Dive Type: Reef Dive
Typical Depth Range: 10 to 40
feet
Expertise Required: Novice
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 Named
for the hardened encrusted pickle barrels
located there, Pickles Reef is located just
outside of Key Largo Marine Sanctuary, about 2
miles southwest of Molasses Reef. The small
barrels were probably not carrying pickles, but
it is speculated they were loaded with cement
for huge brick forts of Key West and the Dry
Tortugas.
Pickles Reef is best known for it's Pillar Coral
Forest. It is home to one of the largest pillar
coral formations in the Keys. Pickles Reef
offers several wrecked ship, both old and new.
Look for the remains of a shrimp boat that is
home to many yellow goatfish and blue striped
grunts.
You will see many smaller species of fish among
the wrecks. Other common sea life include deep
purple sea fans and conchs. Lobster is also a
frequent dweller of Pickles Reef.
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