(Karen Schaler)
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No passports needed. No long lines at the airport. No hassles. If you're craving the Caribbean vibe but don't want to leave the U.S., check out one of the best-kept secrets in the Florida Keys.
Duck Key is only 90 miles from Miami, but feels like a world away. The island is in the process of recreating itself into the water sports capitol of the Keys. From swimming with dolphins, kayaking, spear fishing and waterskiing, to jet skiing, sunset sails and deep sea fishing – you can find it all there.
There's so much to do on this tiny 60-acre island, and it's all affordable.
Most of the island is owned by Hawks Cay Resort (www.hawkscay.com). It's been around 50 years, but has just re-opened after a $35 million renovation. The resort also owns the island's full-service marina, attracting anglers from all over the country to tackle a day – or week – of sea fishing.
What makes the fishing scene off Duck Key so phenomenal is how many different kinds of fish you can catch, and some of these babies are real fighters. On our trip one of the guys hooked a six-foot sailfish – this monster came flying out the water, twisting and turning, trying to get off the hook. The fish won, eventually getting away, but what a show!
Because there are so many different kinds of fish and special techniques to reel in each, your best bet is to sign up with a pro. Hawks Cay has six charter boats standing by, with prices starting around $400 for a half-day. There's even a "Hook and Cook" program, where if you catch something tasty the chef will cook it for you.
Depending on the season and how far into the ocean you want to go, you can pick the fish you want to go after, including: Yellow Tail, Mahi, Snapper, Grouper, Swordfish, Sailfish, Kingfish, Tarpon, Bonefish, Sharks, Jacks, Trout and Snook.
The fishing is so good here that top anglers from the television show "Saltwater Experience" have decided to make Hawks Cay their home base for the season. There has also been buzz about some new fishing tournaments showing up on the island.
