UNLOCKING THE SECRETS OF THE MARQUESAS KEYS: A HISTORIC FISHING PARADISE NEAR KEY WEST
Discover the Marquesas Keys: Key West’s Hidden Gem for Fishing and History
Why the Marquesas Keys Are the Hidden Gem of Key West Fishing
Most visitors to Key West never make it 30 miles west to the Marquesas Keys—and that’s exactly what makes them so special. Untouched, uninhabited, and rich with both natural beauty and history, this remote island chain offers one of the most unique fishing and exploration experiences in the Florida Keys. At Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing, our private Marquesas Key Historical Fishing Tour aboard the Blue Cowboy brings you into a world few ever see.
What Are the Marquesas Keys?
The Marquesas Keys form a rare circular atoll, the only known natural one in the Western Hemisphere. Located about 30 miles west of Key West, these islands are accessible only by boat. Surrounded by shallow flats, mangroves, and coral patches, they are part of the Key West National Wildlife Refuge. With zero development and a limit on public access, the Marquesas remain one of the most untouched environments in South Florida.
A Rich History Beneath the Surface
Pirates and Shipwrecks
The Marquesas have long held the fascination of treasure hunters and storytellers. In the 1700s and 1800s, pirates were said to use these remote islands as hiding spots for plundered goods. Spanish treasure fleets sailing through the Florida Straits often met their fate in storms, with wreckage washing ashore or sinking in the surrounding shallows.
World War II Secrets
During World War II, the U.S. Navy used parts of the Marquesas as bombing and training ranges. Even today, remnants of this era can still be found, and certain zones remain closed due to unexploded ordinance. These islands played a small but significant role in preparing troops for battle and defending the coastline.
Commercial Fishing Legacy
Well before tourism arrived in the Keys, fishermen from Cuba, the Bahamas, and Key West made long journeys to the Marquesas in search of abundant snapper, grouper, and lobster. Some say smuggling routes passed through the atoll during Prohibition and beyond. The waters here have supported generations of Conch families who passed down their fishing knowledge through the decades.
Untouched Natural Beauty
With no roads, buildings, or marinas in sight, the Marquesas Keys feel like stepping back in time. The water is impossibly clear, and wildlife thrives. Sea turtles nest on the beaches, rays glide over the sandy bottom, and birds roost in mangrove canopies. It’s a haven not only for anglers, but also for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking real peace and solitude.
Epic Fishing Opportunities
The fishing around the Marquesas is as diverse as it is exciting. Anglers can sight-cast for permit, bonefish, and tarpon on the shallow flats, or drop bait for grouper and snapper in deeper channels. Shark fishing here is especially thrilling, with a chance to battle blacktip, lemon, and even hammerhead sharks in crystal-clear water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or trying fishing for the first time, this is one of the best spots in the Keys.
Why Visit with Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing?
Our Blue Cowboy trip to the Marquesas is more than just a fishing charter—it’s an immersive experience. You’ll hear real local stories, learn about the area’s hidden past, and fish some of the most productive and scenic waters in the Keys. Our captains know these waters like the back of their hand and will tailor the trip to your interests—whether that’s hardcore fishing, casual exploring, or a bit of both.
What to Bring & How to Book
Just bring sun protection, a camera, and a sense of adventure. We provide everything else—premium tackle, bait, licenses, and ice-cold drinks. You can book your private Marquesas Key Historical Fishing Tour directly on our website.
Final Word: Experience a Forgotten World
The Marquesas Keys are more than just a fishing destination—they’re a living time capsule, a wild sanctuary, and a thrill for any angler. Don’t miss your chance to explore one of Key West’s best-kept secrets. Book your trip with Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing and discover why the Marquesas Keys are truly the hidden gem of Key West fishing.