lstorm2003

First, it is NOT possible to get a clearance in Class G airspace--ATC doesn't have authority in Class G, it is uncontrolled. Indeed, one can fly IFR in Class G, done all the time in parts of Canada, Australia, most of Africa.

Second, night VFR still requires the pilot to see and avoid clouds, not easy and an argument for flying IFR.

Third, yes you can refuse the ATC clearance if it puts over water, BUT ATC cannot issue a clearance that puts you in Special Use Airspace which is common in the Gulf, NAS Key West, for example. Might try filing to Marathon and then refiling to FLL, but changing destination might be frowned upon in today's security world. The problem is the routing you want is thru MIA Approach and the ATC LOA probably requires a routing west of it. I know I've never approached the NAS from anywhere other than over Ft Myers vicinity or departed northbound any other way.

GF