Los Roques, Venezuela
One of the world’s most challenging game fish, bonefish feed in tidal shoals called flats. Instead of taking a boat out to sea, most bonefishing is done by wading out onto the flats with a lightweight rod. Some times a shallow boat propelled by a pole is also used.
Bonefish are usually in two or three feet of water, but they often seem invisible — hence their nickname, the grey ghost. It’s easier to see their shadow than it is to see them. And polarized sunglasses are a must.
Because bonefish are the prey of barracuda, they’re extremely skittish so extreme care has to be taken not to spook them. They’ll flee any unfamiliar vibration, shadow, or splash. Your casting needs to be really precise in order to hook a bonefish, and that’s only the start. Don’t start reeling until your rod bends, and then, expect a fierce fight. Bonefish can swim up to 30 miles per hour, and it’s not uncommon for them to travel 100 yards before doubling back.
Christmas Island in the South Pacific is the most famous bonefishing destination, but bonefish are plentiful in the Bahamas, the Florida Keys, and the Seychelles.
Outdoor outfitter Orvis has several bonefishing programs for fishers of all abilities. They operate trips all year long on Andros Island in the Bahamas. Four- to seven-night packages are available. Prices start at $1,715 and include transfers from Andros Town, instruction, accommodations and meals at the guide’s Cargill Creek lodge.
Bonefishing
Orvis is also hosting their first Bonefish Rendezvous in Belize in April 9, 2010. Twenty anglers will be paired up with professional bonefishing guides who were all born and raised on Ambergris Caye.
A cocktail party and dinner at El Pescador will be held the first evening. Seminars dedicated to various aspects of bonefish and bonefishing will be taught, and participants will have four full days of fishing on the flats.
Accommodation at El Pescador, transfers from Belize City Airport, daily breakfast and dinner, instruction, and an Orvis fishing rod and reel are included. The price is $4,980 per angler and $1,980 per non-angler.
Another excellent bonefishing destination is the Los Roques Archipelago, which is 90 miles off the coast of Venezeula. Orvis has 4- to 7-night programs here at the Acuarela Lodge on Gran Roque with prices starting at $2,575 per angler. Orvis Fly Fishing Travel Manager will be hosting the May 1 – 8 trip, which includes a Helios rod and special events.
Fine more Caribbean trip planning ideas here.
Los Roques, Venezuela Image Flickr: Jean-Marc /Jo BeLo/Jhon-John
Bonefishing Image Flickr: Tom Purves
