TAMPA RENTALS FIELD GUIDE
Sweet N' Salty: A V‑bottom workhorse for fishing, scalloping and shipwreck dives on Florida’s Nature Coast
A Carolina Skiff 198 DLV rental outfitted for fishing, scalloping, snorkeling and diving—this guide explains the boat’s gear, operating demands, and what to plan for on the water.
Sweet N' Salty: A V‑bottom workhorse for fishing, scalloping and shipwreck dives on Florida’s Nature Coast.
Experience the thrill of exploring Florida's Nature Coast aboard the Sweet N' Salty, a Carolina Skiff 198 DLV configured for fishing, scalloping and diving. Outfitted with a live well, advanced charting electronics and a 90hp Yamaha four‑stroke, the boat is tuned for shallow-water runs, wildlife viewing and reaching favorite shipwrecks and underwater structures. It is best handled by someone experienced with V‑bottom and semi‑V‑bottom vessels.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Navigation and angling electronics primed for productive days
The Sweet N' Salty carries a GPS Minn Kota trolling motor with Anchor Lock, a 9" Lowrance HDS3 loaded with Navionics and C‑Map Pro charts (including 1,000+ waypoints for fishing, scalloping, beaching, snorkeling and nature‑watching), plus a VHF/GPS radio and a GPS/Satellite S.O.S. device to keep you on course and get you home when cell service fails.
A powerful, efficient skiff for shallow water access
Powered by a 90hp Yamaha 4‑stroke and capable of top speeds near 32mph, the Carolina Skiff’s V‑ and semi‑V hull lets you reach shallow scalloping beds and snorkeling beaches—though it requires more handling skill than a pontoon and is most comfortable with about six people aboard.
Fish, scallop, snorkel and dive to shipwrecks
Use the boat’s extensive waypoint database to find targeted fishing and scalloping zones, beach and snorkel spots, or favorite diveable wrecks and underwater structures—ideal for anglers and experienced captains looking to explore the Nature Coast’s hidden sites.
What the day feels like
How the day unfolds
You’ll launch from a ramp the operator delivers to, push into the shallows and use the trolling motor and charting system to pick through hundreds of waypoints—dropping anchor at scallop beds, running to snorkeling beaches, or easing onto a wreck for a dive. The boat’s live well and stowable bimini top keep a day of fishing or family snorkeling efficient and sheltered; fuel is paid by the renter.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this boat suits—and who should look elsewhere
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Rentals range from 4‑hour trips up to 7‑day bookings; schedule according to tide and scalloping season where applicable.
The operator delivers the boat to the ramp of springs, rivers, lakes and near‑coastal waterways within their service area for launch at your chosen put‑in.
Bring personal USCG‑approved life jackets for anyone who must wear one 100% of the time, extra water and sun protection; a cooler/ice is available as an add‑on.
The boat runs on a 90hp Yamaha 4‑stroke (no oil mixing), top speeds near 32mph depending on load; renters pay for fuel. The vessel carries a VHF/GPS radio and a GPS/Satellite S.O.S. device.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What are the rental durations available?
Rentals are available from 4 hours up to 7 days.
Do you deliver the boat to a launch ramp?
Yes—the operator delivers to the ramp of springs, rivers, lakes and near‑coastal waterways within their service area.
How many people can ride onboard?
The legal capacity is 10 persons, but the operator finds the boat cramped with more than six people.
Are life jackets provided?
Life jackets for youth and adults are provided, but anyone age six (or younger), those with disabilities, or under 50 lbs must wear a USCG‑approved vest 100% of the time and should bring comfortable jackets if needed.
Who should captain this boat?
The Sweet N' Salty requires more skill to operate than a pontoon—you should be experienced with V‑bottom and semi‑V‑bottom vessels.
Who pays for fuel and what performance can I expect?
Renters pay for fuel; the boat is powered by a 90hp Yamaha 4‑stroke and can reach top speeds around 32mph, depending on load.