How Florida Keys Fishing Legends Created the March Merkin
Roughly 18 years ago, the March Merkin permit tournament was born in the Florida Keys. One of the longest-running permit challenges in the world, the fly-fishing tournament is hard to fish and hard to win. Guest blogger Allison Delashmit provides a look at the angling event, and ways people can support it.
Connect & Protect the Florida Keys’ Living Reefs
The Florida Keys are home to the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef. Underwater enthusiasts can help protect it by employing eco-friendly reef etiquette, using reef-safe sunscreen, taking the Nature Conservancy's #RespectOurReef pledge and other actions. Protection of this unique natural system is essential for enjoyment today and in the future.
‘Please Release Me’
Most Florida Keys anglers embrace the mantra that “a fish is too valuable to be caught only once.” While conservation of fish didn’t originate in the Florida Keys, the region is now the world’s poster child for it. Even novice anglers release every bonefish, permit and tarpon — generally all species except those that make tasty dinners.
‘Team Key Lime Pie’ Heads North for WorldPride NYC/Stonewall 50 Celebrations
The Florida Keys & Key West tourism council and the Key West Business Guild will showcase the inclusive spirit of the subtropical LGBTQ visitor destination in New York City’s WorldPride March and PrideFest street festival scheduled Sunday, June 30. Stop by the street festival booth for insights into the island chain’s newest offerings and attractions.
Celebrate the 10th ‘Birthday’ of the Vandenberg Artificial Reef
Want to log a world-class, bucket-list dive experience? Then head for Key West this Memorial Day weekend for the 10-year “on-the-bottom” anniversary of the USNS Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg. Sunk May 27, 2009, it’s the world’s second-largest vessel intentionally scuttled to become an artificial reef — and the anniversary events will be unforgettable.
‘Connect & Protect’ the Florida Keys’ Natural World
Some of the world’s most incredible natural resources can be found in the Florida Keys — including the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef. Visitors can discover them, and become motivated to protect them, during soft-adventure activities, eco-travel experiences, diving or kayaking treks and stops at environmental attractions and wildlife refuges.
Dive into Summer Fun with Key West’s LGBTQ Pool Parties
The official start of summer is just a few weeks away, and Key West is ready with three fabulous weekend pool parties sure to make a big splash during a Florida Keys vacation. Discover how to dive into pool parties at New Orleans House, Equator Resort and Island House Resort.