Channel Two Fishing Bridge

Overview

A retired span of the old Overseas Highway parallel to US‑1, the Channel Two Fishing Bridge spans the Channel 2 pass near Mile Marker 73 by Islamorada. It’s now a pedestrian fishing bridge and part of the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, so you’ll share the wide path with walkers and cyclists. Expect sweeping views over both Florida Bay and the Atlantic, plus steady tidal flow that draws bait and gamefish.

Why Anglers Like It

Strong current funnels through the pass, creating rips and eddies along the bridge—prime ambush water. Typical catches vary by season: spring to early summer sees tarpon moving on tides along with jacks and barracuda; summer–fall often means mangrove snapper (yellowtail at night) and sharks around shadow lines; late fall–winter can bring Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and more jacks. Bring heavier tackle than you would for flats, and a long-handled landing net or bridge gaff—the current and pilings are unforgiving. Dedicated fishing platforms make it a handy stop to catch bait or post up for a tide window.

Wildlife

Even if you’re not fishing, this is a fun place to scan for life: brown pelicans, ospreys, and terns ride the breeze; in summer you may spot magnificent frigatebirds. In the water, watch for tarpon rolling at tide changes, spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, and the occasional dolphin or manatee cruising by.

Logistics & What to Bring

• Parking on both sides of the bridge; the north (Lower Matecumbe Key) side has the larger paved lot, the south side is smaller and gravel.
• No restrooms or fresh water here; nearby Anne’s Beach up the road has facilities and showers.
• Open 24 hours, no fees, and monofilament recycling is available.
• No bait/tackle for sale on site and no fish‑cleaning tables—come prepared.
• There’s no shade or seating; bring sun protection and a folding chair if you plan to camp on a spot.
• It’s a shared-use trail segment—keep gear tidy and leave the walkway clear.
• Know the rules: a shore-based saltwater license is generally required for adults, and species/bag limits change. Check current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission guidance and any posted bridge-specific restrictions before you wet a line.

Photography Ideas

Sunrise looking east along the rail for pastel water and sky; golden-hour silhouettes of anglers; blue-hour long exposures to smooth chop and trace the car lights on US‑1.

Best Time to Visit

For fishing, focus on moving tides—especially at dawn, dusk, and at night for snapper. For scenery, sunrise and sunset deliver the best color and softer light. Weekends around midday are the busiest; early morning and weekday evenings are typically calmer. The bridge is open 24/7, so you can time your session around both light and tide rather than strict hours.