The Florida Keys & Key West |
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Angling, Ambiance and Arts.
No other place in North America boasts such a vast array of fish species and habitats than the Florida Keys. From shallow flats and backcountry, to coral reefs and the azure Gulf Stream waters, the places Zane Grey and Ernest Hemingway loved so much are now protected by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the Everglades National Park and several national refuges. Angling, Ambiance and Arts.
No other place in North America boasts such a vast array of fish species and habitats than the Florida Keys. From shallow flats and backcountry, to coral reefs and the azure Gulf Stream waters, the places Zane Grey and Ernest Hemingway loved so much are now protected by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the Everglades National Park and several national refuges. Thanks to a cooperative approach that balances preservation with recreation, fishing is still permitted in most of these waters. Divided into unique regions, the Florida Keys begin at the northernmost island of Key Largo, known for its unparalleled diving and snorkeling. As you cruise down the spectacular Overseas Highway you’ll approach Islamorada, dubbed the Sport-fishing Capital of the World. Further south is the heart of the Keys in Marathon; the unspoiled nature preserves of Big Pine Key, The Lower Keys, and finally, charming Key West. According to the International Game Fish Association, more saltwater world-records have been established in the Florida Keys than in any other region of the globe with many anglers drawn to the region by its ever-strengthening billfishing. The ultimate billfish quest is still blue marlin, made famous by Hemingway before his death in 1961, though swordfishing has been growing in recent years as the deep-dwellers continue to make a comeback. Sailfish are also more plentiful today than 25-years ago, where even in the summer it’s not unusual to see boats back at the marina flying sailfish release flags.
Throughout the Keys, captains and savvy anglers practice a strong catch and release ethic. Species without food value, such as tarpon, bonefish and sailfish, are always released. When fishing for popular yellowtail snapper and dolphin, it’s customary to keep only what is needed for a fresh fish dinner and release the rest. Hiring a charter boat or flats guide is advisable for the best Keys fishing. Not only does a captain offer local expertise and full equipment, but they already possesses the necessary fishing licenses. The Keys even provide an opportunity for anglers to fish without a boat. The historic bridges that border the Florida Keys’ Overseas Highway are noted fishing platforms. No matter how enticing the action in area waters, the Florida Keys & Key West are equally inviting on land. The laid-back atmosphere is the ideal backdrop for activities ranging from opulent to family-friendly. Options include full-service spa resorts with beaches, rustically elegant bed & breakfasts surrounded by nature sanctuaries, picturesque self-catering villas and lush palm-shaded private islands available for short-term lease. Gourmet restaurants offer a bevy of culinary delights where visitors can sample fresh seafood in funky emporiums or dine on the fish they caught themselves, prepared in innovative ways by local chefs. The indigenous cuisine of the Keys incorporates diverse influences, with a focus on local fish and seafood. Among the favorites are Key West pink shrimp, conch served in lime-kissed salad, spicy chowder, stone crab claws and fish such as yellowtail snapper and dolphin. Cultural arts are prevalent in the Key’s playing a large role in the lifestyle, especially in Key West where a multitude of art galleries, theatres, and museums are located throughout the island. For shopping aficionados, stores offer top-drawer fishing gear, hand-painted ocean themed clothing, nautical jewelry and much more. The overflowing calendar of special events in the Keys include everything from literary showcases to yachting regattas, world-championship powerboat races and even a quirky underwater music festival. Fishing tournaments also play a large part in the calendar, drawing top anglers from around the globe. Competition is fierce in standouts such as the World Sailfish Championship, the Drambuie Key West Marlin Tournament, Cheeca Lodge’s Presidential Sailfish Tournament and the Redbone Trilogy challenges. Florida Keys - Fishing ResourcesCatch ‘Em All Sportfishing Charters Catch ‘Em All Sportsfishing Charters provides quality fishing adventures in the heart of the Florida Keys, featuring the fertile fishing grounds near Marathon and Islamorada, Florida. With their “No Fish - No Pay” guarantee, you’ll be sure to have a great time catching lots of fish. Florida Keys Fly-Fish Based out of Islamorada, Florida Keys Fly-Fish Charters will guide anglers just about anywhere, fishing from Biscayne Bay to Key West, to the Marquesas and Everglades National Park. Chesapeake Beach Resort Nestled on 6.5 acres of oceanfront, the resort features 65 spacious units. Both standard guest rooms and suites have spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Individually appointed villas with fully-equipped kitchens range from single room efficiencies to one and two bedroom units. Theater of the Sea The Theater of the Sea is an educational and entertaining marine animal park where performances are up close and personal. They offer several animal interaction programs enabling guests to pet dolphins, sea lions and stingrays. Additional Resources:Florida Keys Tourism Council Visit Florida – State Tourism Division Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission
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Along the reef, barracuda are wonderful light-tackle game, while yellowtail snapper and grouper provide flavorful table fare. The famed flats of the Florida Keys offer up bonefish, tarpon and permit. Caught near bridges and in channels, tarpon are challenged on conventional tackle, spinning gear and fly. Deep in the backcountry, redfish and snook are prevalent. Targeted with light tackle using bait, lures and fly; these great shallow water game fish are powerful fighters.
