Islamorada
Where? Florida
Why? It has a reputation for being the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World” for good reason. And it’s well-deserved, considering backcountry sport fishing and saltwater fly-fishing started right here. You’ll also find yourself in good company. There are more professional offshore charter boats and recreational fishermen in Islamorada than anywhere else in the Florida Keys.
Best for: Offshore and fly fishing and deep-sea trolling
Skill level: Beginner to advanced
Type of fish to catch: Tarpon, bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, sailfish, snappers, groupers, seatrout, redfish, mahi-mahi, tuna, billfish, swordfish, marlin
Best time of year: All year-round. But there are tournaments in January, February, June, September, and December.
Places of interest: The Rain Barrel Village, Robbie’s Marina, Theater of the Sea, Keys History & Discovery Center, History of Diving Museum, Marinas, boat rentals, boat launch ramp, fishing charters, campgrounds, RV parks, hotels, bait & tackle shops, restaurants.