For our last day in Florida, we decided to take a step back from the relentless fishing and embrace the spirit of exploration, allowing the landscape to unfold before us one last time.
We began our morning on Biscayne Key, casting into the Atlantic as the sun rose behind us. The sight of Miami’s skyline in the distance, was a great view for the the start of this day.. It was a far cry from the dense, swampy wilderness we had become accustomed to, but the thrill of fishing with the Atlantic stretching out before us was undeniable.
After a few casts and a few more moments to soak in the view, we crossed back over the causeway, leaving the city behind as we ventured toward the vast and untamed expanse of Everglades National Park. Of course, we couldn’t resist the call of the canals along the way. With each bridge we crossed, the temptation to stop and fish was too strong to ignore. Peacock bass found our lures once more, reminding us that the wild was never far, even on the road to the park.
Entering Everglades National Park felt like stepping into another world—a sprawling, ancient wilderness where time slows down, and nature reigns supreme. We fished some of the secluded ponds, pulling in small largemouth bass and sunfish, each one a reminder of the countless hidden corners of this vast ecosystem. But today was about more than just the catch.
We wandered the boardwalks, gazing out over the endless sea of grass that is the Everglades. The observation tower offered a breathtaking panorama, a reminder of just how small we are in the face of such immense, untouched beauty.
At Flamingo, the southernmost point of the mainland, we cast our lines once more, not out of expectation but out of respect for the journey that had brought us here. The Mayan cichlids bit with enthusiasm, and I couldn’t resist casting into the southernmost waters I could reach. It was more than just fishing; it was a connection to the land, a way of marking the end of an epic adventure.
As the day wound down, it was time for one last dinner, and I finally found some —conch fritters. The fritters along with jerk shrimp over rice and beans, and plantain fries. The flavors of the Caribbean danced on our tongues, a fitting tribute to the vibrant, wild spirit of Florida.
Tomorrow, we’ll board our flight home, leaving behind this land of endless water and infinite possibilities. But as we reflect on the adventures, the catches, and the moments of pure wonder, one thing is certain—I’ll be back.