Florida Keys Guide And Bed And Breakfast Operation

Article Date: March 1994

My wife and I decided to take a long weekend to the Florida Keys this past winter to escape the oppressive New Hampshire weather. Due to various delays, we didn't arrive in Miami until 10 p.m. After claiming our bags, renting a car and driving the required time, we finally arrived at our destination, Big Pine Key, about 1:30 in the morning. Given the fact that we planned to depart on Sunday morning, the question naturally arose as to whether all this travel and hassle was really worth it. The answer is you bet!

First of all, we found a delightful Bed & Breakfast tucked away in a residential area of Big Pine Key called Deer Run (*), whose proprietress maintains a menagerie of tropical birds with which to converse (literally), and where Key Deer and families of raccoons run through the property. Big rooms with screened verandahs, right on the water, a hot tub, bikes to use, and huge breakfasts that can't be beat. All for $110 a night. Plus you're within easy striking distance of Key West, Marathon and other points of departure for fishing or debauchery.

As to the fishing which of course is the point of all this I was referred to Capt. Jim Perry (*) out of Summerland Key (10 minutes from the B & B) and booked him for a half day (11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) at a price of $225. I should point out that I am a complete novice at salt water fishing but quite experienced (indeed compulsively addicted) to flyfishing for trout and salmon throughout the US. Jim's boat and tackle is first rate and his former profession as an out patient psychologist provides a demeanor well suited to the quirks and idiocies he undoubtedly encounter........(continued)

CONTACT DETAILS FOR COMPANIES/INDIVIDUALS MENTIONED IN ARTICLE (if any)

Deer Run. Tel. 305-872-2015

Jim Perry. Rt. 4 Box 309k. Summerland Key, FL, 33042. Tel. 305-872-2323