TBE resumes pontoon rentals
Tarpon Bay Explorers (TBE) — the official concession to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge — has resumed a fan favorite: pontoon rentals. Pontoons are available for half and full day slots and can accommodate up to eight people. They can be used for cruising to look for wildlife, like birds, dolphins and manatees, or for fishing for trout, redfish, snook, snapper and more. All pontoons stay within Tarpon Bay. Fishing equipment is available to rent and tackle is available for sale; ages 16 and older will need to purchase a saltwater fishing license. “It’s a slow climb. We all are learning a new version of patience,” General Manager Adam Sauerland said of TBE returning to its pre-Hurricane Ian offerings. “But, days like these are the good ones where we can finally check a major box off our list that gets us one step closer to full recovery.” Through April, it will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; rentals stop at 3 p.m. For reservations or more information, visit www.tarponbayexplorers.com or call 239-472-8900. Tarpon Bay Explorers is at 900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.