The Pithlachascotee River, often called the Cotee or "Cootie" River, is a blackwater river in Pasco County, Florida. Originating near Crews Lake, the river flows for over 23 miles to the south and west, flowing through the Starkey Wilderness Park before turning northwest through downtown New Port Richey, entering the Gulf of Mexico at Miller's Bayou. A Florida …The Pithlachascotee River, often called the Cotee or "Cootie" River, is a blackwater river in Pasco County, Florida. Originating near Crews Lake, the river flows for over 23 miles to the south and west, flowing through the Starkey Wilderness Park before turning northwest through downtown New Port Richey, entering the Gulf of Mexico at Miller's Bayou. A Florida State Canoe Trail runs along the river.