island news
Now is the time to begin the booking process for Fall/Winter 2025! Abaco has made a good comeback and the fly fishing is fantastic. The Delphi Club is one of our favorite lodges in the Caribbean, for amazing fly-fishing, and also for relaxing, eating great food, and enjoying quality time with friends and loved ones. And for something more remote and laid back, hard-core anglers only - Little Abaco Bonfish Lodge. More info below.
NEW BONEFISHING LODGE AT SANDY POINT - Eleven Experience has purchased this well-known lodge from Kelly Galloup, and will probably re-open it for the 2025 season. Stephen worked with Eleven for a couple of years to assist with creating Eleven Angling, and he believes Eleven will do a great job at this fantastic location, expecially since our good friend, Brian O'Keefe, who works for Eleven now, is probably THE expert on fishing in this area. Sandy point is situated on a peninsula at the southwestern end of the island, right on some incredible bonefish and permit flats. Plus there is quick access to a vast array of flats and creeks and the Southern Marls, all without long boat or van rides. We can say from many days of fishing out of Sandy Point, that the quality and variety of fishing here is some of the best anywhere. Email Stephen for more details and to begin thinking about a future trip.
Abaco is one of the best overall destinations in the Bahamas -- Think about it-- immaculate powdery sand beaches, full-service marinas, Out Island charm combined with ease of travel convenience and top-quality accommodations--you have a lot going on. Then add in golf, tennis, diving, snorkeling, exploring and just hanging out. And oh, did we mention some of the best bonefishing on the planet. If you're looking for high numbers of fish, and lots of shots, you can't beat the Marls, and there are a number of northern access points that are used by only a handful of guides. Want shots at big fish? Not a problem out of Crossing Rock, Cherokee Sound, Coopers Town, or Crown Haven, and again, these areas receive very little fishing pressure. Abaco is a place you can bring the entire family, and fish as much or as little as you want. The island is still recovering from Hurricane Dorian, but everything is moving in the right direction. Please be in touch with us for the most recent updates.
The Abacos offer some of the best sailing anywhere in the Caribbean. The offshore cays, from Green Turtle Cay, to Great Guana Cay, Man-O-War Cay, and Elbow Cay, have protected harbors, laid-back resorts, a selection of restaurants, miles of beach you can have to yourself, and remote bonefishing, reef fishing, and offshore fishing.
PRIVATE CHARTERS - If you want to go island hopping, fish a few days on another island, call Bahama Hoppers - Based at Odessey Aviation - Nassau, Bahamas - (MYNN), and office at White Crown Aviation - North Eleuthera Airport (MYEH). 242-335-1650. They can pick you up and take you to just about any airport in the Bahamas.
Renting a boat is super fun (21 to 26-foot runabout style) out of Marsh Harbour or nearby for exploring the offshore cays from Elbow Cay to Man-O-War, Great Guana, and Green Turtle Cay...plus the East Abaco Creeks National Park.
Boat rentals: Check with your resort or hotel when you book or be in touch with one of these businesses to rent direct.
Blue Wave Rentals at Harbour View Marina, 242-699-1476, email [email protected]. High quality boats for rent, ideal for island hopping.
Island Marine on Parrot Cay near Hope Town, 242-808-4615, email [email protected]. High quality boats for rent, ideal for island hopping. You need to reserve your boat well in advance of your arrival due to limited supply and high popularity.
NOTE: Safety is always the biggest issue when you rent a boat. You must pay attention to the local tide information, always watch for hidden obstacles, and stay within the boundaries set by the rental companies. Be careful out there.
NEW BONEFISHING LODGE AT SANDY POINT - Eleven Experience has purchased this well-known lodge from Kelly Galloup, and will probably re-open it for the 2025 season. Stephen worked with Eleven for a couple of years to assist with creating Eleven Angling, and he believes Eleven will do a great job at this fantastic location, expecially since our good friend, Brian O'Keefe, who works for Eleven now, is probably THE expert on fishing in this area. Sandy point is situated on a peninsula at the southwestern end of the island, right on some incredible bonefish and permit flats. Plus there is quick access to a vast array of flats and creeks and the Southern Marls, all without long boat or van rides. We can say from many days of fishing out of Sandy Point, that the quality and variety of fishing here is some of the best anywhere. Email Stephen for more details and to begin thinking about a future trip.
Abaco is one of the best overall destinations in the Bahamas -- Think about it-- immaculate powdery sand beaches, full-service marinas, Out Island charm combined with ease of travel convenience and top-quality accommodations--you have a lot going on. Then add in golf, tennis, diving, snorkeling, exploring and just hanging out. And oh, did we mention some of the best bonefishing on the planet. If you're looking for high numbers of fish, and lots of shots, you can't beat the Marls, and there are a number of northern access points that are used by only a handful of guides. Want shots at big fish? Not a problem out of Crossing Rock, Cherokee Sound, Coopers Town, or Crown Haven, and again, these areas receive very little fishing pressure. Abaco is a place you can bring the entire family, and fish as much or as little as you want. The island is still recovering from Hurricane Dorian, but everything is moving in the right direction. Please be in touch with us for the most recent updates.
The Abacos offer some of the best sailing anywhere in the Caribbean. The offshore cays, from Green Turtle Cay, to Great Guana Cay, Man-O-War Cay, and Elbow Cay, have protected harbors, laid-back resorts, a selection of restaurants, miles of beach you can have to yourself, and remote bonefishing, reef fishing, and offshore fishing.
PRIVATE CHARTERS - If you want to go island hopping, fish a few days on another island, call Bahama Hoppers - Based at Odessey Aviation - Nassau, Bahamas - (MYNN), and office at White Crown Aviation - North Eleuthera Airport (MYEH). 242-335-1650. They can pick you up and take you to just about any airport in the Bahamas.
Renting a boat is super fun (21 to 26-foot runabout style) out of Marsh Harbour or nearby for exploring the offshore cays from Elbow Cay to Man-O-War, Great Guana, and Green Turtle Cay...plus the East Abaco Creeks National Park.
Boat rentals: Check with your resort or hotel when you book or be in touch with one of these businesses to rent direct.
Blue Wave Rentals at Harbour View Marina, 242-699-1476, email [email protected]. High quality boats for rent, ideal for island hopping.
Island Marine on Parrot Cay near Hope Town, 242-808-4615, email [email protected]. High quality boats for rent, ideal for island hopping. You need to reserve your boat well in advance of your arrival due to limited supply and high popularity.
NOTE: Safety is always the biggest issue when you rent a boat. You must pay attention to the local tide information, always watch for hidden obstacles, and stay within the boundaries set by the rental companies. Be careful out there.
featured lodges/resorts - our top recommendations
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The Delphi Club/Rolling Harbour - Perched on a bluff south of Winding Bay, this 8-bedroom lodge blends 18th-century colonial charm with modern luxury, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and beach. Stay in style, whether booking a room with a bonefishing package or reserving the entire house for private groups. Anglers will relish world-class fly fishing in The Marls, teeming with bonefish, tarpon, permit, and more. Non-anglers can indulge in a range of activities, from spa treatments and island tours to snorkeling, diving, and relaxing by the pool.
Savor gourmet dining featuring fresh seafood specialties, complemented by a well-stocked bar with fine wines and premium spirits. Reservations are typically Saturday to Saturday, with flexibility available. For details and bookings, EMAIL Stephen and secure your spot at this premier bonefishing destination! |
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Elbow Reef Boutique Hotel - Elbow Cay - We love Elbow Cay, our favorite overall Cay to enjoy the best of the island life - relaxed vibes, gorgeous beaches, watersports, surfing, fresh seafood, and excellent fly fishing. This is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of life, guaranteed to put you in a tranquil state of mind. Wake to the sound of the rolling waves from one of the eight luxurious suites. Sit by the pool, take a walk on the beachfront, explore the nearby marina, visit Hope Town and the famous lighthouse, snorkel the local reef, or hop over to neighboring islands. And of course enjoy fantastic saltwater flats fishing with top guides or DIY. Whatever the day brings, come home to relax and simply take it all in. For details and bookings, EMAIL Stephen and secure your spot at this premier destination.
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Abaco Lodge/The Marls West Abaco - The only fly-fishing operation with direct boat access to the vast Marls of Abaco, one of the most sought-after bonefishing destinations in the world, This expansive, unpressured flats system boasts unrivaled numbers of bonefish, making it a haven for anglers seeking a thrilling and challenging fishing experience. The lodge consists of 7 air-conditioned double rooms each with a private bath for a capacity for 12 anglers. The charming lodge welcomes guests with waterfront views and a large flat-screen TV for catching all the games. Enjoy a cold Kalik by the pool, or hang out around the fire pit for afternoon and evening cocktails. And if you forget any gear, the on-site has flies, leaders, tippets, fly-tying quipment. For details and bookings, EMAIL Stephen and secure your spot at this super bonefishing destination!
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Eleven Angling Bonefish Lodge - Sandy Point - Email Stephen for information. The lodge will probably re-open in 2025.
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Black Fly Lodge/Schooner Bay - This popular lodge doesn't have a lot of space available, and is only taking booking by referral. If you want to fish Sandy Point, Moore's Island, the Southern Marls, outside ocean flats and offshore blue water, this is a great upscale option operated by serious anglers. The lodge is located overlooking the new Schooner Bay marina which is taking boats up to 70 feet. Lots are also for sale in Schooner Bay, and this is developing into one of the nicest, low key marina communities in the Bahamas. Arriving is a breeze down the main island highway from Marsh Harbour.
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Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour -
The ideal base of operations in Marsh Harbour for anglers, boaters and vacationers. The resort is 50 acres of lush tropical gardens and palm-tree-lined beaches, with 72 oceanfront rooms, 6 spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom villas with fully equipped kitchens and 4 one-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens. The Angler's Restaurant sits at the water's edge overlooking the 200 slip Boat Harbour marina. International cuisine, and Bahamian specialties are served in the airy peaked-ceiling dining room, while burgers and conch salads are served at the poolside bar. This place rocks during fishing tournaments and Spring Break, and is often full so make your reservations as far in advance as possible. Offshore, reef, and bonefishing guides can be arranged. Boat rentals are available at the marina. A short walk takes you into Marsh Harbour for shopping, or to hit the restaurants and bars strewn along the water. |
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Little Abaco Bonefish Lodge/ Crown Haven
This is a paradise for serious flats anglers with thirty miles of prime bonefish habitat stretching to the south on the island’s lee and fifty miles of ocean-side cays, cuts, and sand flats weaving their way to the north and west. And you won’t run into any crowds here. The lodge is owned and operated by Sidney Thomas, and his wife, Ketta, manages the lodge and the dining program. Prior to moving back to Crown Haven in 2017, they owned and operated Water Cay Bonefish Lodge on the northern shore of Grand Bahama Island. Sidney is a top professional guide, and bonefishing is in his DNA. The remodeled air-conditioned lodge sleeps up to six anglers in three bedrooms, with two baths. A lounge and dining area offers an indoor place to relax while an outdoor kitchen provides authentic Bahamian dishes prepared by Ketta. OK, nothing fancy here, just good people, good food, and a shot at fabulous remote fly fishing. EMAIL Stephen and secure your spot at this special destination. |
flats fishing patterns - fishing reports
Winter season is here, prevailing winds from the northeast. You should always carry a good breathable rain jacket and pants in the boat for possible rain, and use the jacket as a windbreaker on early morning runs.
Our favorite bonefish flies include Gotcha Clouser Minnows #2-6, EP Spawning Shrimp #2-6, Craven's Bonefish Junk #4-6, Greg's Flats Fly #4-6, Gotchas and Bunny Gotchas #2-6, Beck's Sililegs #4-6, Peterson's Spawning Shrimp #2-6,, and Tan Mantis Shrimp #4-6. For permit go with hard-bodied epoxy crabs, brown or tan #2-4, Flexo Crab #2-4, Stok's Strong Arm Merkin #2-4, or a good old Rag Head #2-4.
Fishing Areas - Coopers Town/Treasure Cay/Northern Marls - The Coopers Town area features hard flats that offer easy wading, while the northern Marls flats can be a little soft and mushy, but well worth the effort. Anglers staying at Treasure Cay will have a 15 minute drive to reach the boats that fish the northern Marls, and a 20 minute drive to reach the boats that fish out of Coopers Town. Running times from both locations to reach the best flats range from 5 to 20 minutes. One of our recommended guides for fishing northern Abaco is Joe Pritchard. Justin Sands is also a first-class guide, and fishing out of his Hell's Bay boat is a pleasure as the hull will run in almost no water. Treasure Cay and Marsh Harbour are an ideal locations for anglers traveling with non-anglers, so pack up whoever wants to go and book your trip.
Our favorite bonefish flies include Gotcha Clouser Minnows #2-6, EP Spawning Shrimp #2-6, Craven's Bonefish Junk #4-6, Greg's Flats Fly #4-6, Gotchas and Bunny Gotchas #2-6, Beck's Sililegs #4-6, Peterson's Spawning Shrimp #2-6,, and Tan Mantis Shrimp #4-6. For permit go with hard-bodied epoxy crabs, brown or tan #2-4, Flexo Crab #2-4, Stok's Strong Arm Merkin #2-4, or a good old Rag Head #2-4.
Fishing Areas - Coopers Town/Treasure Cay/Northern Marls - The Coopers Town area features hard flats that offer easy wading, while the northern Marls flats can be a little soft and mushy, but well worth the effort. Anglers staying at Treasure Cay will have a 15 minute drive to reach the boats that fish the northern Marls, and a 20 minute drive to reach the boats that fish out of Coopers Town. Running times from both locations to reach the best flats range from 5 to 20 minutes. One of our recommended guides for fishing northern Abaco is Joe Pritchard. Justin Sands is also a first-class guide, and fishing out of his Hell's Bay boat is a pleasure as the hull will run in almost no water. Treasure Cay and Marsh Harbour are an ideal locations for anglers traveling with non-anglers, so pack up whoever wants to go and book your trip.
independent guides and charters
The following are some Abaco guides we have fished with, or guides that have been recommended by our friends and readers:
Captain Justin Sands, 242-367-3526 or 242-359-6890; http://www.justfishjs.com/, email [email protected]. Justin uses a Hells Bay skiff that can run in the skinniest water you’ve ever imagined. He can trailer his boat anywhere, but usually fishes the northern Marls, Snake Cay, and the Bight of Robinson (part of East Abaco Creeks Natioinal Park). He is our top guide recommendation and is super popular which requires anglers to book him well in advance.
Captain Buddy Pinder, 242-577-7612, out of Marsh Harbour for fishing in the Marls, Abaco National Park, East Abaco Creeks National Park and more.
Captain Danny Sawyer, 242-477-5901, out of Marsh Harbour for fishing East Abaco Creeks National Park and other areas.
Captain Kai Survance, 242-824-7297, mainland Abaco fishing around the island. Email [email protected].
Captain Rick Sawyer, 242-699-0361, Green Turtle Cay. Visit Captain Rick Sawyer’s Web site at www.abacoflyfish.com, or email [email protected]. Captain Rick has 40 years of experience guiding this area. If you are looking for big bonefish this is your guide.
Captain Ronny Sawyer, 242-357-6667, on Green Turtle Cay.
Captain Joe Sawyer, 242-365-4173, out of Marsh Harbour for a day of reef fishing for grouper and snapper.
Captain Donnie Lowe has a guide service called Bonefish Heaven. Donnie guides around Marsh Harbour, Snake Cay and other areas. Email Donnie at [email protected] or call him at 242-366-2275.
For more information on Abaco guides contact: Abaco Fly Fishing Guides Association.
Reef/Offshore: The people at the Abaco Beach Resort Marina tell us that reef fishing with conventional tackle (bait and lures) is good for yellow tail, and a variety of jacks and grouper. Offshore, pretty good fishing for tuna, an an occasional wahoo. Anglers can contact the Abaco Beach Resort Marina directly at 877-533-4799, for more detailed information or to book a charter.
Captain Justin Sands, 242-367-3526 or 242-359-6890; http://www.justfishjs.com/, email [email protected]. Justin uses a Hells Bay skiff that can run in the skinniest water you’ve ever imagined. He can trailer his boat anywhere, but usually fishes the northern Marls, Snake Cay, and the Bight of Robinson (part of East Abaco Creeks Natioinal Park). He is our top guide recommendation and is super popular which requires anglers to book him well in advance.
Captain Buddy Pinder, 242-577-7612, out of Marsh Harbour for fishing in the Marls, Abaco National Park, East Abaco Creeks National Park and more.
Captain Danny Sawyer, 242-477-5901, out of Marsh Harbour for fishing East Abaco Creeks National Park and other areas.
Captain Kai Survance, 242-824-7297, mainland Abaco fishing around the island. Email [email protected].
Captain Rick Sawyer, 242-699-0361, Green Turtle Cay. Visit Captain Rick Sawyer’s Web site at www.abacoflyfish.com, or email [email protected]. Captain Rick has 40 years of experience guiding this area. If you are looking for big bonefish this is your guide.
Captain Ronny Sawyer, 242-357-6667, on Green Turtle Cay.
Captain Joe Sawyer, 242-365-4173, out of Marsh Harbour for a day of reef fishing for grouper and snapper.
Captain Donnie Lowe has a guide service called Bonefish Heaven. Donnie guides around Marsh Harbour, Snake Cay and other areas. Email Donnie at [email protected] or call him at 242-366-2275.
For more information on Abaco guides contact: Abaco Fly Fishing Guides Association.
Reef/Offshore: The people at the Abaco Beach Resort Marina tell us that reef fishing with conventional tackle (bait and lures) is good for yellow tail, and a variety of jacks and grouper. Offshore, pretty good fishing for tuna, an an occasional wahoo. Anglers can contact the Abaco Beach Resort Marina directly at 877-533-4799, for more detailed information or to book a charter.