Key Largo is known
to be the diving capital of the world,
but it should be noted that it is just as famous
for being the ideal sport-fishing destination.
Located off the southern coast of mainland Florida,
the island of Key Largo is a prime location
sought out by anglers. This island is the perfect
fishing spot, offering deep sea fishing charters,
off shore fishing on numerous beaches, designated
fly-fishing areas, and backcountry freshwater
fishing. World records for fly fishing have
been set in Key Largo and other parts of the
Florida Keys. This is one of the most sought
after and visited fishing spots in the country.
Whether looking for a relaxing day catching
trout, or a day at sea chasing after a marlin,
Key Largo offers a fishing experience to please
everyone.
Many anglers dream of catching
the largest fish and setting world records
for their amazing catch. Key Largo's deep-sea
fishing provides that opportunity. Many times
people go out to sea on their own boats and
spend the entire day on the water just waiting
for that big bite. For the less experienced,
or those who may need a little guidance as
to the best locations off shore, there are
many guided tours and charters. These unique
off shore fishing excursions give fishermen
the chance to catch a large game fish such
as sailfish, dolphin, and tuna. Key Largo
Fishing Adventures is one of the most popular
companies to use when chartering. They use
either a 40 ft. Topaz or a 30 ft. Carolina
Classic. Both vessels will provide the finest
off shore fishing trip available. Rodeocharters
and Vagabond Sportfishing Charters are two
other frequently used companies.
Backcountry fishing
is popular in Key Largo for those
who want to be at one with nature and not
have to charter a boat and share the experience
with others. Many backcountry anglers are
those who just want a little quiet time. Backcountry
fishing is the perfect setting for fly fishing.
Bonefish and tarpon are commonly caught, though
these fish are not edible, so they must be
placed back into the water after being caught.
Backcountry fishing has gained popularity
among the crowds that do not wish to venture
out to sea for the day, but would rather enjoy
the fishing experience in a quiet and serene
setting. Some of the most popular charters
for backcountry and flats fishing
are Tarpon Flats Inn and Marina, Backcountry
Charters, and Dockside Charters.
It is not necessary to have a charter to experience
the best fishing in these areas. These guided
charters are set up more for the beginner
who is looking to gain knowledge and experience.
When fishing in Key Largo, there
is no end to the possibilities of a catch.
Many species reside in these waters. When
deep sea fishing, it is very common to catch
marlin and small tuna. These are large game
fish that sometimes span over 11 feet in length
and over 2,000 pounds in weight. Other fish
that are commonly caught when fishing backcountry
or deep sea include the Sailfish and Shortfin
Mako Shark. Both of these are deep sea fish
ranging between 6 and 8 feet long. Inshore
fish include Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit, and
Mutton Snapper. The fish caught closer to
shore are much smaller than deep sea fish,
and many are not edible. Key Largo has hundreds
of fishing opportunities year round and it
is one of the greatest fishing locations in
the country. The waters off the coast of Florida
are home to many species of fish that can
be found off shore in the deep Atlantic, in
coral reefs and wreckages, and backcountry
settings.
