Western novelist Zane Grey fell in love with the Florida Keys in the early 20th Century, and a few years later so did novelist Ernest Hemingway.

Grey and Hemingway knew that no other place in North America boasted such a vast array of fish species and habitats, from shallow flats and backcountry to coral reefs and the azure Gulf Stream waters. The places Grey and Hemingway loved so much are now protected by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Everglades National Park and several national refuges. The two authors would be pleased to know that fishing is still permitted in most of these waters thanks to an approach that balances preservation with recreation.

According to the International Game Fish Association, more saltwater world records have been established in the Florida Keys than any other angling destination on the globe.

Bonefish, tarpon, and permit are favored inshore species, but jacks, Spanish mackerel and barracuda also abound, especially in the winter months. Burly grouper and snapper haunt the reef areas. Acrobatic dolphin fish (mahi-mahi), billfish, tuna and wahoo cruise offshore.

Catch-and-release fishing is widely practiced, especially when taking species not destined for the dinner table. Taxidermists can provide exact reproduction mounts, so a three-dimensional memory of one's catch to hang on a wall is possible without killing the fish.

Hiring a charterboat or flats' guide is advisable for the best fishing. Not only does the Keys captain offer local expertise and full equipment, he or she already possess the necessary state fishing licenses* required for all Florida visitors or residents.

Anglers can also fish without a boat. The historic bridges that border the Florida Keys Overseas Highway are noted fishing platforms, but a saltwater license is still required.

"You don't have to be a legend or a writer to enjoy big game fishing in the Florida Keys, but you may run the risk of becoming a legend in your own time," notes Captain Jim Sharpe, a veteran offshore captain.

Good luck and tight lines.