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Charter Boat Row, also known as Garrison Bight Marina, is a historic stretch of marinas located in Key West, Florida. The marinas have been in operation since the early 1900s, serving as a hub for fishermen and charter boats, and have remained a staple of Key West’s vibrant boating culture ever since. Originally, Garrison Bight was a natural, shallow lagoon that served as a safe harbor for ships during storms. As the area began to develop, the bight became a significant shortcut for shipping commerce, making it an important economic hub for Key West. By the early 1900s, the bight was dredged and deepened, creating a more navigable channel for boats. As a result, Garrison Bight became an ideal location for fishing vessels and charter boats, leading to the development of Charter Boat Row. Today, Charter Boat Row is a bustling hub of activity, with dozens of charter companies operating out of the marina on any given day. Visitors and locals alike can book fishing trips of all kinds, from half-day excursions to multi-day deep-sea fishing adventures. The area also features several restaurants making it an excellent place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of Key West's thriving boating culture. With its rich history and endless possibilities for adventure, Charter Boat Row remains an integral part of Key West's identity to this day.

In the early 1900s, Key West became known as the "Wrecking Capital of the World" due to the high number of shipwrecks that occurred in its treacherous waters. The local economy flourished as salvagers and fishermen alike took advantage of the abundant resources. Fishing became a thriving industry in Key West, and by the 1930s, the city was home to more than 200 commercial fishing boats. Today, fishing continues to be a vital part of the Key West economy, and Charter Boat Row remains a prime destination for anglers looking to catch a variety of fish species, including marlin, sailfish, tuna, and more.

The history of fishing in Key West dates back to the early 1800s when the island was primarily inhabited by Bahamian settlers. These early settlers were skilled fishermen who relied on the sea for their livelihood. They fished for a variety of species including grouper, snapper, and hogfish. As the island's population grew, so did the demand for fish. In the late 1800s, commercial fishing became a major industry in Key West. The island's strategic location near the Gulf Stream made it an ideal location for fishing fleets. By the early 1900s, Key West was one of the largest fishing centers in the United States. In addition to commercial fishing, sport fishing became popular in Key West during the early 1900s. Wealthy visitors to the island would hire local fishermen to take them out on fishing expeditions. This led to the development of fishing charters and the establishment of Charter Boat Row, a historic stretch of marinas in Key West. Today, Key West is still known as one of the best destinations for both commercial and sport fishing in the world.