In 1976 the Florida Department of Transportation completed the project of replacing all of the bridges built by Henry Flagler (the railroad that went to sea). The Flagler bridges were begun in the early 1900’s and took many years to complete. Many of the Islamorada bridge fishing structures that were replaced have been turned into fishing piers. The best fishing bridges began just south of Bud n’ Mary’s Marina, at the south end of Upper Matecumbe Key, mm 79.8 and continue all the way to Key West. The bridges span the deep channels that run between the islands of the Key’s, separating the Atlantic Ocean from the Florida Bay. Many species of fish that swim in both bodies of water can be caught in these channels and around the structures of the bridge. Since there are no motorized vehicles allowed on the designated fishing bridges, it’s very safe and an ideal place to have fun and enjoy the true Keys’ atmosphere.
You can watch the sunset, the sunrise, ships passing on the Oceanside, birds feeding, look upon the mangrove islands, watch fish swim below you in the crystal clear waters, and even see some of the lighthouses that mark the coral reef. All of this creates a unique bridge experience. You don’t even have to fish to enjoy the setting. Many people just go for walks and to enjoy the anglers. Long Key Bridge for example is 2.3 miles long and is ideal for a morning walk or jog. If you do decide you would like to try your hand at angling and you need some information we can help you right here at Bud n’ Mary’s Marina. We have everything you need from rod rental, frozen and live bait, tackle, and local knowledge. You can rent a rod for a day or for a week and the staff will be happy to get you rigged up and on your way. We can discuss rigging techniques fishing strategies, maps, the best bridges, and tell you what fish you should be targeting. So if you want an inexpensive, enjoyable experience in the keys, stop by anytime at Bud n’ Mary’s Marina (mm 79.8), and we ‘ll be glad to introduce you to the bridges of the Keys. We can also help with your key largo shore fishing bait needs, or key largo bridge fishing tactics as well! We can sell or rent your equipment so you can enjoy a day of fishing while not having to spend the money on a more expensive charter. Florida Keys Bridge Fishing is fun for the whole family!
For general information, we rent rods for $20.00 a day, and $15 a day for any additional days. Bait & chum usually runs around $10.00-$25.00 depending on the number of people. Basic tackle costs around $5.00 – $10.00.A fishing license is required (Phone, 1-888-FISH-FLO or online click here).We recommend the following bridges for fishing.
Channel 2 Bridge at mile marker 73. The bridge has fishing platforms and parking on both sides of the bridge. Channel 5 bridge at mile marker 71.This Bridge has parking at the south end. Long Key Bridge at mile marker 65. We rate this bridge the best because of the amount of water and fish that pass under the bridge. There’s fishing platforms as well as parking on both ends of the bridge.
This is a very inexpensive way to enjoy fishing here in the keys, and remember we are open from 6:30 A.M. to 9 P.M.
January 24, 2026
https://youtu.be/vyWQrRElmgQ?si=3FvzRn0WC1rbfee4 Read More
Great Trip with Max Gaspeny Max took our 3 sons (24, 14, and 12) out today while my wife and I went with another guide. It was the younger two’s first time with a guide and first time on salt water. Max asked them what they wanted to do and the boys answered you do this for a living so you make the call. The first spot they went they caught 50 plus fish of 11 different species and the boys had a blast. Then Max asked if they wanted to try for some Tarpon he spotted the night before. They said sure. They hooked 8, boated three a couple smaller and one Max thought was around 50 pounds. Needless to say they came back to the dock on cloud 9. Today wasn’t a great fishing day either as my wife and I landed one Jack-our only other bite was a hammerhead. On top of that Max was just so good with the boys. They all came back telling me about the stories they heard and what a great time they had. He was super patient with the little guys and shared some very kind words about them when the got back in. I really can’t speak highly enough about the experience he gave my kids today. Thank you Max.
fished today on reel mccoy w/ Captn george...just awesome...top 10 days on the water and i fish ALOT! the live bait sail fishing is sooo unique and even beats drop back...much like so cal broadbill/stripey fishing you cast live baits to tailing or feeding sails..non freaken stop action with plenty of pandemonium had 3 rods going at once..the boat is a quiet smooth ride and the team just great...would fish with them anywhere/anytime!
Great stop for food, bait, fishing gear and charters My husband and I visited Bud and Mary's to grab some bait for our 5th anniversary fishing day trip the beginning of the month. Super friendly and happy people, we're very helpful to point out a nice spot to go fishing, and supplied us with great shrimp bait. Food smelled great but it was early so we plan to come back and try it. The property was super clean, including the dock. There were a lot of charters out that morning and a few visitors milling around. They have a small school of tarpon and nurse sharks and some pelicans hanging around wait for scraps, and you can purchase food to feed them. Really want to jump on a charter next time we come down! They also have a dive shop that had a huge selection of gear, but was closed for lunch while we were there. Great place, we will be back.
