Belize is a unique fly fishing destination offering excellent fishing for bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook year-round; one of the few destinations to consistently produce “Grand Slams” (catching a bonefish, permit and a tarpon on a fly in the same day). One major feature that contributes to the consistency, variety, and quality of the fishing is the Barrier Reef (second largest barrier reef in the world) off the coast of Belize that extends almost 180 miles North – South and protects Belize’s entire shoreline.
year-round: bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook
Favorable weather conditions year-round
Professional guides and deluxe accomodations
Ecotourism and activities for families and non-anglers
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Belize fly fishing!
Thirty miles off the mainland of Belize, on the outside of the Barrier Reef, is the magnificent Turneffe Island (Atoll). The Turneffe Atoll has both interior and ocean-side flats, mangrove lined lagoons and a number of channels that support a uniquely diverse fishery. Angler’s can expect to see Permit and large numbers of smaller bonefish on the ocean-side flats with the interior flats, lagoons, and creeks offering the best shots at Tarpon or larger bonefish (8 lbs+). The two fine lodges operating there that we recommend are, Turneffe Flats and Turneffe Island Resort(formally Turneffe Island Lodge).
On the mainland of Belize, we recommend the long established Belize River Lodge, which sites on the western bank of the Belize River. Central Belize, where Belize River Lodge is located, is a year round fishery offering a variety of fishing opportunities for Tarpon, Permit, Bonefish or Snook. Belize River Lodge guests can fish any number of productive flats, channels, rivers, creeks and lagoons in a single trip. In addition to the lodge based fishing program, Belize River Lodge also offers “mother ship” fishing trips, which take anglers along the coast of Belize, allowing access to some of the more remote fishing grounds in Belize.
Northern Belize is best known for it’s year-round population of tarpon and in the Ambergris Caye area, you’ll find the best conditions for stalking tarpon on clear, shallow flats. When conditions are right, you might see hundreds of tarpon and jump several in a day. Bonefish and good numbers of permit are also in residence, making northern Belize a notable destination for a “Grand Slam”.
In northern Belize, we recommend the beachfront El Pescador Fishing Lodge, and their upgraded accommodations at El Pescador Villas on Ambergris Caye. El Pescador has been hosting anglers who want to experience Belize fishing since 1974. The current owners, Steve and Chris Spiro and daughter Ali, have made significant upgrades to the property and continued to offer exceptional hospitality since they purchased El Pescador in 1997. Ambergris Caye is a unique fishery with resident Tarpon (10 – 100 lbs) on the flats 12-months out of the year, complimented with summer Tarpon migration. There are also excellent numbers of 2 – 4 pound bonefish and good numbers of small permit, occasionally reaching 15 lbs.
The best Permit grounds south of Mexico are found in southern Belize. The Permit fishing is so good in southern Belize that it has been dubbed “Permit Alley” and is where Permit addicts come to get their fix, since Permit guru Charlie Leslie set up a remote, fish camp style lodge on Tarpum Caye, 15 miles off the coast of Belize. Tarpon Caye Lodge is best know for the excellent Permit fishing on the flats of southern Belize, however Tarpon Caye is also a true “Grand Slam” hotspot. Tarpon roll within view of the bedrooms and bonefish are available in good numbers.
At “Charlie Leslie’s” Tarpon Cay Lodge, the guides set the fishing day around the tide and not the clock, to ensure that anglers don’t miss fishing the best tide while they are eating dinner. The Permit flats are only minutes from Tarpon Caye Lodge by boat, where you’ll see tons of permit, however, catching them is up to you … and a rabbit’s foot, a four-leaf clover, or whatever works for you.
Our southern most lodge in Belize is located 5-miles north of Punta Gorda, the brand new Belcampo Resort (formerly El Pescador Punta Gorda / Machaca Hill Resort) is an incredible facility with incredible views of the Laughing Falcon Reserve, the Rio Grande River, and the Gulf of Honduras in the distance from the hilltop lodge.
Which Belize fishing destination is right for me?
Let us help you find the perfect destination and travel package. Our services are free. We save you time and make all the arrangements!
Farquhar Atoll is a top flats fishing destination offering anglers exceptional diversity. Target bonefish, permit, triggerfish, GT and bumphead parrotfish. Unbelievable fishing, remote location and world-class service – a must visit location for adventurous anglers.
Synonymous with the largest flats-caught GT’s in the Indian Ocean. A shallow lagoon with small entrance surrounded by sheer drop-offs. A truly unique fly fishing destination.
Remote, virtually untouched, and one of the wildest fly-fishing destinations available. Triggerfish, Giant Trevally, and Bumphead Parrotfish rule these waters.
Ready to chase fly-crushing GTs in the surf? How about sight-fishing and tailing Indo-Pacific permit on remote atolls, wrangling wily triggerfish and bumphead parrotfish? And let’s not forget about the endless flats filled with hard-fighting bonefish!
THE SEYCHELLES offers anglers multiple species and challenging angling opportunities. An archipelago country in the remote Indian Ocean, the Seychelles hosts a truly wild fly-fishing experience while enjoying luxury accommodations, fine dining, incredible guides, and service.
GIANT TREVALLY, INDO-PACIFIC PERMIT, BONEFISH, AND MUCH MORE
REMOTE and PRISTINE destinations
Luxurious ACCOMODATIONS for anglers and non-anglers
Unrivaled FLATS FISHING
Available for booking NOW
Book now, get a quote, or find out more about fly fishing in Seychelles!
Diverse Fish Species
in beautiful SEYCHELLES, AFRICA
GIant Trevally
(GT, Geet, Gangster of the Flats)
No matter what you call them, these fish have captured the imaginations of anglers everyone and are the focal point of many Seychelles fishing trips. These large apex predators create viscious, violent and visual takes and are incredibly strong fighters. The Seychelles is the premier destinations for targeting Giant Trevally.
Bonefish are found in excellent numbers across the Seychelles. In some fisheries, they are the predominate game fish and the go to target species for fly anglers. In other destinations, they play a supporting role to more exotic query like Giant Trevally. Either way, the bonefishing in the Seychelles is among the best flats fly fishing available period.
Alphonse, Providence, Farquhar, Cosmoledo, Astove
4 – 5 lb average to 10+ lbs
Large schools and singles
Best flies: Spawning Shrimp, Christmas Island Special
Permit everywhere are recognized as one of the most discerning and difficult species to target on the fly. The Indo-Pacific Permit are no different that the Atlantic counterparts, and can breed the same compulsive focus from serious anglers. Convincing an Indo-Pacific Permit to eat a well-presented crab fly is one of the most rewarding experiences, whether it’s on the coral edges of Farquhar Atoll, in the lagoon on Astove, or tailing on the flats of Cosmoledo.
“Bumpies” are a totally unique species found in tropical waters near coral. These fish are incredibly beautiful and strong. As a gamefish, they are unpredictable, but can be caught on the fly when feeding on or around the coral, or when they are tailing on large schools, typically on turtle grass flats. The secret is keeping the fly totally still! Bumphead Parrotfish are only found consistently on Farquhar and Providence Atolls. The vivid colors, prominent parrot-like beak, and the massive bump makes this fish recognizable in every photo.
Milkies are a unique species to target because the primary flies imitate the appearance of algae! They can grow to over 6 feet long and are extremely hard fighting fish with unusual endurance. Milkfish are also known as the fork-tailed devil, because like permit, they are extremely finicky. They’re surprisingly easy to spot when on the flats – they are usually found in small pods cruising over algae patches with their tails protruding out of the water as they feed on the bottom.
There are primarily three species of triggerfish found in Seychelles: Yellowmargin, Moustache, and Picasso. They prefer the shallow coral reefs and flats. The yellow margin triggerfish prefers sandy-bottomed areas close to patches of turtle grass and coral. It is also common to find a yellow margin close to a large coral “Bommie” situated on a white sandy flat. Remember these 3 things when fly fishing for triggerfish: Approach quietly and keep maximum distance, make your first cast count, and make your first cast count!
Alphonse, Farquhar, Cosmoledo, Providence
Lots of fun at a variety of sizes
Loves Skinny Water
Best flies: Alphlexo Crab, Spawning Shrimp, Kraken Crab
Angler Adventures has been expertly planning trips to the Seychelles since 2000. We specialize in putting anglers at the right destination at the right time. From selecting your destination, to booking your flights, to packing the right gear, we provide honest advice and personalized service. Whether you’re chasing trophy GT’s, crossing exotic species off your bucket list, or searching for awesome fishing with a luxury experience for a non-angler, Angler Adventures can get you to the right place. Looking for more than one experience, we love putting together customized multiple week/destination packages.
The Seychelles might be the most dynamic, remote fishery on the planet. Uninhabited atolls in the middle of the Indian Ocean, hundreds of miles from the next sign of humanity. Angler daydreams of cranking down the drag on a 3-foot Giant Trevally heading from the surf to the edge of reef, or trying to stay calm while casting a crab to a feed Indo-Pacific Permit, or setting the hook into the beak of a Bumphead Parrot fish, or stalking a Yellow Margin Triggerfish as it tips down to eat. These wild and unique fisheries are coupled with incredible programs that provide elite service, luxury accommodations, and a lifetime of memories.
Interested? Angler Adventures will get you there.
It’s time to begin planning your trip.
Save time with Angler Adventures. We’ve been doing this for 43 years.
The penultimate bonefishing adventure. Endless wading flats available from lodges and outfitters across the Bahamas – Grand Bahama, Abaco, Andros, Crooked, Acklins and more.
Updated on
The Bahamas offers some of the best, most varied bonefishing in the world. Consisting of dozens of large islands and hundreds of undiscovered smaller cays, the Bahamas sees the creation of new bonefishing lodges at the rate of 2-3 every year. Some of these new Bahamas bonefishing lodges are rustic and remote; others are constantly setting new precedents for quality of accommodations, food, service and bonefish guides available to flats fishing enthusiasts.
TOP PICK for bonefish, permit, and more
Favorable weather conditions year-round
A wade-fishing paradise with expansive flats
Booking available right now!
Get more info on exciting Bahamas fly fishing packages.
No travel agency knows the Bahamas fishery better than Angler Adventures. Staff members Evan Peterson, Doug Schlink, and Liam Rosati make annual trips to the Bahamas and over the past 25 years have accumulated vast experience with the lodges and expansive flats in this beautiful country.
Take the guess-work out.
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
H2O Bonefishing combines productive, uncrowded bonefishing on Grand Bahama with high-end accommodations, amenities, beaches, shops and restaurants, making it a good fit for couples and families.
The lodge’s location allows guests access to the famous 250 square miles of bonefishing habitat pioneered by Deep Water Cay Club. The proximity to excellent bonefishing, the experienced guide roster, and the lodge’s focus on providing access to excellent fishing with quality accommodations at an affordable rate makes East End Lodge a top choice for any angler considering a fishing trip to Grand Bahama.
Mars Bay Bonefish Lodge is home to world class Bahamas bonefishing in the heart of South Andros. Mars Bay is the southernmost bonefishing lodge in Andros by about 5 miles, meaning a signficantly shorter boat ride to Andros’ famed southern flats. Less time in the boat equates to more time bonefishing; up to an extra hour a day! Mars Bay Lodge is characterized by simple, clean comfort without added frills- guests should be interested primarily in bonefishing.
Pleasant Bay Bonefishing Lodge has been one of South Andros‘ best-kept secrets. What attracted us to this relatively unknown lodge is its location. Pleasant Bay guides also utilize other excellent fishing areas, like Beach Cay, Hawk’s Nest, Grassy Creek, Jackfish Cay, the Water Cays, and the Westside, when the tide is right. All of these fishing areas create a lifetime’s worth of fertile and productive bonefishing.
Fly fishing adventures in ANDROS, BAHAMAS: Mangrove Cay Remote Waterfront Prime Bonefishing Diverse & Exciting Remote Waterfront PRIME BONEFISHING DIVERSE & EXCITING Overview Mangrove Cay Club is a perfect place to target bonefish of all sizes, from four pounders in schools, to trophy size double digit bonefish. It’s been one our favorite bonefishing lodges for […]
North Riding Point Club, located on the South Shore of Grand Bahama Island is not only one of the finest bonefish lodges in the Bahamas, but also provides access to one of the best fisheries for trophy bonefish in the world. And this amazing fishery is relatively easy to get to. The Club is located just 20 miles east of Freeport International Airport putting world class bonefishing within 30 minutes of Miami and 2 1/2 hours of New York by air.
Experience “ALL INCLUSIVE” world-class accommodations and exceptional service on a private cay while fishing pristine Bahamas bonefish flats, diving the warm, azure Caribbean Sea, or relaxing on your villa’s private verandah.
The lodge gets its name from their central location to the best fishing areas on both Crooked and Acklins islands. The primary fishery Trophy Lodge utilizes is “The Bight of Acklins,” 120 square miles of flats located between Crooked Island and Acklins Island. Acklins Trophy Lodge has world class bonefishing, that’s characteristic for the Bahamas, but also offers a diverse fishery including permit, Tarpon, barracuda, triggerfish and more.
The North Shore of Grand Bahama Island is one the Bahamas top fisheries for big bonefish. Fish generally average 5 – 7 pounds and double digit fish are taken frequently. The area is also unique in that it is one of the few places in the Bahamas where tarpon are available (especially during the spring months).
Phillip Rolle’s North Andros Fly Fishing affords 4 – 6 anglers direct access to the famous bonefishing found on the Joulter Cays. The 20 miles of extensive hard sand flats are a wade fisherman’s paradise. Channels running though the flats keep the bonefish on the flats during every tide and also attract permit. There is convenient access to the west side of Andros offering large bonefish, resident tarpon, and occasional permit.
The Delphi Club is ideally situated and fully equipped to offer anglers a variety of fishing locations on Abaco. The state-of-the-art fleet of Hell’s Bay skiffs enables them to provide guests with a diverse fishing program.
Stafford Creek has a staff of hand picked guides, all trained by Prescott to be experts at utilizing the tides, weather and time of year to get the best fishing for bonefish, permit and/or Tarpon. These guides don’t “watch the clock” and fishing days start early, allowing optimal fishing hours on those flats. Guests at Stafford Creek Lodge fish from comfortable, high performance Maverick, Action Craft, and Hughes flats skiffs with 90-115 hp Yamaha 4 stroke engines.
Tranquility Hill Fishing Lodge is situated on top of a hill, overlooking the Eastern entrance of the North Bight, near Behring Point, Andros Island, Bahamas. Tranquility Hill’s location gives bonefishermen quick access to miles and miles of virgin flats and the numerous Cays of North Bight. Large numbers of bonefish averaging 3-6 pounds roam these flats. Plenty of fish in the 6- to 9-pound class can be found, and there are good chances at double-digit fish. Tranquility Hill also has wadable flats directly in front…
Bair’s location on South Andros (also known as “The Bonefish Capital of the Word”) allows fishing all of South Andros within a ten minute to one-hour boat ride. Since the lodge is ideally situated between Kemps Bay and Mars Bay (the southern most settlement on the island) anglers can reach the expansive, firm bottomed flats of South Andros, which are some of the largest and most varied in the world.
The Peace & Plenty Bonefish Lodge has everything you could want in a first class bonefish lodge; quick access to miles of productive flats, state of the art flats boats, experienced Bahamian guides, outstanding food, American management and a physical plant as comfortable and picturesque as many in the Bahamas that charge far more.
Water Cay Bonefish Lodge is ideally located just east of the Horn off Grand Bahamas North Shore. The lodge is situated on the southern shore of Water Cay, a small island 3-miles north of mainland Grand Bahama. Water Cay is a remote island with only 3-full time residents and despite the glow of Freeport (the second largest city in the Bahamas), the experience at Water Cay is similar to the more remote out-island lodges in the Bahamas. This north central habitat is rarely visited because…
Rickmon Bonefish Lodge offers fantastic bonefishing on the southern tip of Abaco. Lodge owner Ricardo Burrows has put together an attractive, well situated fishing lodge with access to the expansive flats around Sandy Point, the flats running North and South of Sandy Point, plus Gorda Cay and Mores Island. Ricardo is considered to be one of […]
Click here to read John Fraizer’s article about his trip to Grey’s Point, “Thinking Outside the Boat” from the November / December 2013 issue of Fly Fishing in Salt Waters. Grey’s Point Bonefish Inn on Acklins Island is one of our favorite wading destinations for bonefish. Run by the Williamson family, Grey’s Point Inn guests enjoy warm “Out […]
Sandy Point, Abaco, is one of the outstanding bonefishing destinations in the Bahamas. It has all the bases covered: good bahamas fishing guides, large numbers of bonefish (including some very big bonefish) and plenty of wadeable, hard-bottom bonefishing flats. It is also a good place to fish for sharks, big barracuda, jacks and mutton snapper. Though […]
Flamingo Cay Lodge is the only lodge situated on Andros’ famous west side. Other lodges do fish Andros’s west side, but only by navigating the island’s creek system for up to an hour by boat over choppy seas, often at an additional fuel surcharge. From Flamingo Cay, huge western bones are only minutes away. Nestled in a private, secluded cove, Flamingo Cay is a unique private retreat that offers some of the best bonefishing and waterfowl hunting in the Bahamas.
Deep Water Cay Club (DWCC), located on Grand Bahama Island, is hard to beat for consistently productive bonefishing, top Bahamas’ guides, state-of-the-art bonefish skiffs, outstanding facilities and management, all within close proximity to the USA. A good thing just got better. New owners (as of February 2010) are making substantial investments to the storied Club, fine […]
Crooked Island Lodge has a lot of fishable water close by and it isn’t all just bonefish! There are extensive systems of interior creek and lagoon areas that have big bonefish, an assortment of snapper, barracuda and small grouper, some permit and the occasional small to medium sized tarpon – all catchable on a fly rod […]
The New Blackfly Lodge, located on a picturesque harbor on the east side of Abaco, over looking the Atlantic Ocean, opened March 1, 2012. The new lodge features an open kitchen, bar, dining room floor plan, a full service fly shop, and accommodates 8 anglers in 8 single bedrooms, each with their own bath. The […]
Andros South of South Andros, Bahamas, is located 15 minutes from the South Andros Airport in the southern section of the island and is a short distance from some of the finest bonefishing in the Bahamas. Andros South has access to literally hundreds of square miles of bone-white flats. Guests can fish nearby creeks, South Bight […]
Andros Island Bonefish Club offers easy access to the famed Bahamas bonefishing of northern Andros. Andros Island Bonefish Lodge is conveniently situated on the mouth of Carghill Creek at the eastern end of the North Bight of Andros, Bahamas. The fishing lodge is a stone’s throw away from a productive, wadeable flat. Stretching in all […]
Cape Santa Maria (CSM) Beach Resort, located at the northern tip of Long Island in the Southern Bahamas is famous for its warm hospitality, and spectacular beaches. Over 4 miles of deserted beach, great snorkeling and fishing make Cape Santa Maria an ideal family vacation spot. When you walk down the beach, the sand is like […]
NOTICE: Abaco Lodge reopened in April 2023 after sustaining severe damage during Hurricane Dorian in September 2019. We’re excited to have this wonderful property back in operation after more than 3 years! We’ll continue to update this page as we continue to get great reports. The “Marls of Abaco” is a vast expanse of prime, wilderness bonefish habitat, […]
Andros Island is the largest island of the Bahamas and also offers some of the biggest bonefish anywhere in the world. Five and six pound fish are common. Fifteen pounders have been landed. Andros Island also offers an incredible diversity of flats fishing along the coasts of three distinct bights.
Located about mid-way down the east coast of Andros Island, Tranquility Hill Lodge and the Andros Island Bonefish Club have good access to the North and Middle Bights and hundreds of square miles of prime Bahamas bonefishing flats as well as the uninhabited west side of Andros. The flats and creeks on the west side also occasionally produce tarpon.
North Andros Fly Fishing is an intimate operation, giving 4 – 6 anglers access to the famous bonefishing on the Joulter Cays’ 20 miles of extensive hard sand flats – a wade fisherman’s paradise. North Andros Fly Fishing also provides access to the west side of Andros, which offers large bonefish, resident tarpon, and occasional permit.
The Andros Island Bonefish Club has been an icon in Bahamas bonefishing for 20 years. This is the lodge that got things going on Andros. In May 2003, owner Rupert Leadon purchased the adjacent Creekside Lodge (formerly Cargill Creek Lodge). These combined lodges bring many of Andros Island’s best bonefishing guides under one roof.
Tranquility Hill Lodge is located at Behring Point, Andros, overlooking the island’s North Bight. Tranquility Hill was constructed in the early 90’s by legendary Bahamaian bonefish guides Ray Mackey and the late Ivan Neymour. For nearly 20 years Tranquility Hill has offered comfortable, attractive accommodations for 16 anglers and access to the legendary bonefish flats of the North Bight of Andros. Ray is both manager and head guide presiding over a staff of extremely talented guides, many of them members of the Mackey and Neymour families. Tranquility Hill is not only a perennial favorite of Angler Adventures clients but is one of the best values in quality Bahamas bonefishing lodges.
Kamalame Cay has taken Bahamas bonefishing and luxury lodge pricing to a new plateau. Owners Brian and Jennifer Hew represent a new breed of entrepreneurs in the Bahamas. Nothing was spared in their drive to create elegance in this lodge and spa operation located on a private cay in north Andros Island. Located at Stainard Creek, Kamalame Cay angling guests chase bonefish fish on Andros’ nearby eastern shore. In addition, the fishing lodge gives guest the option of driving approximately 40 minutes north to fish the much-heralded Joulter Cays. The Joulters are noted for huge populations of bonefish, extensive wading flats and frequent permit sightings. Kamalame Cay employs 8 full time guides and owns a fleet of new and reconditioned Maverick Mirage skiffs.
Middle Andros Island
With the proliferation of lodges on North Andros (above), The Middle Bight of Andros Island has at least one world class bonefishing lodge to offer as well. Mangrove Cay Club is on the south shore of the Middle Bight and offers lodging, food and guided bonefishing on a par with the best lodges in the Bahamas. Mangrove Cay Club also provides access to a part of Andros which has been traditionally under-utilized.
In recent years the southern tip and southwest side of Andros Island, Bahamas, has become one of the hottest bonefishing destinations in the world. South Andros is a relatively new spot on the angling map and is comprised of vast, unpressured flats, tidal creeks, mangroves and unique inland lakes. Check out our report from Evan Peterson’s recent trip to Mars Bay Bonefish Lodge Andros.
Bair’s Lodge, located slightly south of Kemps Bay, South Andros, is a small but extremely well run bonefishing facility. It is of our perennial Bahamas favorites.
Formerly Bair Bahama Guest House, Bairs Lodge was purchased in May 2003 by Fernado de las Carreras, owner of several successful trout lodges in Tierra del Fuego. The lodge has since been totally renovated. Everything is top shelf. Bair’s offers incredible bonefishing on the southern tip and southwest side of Andros.
Andros South (formerly Bonefish Bay Club) offers alternative access to the flats of South Andros and single occupancy accommodations are provided to all anglers. Deneki Outdoors owner, Andrew Bennett, has made numerous upgrades to the facility since taking over operation of Andros South. As we expected, Andros South has quickly become one of the island’s most popular lodges.
Pleasant Bay Bonefishing Lodge is a small family owned and operated lodge in the second southernmost Township in South Andros. This location is ideal since it means shorter boat rides to the bonefishing flats of South Andros, as well as access to areas like Grassy Creek and the West Side. Pleasant Bay has been one of South Andros’ best-kept secrets and has proven to be one of the islands shining stars.
The southern-most bonefishing operation is Mars Bay Lodge. American manager/owner, Bill Howard, offers simple and clean accommodations and close proximity to prime bonefish flats (Mars Bay is 5 miles further south than any lodge on Andros and offers the quickest access to the wilderness flats of South Andros). With a maximum occupancy of 8 anglers Bill is limiting reservations to 6 anglers at a time. The location, experienced guides and Bill’s meticulous attention to detail makes Mars Bay a great choice for anglers primarily interested in bonefishing.
West Andros Island
Flamingo Cay Rod & Gun Club is the only fishing lodge situated on the legendary west coast of Andros. This gives Flamingo Cay Club an extraordinary advantage over any other lodge on Andros in terms of accessing the least fished flats. Andros’ west side is also home to some of the biggest bonefish in the Bahamas. Given it’s remote location (guests are flown in by private float plane), we would describe Flamingo Cay Club as luxurious. It’s not inexpensive, but there’s nothing else quite like it in the Bahamas. Space is limited to 8 guests.
Abaco
The Marls refers to the 300 square miles off the west coast of Abaco. This prime and virtually untouched bonefish habitat is mainly comprised of soft-bottom flats, creeks, cuts, and miles of mangroves.
The marls of Abaco have new luxury lodge: The Delphi Club at Rolling Harbour. It’s an excellent choice for anglers interested in fly fishing the world class bonefisheries of the Marls and Cherokee Sound, who want a special place to relax after a day of fishing, with or without non-angling companions. The Delphi Club is a colonial plantation style lodge with a spectacular ocean front location located 30 minutes South of Marsh Harbour. The lodge can accommodate 16 guests in 8 well-appointed bedrooms.
Nervous Waters, owners of the successful and popular Bair’s Lodge on Andros Island, opened Abaco Lodge in May 2009. Abaco Lodge offers anglers direct access to the northern and central sections of the Marls (the marls are literally steps from the lodge). The lodge takes up to 8 angers at a time, each with their own room. At Abaco Lodge you can expect comfortable and well appointed accommodations, world class cuisine, top of the line boats operated by seasoned, expert guides, and a management & staff committed to providing the utmost in service and attention to detail.
For the wading angler, the best walking flats in the northern Bahamas can be found on the southern tip of Abaco at Sandy Point. Sandy Point offers some good permit fishing too. There are two bonefishing lodges based in Sandy Point: Pete and Gay’s Guest House and Rickmon Bonefish Lodge. Accommodations have been upgraded at both lodges. With good weather the guides can make the one-hour run to Mores Island, a location revered for big Bahamas bonefish, permit and mutton snapper.
Grand Bahama
Grand Bahama has several of the finest bonefishing establishments in the Caribbean. Grand Bahama’s bonefish population and close proximity to the U.S. makes it a very popular destination.
North Riding Point Club, one the finest and most luxurious bonefish lodges in the Bahamas, is conveniently located 20 miles east of Freeport. The North shore of Grand Bahama is truly a world-class fishery and consistently produces world record class bonefish. For discriminating anglers looking for the best lodge and the best fishing, NRPC is clearly the choice. Click here to read about “What’s New” at NRPC, including a fly caught 14 pound bonefish.
Grand Bahama Bonefishing is located in the Port Lucaya section of Freeport. Grand Bahama Bonefishing operates 5 boats and guides including the famed Pinders (formerly of the Deep Water Cay Club). Guest are accommodated at the Westin or the Sheraton hotels in the impressive Radisson Our Lucaya Resort complex, making this a popular choice for families or mixed groups of fishermen and non-fishers.
Water Cay Bonefish Lodge is located on a small cay off the North Shore of Grand Bahama. There’s so much remote and wilderness flats, that you’ll forget the major city of Freeport is just over the horizon.
H2O Bahamas Bonefishing uses attractive hotel accommodations in the Lucaya area. Run by passionate flyrodders and veteran guides, Greg Vincent and Jason Franklin, H2O’s fishing program is well suited for both hard core anglers as well as those new to the sport. This location also appeals to families or mixed fishing & non-fishing members looking for general resort amenities and activities as well as world class flats fishing.
H2O has state a fleet of state of the art Maverick Mirage skiffs, an experienced and talented guide staff, and access to both the legendary north shore flats as well as productive flats on the south side when conditions dictate. Optional offshore fishing and No Boundaries packages may also be arranged for hard core anglers looking for the ultimate in Bahamas flyrodding.
East End Lodge is located at the East End of Grand Bahama Island. East End Lodge’s proximity to excellent bonefishing (250 square miles of bonefish habitat), the experienced guide roster, and focus on providing access to excellent fishing with quality accommodations at an affordable rate makes it a top choice for any angler considering a fishing trip to Grand Bahama.
The fabled Deep Water Cay Club is also located on Grand Bahama. Originally opened by Gil Drake and A. J. McClane in mid-50’s, Deep Water Cay Club is a bonefishing institution that has historically hosted some of the Bahamas’ best guides and enjoyed the biggest names in fishing as returning guests.
These lodges access some of the finest bonefishing in the Bahamas. The north shore of Grand Bahama is widely acknowledged as one of the three top locations in the world for big bonefish, and also harbors good numbers of large permit and a seasonal migration of mid-sized tarpon.
Water Cay Bonefish Lodge is located on a small cay off the North Shore of Grand Bahama. There’s so much remote and wilderness flats, that you’ll forget the major city of Freeport is just over the horizon.
Acklins & Crooked Islands
In the past two years we’ve witnessed a maturation of the outfitting options in the Crooked and Acklin Islands, which lie approximately 450 miles southeast of Miami, Florida.
Crooked and Acklins Trophy Lodge is located on the North Side of Crooked Island. The lodge gets its name from their central location to the best fishing areas on both Crooked and Acklins islands. While we still consider this a bonefish destinations, especially for anglers who love to wade, Crooked and Acklins Islands are among the best Permit destinations for angler interested in chasing permit in the Bahamas. There's a solid population of permit, with fish averaging right around 20 pounds virtually year round! While not as consistent, there is also a healthy population of resident Tarpon.
Anglers may also have shots at larger migratory Tarpon during late Spring and early Summer.
Our favorite bonefishing operation on Acklins Island, Grey’s Point Bonefish Inn opened to customers in January 1997. The lodge is a beautifully renovated guesthouse perched on a hill overlooking Relief Bay on northern Acklins. One of our favorite features is that more than 90% of the fishing from Grey’s Point is wading on beautiful, firm bottomed flats, both on Relief Bay, and the appropriately named, Lovely Bay which is a 20 minute car ride from the lodge. Both of these areas literally miles of lightly fished wading flats.
Crooked Island Lodge offers comfortable beachfront accommodations, prefect for husbands and wives wanting to experience the incredible fishing in the southern Bahamas. Crooked Island Lodge’s bonefishing operation runs six flats skiffs fishing French Wells, the northern Bight of Acklins and Turtle Sound. Crooked Island Lodge also has good numbers of permit, and offer optional offshore fishing for wahoo, dorado, yellowfin and some marlin.
Southwest Montana is home to some of the most famous rivers in the United States. Rivers like the Ruby, the Big Hole, and the Beaverhead are all regarded as top blue-ribbon trout streams. Southwest Montana possesses two huge benefits for traveling anglers. First, most of the top rivers in Southwest Montana are located within an easy drive on one another. This allows anglers to experience a variety of fishing options without sacrificing fishing for travel. Secondly, Southwest Montana is geographically diverse. Rivers like the Beaverhead, the Jefferson, and the Ruby flow through very broad and arid valleys, flanked by tall and distant mountain ranges, while rivers like the Big Hole, flow through beautiful agricultural valleys before entering the mountains. This diversity in landscape means that while one river may be running high and muddy, it’s possible to find a nearby river running crystal clear.
Brown trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout amongst others
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Montana fly fishing trips and packages!
The Complete Fly Fisher offers anglers a complete Montana experience. Both beginners, just learning to fly fish, and experts, versed in matching the hatch and technical skills alike, will thoroughly enjoy the diverse fishing opportunities. There is no other lodge in Montana that provides the “Best of Everything” like the folks at the Complete Fly Fisher. If you are new to fly fishing, the Complete Fly Fisher offers a fly fishing school where you lean by actually fishing.
Over the past few years, the fishing has been getting better and better. The numbers and size of different species of fish has been outstanding. Large Browns, Rainbows, and Cutthroat, some are the fish of lifetime, are the usual suspects on the surrounding rivers of the Complete Fly Fisher.
Located in Dillon, Montana, home of the renowned Beaverhead River, Five Rivers Lodge (FRL) is within easy striking distance of the five highly productive rivers from which it gets it name; The Ruby, The Big Hole, The Jefferson, The Madison and the Beaverhead. More importantly, the lodge has aggressively procured over 23 miles of private waters, including a spring creek, its own private ponds and sections of the Ruby; The Beaverhead and the Big Hole. The lodge is exquisite and offers extensive amenities and fine food. Lodge guides are among the best in Montana. Don’t forget to check out Five Rivers’ sister facility in southern Chile, Cincos Rios, for trout fishing November – April! Click here to learn more about Fiver Rivers’ Travel Credit.
Healing Waters Lodge offers rustic elegance and extensive access to terrific public, private and exclusive trout fishing in southwestern Montana. Located in Twin Bridges, the lodge is situated perfectly to provide a wide variety of fishing opportunities for a range of fishing styles. Within a 40 mile radius anglers can float larger blue ribbon rivers, walk and wade on mid-size meadow streams, small, productive spring creeks and still water fishing.
Take a trout fishing expedition in Patagonia with Angler Adventures
Argentina is one of the top destinations to fly fish for trout. Angler Adventures represents lodges from Esquel to Junin del los Andes with Bariloche in the middle. This region represents the best trout fishing Argentina has to offer, including extensive wade and float fishing options – much of it on private estancias (ranches).
TOP PICK for trout & fly fishing
Favorable weather conditions year-round
Open November through May
Outstanding dry fly fishing thoughtout the season
Available for booking NOW
Book now, get a quote, or find out more about fly fishing in Argentina!
Jorge Graziosi has been guiding in Patagonia Argentina since 1968, first under the name Safaris Acuaticos and more recently as Arroyo Claro Lodge, which he opened 1999. In 2006, Jorge
Fly Fishing Andes offers miles upon miles of private access water on multi-thousand acre estancias (ranches), where you might never see another angler during your fishing
The Limay River Lodge is the first and only lodge on the incomparable Middle Limay River. The lodge opened in November 2014 and created easy access to a
Tecka Lodge is a unique fishing property, holding more than 90-miles of fishable private water inside of 435,000 acres. It’s hard to imagine a scenario better
Updated on Fly Fishing the Rio Grande Salmon fishermen, steelheaders, or anyone keen to pursue “overstuffed, energized anadramous torpedoes” should head to Southern Argentina this
Alphonse Island Fishing Company (AIFC) offers the rare opportunity to stalk bonefish, trevally, trigger fish, permit and more while wading the flats of uninhabited Alphonse, Bojitier and St. Francois Islands. Alphonse Island now offers single room accommodations and is the only outfitter with access to world renowned St. Francois Lagoon. The experienced guides, luxury accommodations, and excellent fishing make Alphonse Island an extremely popular destination.
Farquhar Atoll is the most southerly atoll in the Seychelles chain. Formally too far south to be accessed by mother ship, FlyCastaway has established a land-based operation on Farquhar. Onshore, Farquhar is best known for both its Giant Trevally and Bonefish populations, however there’s quality fishing for Indo-Pacific Permit, Triggerfish, Barracuda, Milkfish, Bumphead Parrotfish & various other Trevally species. In addition the close proximity to deeper water allows for “offshore” fishing from the skiffs and anglers can come into contact with Grouper, GT’s, Dogtooth Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, Sailfish and even Marlin on occasions. Accommodations are in an existing lodge building on the Atoll with 5 fully air-conditioned double occupancy rooms and a central lounge.
Desroches Island Fly Fishing Adventures is a new land-based fishing operation in the Seychelles. Anglers are accommodated in the existing and luxurious villas of Desroches Island Resort. The resort is the perfect place to bring a non-fishing companion and still offers great Seychelles fishing. The flats fishing occurs on near by St. Joseph’s and Poivre Atoll’s for bonefish, trevally, milkfish and Indo-Pacific permit. Desroches also affords anglers access to a variety of reef and offshore species.
St. Brandon’s Atoll, Mauritius is possibly the best bonefishery in the world based on numbers, size, and willingness to eat a fly. St. Brandon’s Atoll (also know as Cargados Carajos Shoals) is a collection of 50 small islands with a total landmass of less than 1-mile some 200 miles off the cost of Mauritius, a small island Republic just east of Madagascar. In addition to the bonefishing, there’s a mix of trevally, including some of the biggest GT’s and more Indo-pacific permit are caught here than anywhere in the Indian Ocean. St Brandon’s Atoll is a remote location with a limited 12-week season. Since the mother ship accommodates 8 anglers per week, Mauritius offers exclusivity in addition to the world-class bonefishing in a remote location.
Other Locations in Africa
In addition to the fishing in the Seychelles and Mauritius, FlyCastaway offers 2 excellent Tigerfish destinations: Panyame Camp in Mozambique and the Mnyera & Ruhudji Rivers in Tanzania. Tigerfish are a voracious predator fish that can grow to more than 20 lbs and that make powerful runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. The Payame Camp offers a diverse delta flood plain fishery where anglers can catch lots of Tigerfish on the fly. The Mnyera & Ruhudji Rivers in Tanzania offer the best chance for trophy Tigerfish.
Costa Rica remains our favorite Pacific destination not only for the consistency of the fisheries and amazing diversity of species, but also because of the quality of outfitting and accommodations, the physical beauty of the country, and the warmth and friendliness of the Costa Rican people.
The Pacific Coast has long been known as one of the world’s greatest sail fisheries for fish averaging 100+ pounds, and at times, the marlin fishing (blues, blacks and striped) can be as good as anywhere. Add to this a smorgasbord of inshore and offshore pelagics including yellowfin and bigeye tunas to 200 + pounds, dorado, wahoo, Pacific dog snapper, roosterfish on the Pacific side and giant tarpon & snook on the Caribbean side and you have a salt water fisherman’s paradise. Pacific Costa Rica has fisheries in three main regions.
The North Region includes areas from the Bat Islands at the top of the famous Gulf of Papagayo, south to Punta Guiones. The best sail fishing occurs in the north mid-May through August, but can heat up any time of year. Marlin fishing picks up in the fall and peaks in the far north October & November but the best marlin fishing occurs down near Punta Guiones during December through mid March. The best boats (27 – 38 foot) and captains in the northern region are Tamarindo Sportfishing, Capullo Sportfishing , Osprey Sporfishing and Lonestar Sportfishing based in Tamarindo. Several of the American skippers in Tamarindo have been fishing these waters for over 20 years and are among the best in Costa Rica.
The South Central Region is accessed from the port of Quepos, Costa Rica’s most reliable sail fishery. Prime months for sails are December through April in Quepos when the better boats will average 7 or more sailfish releases per day. During this season, Quepos also produces dorado, tuna (mostly school yellowfin); some roosterfish, and at times good marlin fishing. But the main draw is the extremely consistent sailfishing of winter/spring. Many of the northern boats migrate from the Papagayo region to Quepos for the “big season”. The outfitter in Quepos is JP Sportfishing Tours with 20 years experience providing top boats and custom packages for anglers.
The Southern Region is accessed from the port of Golfito located in the fertile Golfo Dulce, close to the border with Panama. This area can produce sailfishing rivaling Quepos from mid December through March, but also offers a diversity of species rivaling the Northern region and some of the best inshore fishing in the world.
The top option in the Golfo Dulce area is the beautiful Crocodile Bay Lodge catering to both fisherman and ecotourists, and boasting an impressive fleet of 33′ Strikes, 27′ Rambos and an assortment of smaller craft for inshore, estuary & river fishing. Crocodile Bay is our recommendation for serious anglers, and also appeals to couples and families with non-fishing members requiring more upscale accommodations and non-fishing activities.
Costa Rica’s East Coast Ocean & Surf Fishing
Costa Rica’s East Coast adds the incredible mix of species beginning with one of the world’s most prolific tarpon fisheries. Two main rivers, the Rio Colorado and the Rio Parismina, drain into the Caribbean and provide multi faceted river, ocean and surf fishing opportunities for tarpon that range from 50 – 150 pounds. Giant Atlantic snook to 50 + pounds can be taken and great numbers of fat snook from 5 – 10 pounds are taken during the “calba” run from mid-November to early January. The best lodges in the area, Silver King Lodge on the Colorado and Rio Parismina Lodge on the Parismina, not only offer the best opportunities for these species but can run offshore for shots at dorado, wahoo, kingfish and Atlantic sails.
Which Costa Rica fishing destination is right for me?
Let us help you find the perfect destination and travel package. Our services are free. We just help you save time and make all the arrangements!
Salmon fishermen, steelheaders, or anyone keen to pursue “overstuffed, energized anadramous torpedoes” should head to Southern Argentina this winter. Angler Adventures represents Kau Tapen Lodge, Villa Maria Lodge and Aurelia Lodge, all located on the famous Rio Grande in Tierra del Fuego, where the sea run brown trout fishing gets better every year! Catch and release and repeat spawning have dramatically increased the numbers of returning sea trout that average 10.5 pounds, and range to well over 30!
brown trout, rainbow trout, steelhead trout
Professional guides and deluxe accomodations
Ecotourism possibilities and more in Tierra del Fuego
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Chile & Argentina fly fishing!
Nervous Waters is an Argentine Company owned and operated by Fernando & Jorge de las Carerras. The Carerras family opened the first fishing lodge on the Rio Grande, and Nervous Waters now operate 2 of the best lodges on the river system. Nervous Waters currently owns and operates 8 lodges around the globe including Pira Lodge and Suinda Lodge (Dorado fishing) in Corrientes Province, Bairs Lodge and Abaco Lodge (Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon) in the Bahamas and others in Chile and Argentia. The Nervous Waters properties rank among the very finest fishing lodges in the world.
Kau Tapen first opened in 1986 and is the lodge that got sea run trout fishing going on the Rio Grande. Today, it’s repeat client rate is one of the highest in the industry. It is considered one of the finest lodges in the world of fishing. You must pay a premium to stay at Kau Tapen, but it is worth it, if you call early enough to get space.
Villa Maria Lodge opened in 1996 on the historic Estancia Jose Menedez and offers 16 km of water on the lower Rio Grande downstream from Kau Tapen. This is bigger water, perfect for the Spey rod enthuisiast and offers first crack at dime bright searun browns fresh from the salt.
Another excellent option on the Rio Grande is the beautiful Aurelia Lodge, situated just above Kau Tapen on Estancia Rosita. Owned by Ricardo Hermoso and managed by veteran Rio Grande guide, Peter Pereira Mullins, Aurelia offers an impressive 8 miles of double bank fishing on the Rio Grande plus15 miles on the Rio Menendez for just 8 rods. The recently refurbished lodge offers superb accommodations combining classic Patagonian ambience with modern comfort.
Tierra del Fuego can be combined with the outstanding trout fishing offered by our outfitters in Patagonia, Argentina or dorado fishing in Corrientes.
It’s a lot to take in. We know!
Let us help you find the perfect destination and travel package. Our services are free. We just help you save time and make all the arrangements!
Yucatan Peninsula | Carribean: outstanding flats fishing for tarpon, permit, bonefish and snook
Baja Peninsula | Pacific Coast: amazing inshore and offshore fishing for everything from roosterfish to striped marlin
Updated on
Mexico offers great saltwater fishing on both coasts – The Yucatan Peninsula on the Carribean side and the Baja Peninsula on the Pacific Coast. The Yucatan has offers outstanding flats fishing for tarpon, permit, bonefish and snook, and the Baja offers great inshore and offshore fishing for everything from roosterfish to striped marlin.
The Yucatan boasts a number of top quality fishing lodges in fantastic and remote fisheries like Ascension Bay, one of the world’s great flats fisheries.
Go for tarpon, permit, bonefish, snook, roosterfish, striped marlin
Head to the lagoons and mangroves when wind picks up!
Wade-fishing, shore fishing, flats fishing, boat fishing in the shallows or the deep seas
Get more info on exciting Bahamas fly fishing packages.
No travel agency knows the Mexico fishery better than Angler Adventures. Staff members Evan Peterson, Doug Schlink, and Liam Rosati have accumulated vast experience with the lodges and expansive flats in this beautiful country.
Take the guess-work out.
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
Playa Blanca is the only lodge on Espiritu Santo, providing exclusive access to this fishery which is comparable in every way to Ascension Bay. Espiritu Santo is a vast expanse of flats, creeks, cays and lagoons and is loaded with bonefish, permit, tarpon and snook. And this wilderness fishery receives virtually zero fishing pressure other than the handful of Playa Blanca boats and the occasional boat up from the south.
Grand Slam Ascension Bay Lodge is a modern, luxurious lodge operation on one of the world’s greatest saltwater flats fisheries, the incomparable Ascension Bay. Located in the Riviera Maya and only 2 hours by car from the new International Airport of Tulum. The Lodge is in the Sian Ka’An Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in Mexico, also an UNESCO World heritage. Fishing in Ascension Bay is one of the best experiences in Mexico.
Pesca Maya is a beachfront fishing lodge located 4 miles northern lip of Ascension Bay- about 3 hours south of Cancun. Offering great access to the north side of Ascension Bay, Pesca Maya also has the best access to the protected waters of El Rio Lagoon system, a nice option to have in a strong easterly or westerly wind. Affordability and variety fishing: wading and skiff fishing the flats of Ascension Bay and El Rio Lagoon, limited surf casting from the beach.
Casa Blanca Lodge is located on the southern lip of Ascension Bay on the private island, Punta Pajaros, and has been the premier flats fishing lodge in Mexico and Central America for over 20 years. Casa Blanca offers outstanding service, comfortable fishing lodge style accommodations, top boats, experienced guides and phenomenal fishing.
Casa Blanca Lodge, is located on the southern lip of Ascension Bay on the private island, Punta Pajaros, and has been the premier flats fishing lodge in Mexico and Central America for over 20 years. Casa Blanca offers outstanding service, comfortable fishing lodge style accommodations, top boats, experienced guides and phenomenal fishing. (Click here to read about “The Week” at Casa Blanca and Playa Blanca).
One of Casa Blanca’s biggest attractions is the quality of the Ascension Bay permit fishing, and the lodge’s expertise at helping flyrodders land the elusive permit on-the-fly – the Casa Blanca guides live for Permit fishing. Bonefish are abundant throughout Ascension Bay and most of the flats are clean and hard, perfect for wading for tailing fish. Large migratory tarpon (to 100 + pounds) are found April through November, but grand slams are common here with help from the lodge’s secret tarpon lagoon, which has year round resident tarpon (and some world record size snook!). Baby tarpon are also year round residents of the brackish waters in the back of the bay.
Playa Blanca Lodge is Casa Blanca’s Sister Lodge located 10 miles to the south near the southern tip of the cay, just a short boat run from the amazing Espiritu Santo Bay. Playa Blanca is the only lodge on Espiritu Santo, providing exclusive access to this fishery which is comparable in every way to Ascension Bay. Espiritu Santo is a vast expanse of flats, creeks, cays and lagoons and is loaded with bonefish, permit, tarpon and snook. And this wilderness fishery receives virtually zero fishing pressure other than the handful of Playa Blanca boats and the occasional boat up from the south.
The lodge and attendant guest houses are situated on a knoll overlooking a gorgeous white sand beach, and the blue Caribbean. Originally conceived to emphasize non-fishing activities, Playa Blanca offers a bit more upscale styling and amenities. The amazing 2-bedroom Casa Redonda offer great options for parties of 4 or any desiring more privacy. While Playa Blanca has operated first and foremost as a fishing lodge for many years now, it is still a great choice for groups that have non-fishing companions.
Pesca Maya is an attractive, beachfront fishing lodge located 4 miles northern lip of Ascension Bay about 3-hours south of Cancun. Offering great access to the north side of Ascension Bay, Pesca Maya also has the best access to the protected waters of the El Rio Lagoon system, a nice option to have in a strong easterly or westerly wind. While less upscale than Casa Blanca and Playa Blanca, Pesca Maya is a reasonably priced alternative to Casa Blanca and Boca Paila. Transfers to the lodge are by car versus the more expensive charter flight needed to reach Casa & Playa. Also, there are no set transfer days, so you can choose dates and packages of any duration. Besides wading and skiff fishing the flats of Ascension Bay and El Rio Lagoon, Pesca Maya offers limited surf casting from the beach.
Grand Slam Flyfishing Lodge is the Yucatan’s newest and most upscale fishing lodge. The facility offers a level of luxury that sets a new standard in the Caribbean Basin. But the fishing program is second to none, being run by 24 year Ascension Bay veteran lodge owner and world class flyfisherman, Bobby Settles. The beautiful beachfront lodge appeals both to hard core anglers and mixed groups of anglers and non-fishers.
Ascension Bay Bonefish Club
Another highly regarded fishing lodge located on the north side of Ascension Bay is the Ascension Bay Bonefish Club (ABBC). This lodge only takes 6 people. The emphasis is on permit and they employ two guides per boat. Call or email for details.
Boca Paila
Boca Paila is a beautiful beachfront fishing lodge just 2 hours south of Cancun, noted for excellent food and service. The facilities include attractive thatched roof cottages overlooking a pristine, white sand beach. Fishing is in the lagoon system north of Ascension Bay. Non-fishing activities include trips to Mayan ruins, snorkeling and bird watching.
Paradise Lodge
Paradise Lodge is a small, remote facility located on the beach at Punta El Placir, about 200 miles south of Cancun. The primary fishery is on a string of about a dozen shallow, clear, “cenote-fed” tarpon lakes. Tarpon access these seemingly landlocked lagoons through a network of underground caverns, and emerge in the blue holes (cenotes) found in each lake. The come to feed on the abundant bait in these clear lakes. They receive very little pressure and usually eat the fly extremely well. They range in size mostly from 10-20 pounds but occasionally you’ll find a school of larger fish. 30 – 50 pounders are not uncommon and fish up to 80 + have been taken. This is primarily sight fishing in calm, protected lagoons. Many of these lagoons hold trophy snook and barracuda. Day trips to the bonefish and permit flats of Espiritu Santo Bay to the north, or Chetumal Bay to the south may be arranged.
Baja Peninsula
On the west coast of Mexico, the Baja Peninsula and particularly the port of Cabo San Lucas near the southern tip, has long been a favorite destination for offshore fisherman. There are several major fleets specializing in conventional offshore fishing, such as the Hotel Solmar Fleet, and the Cabo Magic Fleet. Until recently however, there has not been an outfitter catering specifically to light tackle and flyfishing enthusiasts. Baja Anglers fish from sea worthy and speedy, twin engine, catamaran hull Glacier boats with bilingual guides who specialize in fly fishing and light tackle techniques. Species available include striped, blue & black marlins, sailfish, dorado (dolphin fish), yellowfin tuna, roosterfish and more. Packages are available with accommodation options of hotel or private beach front condominium units.
At Los Roques it is “business as usual” and that means the flats have been rested and the bonefish are eager! Chip Bates of Angler Adventures traveled to Los Roques in early July 2003 and reports that the political situation in Caracas has stabilized, the economy is regaining strength and the Venezuelan’s are anxious to receive tourists.
Some things do get better with age, like the bonefishing at Los Roques. This atoll is now a National Park. The numbers of outfitters have been limited, but the bonefish are thriving. Politics kept anglers away last year. Our outfitter, Sight Cast, bats 100% on customer satisfaction. This is an exotic destination for wading flats, a lot closer than Christmas Island or Seychelles. Read about “The Pancakes” on our web site.
From mid January through mid October, Los Roques is one of the great destinations to stalk bonefish on foot. Like Christmas Island, all fishing is done wading. Los Roques is a spectacularly beautiful coral and sand atoll, 80 miles off the Venezuelan north coast. The flats are pristine an loaded with bonefish from small to large, as well as some tarpon and permit. Outfitting is provided by Sight Cast at Acuarela Lodge.
Guri Lake
Few experiences in angling can compare with the savage explosion of a peacock bass striking a top water lure or fly. Guri Lake is Venezuela’s most well-known peacock fishery. Guri’s fish will average 6 – 7 pounds, but double digit fish (up to 20 + pounds) are here as well. Guri is outfitted by Chapi Sportfishing’s Paovon Lodge, located on the southern shore of the lake. We also expect to hear good things from Jacob Elias (former owner of the original Guri Lodge) who is now operating a 65-foot houseboat, the Peacock Princess. Jacob has refurbished his fleet of Ranger bass boats and can now accommodate up to 8 anglers. The Peacock Princess offers the advantage of being able to move “the lodge” to the best fishing throughout the season.
La Guaira Bank
Eleven miles northeast of the beach resort village of Caraballeda, an underwater mountain range rises from depths of 300 – 500 fathoms to peaks within 45 fathoms of the surface.
Deep oceanic currents collide with this structure producing an upwelling from the nutrient rich depths, concentrating the food chain on the surface. The result is one of the world’s greatest fisheries for blue marlin, white marlin and sailfish, known as La Guaira Bank.
While “The Bank” produces all three species year round (and broadbill swordfish in the summer), the most popular seasons are September through November for white marlin, and March – May for best numbers of blues.
Rio Chico
Tacarigua Lagoon near the town of Rio Chico hosts a fantastic baby tarpon fishery. These fish range in size from 3 – 10 pounds and at times (particularly the fall months) tarpon to 50 + pounds are available. This is a fishery well suited to light tackle and fly rodders. It’s not unusual to jump 30, 40 or 50 of these mini-silver kings in a day. Rio Chico makes an interesting side trip following a Los Roques or a billfishing package.
The Turks & Caicos Islands are a British Overseas Territory lying just southeast of Mayaguana, Bahamas. The topography and marine ecosystem of the Turks & Caicos is almost identical to the Bahamas. There are 9 “major” islands in the Turks & Caicos chain: Providenciales, Pine Cay, Parrot Cay, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos, South Caicos, West Caicos and Grand Turk.
Turks & Caicos is a fraction of the size of the Bahamas. The island of Mayaguana alone is about half the land mass of Turks & Caicos. But the bonefish population in T&C may actually be denser than the Bahamas! It’s impossible to count, but certainly arguable. There are literally flats everywhere in T&C and some, like the Caicos Bank stretch as far as you can see on the clearest day of the year (75 square miles to be exact).
Whereas bonefish lodges in the Bahamas exist on nearly every of it’s 20 plus major islands and some islands, like Andros, boast more than 20 lodges on one island, there is just one bonefish lodge in all of Turks & Caicos, Beyond the Blue Bonefish Charters in South Caicos. Lots of people have been to Provodenciales, or “Provo”, the hub of tourism in the Turks & Caicos.
Few people have been to South Caicos, and that’s the way Bibo Jayne, the owner of Beyond the Blue Fishing Charters, intends to keep it. A transplanted Floridian, who has seen the effects of development on fishing, Bibo likes to keep a low profile and leave little or no impact on the environment of South Caicos. Despite not being a big promoter, he manages to fill his 6 person lodge for 6-7 months a year.
As a result, less than 140 anglers fish South Caicos each year, creating one of the most remarkable ratios of angler per thousand bonefish anywhere short of Christmas Island or Seychelles. The remoteness of South Caicos is most savored when you cover mile upon mile of it’s gorgeous, shallow flats by airboat and never see a “prop scar”. You realize no one else fishes here. It’s all yours. Everything about South Caicos … “south” as it’s called, is different … in a good way.
It’s all wading. There are no skiffs. Your only form of transportation on the water is a 24 foot airboat powered by a 454 Chevy engine or one of 4 paddleboards, highly effective and custom outfitted for cruising the flats. Despite the fact that the bonefish can be ridiculously plentiful at times, are aggressive, and relatively easy to catch, this is not a destination for beginner bonefishermen. There is no one on one guiding. Once the airboat stops, the 6 anglers wade the flats. The airboat operator (either Bibo or Ganger) will drag the boat to stay with the anglers, or if you spread out, he eventually rounds everyone up when it’s time to hit a new flat. You must enjoy wading and spotting bonefish on your own.
The rewards are, you will have the chance to catch both numbers and size. Bonefish schools numbering in the 100’s are a common sight. So are 5-10 pound fish traveling in smaller pods, or hanging on the edges of the big schools. It’s best to tighten your drag and rely on heavier tippet than you might otherwise, to be able to hang onto the big boys, which can appear out of nowhere, anytime.
The other thing that’s different is the way they locate fish in South. Most of the time fish are spotted from the perch of the airboat at 25 mph. Stop. Get out and fish. Amazing. If you’re able to spot the fish soon enough that you don’t run them down, they’re not permanently spooked by the sound of the airboat. Even though the big Chevy cranks out big noise (head phones are provided), the noise is generated above the water, not in the water, and the noise doesn’t spook the fish as much as you might expect.
Why use an airboat?
Because the flats are too shallow, except at the higher tides, to access with a traditional outboard engine, tunnel hull, jack plate or whatever. Finding fish on these wide open flats is a bit random. You might see 1,000 fish on a flat one day and zero the next. That’s when you get in the airboat and go searching. There are mangroves and like everywhere, the fish like to feed in the mangroves at high tide. The bottoms get softer the farther you penetrate the mangroves. But, mangroves have creeks and openings that make them fishabale, and the paddleboards are perfect for penetrating the mangroves at higher tides and they allow you to cover many times more habitat than you will on foot.
Typical Day
“We leave the beach about 8 AM and head for the flats. We are in the beginning of the flat system in as little as 5 – 10 minutes. As we traverse the flats, we scan for fish. When we start to see them, we stop the boat and begin to wade the area. As you wade and catch fish, the guide will periodically walk back and bring the boat up so it is usually within a short walk for anglers. We have lunch on the boat and return from fishing about 4PM. By wading, everyone fishes the whole day! Not like the traditional poled skiff where you really only handle a rod for half the time as you share the deck with another angler. We take groups of up to 6 so there is plenty of space on the boat. The South Caicos flat system is huge so you don’t have to compete for space as you wade.
Wind
Unlike some bonefishing locations, there are plenty of flats that don’t get “milky” in a persistent, strong wind. That’s because the majority of the bottom is hard sand, not soft sand. Line control can be a hassle when fishing from a boat in windy conditions. But, wind becomes advantageous when wading, as long as you can fish downwind with the sun behind your back. Wind settles the fish and allows you to get closer without spooking them. And Bibo insists that the fishing in South Caicos is better when the wind blows hard! Here’s how he describes it: “Just an FYI, when your clients ask about the wind. It doesn’t usually impair the casting as you can adjust to the fish when wading. When the wind is ripping, the fish are unbelievable. They flood onto the bank. We just had guests here during a stretch of 20-25 knot winds and here’s an email they sent me after their trip.”
“Ganger put us on fish early the first day and it was crazy good for 3 straight days. I think the wind was our friend! The vast majority of fish were cruising in ankle deep water in singles, doubles, and up to 5 or 6 in a group. The average fish was 4 – 6 pounds and we caught many in the 7 – 9 pound range, Ganger will probably agree that Doug and I caught over 100 fish each (I quit counting!! Great trip”.
Other Client Quotes
“By far the best bonefishing of my life”. Charlie M
“Last day was great. Lot of fish. I broke one off that was closer to 20 than 10 lbs. Have never seen one even close to that big. Eye was the size of a ping pong ball and he took the fly at my rod tip. Grrr”. Mike R.
“I’ve never been to the same place twice. This is my 4th trip to South Caicos. This is a very special place. My question was, is it possible to stop the airboat after seeing fish and catch fish. We did it 3 times the first day. Now with the paddleboards, you have 10 times the range you have on foot”. M. Hatter
Beyond the Blue is open from November through June. For those who love to wade, this is a “must visit” place.
Owners
Bibo and Marian Jayne are partners with Ganger Lockhart, a native of South Caicos. Bibo and Ganger met years ago, when they both worked at the School for Field Studies in Cockburn Harbour, South Caicos. Bibo imported an airboat from Florida to explore the shallow flats and what he found was unbelievable numbers of bonefish. In 1999 they started Beyond the Blue Bonefish Charters and began housing guests.
The Lodge
Beyond the Blue leases three townhouses high on a bluff, near Tucker Point, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. There is a swimming pool built into the rock shoreline. The view is spectacular. Next door are additional accommodations, pool table and bar. Beyond the Blue takes a maximum of 6 anglers a week. The lodge is appropriate for fishing couples, but there is very little to do for non-anglers.
Each townhouse has two double bedrooms with two twin beds and a private bath. Nothing fancy, but clean, functional, great hot water showers and air conditioning in the bedrooms. There is also a kitchen, refrigerator and common living space.
Meals are served in the dining room of the middle townhouse. The food is prepared on site by a local chef and consists of tasty local, Bahamian dishes, such as pork, chicken, beef, conch, lobster and fish. Breakfast and lunches are also prepared by the chef. Sandwiches, sodas and waters are carried in the cooler for each day.
Air Service
Angler Adventures can advise you on the best schedule. Flight time is 35 minutes. The cost (subject to change) is approximately $180, round trip.
Our Services are Free!
Beyond the Blue Bonefishing 2020 Rates
(subject to change)
Package Length
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing
$5,245 per person
$5,945 per person
6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing
$4,495 per person
$5,095 per person
5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing
$3,745 per person
$4,245 per person
4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing
$2,995 per person
$3,395 per person
Included: Round-trip transportation from the South Caicos airport to the lodge; three meals daily; non-alcoholic beverages; accommodations; fishing license; guide and boat.
Not included: Airfare to South Caicos; alcoholic beverages; ; tackle; personal items; Bahamas fishing license.
Legend has it that outdoor adventure writer Zane Grey “discovered” the great black marlin fishing off the reef (now known as the Zane Grey Reef) on Piñas Bay. Historians disagree, but most everyone agrees that Piñas Bay is one of the world’s finest black marlin fisheries. The blacks of Piñas usually range from 300 – 600 pounds and the best time of year is from mid-January through mid-March. Blues and striped marlin start running in March and from April through early June Piñas has fantastic sailfishing. Tropic Star Lodge is a world class lodge overlooking Piñas Bay and offers the best access to this fishery aboard their fleet of 31-foot Bertrams. Besides billfish, Piñas offers wahoo, dorado, tuna, and wonderful “rock” fishing for roosters, snappers and other inshore species.
Norway is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking fly fishing experiences. With its pristine rivers, crystal-clear lakes, and dramatic fjords, the country is a dream destination for anglers seeking wild and powerful fish. Whether you’re after trophy-sized Atlantic salmon, elusive brown trout, or Arctic char in the far north, Norway offers unparalleled opportunities in stunning natural surroundings.
Target Species & Best Fishing Seasons
Atlantic Salmon – Norway is world-famous for its Atlantic salmon runs, with peak fishing season from June to August. The Gaula, Orkla, and Alta rivers are among the best places to land a record-breaking catch.
Brown Trout – Wild brown trout thrive in Norway’s rivers and lakes, particularly in the mountain regions. The best months for trout fishing are May through September, with early summer offering prime dry fly action.
Arctic Char – Found in colder, northern waters, Arctic char fishing is best in early summer (June-July) and late autumn before the freeze.
Sea Trout – These migratory trout offer exciting opportunities along Norway’s coastal waters, especially in the spring and autumn months when they return to freshwater to spawn.
Top Fly Fishing Destinations in Norway
Gaula River – One of Norway’s premier salmon rivers, famous for big catches and conservation-focused fly fishing.
Orkla River – A classic salmon river with varied terrain and excellent fly fishing beats.
Alta River – Home to some of the world’s largest Atlantic salmon, but access is limited and highly sought after.
Lågen River – A productive salmon river with good accessibility and a mix of fly fishing conditions.
Hardangervidda National Park – A haven for wild brown trout, with stunning alpine lakes and rivers.
Finnmark Region – The ultimate destination for Arctic char and sea trout, offering remote and untouched fishing spots.
Your Expert Guides to the Best Fly Fishing in Norway
Navigating Norway’s vast fly fishing opportunities can be overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. With expert local knowledge, years of experience, and access to some of the finest waters, we’ll ensure you find the perfect spot for an unforgettable fishing adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned fly fisher chasing a trophy salmon or a beginner looking to experience Norway’s stunning wilderness, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Get in touch today and let’s plan your dream fly fishing trip in Norway!
St. Brandon’s Atoll, Mauritius is possibly the best bonefishery in the world based on numbers, size, and willingness to eat a fly. St. Brandon’s Atoll (also know as Cargados Carajos Shoals) is a collection of 50 small islands with a total landmass of less than 1-mile some 200 miles off the cost of Mauritius, a small island Republic just east of Madagascar. In addition to the bonefishing, there’s a mix of trevally, including some of the biggest GT’s and more Indo-pacific permit are caught here than anywhere in the Indian Ocean. St Brandon’s Atoll is a remote location with a limited 12-week season. Since the mother ship accommodates 8 anglers per week, Mauritius offers exclusivity in addition to the world-class bonefishing in a remote location.
Other Locations in Africa
In addition to the fishing in the Seychelles and Mauritius, FlyCastaway offers 2 excellent Tigerfish destinations: Panyame Camp in Mozambique and the Mnyera & Ruhudji Rivers in Tanzania. Tigerfish are a voracious predator fish that can grow to more than 20 lbs and that make powerful runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. The Payame Camp offers a diverse delta flood plain fishery where anglers can catch lots of Tigerfish on the fly. The Mnyera & Ruhudji Rivers in Tanzania offer the best chance for trophy Tigerfish.
Iceland is home to the world’s most beautiful and prolific salmon, trout and sea-trout rivers. This remarkable island and western most European nation is often called “The Land of Fire & Ice”, reference to her active volcanoes and immense glaciers. This is a land unspoiled by man and blessed with an abundance of pure unpolluted lakes and crystal clear rivers. The fertile green “Ring” surrounding the perimeter of the island offers some 5000 kilometers of coast line and no less than 100 scheduled salmon rivers and many more sea-trout and char rivers.
Strict conversation measures and carefully regulated access to the fisheries have insured the integrity of the salmon, char and sea-trout runs and have sustained a quality of sport, much the same as it was 25 or even 50 years ago.
Each salmon river is evaluated as to how many anglers or “rods” it can support. Rod allocation can run from as few as 2 rods per river, to as high as 20 or more on some of the larger rivers. A river with a 10 rod designation for example, allows no more than 10 “rods” per day fishing the river at any given time. Most rivers fish a 12 hour day and will allow 2 anglers to “share a rod” (effectively giving each angler 6 hours fishing per day). This insures the rivers are not over-fished and also gives each angler plenty of quality water to fish each day.
We have assembled here what we believe to be the very best that Iceland has to offer. Through our affiliation with the Angling Club Lax-á, we have obtained access to some of the very best weeks of the season on many of these rivers. And through our affiliation with Icelandair, we are able to offer the lowest available air fares from the United States to Reykjavik through our air inclusive packages.
The incredible Ponoi River on Russia’s Kola Peninsula may be the world’s most prolific Atlantic salmon river. During recent years, anglers landed an average of just under 40 salmon per rod per 6-day week for the entire 16-week season! The Ponoi River Company is the longest operating and most reliable outfitter on the Kola. Operating from the centrally located Ryabaga Camp site, anglers access over 50 miles of the Ponoi and an additional 50 miles of tributaries by jet outboard river boats or fly-outs in 2 twin jet helicopters. While known predominantly for fantastic numbers of small salmon (7-10 pounds), one year the Ponoi produced 1411 fish over 10 pounds including two over the 30-pound mark! Space is extremely limited for the season and early reservations are advised.
Kola Lodge gives serious Altantic Salmon fishermen the rare opportunity for trophy Atlantic salmon, which can exceed 40 – 45 pounds. On most other trophy salmon rivers, targeting big fish equates to catching few fish. However, the Kola offers not only chances for big fish but impressive daily catches as well.
Guests at the Lodge fish both the Kola and it’s beautiful tributary, the Kitza River. Each of a maximum of 16 anglers (14 in July) fishes with his own boat and guide daily with accommodations in private cabins.
The Wild Salmon Center has gotten all the press, but Ouzel Expeditions pioneered Kamchatka and has outfitted the peninsula since 1991. Owner, Paul Allred concentrates on four rivers and picks the one that’s fishing the best the day you arrive!
Kamchatka has been decribed as, “like Alaska used to be – but better”. This 750 mile long peninsula boasts hundreds of miles of pristine, wilderness rivers, teeming with 6 species of Pacific salmon, arctic char and kunja (Siberian) char, and perhaps the best rainbow trout fishing on the planet.
Veteran Alaksan outfitters, Paul & Sharon Allred, owners of Ouzel Expeditions , were the first Americans to explore and outfit the Kamchatka and are entering their 15th season providing top quality float trip expeditions on the peninsula. For anglers looking for the ultimate wilderness experience and the opportunity for catch 30 + inch wild rainbow trout, we recommend a float trip with Ouzel Expeditions .
While eastern Canada is blessed with many great quality Atlantic salmon rivers in a number of the provinces such as Labrador / Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, strong argument can be made that the best Atlantic salmon fishing, and certainly the largest of Canada’s Atlantic salmon are to be found in “La Belle Province”, Quebec on the beautiful Gaspé Peninsula.
A trio of world-class salmon rivers flow from the Gaspé’s Chic Choc Mountains southward to the Bay of Chaleur, the Grand Caspcapédia, the Petite Caspcapédia and the Bonaventure. The Grand, while mostly private, is known as one of the world’s top producers of trophy Atlantic salmon, producing 10 or more fish over the magical 40 pound mark each season. However, the Bonaventure and the Petite Caspcapédia Rivers are also capable of producing trophy size salmon as well as impressive numbers. And compared with the arduous travel necessary to reach some other provinces, these Gaspé rivers are easily reachable by car from the northeast states, or by service into nearby airports.
All three of these rivers are no more than an hour’s drive from each other and all three may be fished from anyone of a trio of world class salmon lodges. The tremendous advantage is if one of the rivers is not fishing well, these lodges can shift to one of the other rivers, affording anglers the best possible opportunity for good sport. Moving from west to east, these lodges are:
The Salmon Lodge is situated on the Grand Caspcapédia. Built in the late 1800’s, this historic Lodge brings anglers back to the era of Atlantic salmon fishing in the “Grand Old Style”. The Salmon Lodge is the closest to the Lake and Salmon Branches of the Grand Caspcapédia, and as such, may fish these Grand more often than the other two. They also rotate fishing quality water on both the Petite Caspcapédia as well as the Bonaventure.
Formerly The Canadian Salmon Club a private camp for over 90 years, The Club on the Bonaventure is now open to the public offering access to the most productive stretch of the Bonaventure River. Guests enjoy 5-Star accommodations, gourmet cuisine and pampering attention. 6-rods have exclusive use of 7-miles of river with 26 major pools on the coveted B3 and B4 sectors of the Bonnie.
Camp Bonaventure is one of Quebec’s newer salmon lodges. Built in the early 1990’s, this elegant contemporary lodge is located on the banks of one of Canada’s premier dry fly rivers, the gin clear Bonaventure River, and offers access to trophy waters on the famed Grand Caspcapédia as well as the crystalline Petite Caspcapédia.
When most anglers think Atlantic salmon fly-fishing, the Miramichi River is usually the first river to come to mind, and for good reason. The Miramichi’s run comprises over 40% of all the Atlantic salmon returning to spawn in all North America’s rivers. Besides the massive size of the run, the river offers a long season with angling for “spring salmon” or kelts (post spawning fish) from April 15th – May 15th, and bright salmon fishing from June 10th through October 15th.
Conservation efforts over the past 20 years have dramatically improved the returns of Atlantic salmon in Eastern Canada. The Miramichi in particular is sporting salmon numbers reminiscent of “the good old days”. We represent Wilson’s Sporting Camps and Country Haven Lodge, which provide access to some of the best salmon water on Miramichi.
New Zealand is home to some of largest Brown and Rainbow Trout in the world and creates truly special fishing opportunities. New Zealand’s trout can reach 15 lbs and while there are only few of these monsters caught each year, the average trout is still an amazing 3 – 6 lbs! Trout fisherman often dream of making casts to these huge, wild rainbows and browns that lurk in New Zealand’s crystal clear rivers, streams, and lakes that are surrounded by an extraordinary landscape filled with exotic plants and hulking peaks.
New Zealand trout fishing is spectacular, and anglers who visit New Zealand once, return year after year. They often return home with stories like landing a 7 lb rainbow that moved over 5 feet from behind a boulder to take a big grasshopper imitation or watching a brown slowly rise up through 6 feet of water to inhale a nymph in almost perfectly transparent water. These are the type of moments that make the fishing in New Zealand special however, much of the New Zealand experience comes from the Deluxe Fishing & Hunting Lodges that have established themselves on both Islands and can make a fishing trip unforgettable!
The Deluxe Fishing Lodges we represent are among the top lodges in New Zealand. They each offer luxury accommodations, excellent gourmet meals, world-class guide staffs, access to New Zealand’s top trout water, and a list of activities for the non-fishing guest or for anglers who want to experience more of New Zealand than just the trout fishing. Whether you choose to fish surrounding rivers, take exciting Helicopter fly ours to remote rivers and streams, relax around the lodge, or participate in the many non-fishing activities New Zealand has to offer, we can customize any trip to your personal desires.
North Island, New Zealand
The trout on the North Island of New Zealand are primarily Rainbows, but there are a good number of Browns in the North Islands River’s and Lakes. The Rainbows of New Zealand are derived from Steelhead strains, making them extremely hard fighters. This also means that the Rainbows that have taken up residency in the lakes, will move to their spawning streams in the New Zealand fall.
Poronui Ranch is one of the top lodges in the world, priced at half the cost of Alaska. Poronui also has the most private water under contract (over 16,000 private acres), two on-property rivers, and offers helicopter fly-outs to wilderness streams, almost guaranteeing that you will be fishing a beat that hasn’t seen an angler for 10 days or more. Poronui Ranch is a Deluxe Lodge, with luxury accommodations (made up of a main lodge and 7 individual guest cabins), outstanding gourmet food with a regional feel, a wine cellar with over 10,000 bottles covering most recognized vintages, a modern sports and relaxation center with gym and health club facilities (like steam and sauna rooms and massage rooms), and a cigar room, which includes a full-sized antique English billiard table.
Legendary guide Tony Hayes established Tongariro Lodge in 1982, so anglers could experience one of the world’s finest trout fishing regions in the world, Anglers who visit Tongariro can easily see why Tony found that the Tongariro River and Lake Taupo region provided some the world’s best trout fishing. Expert guides at Tongariro Lodge maximize the potential of each angler, from beginner to expert, and Tongariro’s strategic location, in the middle of the Lake Taupo region, grants anglers access to over 40 rivers, streams, and lakes. Stalking trout at Tongariro Lodge is truly the fishing experience of a lifetime.
This top-notch fishing lodge was created with the New Zealand experience in mind. The lodge itself is strategically located in a park like setting, allow guests to enjoy the New Zealand landscape, flora and fauna. Tongariro also offers superb gourmet meals (with an international reputation for using only the best New Zealand game and preparing delicious traditional New Zealand dishes) accommodations in comfortable elegance, and exceptional selection of the finest wines.
The lodge also has a diverse list of outdoor activities that will highly impress family and friends that choose to hang back, relax or indulge in all New Zealand has to offer. It is not hard to imagine that Tongariro has consistently surpassed angler’s expectations for more than 25 years.
South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island is famous for the large wild Brown Trout that fill the island’s rivers, lakes, and streams and the remarkable fishing opportunities those trout create. The Browns average 4 – 5 pounds, will readily eat large dry flies, and aren’t nearly as selective as the North American cousins (the hatches are not as drastic in New Zealand as they are in North America, making NZ trout more opportunistic than selective).
One of the unique features of the South Island, the Southern Alps, makes this part of New Zealand a great trout fishery. The high mountain peaks help protect the northern part of island from weather moving in from the south west and collects substantial rainfall, which creates the cool, crystal clear, freestone streams where these large browns thrive. This mild climate, that creates such wonderful trout fishing, also makes the northern section of the island, New Zealand’s most important wine-producing land.
Owen River Lodge is an outstanding contemporary lodge, located in the heart of the best brown trout fishery in the world, the Murchison / Nelson Lakes area of New Zealand’s South Island. Owen River is within an hours drive from 30 excellent brown trout rivers and streams, and has access to countless remote water by helicopter. Owner / Manager Felix Borenstein has truly created the ideal place to experience New Zealand’s sight fishing for large brown trout in luxury accommodations. Owen River Lodge is also the only 5 star fly fishing lodge in New Zealand.
On the South Island we also recommend: Riverview Lodge, Hanmer Springs; Riverview Farm Lodge, Queenstown; Fjordland Lodge and Blanket Bay Lodge. Please call or email Angler Adventures for more information on these lodges.
New Zealand is a very unique destination, offering visitors fantastic fishing, fabulous vineyards and wineries, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly “kiwi” hospitality, which is unlike anywhere else in the world. Angler Adventures’ expertise in planning and implementing detailed itineraries is unsurpassed. We can arrange varied itineraries for experienced anglers or for couples and families, who want to experience the trip of a lifetime.
In addition to the lodges described above, we also represent a number of other destinations on both islands in New Zealand. So, if you don’t see a location you are considering listed on our website, the chances are we can arrange your accommodations and much more.
The general trout season in New Zealand is October through April. However, the Tongariro River stays open year round and fishes well May-September.
Labrador is the most remote of the Eastern Canadian provinces, and as such, offers some of the best fishing. The trophy brook trout is Labrador’s biggest drawing card, and the Minipi watershed is one of the world’s finest fishery for trophy squaretails. Minipi Brookies average 5.5 pounds, specimens over 8 pounds are taken most years, and several world records (to 10 pounds) have been established here. Landlocked arctic char to 12 pounds and northern pike to 30 are available as well.
Lee Wulff first explored Labrador and the Minipi watershed some 40 years ago and the fishing remains as good as it was when Lee first cast a fly here. Much of the success is thanks to the strong catch and release ethic encouraged by Cooper’s Minipi Camps who outfit the watershed from three camps, Ann Marie, Minonipi and Minipi Lake. If you’d like to catch a 7 or 8 pound brook trout on a dry fly, Cooper’s Minipi Camps is the best place in the world to try.
For anglers looking for more consistent action and not necessarily trophy fish, we recommend Crooks Lake Lodge on the headwaters of the Eagle River. Crooks Lake offers a mix of river and lake fishing with fish averaging around 4 pounds, occasionally up to 6, but the numbers of fish caught are much greater than in the Minipi system.
Guatemala is without question the Sailfishing Capital of the World. Guatemalan fishing boats typically average 15 – 20 sailfish bites per day, year round and during hot bites, it’s not unusual to raise 30, 40 or 50 or more sailfish in a single day. The incredible numbers of sailfish have attracted some of the world’s top international offshore captains to Guatemala and a fleet of comfortable and well equipped sportfishing boats. The top boats release over 2,000 sailfish a year.
Guatemala sailfish average 70 to 90 pounds and commonly exceed 100 pounds, especially are during the fall months. Much of the fishing takes place only 10 to 20 miles offshore.
But fishing in Guatemala in not just about sailfish – marlin, dorado (mahi mahi), and yellowfin tuna are the most common offshore species in Guatemala, and roosterfish are taken inshore. While not as abundant as sailfish, blue marlin are caught on a regular basis. They average 250 to 400 pounds, but larger fish in the 800 pound range have been released.
It’s not unusual to encounter large schools of dorado running from 10 to 40 + pounds.These acrobatic gamefish are great fun on light tackle or 9-weight fly rods. But keep a sharp eye – big marlins are frequently found underneath these dorado schools!
There’ve been a lot of changes in Iztapa, Guatemala since Capt. Hank Robbins pioneered this incredible fishery in the early 80’s. While there are many more boats, the fishing seems to get better. Incredible records have been set in recent years, like the legendary Capt. Ron Hamlin’s astounding 124 sailfish release day on the Captain Hook, or Capt. Chris Scheeder’s 57 sailfish on the fly in one day. Most importantly, the government of Guatemala has recognized the immense value of the resource, passing legislation not only mandating catch and release for sails, but making it illegal to possess any sailfish, effectively protecting the species from any commercial harvest. Such forward thinking will assure that the fishing for sailfish in Guatemala will remain the best in the world for many years to come.
The options for sailfishing in Guatemala have increased substantially since our first explorations with Capt. Hank 20 some years ago. New lodges and some of the world’s top offshore Captains bring exciting new choices for anglers looking for world class fishing for sailfish. (Please click on links for rates and information):
Casa Vieja is a beautiful new lodge, located less than one mile from the marina, featuring the most luxurious accommodations, the best game boats in the country, and a stable of some of the world’s most renowned blue water captains.
Picture a large tropical island with vast wilderness flats bordering virgin mangroves adjacent to healthy coral reefs. Picture these flats teeming with abundant bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and other game species. Then further visualize these areas being protected as national parks, with zero commercial fishing, and hardly any boat traffic, and a strictly limited number of sportfishing rods, catch and release only, all under the sound management of a company dedicated to preserving this flyfisherman’s paradise. Sounds too good to be true? This is Cuba.
Avalon Cuban Fishing Centers (ACFC) has been active in promoting Sportfishing in Cuba for 18 years. They have exclusive license to outfit for a limited number of rods in a few protected areas, both on the south and the north coast. ACFC destinations offer a mix or live aboard “mother ship” or land based accommodations which include Jardines de la Reina, Cayo Largo and Isla de la Juventud on the south coast, and Cayo Cruz on the north coast.
2015 will be remembered in Angling history as the year it became legal for US Citizens, in possession of a “people to people” travel letter from the non-profit fisheries research and conservation organization Bonefish Tarpon Trust (BTT), to sport fish in Cuba.
2015 is also the year travel restrictions were lifted, making it legal for US airlines to fly to Cuba, US travel agents to book travelers to Cuba and US insurance companies to offer travel insurance to US Citizens traveling to Cuba.
Angler Adventures has been assisting a limited number of US anglers traveling legally to Cuba for several years. But, the easing of restrictions in general and the travel license from BTT in particular, opens the door for any US angler wanting to fish Cuba.
What hasn’t changed (and will take years to catch up) is the tourist infrastructure within Cuba and the transportation network to Cuba. Traveling to Cuba is still complex. We recommend using a knowledgeable, qualified travel agent, whether it’s your first trip or your twelfth.
In addition to having a staff of fishing experts, Angler Adventures is a full service travel agency, licensed to sell travel insurance. Angler Adventures can assist you in selecting a fishing location in Cuba, prepare you for what to fish for and what to bring, assist you in obtaining the travel letter from the BTT, assist with your Cuban Visa, create the most efficient travel itinerary for you and your group and offer you the protection of travel insurance for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical evacuation, and more.
Call us today at 1-800-628-1447. There is so much more we’d like to share with you about this fascinating country and phenomenal saltwater fishery.
Christmas Island is still one of the most prolific bonefish destinations anywhere, especially for anglers interested in pure wading. The fishery has recovered, close to the incredible numbers of bonefish that made Christmas Island famous in the 1970’s and 1980’s, since conservation mandates were put in place. The new regulations on commerical fishing and an energized local fly fishing guide culture, have breathed new life into this top saltwater fly fishing destination. Christmas Island is blessed with thousands of acres of shallow water, white sand and coral flats covered with cruising bonefish in the 2-6 pound range and the chance to hook a double-digit fish. The atoll is very close to the equator, so there is little variation in the weather from month to month. The bonefishing on Christmas Island is consistent year round, making it an exciting and rewarding bonefishing destination for both beginner and experienced anglers.
While you can spend a whole trip stalking bonefish on foot, usually over solid, white-bottomed flats, there is also variety in the fishing. Golden, Bluefin, Striped and Giant Trevally (up to 100 lbs), Triggerfish, Milkfish, Tuna, Wahoo, and even Sailfish can be caught during your stay. More recently, the Giant Trevally, or GT’s for short, have become a favorite species among fly anglers. GT’s can reach 60+ lbs and will attack a fly with reckless abandon, so don’t forget to bring a 12-weight!
Guests stay at The Captain Cook Hotel. Seven night/seven day packages originate in Honolulu, Hawaii. This is truly a year round fishery with very little temperature fluctuation, given its proximity to the Equator. For detailed information click here.
New Bonefishing Destination in the Indian Ocean
St. Brandon’s Atoll, Mauritius is an exciting new bonefishing destination that has quickly become one of the top locations to land numbers of bonefish over 10 pounds. In addition to the bonefishing, Mauritius offers possibly the best Indo-pacific permit fishing anywhere in the world, and a mix of trevally, including GT’s up to 100 pounds. St Brandon’s Atoll is a remote location with a limited 12-week season. Since the mothership accommodates 8 anglers per week, Mauritius offers exclusivity in addition to the world-class bonefishing in a remote location.
Fly fishing in Chile has dramatically improved over the past decade and the trout fishing shows no signs of slowing down. The seasoning of quality local guides, exploration of trout waters, commitment to excellence in service, and a variety of fishing options each adds to Chile’s fantastic trout fishing. Currently, the variety of fly fishing options includes luxury fishing lodges, a mother ship, helicopter fly outs, and rustic style accommodations. Today, the selection of trout fishing lodges and locations in Chile are almost as varied as New Zealand.
The best fly fishing lodges in Chile presently exist in approximately a 100-mile radius of Coyhaique, which is serviced by the airport in Balmaceda, a 2-hour flight south of Santiago. We represent a wonderful collection of outfitters in Chilean Patagonia, including El Saltamontes, Spanish for “The Grasshoppers,” an idyllic, private ranch with outstanding dry fly fishing on the Nireguao River; Posada de los Farios, a small, intimate lodge fishing the lower Cisnes River, which offers optional fishing trips to the coastal fjords of Chile for big sea run rainbow trout and salmon.
Experienced, energetic local Chilean fly fishing guides from the Coyhaique area, a strategic location, and a magnificent new lodge gives Cinco Rios Lodge it’s reputation of a top Coyhaique fly fishing lodge. In addition to their superior guides and luxurious accommodations, Cinco Rios has easy access to an amazing amount of potent trout streams, including (but not limited to) the Paloma, Azul, Magote, Blanco, Simpson, Deseques, Pica Fina, Aysen, Nireguao and Manihaules Rivers. There is enough water here to satisfy a lifetime of trout fishing.
Estancia del Zorro, the sister lodge to Cinco Rios, is located on a private ranch near the Chile – Argentina border. In addition to a productive spring creek on the ranch, which holds brown trout to 30 inches, Estancia del Zorro guests enjoy trout fishing Patagonia on a variety of small creeks and streams loaded with smaller brown and rainbow trout, as well as access to larger rivers in the Coyhaique area.
Paloma River Lodge, located in the beautiful Paloma River Valley, offers opportunities for big brown and rainbow trout on the dry fly. The fishing area starts 200 yards from the front door on the Paloma River and extends over a diverse watershed. To access the trout fishing, the lodge uses horses, four-wheel-drive vehicles, jet-powered skiffs, and rafts, allowing each angler to customize his fishing experience. Paloma River Lodge offers private rooms, and accommodates only 6 anglers per week.
Futa Lodge, located on Chile’s Futaleufu River, is a delightful, small, authentic Chilean lodge set in Southern Chile’s countryside. Futa Lodge primarily fishes the Futaleufu River for native brown trout, rainbow trout, and the occasional sea run trout, but also offers excellent trout fishing on some smaller nearby rivers and lakes.
Yan Kee Way Lodge is an exquisite facility in Chile’s lake district, on the banks Lago Llanquihue. Yan Kee Way has transformed into an exclusive retreat to meet the needs of guests who want privacy, exclusivity, and luxurious amenities. Yah Kee Way is perfect for larger groups who aren’t afraid to pay for the price of luxury and want quality trout fishing and eco-tour opportunities close at hand.
Tres Rios, located just outside of Puerto Montt in the town of Puerto Varas, offers a variety of fly fishing opportunities, including fishing around Lago Llanquihui and the Petrohue River, trout fishing road trips to the Chaiten and Coyhaique areas, and helicopter fly out trips. Tres Rios is great for adventurous anglers or groups looking for serious fishing and a family style hospitality.
Nomads of the Seas is an exciting luxury mother ship operation, providing exploratory fishing trips into the wild coastline of Chilean Patagonia. The custom-built mother ship, complete with heli-pad and a fleet of jet boats, allows trout fisherman access to the previously un-fished waters of coastal Chile and non-anglers extreme comfort and wilderness tours. Guests stay in super deluxe accommodations and anglers target brown trout, rainbow trout and landlocked salmon.
Call for details. We’ll be happy to help you decide which lodge and fishery is best for you.
Excellent steelhead fishing has made British Columbia the go-to destination for targeting wild trophy steelhead. Fly anglers travel from all over the world to visit British Columbia to fish the famous summer steelhead runs and maybe land a trophy-sized 30-pounder. Known for long runs and multiple jumps, these large sea-run Rainbows are aggressive, extremely strong, and don’t quit a fight easily. Because these British Columbia steelies live up to their reputation, most lodges average 95% of their guests returning each year. Our fishing operations in British Columbia offer excellent steelhead fishing on the Dean and a truly unique luxury experience in the wilderness of western Canada. The Steelhead runs have continued to get better, with higher numbers of “big fish” being hooked due to a strictly enforced catch and release only policy throughout the season. British Columbia Rivers also provide excellent fishing for Pacific Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Cutthroats, and a variety of other fish.
BC West is located on one of British Columbia’s premier steelhead rivers, the Dean River. The Dean’ steelhead are widely acknowledged as the hottest sea-run rainbow trout in the world, and the Dean commands a high position on the “must fish life list” of nearly every traveling flyrodder. BC West is the premier lodge, located on the Lower Dean just below the famous Dean River Canyon and offers anglers their best opportunity to challenge these supercharged salmonids at their peak condition, chrome bright and fresh from the salt. Big bruiser chinook salmon in June and early July and acrobatic coho salmon in late August offer spicy alternatives should you tire of chasing steelies!
Moose Lake Lodge located 300 miles North of Vancouver in the Upper Black Water/Upper Dean wilderness and offers bountiful rainbow trout fishing on nearby lakes and rivers. Moose Lake also off optional fly-outs to coastal waters or the option of the Dean River Outpost Camp on the Upper River providing a variety of fishing opportunities for not just rainbows and steelhead, but Pacific Salmon, Cutthroat, Dollies, Kokanee and Whitefish.
Brazil is the world’s top destination for Peacock Bass fishing. The tributaries of the immense, 2 ½ million square mile Amazon River drainage system, and more specifically the Rio Negro and its tributaries, hold both the largest concentrations and the largest specimens of Peacock Bass or Tucunares, as they are known locally. While there is Peacock Bass fishing to be found in a few other South American locales, Brazil offers the best fishing along with consistent outfitting, quality fishing, and a stable infrastructure to insure a quality trip.
Peacock Bass are one of the world’s most exciting gamefish. Peacocks are aggressive and territorial ambush hunters, and are known for their explosive strikes and tackle busting runs. These fish can be literally unstoppable on their first few runs. “Savage” is the word that best describes these brutes!
Actually, Peacock Bass are not bass at all but are in fact members Cichlid family (which include the ultra-aggressive “Oscars” found in tropical fish tanks!). There are multiple species of Peacocks in the Amazon Basisn, ranging from the colorful Butterfly Peacock, (cichla oscellaris ) which run from 3 – 7 pounds, to the giant Speckled Peacock, (cichla temensis) which have been taken to over 27 pounds. Peacocks are not only one of the world’s most highly prized gamefish, but they are as beautiful as they are tough, making them a species that should be high on every traveling anglers “must catch” list.
Agua Boa Amazon Lodge is a ‘fly fishing only’ operation that was voted as one of the world’s top ten fly fishing lodges by Forbes Magazine. The Agua Boa is a tributary to the Rio Branco/Rio Negro system and is protected by fly fishing only legislation. In all be the highest water, Agua Boa runs crystal clear providing great sight fishing opportunies. Agua Boa is home to 4 species of Peacock Bass as well as about a dozen other “exotics”. Anglers who are Peacock Bass fishing at Agua Boa will also be treated to comfortable air-conditioned chalets, a pool overlooking the river, gourmet meals prepared by a talented chef, and knowledgeable and experienced local guides who take pride in getting you into fish.
River Plate Anglers, owned and operated by peacock bass pioneer, Luis Brown, has been hosting anglers fishing Peacock Bass since 1992 and offers the best variety and mobility options. River Plate utilizes a houseboat in some of the deeper, navigable channels with more “home comforts” and fly in floating cabins to access water beyond the navigable channels & their exclusive water on Indian Reserves and Government Preserves. This ability to access these more remote fishing areas combined with River Plate’s access to more than a dozen fishing areas eliminates over fishing and ensures the highest quality fishing. Both the houseboat and the fly in floating cabins can accommodate both fly and conventional fisherman, and provides 2 Loomis rods and Shimano reels with line for each angler to use while staying with River Plate Anglers.
Alaska is synonymous with catching big fish, and lots of fish, in an environment that is wild, rugged and plentiful, like few left on earth. In a week it is possible to catch 10 kinds of the world’s greatest game fish, a different species every day. Or, you may choose to go with only one goal; catching the biggest Rainbow of your life. Everything is possible.
In the Bristol Bay watershed, where the lodges we represent are located, the season extends from mid-June to the end of September. The calendar below explains when each species can be caught. Many fisherman plan Alaska trips around one or more species of Salmon, realizing that Trout, Char, Dolly Varden, Pike, and Grayling are available season long.
If you want to pursue Rainbows with a dry fly, focus on June and July. But, if it’s a trophy Rainbow you’re after, they’ll be several pounds heavier in August and September.
Most Alaskan outfitters operate on a weekly schedule, and range in price from $5,000 to $9,000 for 7-nights / 6-days fishing. The difference is largely a matter of accommodations and if the lodge provides daily fly-outs. Other price factors include: the number of boats and airplanes being utilized; how remote the location is; the ratio of customers to staff; fishermen to guides; and whether, tackle, transfers, licenses, and drinks are included.
Fly-out lodges provide tremendous mobility, allowing you to pick prime fishing areas within a 150 mile radius of camp, and by flying to different locations every day, you get to see the vast, spectacular scenery and wildlife Alaska is famous for.
Bristol Bay Area Fishing Calendar
Species
Available
Rainbow Trout (2 – 10 lbs)
June Thru September
Dolly Varden (2 – 10 lbs)
Arctic Char (2 – 10 lbs)
Arctic Grayling (1 – 3 lbs)
Northern Pike (5 – 10 lbs)
King Salmon Average Size 20 – 30 lbs Trophy Size 50 lbs
Selecting from the lodges we represent in Alaska is a choice of better and best. Mission Lodge is clearly in the category of best. Management, accommodations, food, aircraft, pilots, and guides all get an A+. You can catch Rainbows to 8 lbs on the Agulawok without having to fly out, but, if you want to fly an hour to the Kvichak or the Moraine for a monster, they’ll do it. Through lease and permit, they’ve amassed prime fishing locations second to none. You won’t have time to fish all of the river camps they’ve equipped with guides and jet boats. Their equipment is safe, top notch, and meticulously maintained. The daily orchestration of putting you in the appropriate aircraft to fish the best river, for what you want to catch, is executed with military precision. You’ll be treated with the respect of a client and the care of a friend. You pay once and never reach into your wallet again (except for the gratuities, which you’ll be anxious to pay). You need a raincoat and clothes, otherwise you’ll be outfitted with top of the line fly or spinning rods & reels, waders, flies and lures.
Every piece of the puzzle fits perfectly in place. As all consummate professionals, Mission Lodge Staff make it look easy! You get to relax, joke, enjoy yourself, and catch more, different, and bigger fish than you’ve ever caught before. Mission Lodge has the highest rebooking rate of any lodge we work with and our clients come back feeling like they got what they paid for and more. Click here for rates and more information on Mission Lodge.
Enchanted Lake Lodge is located on 54 private acres within beautiful Katmai National Park. The lodge is perched high on a knoll overlooking Lake Nonvianuk and Enchanted Lake and offers breath-taking views in every direction. With the Kulik and Alagnak Rivers reachable by boat, and the Moraine, Funnel, Battle and American Creeks, as well as the Brooks, Big Ku, and Kvichak Rivers a short flight away, Enchanted Lake Lodge is perfectly situated for trophy Rainbow Trout. And that’s what they do!
If you’re looking to pursue big Rainbows with a fly rod, this is the lodge for you. Early season dry fishing is followed by salmon fry on the surface, and both provide exciting sight fishing opportunities. Once the Salmon drop their eggs in July, fishing egg patterns turns into high gear. The guides are focused on one thing, catching you big Rainbows.
Guests are awakened each morning with hot coffee, tea or chocolate and greeted at the airplane dock each evening with their favorite beverage. Sauna, cocktails and hor de’ouerves are available before dinner. There is a complimentary bar.
You’ll be flown in pristine DeHavilland Beaver floatplanes and the pilot/guides remain with the guests all day. Jet boats are stationed on productive rivers.
Most acclaimed of Alaskan lodges, Bristol Bay Lodge represents the classic Alaskan experience. Nestled around Bristol Bay Lodge are cozy cedar cabins, set among tall fir trees. All overlook majestic Lake Aleknagik, in the Wood River, Tikchik Lakes State Park. The ruggedly beautiful area is visited by fewer than 1,000 sport fishermen each year. The Wood, Nushagak, and Togiak Rivers abound in prime fish habitat.
Waiting serenely dockside are three immaculately maintained DeHavilland Beaver floatplanes. Adjacent to the floatplanes, rest the fleet of jet boats, patiently nodding on Aleknagik’s morning ripples, ready to explore the lake and its diverse rivers. The Agulowak River, a few minutes by boat from the lodge, offers wonderful fly fishing for Rainbows, Grayling, Dolly Varden, and Char.
Guests can also stay at heated overnight tent camps complete with cots, foam pads, sleeping bags, linens, a cook and two guides. These legendary Outpost Camps, famous for the extraordinary fishing they provide, offer the chance to fish all day and under the midnight sun, then sit around the campfire and truly relax.
The stylish, well-appointed lodge, built in 1972 by Ron and Maggie McMillan is now run by the long time manager Steve Laurent. There are single, double and triple sleeping rooms in the lodge and in out-cabins for up to 6. Each unit has a private bath. The cabins have living rooms and a fireplace. Click here for rates and more information on Briston Bay Lodge.
Crystal Creek was originally located in the famed Wood-Tikchik area on Lake Nunavaugaluk, the southernmost Lake in the Wood River drainage. Built in the late 80’s by Terry Ebberly and veteran guide / bush pilot, Dan Michels, the lodge first opened in 1988. Dan bought out Terry a few years later and while the operation flourished and became one of Alaska’s premier fly out lodges, Dan was drawn by the by the big rainbows to the east on the Alaskan Peninsula, near the limits of their 120 mile flyout radius. In 2005, Dan found exactly what he was looking for and purchased a beautiful log & river rock lodge overlooking the Naknek River, one of Alaska’s premier trophy rainbow fisheries. By the 2006 season, Crystal Creek had moved to the new facility on the Naknek. The new location gave the lodge easy access to massive runs of all 5 species of Pacific Salmon, as well as the bounty of trophy Rainbow waters in the Katmai and Iliamna regions.
Crystal Creek is among the most luxurious lodges in Alaska. The massive 7,500 square foot log and river rock lodge and adjacent guest cabin provide spacious and tastefully appointed accommodations for up to 14 anglers. Meals and wine selections are gourmet, and staff and service top shelf. And with Dan’s 30 some years experience in the Alaska sportfishing business, Crystal Creek’s fishing program is second to none. Besides daily flyout fishing in the lodge’s fleet of impeccably maintained DeHavilland Beavers (2 on floats, 1 on tundra tires), the Salmon and Rainbow fishing can be spectacular within minutes of the lodge. The lodge is located very close to the Naknek Rapids, which stack up Salmon, food and monster Rainbows and is one of the best fishing areas on the river. Further, Crystal Creek also operates the incredible Yantarni Outpost Camp in the complete wilderness area of the southeast peninsula, which provides small stream, high volume Salmon fishing unmatched anywhere. Click here for rates and more information on Crystal Creek Lodge.
Royal Coachman Lodge is uniquely situated on the banks of the Nuyakuk River in the Wood-Tikchik State Park region of Bristol Bay, Alaska. Just downstream of the outlet to Tikchik Lake, its location offers remoteness, solitude and great local fishing on the Nuyakuk River for the rare non-fly out day or after hours fishing. The lodge has no neighbors and no other boats, cars or planes passing by the lodge. Nowhere else on earth will you find such a wide variety of sportfish. The sheer numbers of fish that this fishery supports is mind boggling. The area around Royal Coachman Lodge contains all five species of Pacific Salmon: Kings, Silvers, Sockeye, Chum and Pinks, along with seven species of freshwater gamefish, Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, Arctic Char, Arctic Grayling, Northern Pike, Lake Trout, and Sheefish!
Royal Coachman’s veteran guides sit with guests each evening, around the fire or tying bench, planning the details of the next day’s outing according to each client’s preference. The lodge utilizes two DeHavilland Beavers on floats. Royal Coachman’s guides have fished around the world and make this their career. They can help the beginner learn how to cast, or show the experienced fly fishermen how to reach a tricky undercut bank. They will give you as much or as little assistance as you desire.
With two exclusive permits in the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge, one private trophy trout fishery permit, permits to fish Katmai National Park and Wood Tikchik State Park, three department of natural resources permits, and nearly 20 boats cached throughout the best fishing locations, Royal Coachman has honed it’s competitive edge. Guests fish a variety of waters from very small streams to large rivers, lakes and the throughfares that connect them. By maintaining boats with jet units scattered throughout the region, and because of the variety of waters, private leases, and exclusive use permits held by Royal Coachman, you get the best fishing the region has too offer every day! These fishing destinations are remote and most of the time you’ll be the only anglers there. Whether you’re an expert fly fisherman or a beginning spin caster, you will find the angling adventure that you are looking for. And, you’ll catch a lot of big fish. Click here for rates and more information on Royal Coachman Lodge.
Tent Camps and Float Trips
If you prefer a tent camp or float trip over a fly out lodge, you want to be sure you select a good river as your base of operations. The Kanektok is the best single river we’ve fished in Alaska. The Kanektok has phenomenal runs of Pacific salmon, plus strikingly colorful “Leopard” Rainbows, sea run Dolly Varden, Char and Grayling. The river is small by Alaskan standards and wadeable. There is no better river to fly fish for Kings (King Salmon 20-50 pounds). Chum fishing is outrageous and the Silver Salmon fishing will blow you away. One week Alaska West caught 1822 Silvers, an average of 22 per rod per day and many of them were taken on dry flies!
Alaska West is located 5.5 miles from the mouth of the Kanektok River, where it empties into the Bering Sea, so the Salmon are consistently fresh and dime bright. Alaska West is a “tent lodge” made up of a combination of permanent and semi-permanent structures providing unbelievable comfort in the middle of the Alaskan Wilderness. The ‘tent’ part comes from heavy vinyl covers that are removed during the winter. Everything else is permanent – wooden floors, heaters, electrical system, water system, including the permanent shower house.
Alaska West puts anglers in the middle of the best fishing on the Kanektok for all 5 species of Pacific Salmon, “Leopard” Rainbow Trout, Char and Grayling. The Kanektok is one the best rivers in Alaska to target King Salmon of the fly, has amazing Chum and Sliver Salmon fishing. Click here for rates and more information on Alaska West.
Dave Duncan & Sons has developed an outstanding reputation after two generations of outfitting on the Kanektok River. From the outset, the Duncan’s knew the fishing was so good they called her “The Chosen River” to try and keep it a secret. Now, the Duncan’s operate two base camps and do a full river float on the Kanektok. While, both camps offer opportunities for all species, the Lower Base Camp is more focused on dime-bright salmon fresh from the salt and the Upper Base Camp is more focused on trophy “Leopard” Rainbows, particularly fun with a mouse imitation. Dave Duncan and Sons also do a 90-mile float trip that starts at the headwaters of the Kanektok and ends at the Bering Sea. The float is great way to experience the variety of fishing the Kanektok offers, as well the changes in the river’s personality as it negotiates its way from Kagati Lake to the Bering Sea. Both base camps and the 90-mile float provide anglers with a true Alaskan adventure on some of the best fishing water in Alaska. Click here for rates and more information on Dave Duncan and Sons.