After Hours

Tips for Surviving a Night in the Everglades.

- Captain Steve Dougherty

THE EVERGLADES IS ONE OF FLORIDA’S LAST REMAINING areas of vast wilderness, where cell phones are rendered useless and the beauty of the natural surroundings captures even the most jaded outdoorsmen. The nearly 1.5 million acre national park located at the southernmost tip of the peninsula serves as a sanctuary for a host of unique, exotic and endangered species, with fertile backcountry that is daring to be explored. Yet, as mesmerizing as it can be to get lost deep in the ‘Glades, make no mistake. The harsh terrain, blazing sun, treacherous shallows and unrelenting biting insects protect the area very well. Furthermore, every twist and turn around the next mangrove corner looks like the last and navigating during the day is a challenge in itself. Even the limited number of local guides who really know these waters won’t dare explore after dark. For most visitors to ENP, getting back to the ramp well before sunset is enough to signify a successful day.

I couldn’t fathom breaking down 30 miles from the Flamingo boat ramp mid-summer, watching the sun disappear behind the overgrown mangrove horizon with an overwhelming feeling of helplessness. To say it would be a long night would be a severe understatement. However, this time of the year when cooler temps are the norm, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts are afforded much more hospitable conditions to undertake multi-day excursions.

Mosquitoes, no-see-ums and horse flies are so severe during the spring, summer and fall months that experienced campers only overnight in the Everglades during December, January, February and into early March. Still, bugs can be a problem in the winter so you must not forget bug repellent. With a slight breeze and nighttime temps dipping into the 50s, there’s no better time for such an undertaking.