The Villages, Republic of Kiribati
Easy to wade flats teeming with bonefish
Set on the pristine white sand Discovery Beach, The Villages is just a short skiff ride from several of Christmas Island’s large, easily waded flats which teem with big bonefish.
Fabulous waters to test your angling skills
Measuring around 250sq miles, Christmas Island is the largest atoll in the world. The central lagoon and saltwater ponds occupy about 125sq miles and it is in this maze of deep blue channels and white sand flats that anglers come to test their skills against the local bonefish. Alongside these shallow water specialists are a multitude of other species including giant, bluefin and golden trevally, triggerfish and milkfish.
Anglers are transported to the flats in South Pacific style skiffs and the guides are all experienced fisherman – the senior guides have been on the island their entire lives. The lodge operates on a ratio of one angler per guide so personal attention is assured. Fly fishers will find 7 to 8# rods with floating lines ideal for bonefish. All the bonefishing is wading and the flats will vary from six inches to three feet deep. For GT and other trevally on the flats a 10# with a floating line works well. If you are just outside the coral heads, then you might consider a 12 to 14# with sinking lines or shooting heads.
Comfortable lagoon-front accommodation
Nestled among palm trees and overlooking the sparkling waters of the lagoon, The Villages features 10 air-conditioned twin-bed bungalows comfortably accommodating up to 16 anglers. Each unit has a private bathroom and a verandah facing the lagoon. A ‘maneaba’ at the heart of the complex features a comfortable lounge and dining area all with a casual South Seas atmosphere. Local style fish, meats and chicken are prepared by an experienced local chef. The bar has a limited selection of spirits, wines, beer and soft drinks. Anglers make and pack their own lunches each day from the choices available on the sandwich buffet.
Extraordinary fishing at the end of the earth
Christmas Island (officially known as Kiritimati) sits 1,300 miles south of Hawaii, just north of the Equator. The consistent weather cycle allows anglers year-round opportunities to fish miles and miles of wadeable sand and coral flats. Access is via weekly flights from Honolulu and it’s a short ride from the tiny island airport to the lodge.