VISIT
THE ISLANDS

The Bahamas -
An Overview

Andros Island

The Abacos

Grand Bahama - Freeport

The Exumas

Long Island

Bimini and Berry Islands

New Providence -
Nassau

Eleuthera - Spanish Wells - Harbour Islands

Cat Island

Crooked and Acklins Islands

Mayaguana - Great Inagua - Ragged Islands

San Salvador - Rum Cay - Conception Islands

NEW Turks & Caicos Islands

CAT ISLAND

Island News: Depending on your needs and pleasures, the best places to stay are Fernandez Bay Village, Greenwood Beach Resort, Hawk's Nest Resort and Marina, Pigeon Cay Beach Club, or in various rental houses. For a romantic retreat in an idyllic beachfront setting, it's hard to beat Fernandez Bay. Offshore anglers will be best served at Hawk's Nest. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts usually pick Greenwood Beach Resort. People who like to do-it-on-their-own enjoy Pigeon Cay, and two new locations, Island Hoppinn on Fernandez Bay, and Sammy Ts Beach Resort at Bennett's Harbour. The best flats fishing is at the northern and southern ends of the island, though there are a few options through the middle sections, and some ocean flats on the "north shore". Fernandez Bay has flats right at Smith Bay, but those get pounded and the fish are spooky. The best right-out-your-door fishing is from Greenwood, Pigeon Cay, Bennett's Harbour, and Hawks Nest .

Cat Island has become more popular with do-it-yourself anglers, and anglers looking for inexpensive bonefish options (usually the same thing, same people). Be aware that you may actually see some other people on some well-known flats, and the fish will be spookier on these flats. There are still plenty of locations to get away from everyone, just have to look harder.

Improved Air Service: Cat Island Air (242-377-3318) flies daily to New Bight from Nassau. They are reliable and inexpensive. Southern Air (242-377-2014) flies from Nassau to Arthur's Town, and is the best service for the northern portion of the island. Lynx Air (888-596-9247) and Gulfstream (Continental's commuter) fly into New Bight from Fort Lauderdale.

January 27, 2008

Fishing Reports: Good fishing in general around the island the past week. The creek flats behind Hawks Nest Marina continue to fish well, but take your insect repellent. When the wind is down, fish the ocean side flats south of Greenwood Beach Resort or the larger flats in front of Pigeon Cay and Bennett's Harbour. Offshore Anglers have been having good tuna and dorado action from Hawk's Nest.

HAWKS NEST RESORT and MARINA - It is common for offshore boats to take over thirty dorado a day in the waters off Hawk's Nest, both in the Exuma Sound, and in the currents between Cat Island and Long Island. Or you can fish the adjacent creeks for bonefish, and you'll rarely see another angler. Hawk's Nest has deluxe air-conditioned accommodations at reasonable prices. Accommodations overlook the pool, a strip of white sand beach, and the aquamarine Exuma Sound beyond. The restaurant serves fresh seafood, including grilled wahoo, Bahamian-style grouper, and succulent conch salad, or you can enjoy a rack of lamb. The bar is a fun place to hang out and make of fishing stories. The expanded 28-slip marina has new docks, air-conditioned fish-cleaning shed, gas and diesel fuel, electricity, ice and water. The resort also has a comprehensive diving and snorkeling program. A 4,600-foot private airstrip is on the resort property for easy access, or you can fly in commercial to New Bight. For additional information please email Kim.