THE OUTPOURING OF SUPPORT PROVIDED BY OUR FRIENDS HAS BEEN DEEPLY APPRECIATED BY ALL OF US IN THE KEYS.
Approximately a month ago the Keys found themselves in the destructive path of Hurricane Irma. With wind speeds reaching 185mph, Irma left a heavy footprint on the people who make their home in the Keys. Between the loss of life and over $62 billion in damage, Irma was the strongest observed hurricane in the Atlantic since Wilma in 2005. While rebuilding and coping with the loss from a storm like this takes time, bit-by-bit the locals are getting life back on track. While the mainstream media will report on the destruction, we want to share a personal account from one of our retail partners who reside and make their living in Islamorada. Sandy, from Florida Keys Outfitters gave us a real time update from his shop.
“The phenomenal recovery effort is in full swing due to the fortitude and unique community spirit of those who live, work and play here. The outpouring of support provided by our friends all over this watery planet has been deeply appreciated by all of us in the Keys.”
“While many homes, resorts and marinas were damaged; many many more were relatively unscathed and have returned to business as usual.” The local economy thrives on tourism and visitors coming down to enjoy the natural resources the Keys have to offer. The media is sharing the devastation, but the locals have their own story to tell.”
“Our crew at Florida Keys Outfitters is back in full time operation. Fishing is great, guides, lodging and restaurants are readily available. After the storm had passed, fishing returns to normal or better in most cases.”
“A third of the Everglades and Florida Bay water historically comes from rainfall in a normal year. That third typically evaporates providing zero fresh water to the estuary. The other third is supposed to come from sheet flow through the river of grass. So, when we get a big storm, it gives the ecosystem the freshwater it so desperately needs. The other big story outside of Irma, is how the sugar industry controls our water management as their own private irrigation system, depriving the natural flow of freshwater. The Now or Neverglades Declaration which I have focused on for two years address the issue and offers a scientific solution to a politically created problem."
“But, fishing pressure is nonexistent as we come into peak season for bonefish, snook and redfish. There are scads of baby tarpon around and of course many sunset bars open to end a perfect day on the water. “
“Life is back on track in our island paradise of Islamorada!”
~Sandy Moret
We at Fishpond are thrilled to hear that The Keys are recovering; open for business, fishing is solid, and they are ready for your next adventure. We are excited to get back down to this natural treasure and rest easier know that our friends are safe and life is on the mend.
