In 1976 the Florida Department of Transportation completed the project of replacing all of the bridges built by Henry Flagler (the railroad that went to sea). The Flagler bridges were begun in the early 1900’s and took many years to complete. Many of the Islamorada bridge fishing structures that were replaced have been turned into fishing piers. The best fishing bridges began just south of Bud n’ Mary’s Marina, at the south end of Upper Matecumbe Key, mm 79.8 and continue all the way to Key West. The bridges span the deep channels that run between the islands of the Key’s, separating the Atlantic Ocean from the Florida Bay. Many species of fish that swim in both bodies of water can be caught in these channels and around the structures of the bridge. Since there are no motorized vehicles allowed on the designated fishing bridges, it’s very safe and an ideal place to have fun and enjoy the true Keys’ atmosphere.
You can watch the sunset, the sunrise, ships passing on the Oceanside, birds feeding, look upon the mangrove islands, watch fish swim below you in the crystal clear waters, and even see some of the lighthouses that mark the coral reef. All of this creates a unique bridge experience. You don’t even have to fish to enjoy the setting. Many people just go for walks and to enjoy the anglers. Long Key Bridge for example is 2.3 miles long and is ideal for a morning walk or jog. If you do decide you would like to try your hand at angling and you need some information we can help you right here at Bud n’ Mary’s Marina. We have everything you need from rod rental, frozen and live bait, tackle, and local knowledge. You can rent a rod for a day or for a week and the staff will be happy to get you rigged up and on your way. We can discuss rigging techniques fishing strategies, maps, the best bridges, and tell you what fish you should be targeting. So if you want an inexpensive, enjoyable experience in the keys, stop by anytime at Bud n’ Mary’s Marina (mm 79.8), and we ‘ll be glad to introduce you to the bridges of the Keys. We can also help with your key largo shore fishing bait needs, or key largo bridge fishing tactics as well! We can sell or rent your equipment so you can enjoy a day of fishing while not having to spend the money on a more expensive charter. Florida Keys Bridge Fishing is fun for the whole family!
For general information, we rent rods for $20.00 a day, and $15 a day for any additional days. Bait & chum usually runs around $10.00-$25.00 depending on the number of people. Basic tackle costs around $5.00 – $10.00.A fishing license is required (Phone, 1-888-FISH-FLO or online click here).
We recommend the following bridges for fishing.
Channel 2 Bridge at mile marker 73. The bridge has fishing platforms and parking on both sides of the bridge. Channel 5 bridge at mile marker 71.This Bridge has parking at the south end. Long Key Bridge at mile marker 65. We rate this bridge the best because of the amount of water and fish that pass under the bridge. There’s fishing platforms as well as parking on both ends of the bridge.
This is a very inexpensive way to enjoy fishing here in the keys, and remember we are open from 6:30 A.M. to 9 P.M.
Great day of Fishing with Captain Paul on Relentless Fished with Captain Paul on Relentless and had a great day. Caught goliath grouper, Amberjack, huge mutton snapper and some large sharks. His deckhand Mason is amazing as well. Thanks Captain Paul!!
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Scott H
1/14/2025
Great, fun experience. Highly recommend Took my two sons (17 and 21 years) and my brother there. We stayed in the Ocean Front House and went deep sea fishing for one day and backcountry fishing for one day. We had a great time. It was a great experience. It was kind of slow days for fishing but we caught fish and had a fun time. The boat captains did everything they could to put us on the fish The Ocean Front house we stayed in was simple and clean. And about 20 yards from where we stepped on the boat. That is super convenient so you could sleep longer in the morning without having to drive a ways to get to the boat and you could get to your room for a nap after a long day of fishing. Despite not getting the catch of a lifetime we hoped for, it was still a great experience and everyone had a great time. All the captains, mates, staff, and anyone else involved in the operations there were friendly and helpful. I will come back again 100%! Even once we catch the fish of a lifetime, we will keep coming back.
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Setafavn
1/05/2024
Captain Trent’s fishing excursion in the Florida Keys Our fishing excursion with Captain Trent was all that I hoped for and more! He was so knowledgeable and helpful. My husband and I are both elementary school teachers, and we were both very impressed with how good he was with our kids! He was patient, and extremely encouraging! He made small talk with us and even acted as a tour guide by going to places that he knew we would be able to see crocodiles and other Florida wildlife while we fished. Both my husband and son were able to catch lots of fish, and my son was over the moon about catching his dream fish, a tarpon, even though it isn’t tarpon season! We had such a great time, and I would definitely recommend him to anyone!