The Florida Keys are a coral cay archipelago off the southern coast of Florida, forming the southernmost part of the continental United States. They begin at the southeastern coast of the Florida peninsula, about 15 miles south of Miami, and extend in a gentle arc south-southwest and then westward to Key West.

The Keys were originally inhabited by the Calusa and Tequesta tribes and were charted by Juan Ponce de León in 1513. De León named the islands Los Martires (“The Martyrs”), as they looked like suffering men from a distance. “Key” is derived from the Spanish word cayo, meaning small island.

History of the Florida Keys: Key West

is an island in the Straits of Florida, within the U.S. state of Florida. Together with all or parts of the separate islands of Dredgers Key, Fleming Key, Sunset Key, and the northern part of Stock Island, it constitutes the City of Key West.

The island was originally named Cayo Hueso (“Bone Islet”) by Spanish explorers who found human bones there. In 1815 the Spanish crown granted the island to a Spanish army officer, Juan Pablo Salas, who sold it to American businessman John Simonton in 1822. That year the island was occupied by U.S. forces under Matthew C. Perry, and a naval depot was soon established by David Porter as a base of operations against pirates.

History of the Florida Keys: Fort Jefferson

is a massive but unfinished coastal fortress located on Garden Key in the Dry Tortugas National Park, about 68 miles west of Key West, Florida. Construction of the fort began in December 1846 and was named after the third U.S. President, Thomas Jefferson.

The fort was built as a military outpost to protect American shipping lanes in the Caribbean. The U.S. government began talking about building such a fort in the 1820s, not long after buying Florida. The initial purpose of Fort Jefferson was to combat piracy.

The History of Key West Fishing

Key West, Florida is renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. But it is also famous for something else – its rich history of fishing. For centuries, Key West has been a haven for anglers, offering an abundance of fish species and some of the best fishing grounds in the world.

Early Years

The history of fishing in Key West can be traced back to the early 1800s, when the first settlers arrived on the island. These settlers, many of whom were fishermen by trade, quickly recognized the potential for fishing in the area. The warm, nutrient-rich waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean provided an ideal habitat for numerous fish species, attracting both recreational and commercial fishermen.

Rise of Commercial Fishing

In the late 19th century, commercial fishing began to thrive in Key West. The local economy became heavily dependent on the fishing industry, with fishermen harvesting an array of fish including grouper, snapper, mackerel, and tuna. The development of canning factories further boosted the industry, providing a means to preserve and export the catch to other parts of the country.

Ernest Hemingway and Sport Fishing

In the 1930s, Key West gained international recognition as a top destination for sportfishing. One of the key figures in this development was famed writer Ernest Hemingway, who made the island his home during the 1930s and 1940s. Hemingway was an avid angler and his love for fishing was evident in his works. He would often venture out into the waters surrounding Key West, engaging in thrilling battles with marlin, sailfish, and other large game fish.

Conservation Efforts

As the popularity of fishing in Key West grew, concerns over the sustainability of fish stocks emerged. Overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction began to take a toll on the marine ecosystem. In response, conservation efforts were initiated to protect the fish populations and their habitats. Today, strict regulations and sustainable fishing practices are in place to ensure the long-term viability of the fishing industry.

Modern-Day Key West Fishing

Key West continues to be a mecca for fishing enthusiasts from all over the world. Its proximity to the Gulf Stream, which brings warm waters and nutrient-rich currents, attracts a wide variety of fish species including marlin, sailfish, tarpon, snapper, and grouper. The island offers a range of fishing experiences, including offshore, flats, and reef fishing. Numerous charter companies, fishing guides, and boat rentals are available to cater to all levels of anglers.

Fishing Tournaments and Festivals

Key West’s fishing legacy is celebrated annually through various tournaments and festivals. The most prominent event is the Annual Key West Fishing Tournament, which takes place from April through November. Anglers compete for trophies and prizes in various categories, while fostering a sense of camaraderie and love for the sport. Other events, such as the Key West Fishing Conch Cup and the Key West Lobsterfest, provide additional opportunities for anglers to showcase their skills.

Conclusion

The history of fishing in Key West is a tale of passion, adventure, and respect for the sea. From its humble beginnings as a fishing village to its status as a world-class fishing destination, Key West has been shaped by the tireless efforts of fishermen and conservationists. It is this rich history that continues to draw people to the island, seeking to experience the thrill of the catch and the beauty of the ocean. So, whether you are an experienced angler or a novice, Key West offers a fishing experience like no other – an experience deeply rooted in the island’s captivating history.