Florida, renowned for its sun-soaked beaches, turquoise waters, and relaxed vibe, also happens to be a paradise for anglers. One particular area that beckons fishing enthusiasts from around the world is the Florida Keys. This island chain stretching 120 miles off the southern tip of the state is teeming with a diverse range of marine life, providing countless fishing opportunities.
In this article, we’ll delve into the top 7 fishing spots in the Florida Keys, and for the travel-savvy angler, we’ll also recommend nearby RV campgrounds.
1. Key Largo
Let’s start our journey in Key Largo, the northernmost of the Keys. Known as the “Dive Capital of the World,” Key Largo also offers fantastic fishing opportunities, particularly in its offshore waters. The North Dry Rocks and Molasses Reef are ideal spots to cast a line for yellowtail snapper, grouper, and even sailfish.
Besides being a favorite spot for divers, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park also offers fantastic fishing locations. Offshore locations like the North Dry Rocks and Molasses Reef are teeming with yellowtail snapper, grouper, and sailfish.
Nearby RV Campground: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park provides beautiful campgrounds, complete with full hookups and convenient access to both fishing and diving spots.
Other Activities: Besides fishing, enjoy glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
2. Islamorada
Dubbed the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” Islamorada is a paradise for anglers. It offers backcountry sport fishing in the Bay, where you can catch tarpon, redfish, and bonefish. The offshore waters are teeming with marlin, tuna, and dolphin fish.
One specific spot to check out is Alligator Reef. Here, the backcountry waters are a haven for tarpon, redfish, and bonefish, while offshore waters promise encounters with marlin, tuna, and dolphin fish.
Nearby RV Campground: The Fiesta Key RV Resort & Marina offers beachfront sites, full hookups, and direct access to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
Other Activities: Discover the History of Diving Museum, or visit the Theater of the Sea for marine animal shows.
3. Marathon
The waters surrounding Marathon are a hotbed for various species, including tarpon, sailfish, snook, and king mackerel. The Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest in the world, offers excellent pier fishing opportunities.
Nearby RV Campground: The Jolly Roger RV Resort offers full hookups, waterfront sites, and a fishing pier. It’s also pet-friendly!
Other Activities: Take a break and visit the Turtle Hospital, or explore the Crane Point Museum and Nature Center.
4. Big Pine Key
Big Pine Key, nestled in the Lower Keys, is the gateway to the Content Keys, a cluster of small islands ideal for flats fishing. The shallow waters here are home to bonefish, tarpon, and permit.
Nearby RV Campground: The Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge includes RV sites, motel rooms, and a full-service campground. The campground even hosts weekly fishing derbies for guests.
Other Activities: Spend time exploring the Key Deer Refuge, home to the tiny, endangered Key Deer.
5. Key West
Key West, the most famous and southernmost Key, offers prime fishing locations like the Western Dry Rocks, known for excellent grouper and snapper fishing. Charter a boat andexplore the offshore waters for dolphin fish, wahoo, and blackfin tuna.
Nearby RV Campground: Boyd’s Key West Campground offers oceanfront sites, full hookups, a heated swimming pool, and a boat launch on-site.
Other Activities: Discover the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, or stroll through the lively Mallory Square.
6. Bahia Honda Key
Bahia Honda Key is a lesser-known gem with clear, warm waters rich in tarpon, mangrove snapper, and permit. The Bahia Honda Bridge is a favorite spot for both day and night fishing.
Nearby RV Campground: Bahia Honda State Park offers spacious campsites, spectacular views, and direct access to both the bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
Other Activities: Relax on the award-winning Sandspur Beach, or take a snorkeling tour in the clear surrounding waters.
7. Sugarloaf Key
Lastly, visit Sugarloaf Key and venture into Bow Channel. This spot is known for its excellent backcountry fishing, with its mangrove-lined creeks and basins abundant with tarpon, snook, and redfish. Offshore, you’ll find grouper, yellowtail snapper, and kingfish.
Nearby RV Campground: Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Holiday offers spacious RV sites with full hookups, a marina, and boat rental services.
Other Activities: Try paddleboarding or kayaking in the mangrove creeks, or take a nature hike along the local trails.
Conclusion
From Key Largo to Sugarloaf Key, the Florida Keys offer a plethora of fishing spots teeming with a variety of species. And with the multitude of RV campgrounds available, you can turn your fishing expedition into an unforgettable road trip.
So pack your gear, hook up the RV rental, and embark on a journey through the angler’s paradise that is the Florida Keys.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to fish in the Florida Keys?
A: The Florida Keys offer great fishing year-round. However, the best time depends on the species you’re targeting. For example, tarpon season typically peaks from April to June.
Q: Do I need a fishing license to fish in the Florida Keys?
A: Yes, a fishing license is required for both residents and non-residents. There are exceptions for those under 16 or over 65, and for those fishing from a licensed pier or charter boat.
Q: Can I fish in the Florida Keys without a boat?
A: Yes, there are plenty of opportunities for shore and pier fishing throughout the Keys. The Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon and the Bahia Honda Bridge are popular choices.
