Saturday, December 1, 2012

Fly Fishing Key West Waters Offers Anglers An Amazing Experience

By Lenore Bolton


Comprising of Key West Island, part of Stock Island, Sigsbee Park (previously called Dredgers Key), Fleming Key and Sunset Key, Key West is the county seat of Monroe County, Florida. Cruise-ships choose the harbour as a favourite seaport destination. The big Bonefish, Tarpon and smaller but equally testing, hard-fighting fun Jack Crevalle that flourish in the channels and flats around the port enhance the reputation of the joys of fly fishing Key West waters.

The harbor is surrounded by many adjoining flats and channels. This preserved eco-system is made-up of beautiful, unspoiled waters, sandbars and mangrove islands. Saltwater fly fishing has become extremely popular in the last decade, and the shallow-water flats of this area offer unique opportunities to tackle some of the world's most challenging game-fish one-on-one in crystal-clear waters.

Fly fishing in Key West is a year round activity. Winter is the best time to try for Barracuda on the flats. As the most southerly city on the American mainland, the area is known as a frost-free zone. Sleet, snow, frost or ice have never been recorded here.

When the adrenaline-pumping action becomes too much, this tranquil area is also the perfect setting to relax and get in touch with nature in beautiful surroundings. The islands are dotted with bird-life including spoonbills, ibis, egrets, cormorants, blue heron, terns, ospreys and bald eagles. There are plenty of photo opportunities as the near-silence is only disturbed by the occasional sound of a fish jumping or a bird calling.

There are no shortages of tackle shops, guides and experts to assist the aspiring fly fisherman. Good advice is to prepare the rod, tackle and specialist flies on the day before an outing. These components need to be resistant to the rigours of fighting large, fast-swimming fish and the caustic effects of the salt. Rods should have a butt strong enough to twist and hoist big fish from under the craft, combined with a supple tip. Line speed to cut through the wind can be achieved with a rod blank taper.

The area is a favourite destination for cruise-ships. It also has an international airport. Holidaymakers, nature-lovers, photographers and anglers alike have plenty of options for accommodation in various inns, guest cottages, resorts, marinas and hotels. Tackle shops, charter boats and fly fishing schools and guides meet the fisherman's every need.

The superb climate means that this area is well-equipped with hotels, guest cottages, inns, resorts and marinas. Charter flights bring fly fishermen into the county's international airport. The perfect sand flats and translucent water make this the ultimate destination for the discerning angler.

Famous modern-day anglers such as Flip Pallot, Jimmy Buffett and Lefty Kreh have all written of their experiences fly fishing Key West waters. The peaceful poling of flats boats proves addictive. Pristine sand flats and clear water make it irresistible.




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