Key West Fly Fishing and Captain Dexter Simmons. Photo Credit: Dexter Simmons/Key West Fly Fishing.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Adds Two Blue Star Fishing Guides

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary has added Key West Fly Fishing and Off the Charts! of Stock Island as members of Blue Star Fishing Guides, bringing to 18 the number of charter boat captains committed to sustainable fishing and educating their customers about resource protection in the sanctuary. Guides complete annual training on issues affecting coral reefs, sanctuary regulations, and coral reef etiquette.

Captain Dexter Simmons of Key West Fly Fishing is a world traveling guide who calls the Florida Keys home and is an expert at helping anglers catch fish on the flats. Simmons focuses on catch and release fly fishing and teaching anglers low-impact fishing techniques from a shallow water skiff.

Captain Joe Tripp and Master Mate Destiny Montgomery of Off the Charts! are a pair of experienced captains who offer several kinds of trips for anglers and families of different skill levels. Whether you’re looking to head offshore for trophy fish or just explore the backcountry, Off the Charts! is ready to help you design a day on the water that fits your style.

For more information and a list of recognized operators, visit https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/bluestar/ or contact [email protected], (305) 360-1035.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary protects 3,800 square miles of critical marine habitat, including coral reef, hard bottom, seagrass meadows, mangrove communities and sand flats, as well as shipwrecks and maritime heritage resources. NOAA and the state of Florida co-manage the sanctuary.

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