Long Key Viaduct Fishing Bridge

Overview

A historic railroad span turned recreation gem, the Long Key Viaduct now serves as a two‑mile‑plus fishing and walking bridge paralleling today’s Long Key Bridge between Mile Marker 63 and 65.5. You get uninterrupted water vistas and easy bank‑style fishing without a boat—one of the simplest, most rewarding stops on the Overseas Highway.

What You’ll See

Expect big‑sky horizons, turquoise flats, and strong tidal flow through Long Key Channel. Wildlife shows up often: seabirds working bait, rays ghosting the shallows, and the occasional shark, manatee, or sea turtle cruising past. Sunrise paints the Atlantic; sunset warms the Gulf side—both are prime for photos and a bite.

Fishing Snapshot

This is classic Keys bridge fishing. Bring a 7–8 ft medium spinning setup with 15–30 lb braid and a 20–40 lb leader; add light wire only if toothy critters demand it. Live shrimp or small crabs, cut bait, and jigs all produce. Work the shadow lines at dawn and dusk and fish moving tides. A long‑handled pier/bridge net is smart for safe landings.

Logistics and Amenities

Practical is the name of the game: paved parking sits at both ends, it’s open 24 hours, and there’s no entrance fee. There are monofilament recycling tubes but no restrooms, no fresh water, no bait or tackle sales, and no cleaning tables. The bridge is part of the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, so you’ll share space with walkers and cyclists—keep gear tidy and out of the travel lane.

Rules and Stewardship

Carry a valid Florida fishing license and follow current FWC size, season, and bag limits. Handle bycatch and protected species with care; never feed sharks, and if a bird or turtle tangles your line, cut free and use posted rehab contacts. Pack out every scrap of trash and line.

Best Time to Visit

Dawn and dusk are your money windows for both photos and fish, especially on a moving tide. Weekday mornings are typically quieter, while sunsets—particularly late in the week and on Saturdays—draw more people. In summer, focus early and late; winter cold fronts can spark action when the water clears.

A Quick History Hit

• 1907: Completed as part of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad with 186 concrete arches.
• 1935: The Labor Day Hurricane ends rail service; the state converts the span for automobiles.
• Aug 13, 1979: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• 1982: The modern Dante B. Fascell Bridge opens; the old viaduct transitions to today’s fishing bridge and trail segment.

Nearby Basics

If you need facilities, Long Key State Park a short drive away offers restrooms during day‑use hours. Storms or maintenance can temporarily close trail segments—check local notices before you go.