Escape the Winter Blues: Fishing in Key West, Florida

Steven Mesia is no rookie when it comes to travel and adventure. His love for fishing, sailing and hunting paired with his dedication to quality time with family, have fueled numerous trips with loved ones throughout the years.

One of Steven Mesia's favorite places to escape the stark months of winter is Key West, Florida. This paradise island lays off the shore between the coast of southern Florida, and north of the Cuban coast of Havana. Fishing, boating, and snorkeling make this island a coastal hotspot for tourists who enjoy the beauty and adventure of the sea.

One of Steven Mesia's favorite pastimes is fishing for walleye and muskie, but the warm waters of Key West allow for much more diversity in sea life and new opportunities for the catch of the day. Sport fishing is one of Key West's biggest draws - whether offshore or deep sea, fishing in Kew West is prime doe to the spectacular abundance of species in the warm, blue waters.

Key West Flats and Backcountry Fishing 

The distant shallows of the Key West Flats span limitless fishing grounds for the skilled and tactical fisherman who hope to catch a "Grey Ghost" Bonefish and other trophies alike.

Lying adjacent to the expansive waters of the Key West Flats lies the open waters of backcountry fishing. Calm waters and miles of remote beaches make make the Key West Backcountry make this location to be a tackle fishing dream for any fishing sportsman.

Beginner's Guide to Snowshoeing

For avid outdoorsmen like Steven Mesia, enjoying the great outdoors is something to be cherished all year round.

Wether through the hot days of summer, or cold months of winter, Steven Mesia makes a point to get outside and enjoy nature as much as possible with his friends and family throughout the year. 

Raised on a farm in Cherry, MN, Steven Mesia grew up surrounded with fun outdoor activities. One of his favorites being snowshoeing during winter months. Though not the most popular winter pass-time, snowshoeing is still very popular among those who appreciate the outdoors just as much as Steven Mesia, despite snow! 

If you're looking to get outside and enjoy some sun during winter months, snowshoeing can be a great option - it's as simple as walking! Here are a few beginner necessities to get you started on the right foot:

You don't have to break the bank on your first pair

Amazon has some great options for affordable first pairs of snowshoes. You could also try looking on Facebook marketplace or consignment stores. Sometimes you'll hit the jackpot! Snowshoes generally have a pretty simple product design.

Just look for lightweight pair! You can also find inexpensive combo kits that include poles which help stabilize you while getting used to the new shoes. 

Start in light snow

The deeper the snow, the more difficult snowshoeing will be. Choose a day to get outdoors that's sunny with a few inches on the ground. Getting sued to your snowshoes on an easy day will help you get accustomed to the design. the next thing you know, you'll be an expert! 

Have fun!

The best part about snowshoes is that it really doesn't require too much experience, but the health benefits are great for anyone giving it a try! Find a simple hiking trail, gather some friends, and make a day of it! Snowshoeing is a great way to spend quality time outdoors with the ones you love. 

Year Round Adventure Destination - Acadia National Park

For lovers of all things nature, Acadia National Park is an absolute gem for outdoorsmen like Steven Mesia. 

Nestled in the harbor side of Northern Maine, Acadia Park was founded in 1919 along the rugged coastline offering tremendous views of both the Atlantic ocean and towering mountains. With over 125 trails to hike throughout the park, Acadia Park is a premier destination for anyone who appreciates the great outdoors as much as Steven Mesia.

Acadia Park is a protected National Park, along with others in Alaska, Texas, the Mid-West, the Northern Rockies, and the Sun Coast to name just a few locations.

Fishing enthusiasts can cast their line in the nearby Bar Harbor, with very possible views of wild dolphins and harbor seals. Bar Harbor is the perfect little town to spend the day shopping and grabbing a bite to eat in between outdoor adventures with family and friends.

From beginner to advanced, there are trails and sights to see for hikers of all levels of experience. Cadillac Mountain can be hiked, or if you're more up for the easy route, you can drive your car to the top and take in the spectacular panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding mountains.

From mid-October to March, Cadillac Mountain Peak is the first place in the United States visible to the sunrise. Make sure to beat the crowds and get up early enough to claim your spot - it gets extremely busy, but it is incredibly worth it.


Feeling a bit more adventurous? Precipice Trail and Beehive Trail are two of the most advanced trails, involving free climbing, cliff walks, and tremendous heights.

Nonetheless, it makes the view even sweeter, knowing you just successfully trekked one of the most daunting trails the park has to offer.

Must See Spots: 

1.)  Cadillac Mountain
2.)  Beehive Trail
3.)  Bubble Rock
4.)  Jordan Pond Path
5.)  Sand Beach
6.)  Echo Lake