Key West lies at the end of the Florida keys, a 120-mile long chain of islands extending Southeast from Miami. Key West has a rich and colorful history that includes possession by Kings of Spain, and being the home of Ernest Hemingway. Pirates used to visit Key West in their galleons. Today people come to enjoy Key West's beaches, scuba diving and fishing.
Fishing Areas
The Florida Straits go by the nickname bestowed on them by Ernest Hemingway, the Great Blue River. This 90-mile wide area of deep ocean lies just outside Key West's protective barrier reef. Anglers have much success catching both snapper and grouper in this area. The Flats offers fishing for tarpon, barracuda, even sharks depending on the time of year. Those who prefer trolling just offshore, can look forward to catching tuna, mackerel and sailfish.
Fishing License
In Florida, saltwater fishing and freshwater fishing require two different license types, depending on the type of fish caught. Combination licenses are available for people who fish in brackish waters where both salt water and fresh water species can live side by side. If a person has one type license but catches a fish of the other type, the fisherman must immediately release the fish back into the water. Children under the age of 16 do not need a fishing license, but may have to show proof of age in questioned.
Fishing Tournaments
For many people just catching fish provides all the fun they need, but other people thrive on the excitement of competition. People who enjoy tournament fishing can choose between several in Key West. According to the Florida Keys Fishing Tournaments & Calendar of Events, anglers can not only get the excitement of tournament fishing, they can do so with the celebrities at the Robert James Sales S.L.A.M. Celebrity Tournament or any one of the other six tournaments held in the month of September alone.
Things to Do
When the arms finally tire of fishing, Key West offers a plethora of activities, including wreck diving, and plenty of snorkeling for non-certified divers. Most streets in the historical district have restored old homes and interesting shops, and in the evening the streets come alive with performance artists from magicians to mimes. If all that even seems too much, book a massage at one of the many spas or wellness centers.
What to Eat
People from all over the world know about Key Lime pie, and any visitor really should try at least a bite. For healthier fare, almost every restaurant in Key West takes advantage of the location to serve fresh seafood.
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