, but American tourists can see one right here in the state of Florida when they take advantage of a getaway in New Port Richey vacation rentals.



Recreational activities are popular on the Pithlachasotee River, with boating and fishing equally popular, although some vacationers prefer to swim in the nearby Gulf of Mexico instead due to the blackwater nature of the river. Canoeing is one of the most popular activities, with a Florida State Canoe Trail running alongside the river so that even those who stay on land can track the progress of canoes on the 23-mile length of the river itself.