Mosquito Lagoon sits on Florida’s East Coast and is known as the redfish capitol of the world. We made a visit to these hallowed waters to see what all the hubbub is about. While poling around in search of tails, we found a much more interesting, disturbing tale of neglect, destruction, and a fishery on the edge. By the end of this episode we’ll have to ask ourselves about the effectiveness of every current conservation project around the world.
This episode of The DrakeCast is made possible by the good people at Scott Fly Rods, The AMC’s Maine Wilderness Lodges, and Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures. We couldn’t do this show without them.
It was with a heavy heart that we left the Florida Keys but before doing so, we had to pick up our old friend Clyde. He had spent the Winter living the dream at the Ocean Reef Club but it was time for him to head north. Our destination: Mosquito Lagoon, where Larry Littrell poled us (well, not Clyde) through one of the more unique estuary systems in the United States.
Our time on the water is narrated by Dr. Duane De Freese, the Exectuvie Director of the Indian River Lagoon Council & National Estuary Program. We also check in with Captain Justin Price to hear from a guide how the lagoon has changed over the past decade (@captjustin_price).