Henry Flagler established the Long Key Fishing Club in the early 20th century, and it quickly became a preferred destination for saltwater fishermen with the means to visit it. In 1935, however, the great Labor Day Hurricane that ripped through the Upper Keys [1] not only destroyed most of the rail and bridge work that Flagler had so heavily invested in but also obliterated the Fishing Club.
Today, Long Key is Long Key State Park (67400 Overseas Hwy., 305/664-4815, www.floridastateparks.org/longkey [2], 8 a.m.–sunset daily, $3.50), and it’s still a prime destination for anglers, although it is considerably less opulent than in Flagler’s day. In addition to ample fishing opportunities onshore and in the lagoons, nature hikes, canoe and kayak trails through the mangroves, and oceanfront campsites provide ample opportunities for pastoral relaxation.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/florida/florida-keys/upper-keys
[2] http://www.floridastateparks.org/longkey