Bonefishing has a storied history in Islamorada, dating back to the early 20th century. The Florida Keys, and Islamorada in particular, were relatively unknown to the broader angling community until the 1930s and 1940s when pioneering anglers began exploring the area. As they discovered the abundance of bonefish in the flats, Islamorada quickly gained a reputation as a bonefishing paradise.

• Pioneers of the Sport: Notable anglers like Ted Williams, Stu Apte, and Joe Brooks were among the early pioneers who helped popularize bonefishing in Islamorada. These anglers not only enjoyed the thrill of the chase but also helped develop the techniques and tackle that would become standard in the sport.

• Evolution of Guiding: The development of bonefishing guides in Islamorada began as the sport grew in popularity. Guides started to specialize in bonefishing, learning the intricacies of the fish’s behavior and the best strategies to catch them. Over the decades, Islamorada became a hub for bonefishing guides, with some of the best in the world operating out of this small community.

• Modern-Day Islamorada: Today, Islamorada continues to be a premier destination for bonefishing, attracting anglers from around the world. The legacy of those early pioneers lives on through the skilled guides and the thriving bonefishing community that continues to make Islamorada a key destination in the world of sportfishing.