Key West 

Flats & Backcountry Fishing 

Welcome to Key West, FL, the end of the road in the Continental United States. This 100 mile stretch of mangrove islands and shallow flats, splitting the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, is home to the most elusive sport fish in all of angling. Known simply as the Backcountry, the famous Grand Slam trio of tarpon, permit, and bonefish roam these waters waiting to test anglers and their gear to the limit. Difficult to spot and even harder to catch, a well presented bait or fly can mean the fish of a lifetime on any given day. This is shallow water sight fishing at its finest. No trip to America's southernmost city is complete until you've picked up a rod and reel and gone head to head with the best that saltwater angling has to offer. My name is Captain Mike Bartlett and as a year-round Key West resident I'm eager to share these most challenging waters that I now call home. Although this island is a long way from Pennsylvania's Susquehanna River of my youth, fly casting for tarpon and bonefish was not a difficult leap for a born and raised bass fisherman. After nearly a decade of time spent in the Keys, I am able to translate my experience and passion for this saltwater sport to anglers of all backgrounds and skill levels. The waters I fish are part of the famous Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge. Along with the famous Grand Slam species, you'll have shots at sharks, barracuda, jacks, redfish, and cobia, depending on the season. Above the waterline this area is also home to countless ospreys, pelicans, egrets, and even a few nesting bald eagles. Many other birds of prey make stops here during their winter migrations. Dolphins, manatee, and sea turtles are also common sights as we quietly push along these silent shallows. These waters are the last piece of the Keys that were made famous by writers from Ernest Hemmingway to Jimmy Buffett. Stepping off of Duval Street and into the Backcountry is the best way for a visitor to connect to one of the last pristine parts of Old Florida. Whether you're a rabid fly angler or simply a curious tourist, my boat is waiting at the dock and I'm always ready to get you out there.

Key West Flats & Back Country Fishing PO Box 5858 Key West, FL 33045-5858 Key West, FL
Phone: 305-797-2452   E-mail: captainmike@keywestflats.net
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