With nearly 20,000 acres of flats, the Bahamas is the largest fishing area for bonefish in the world. Fish are larger than the average size as they enjoy the abundance of food that comes from one of the richest natural environments on the planet; the mangrove flats, irrigated and seeded every day by the rich waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
In the extreme southeast of the archipelago less than a hundred kilometres from the Haitian and Cuban coasts, Crooked Island and Acklins form an atoll over of 230 square miles. Its huge and shallow lagoon consisting of the islands of Crooked Island, Acklins and Long Cay makes a perfect wading area for bonefish and permit. It is particularly unspoiled and beautiful and with its 350 inhabitants it appears to be lost in time.
The average size of bonefish is about 4 lbs but much larger fish can be found on the flats. The island record is 17.6 lbs. Permit have hardly ever seen a fly here and are present in great numbers both on the flats and along the channels. Often they can be found hovering around large stingrays. Nice Caribbean trigger fish are also common on the coral flats and are not reluctant to take a little crab or shrimp imitation. Resident baby tarpon can be found throughout the year in some lagoons but most of the bigger fish arrive mainly during spring and summer. Barracuda up to 45 lbs, sharks, snappers, jacks and snook are some of the other species that are worth a cast as well as pelagic wahoo, tuna and dorado. The guides are all natives of the atoll. They have a wealth of knowledge and experience of this huge fishing area which is still unaffected by fishing pressure.
The lodge is simple and comfortable. Its perfect location makes it the only lodge that allows to fish the best area of Crooked Island and Acklins in the same week! It is run by a very friendly couple and consists of 5 large double bedrooms, all equipped with air conditioning, bathroom, sitting area, refrigerator and TV. Another building serves as restaurant and bar where cold beer will be waiting your return from the flats. The food is made of fresh products and local specialties such as the famous conch salad. In all, you will find Crooked Island and Acklins to be the ideal atoll fishing that is well preserved and shielded from mass tourism.
November to August
8 nights – 6 days fishing
2,890 € / per person sharing room and guide
Single boat sup. 1,200€
Included: domestic flight Nassau/ Crooked, accommodation 1 night in Nassau B&B, accommodation 7 nights in Crooked Island full board, organisation of 6 days fishing with 1 guide for 2 anglers, transfers in Crooked Island.
Not included: transportation to Nassau, transfers in Nassau, tips, single room sup. (€360), items of personal nature, travel insurance
If you would be interested in further details or an itinerary then please contact Peter McLeod alternatively call our office on +44(0) 1980 847389.