Saltwater
A quick lift of the species that continues to make the Bahamas famous. For information on Hurricane Dorian relief please see the Abaco Lodge write-up. Photo: Dylan Rose
W
Bahamas
hen it comes to spectacular bonefishing opportunities, beautiful all-inclusive lodges, skilled guides, and a wide range of varied flats environments, the Bahamas still sets the bar. The below operations are among our favorite and represent a dynamic cross-section of world-class Bahamian outfitters. Mangrove Cay Club Mangrove Cay Club was built by Liz and Alton Bain from the ground up to be one thing: a world-class bonefishing lodge. It’s one of the few destinations that brings all the crucial elements together—location, management, amenities, guides, equipment, cuisine, and spectacular flats fishing. With characteristically short runs to some of the best trophy bonefish flats in the world, it is easy to make a case that this is the Bahamas’ premier flats fishing lodge. Rate: $5,750 plus tax per person for a 7 night/6 day package Bair’s Lodge Strategically located midway between the South Bight and Curly Cut Cays of South Andros, Bair’s Lodge provides easy access to some of the most remote and productive flats in all PAGE 82
of the Bahamas. Luxury accommodations, fantastic, locallyinspired cuisine, and top-tier guides are just the start. Positioned on a beautiful white sand beach, this location easily caters to guests keen on relaxing in a Bahamian paradise. Anglers fish from the bow of 18-foot Dolphin skiffs or wade the famed and prolific bonefish flats of southern Andros. Rates: $6,395 plus tax per person for a 7 night/6 day package Mars Bay Lodge Make no mistake, Mars Bay Lodge is a no-frills operation that has one purpose: to place you squarely within some of the world’s most productive bonefish flats at a price you can afford. Owner and operator Bill Howard puts it best when he says, “We are not a high-end fancy resort. The napkins are paper. You’ll not find a mint on your pillow and you will not be greeted at the dock with a hot steaming towel to wipe your brow. You can grab your own beer and mix your own drink the way you like it. The lodge has a laid-back vibe but don’t let that mislead you. Everything goes off on time and as scheduled.” Positioned as the southernmost operation on the island, this small eight-angler lodge provides unparalleled access to the hallowed bonefish grounds of “The South.” Rate: $4,750 per person for a 7 night/6 day package
WWW.FLYWATERTRAVEL.COM
