What Is Backcountry Fishing?
The scenario described above is classical flats fishing at its best, a game of absolute precision, and to many, the epitome of catch and release angling. Yet, this is only one facet of backcountry fishing…there are many styles of angling that can be employed to match an angler’s skill level with the appropriate species of fish. There is literally ” something for everyone” in the Florida Keys backcountry. So, what then is backcountry fishing? In the strictest sense, it is an expedition north from the Keys into a watery wilderness of uninhabited, mangrove-lined keys and broad expanses of shallow water areas called flats. Quite often guides will take their anglers into a nearby national park or refuge area such as Biscayne National Park, Everglades National Park, Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge, National Key Deer Refuge, or Key West National Wildlife Refuge. These trips are highlighted by beautiful scenery, plentiful bird life, and for the most part, superb fishing. It is a t
