The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) needs your input on a proposal for a seasonal fishing closure in a 1-square-mile area near Western Dry Rocks. This area is about 10 miles southwest of Key West and is an important spawning location for many recreationally and commercially important species such as snapper, grouper and … Read more
It began with an unannounced U.S. Border Patrol roadblock installed in 1982 at the head of the Florida Keys, causing massive traffic delays and inspiring irritated residents to ceremonially secede from the Union They formed the independent Conch Republic. “Citizens” and friends of the colorful “country” can celebrate its continued fame Friday through Monday, Nov. … Read more
It took scientists in Japan more than 50 years to successfully spawn eels in captivity to help preserve the species. In a race to solve a major challenge for conservation aquaculture, a breakthrough by researchers at Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute in collaboration with Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) is the first in the world to successfully spawn … Read more
Enter Dry Tortugas National Park, one of just three designated national parks in Florida — and one of the most remote in the entire U.S. National Park System.Wide-open spaces are the name of the game in today’s pandemic-ravaged tourism landscape, which is why travelers all over the U.S. are flocking to national parks. But a national park … Read more
Sculpture Trail. Creativity is seemingly built into the DNA of the Florida Keys. Without even stepping inside a gallery or studio, visitors exploring the island chain can encounter an eclectic variety of open-air artistry. Prime among the outdoor creations is a collection of thought-provoking large-scale sculptures. The 81-mile Florida Keys Sculpture Trail extends from Islamorada … Read more
Beginning Oct. 1 New United Airlines flights is to resume daily nonstop service to Key West from Chicago O’Hare and New Jersey’s Newark Liberty international airports on United Express 70-seat Embraer E170 regional jets. In addition, beginning Nov. 6 United is to launch new nonstop service five times weekly between Key West and Washington Dulles … Read more
Florida stone crab fishery provides 99% of all stone crab landings in the United States. As such, stone crabs are in the top five fisheries of Florida.
Key West is immortalized as “the enchanted land” and “land of light” in a ballad released in mid-June by legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. Dylan’s 9:35-minute ode, titled “Key West (Philosopher Pirate),” is featured on “Rough and Rowdy Ways,” the artist’s 39th studio album and his first to be released with original songs in eight years. … Read more
A rare hybrid hawksbill-green seaturtle Maisy, rehabilitated at the Florida Keys-based Turtle Hospital, was fitted with a satellite-tracking transmitter and released from a Florida Keys beach Friday to join the Tour de Turtles, a marathon-like “race” that follows the long-distance migration of sea turtles over three months. The annual educational project, organized by the Sea … Read more
United Way of the Florida Keys has compiled a useful collection of the regular meal services we know of throughout the Keys. Monroe-County-Food-Pantries-and-Meals-to-Go-Graphic-4-20-2020
Florida Keys Treasures thanks you for your donation.
Encouraging residents and visitors to shrink their environmental footprints, Key Largo’s popular “Delicate Balance of Nature” free lecture series kicks off its 29th year Wednesday, Jan.15. The Jan. 15 presentation is to focus on owl species of the Florida Keys, from the quirky burrowing owl to the massive great horned owl. Jordan Budnik, Executive Director of the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center, is … Read more
What does a Resident 65+ Hunt/Fish certificate cover and where do I get it? Florida residents age 65 or older only need a Florida Driver License or Identification Card to prove residency and age. They are not required to purchase the following recreational licenses and permits: Saltwater fishing, freshwater fishing and hunting licenses Snook, lobster, … Read more
Runners of all ages are attracted to a unique scenic bridge race above the Upper Florida Keys and the eastern edges of the Florida Everglades. The annual First State Bank Key Largo Bridge Run is scheduled Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019. The 2019 event features a half-marathon and a 4-mile run/walk. The USA Track & Field–certified course is to start at the access road at Gilbert’s Resort, mile marker … Read more
In recognition of Veteran’s Day, discerning anglers from across the country are to unite with war heroes to pursue some of the most elusive game fish in the world for trophies and prizes. The annual Cheeca Lodge All-American Backcountry Tournament is set for Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 7-9, in Islamorada. The first-class catch and release … Read more
Harboring the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States, the Florida Keys – Top Dives – are largely devoted to maintaining the region’s offshore environment. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, established in 1990, comprises 2,900 square nautical miles of coastal waters from northernmost Key Largo south to the Dry Tortugas. Sanctuary … Read more
For over 50 years the Islamorada Sailfish Tournament has opened the renowned triple-crown Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship series. Anglers can compete in this year’s event Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 5-8. An unlimited number of anglers per vessel can participate in the all-release tournament, a primary fundraiser for the Islamorada Charter Boat Association. Social … Read more
Rush and Ali are in the Florida Keys bottom fishing with new friend Dave Kustra from Dakus Bones. First commissioned to mount Ali’ s swordfish catch from last season, the guys invite Dave down to the Keys to fish in Rush’s backyard where they learn more about the fascinating world of fish skeletons and Dakus … Read more
The fabled Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade, scheduled Wednesday, Oct. 23, is to evoke echoes of melodies like the iconic “Who Let the Dogs Out” and the classic “What’s New Pussycat.” That’s because the wacky masquerade contest is expected to draw creatively costumed cats, designer-togged dogs and other domestic animals and their humans — all decked … Read more
Here is an excerpt from a long-time Key West Blogger – Key West Diary – about Key West People. I saw a Hemingway look alike complete with cigar and I thought to myself…how often do I look at all the people who flood the streets of Key West? Key West People. Not that often. … Read more