The history of Gasparilla Island and the town of Boca Grande has involved fishing since the time of the Calusa Indians. According to information from the Boca Grande Historical Society, “People began utilizing the island’s resources about 2000 years ago. Archaeological sites found here date from circa AD 300 to the Seminoles of the 1830s.”
Early History
The Calusa “Shell Indians” thrived in our area by collecting shellfish, and setting up fish traps in shallow water. They had an abundance of food at hand and were able to develop a complex system of government with chiefs and sub-chiefs. The Calusa fished from dugout canoes and were known to be avid sailors.
In the 1600s, Spanish fisherman discoverd the bounty of fishing available in Charlotte Harbor and began marketing their treasures at “fish ranches” for the Cuban marketplace.
Modern History
The first pioneer settled on the island was established during the 1870s. Peacon’s fish ranch was located at the north end of the island. Fresh mullet and roe were prized commodities and were shipped from the island to the markets in Cuba.
Many island visitors are familiar with Whidden’s Marina, The Gasparilla Island Maritime Museum. In 1909, it was known as the The Red Gill Fish House, built on a long dock at the end of 1st Street. In 1926 it became part of Whidden’s Seafood Market. Read more about the Fisherfolk here.
It wasn’t until the 1880s that fishing for sport became popular among wealthy clientele who would travel by train from up north, mostly during the winter months. Guided by local fishermen, recreational fishing for snook, redfish, trout and grouper became popular. As fishing technology developed, so did the love for tarpon fishing in Boca Grande!
“Today many local fishing guides can trace their ancestry to the commercial fishing pioneer families in the area. Generations of fishing lore about when, where and how to fish have been passed down to these last keepers of the area’s fishing heritage. Visiting anglers soon learn how important it is to hire a skillful guide if they want great fishing.” ~ Sport Fishing, The Boca Grande Historical Society
Visit the Boca Grande Historical Society here for a wealth of historical information on our special area. We find the fishing history particularly of interest!