Things to do nearJewfish Basin

Jewfish Basin sits within the Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge, a vast protected expanse of open water and mangrove islands that stretches across the backcountry north of the lower Keys. The refuge was established in 1938 and remains one of the least disturbed coastal environments in South Florida, offering a glimpse of the ecosystem as it existed long before heavy development reached the Keys.

The basin is best known among anglers for its world-class flats fishing. Bonefish, permit, and tarpon move through these shallow waters with the tides, and the area draws fly fishers from around the world chasing the flats grand slam. Nearby Mud Keys offer similarly productive backcountry fishing grounds just a few miles away. Guided fishing charters out of Key West regularly make the run out to these waters.

Beyond fishing, Jewfish Basin rewards paddlers and wildlife watchers. Kayaking through the mangrove-lined channels reveals roseate spoonbills, great white herons, and sea turtles resting near the surface. The Florida Keys backcountry offers some of the most ecologically rich paddling in North America, and this basin sits at its heart. For anyone seeking raw, unspoiled nature close to Key West, it is well worth the journey.