An archipelago of
islands so surrounded by water and with a name that came from the Spanish
words Baja Mar meaning shallow sea and the Gulf Stream flowing through
creates ideal habitat for marine life. All this means that the fishing is
great in the Bahamas. Below are some articles on fishing in the Bahamas.
The bonefish is a popular target of fly fishers, although at first it's hard to
see why. Bonefish are not fished for food. They are caught and released. This is not
because of an ecological concern, but for the simple fact that they do not make good
eating. There are, however, two good reasons that bonefish is a popular sporting fish:
they are found in warm saltwater areas like the Bahamas and Florida and they put up a very
good fight. For the passionate sports fisher, there is little better than fly fishing
for bonefish in the Bahamas.
Bonefishing Facts
Bonefish are often called the "grey ghost" because they are so hard to
see in the water. In fact, they appear as shadows in the sandy bottom. The fish is silver
with a blue or green back, making them blend in with the water. They are slender and are
often seen with their tails out of the water. They are devious and so strong and
determined that even the small ones can pull you out to sea - boat and all. A quick photo
before releasing a bonefish is a sought-after prize for a sports fisher which makes fly
fishing for bonefish a dream of so many.
In the Bahamas, August and September are off season for bonefishing because it's
too hot except for early morning. From November to mid-July, you can bonefish all day as
well as escaping the chance of hurricanes. During the full moon, bonefish feed during the
night. The next day, no one goes fly fishing for bonefish because they are not hungry and
won't go for the fly. fly fishing for bonefish is preferred to bait fishing because the
splash of the bait hitting the water disturbs the fish, resulting in a wait for the fish
to return each time someone tosses a hook in the water. The nearly weightless flies land
naturally like real insects, attracting the fish instead of scaring them off.
Real insects can be a problem while fly fishing for bonefish. Remember to
pack insect repellent, long sleeved shirts and long pants for protection. Sunglasses are a
necessity and two pairs of polarized ones are suggested. Sunscreen and lip protector with
a high SPF are also needed along with a protective cap having both a front peak and a flap
in the back. Pack your fly fishing gear. Some of the best areas for fly fishing for
bonefish in the Bahamas have no fishing supply stores. With some preparation, research and
a sporting attitude, fly fishing for bonefish in the Bahamas can be a great experience.
When you think about the islands in the Bahamas, you most certainly picture
white sand beaches, sparkling azure waters and friendly smiling faces. Without a doubt,
Bahamas is home to beautiful scenery and warm islanders, but this Caribbean getaway is
also the chosen destination of avid bonefishers from all over the world. For your next
trip to the sun, consider visiting the island of Great Exuma Bahamas and partake in the
exciting sport of bonefishing.
Whether you are a seasoned pro or an amateur fisher, bonefishing is a popular
sport that appeals to all individuals. Bonefishing is one of the most esteemed forms of
sport fishing in the world. Bonefish are actually found throughout the Caribbean but are
particularly abundant in the waters around certain islands. Bonefish spend their time
swimming along very shallow banks digging for food. These fast moving silvery fish average
between 4 and 6 pounds, but can reach up to 19 pounds. The sport of bonefishing is not a
passive activity. In fact, you will not spend time sitting on a boat casting your reel. To
bonefish, groups of three or four people jump off the boat at the same time and follow the
schools of fish. Bonefishing is an ideal activity for a group of friends or a family on a
Caribbean vacation together and the island of Great Exuma is just the place to experience
the fun of this popular sport.
The island of Great Exuma has earned its world-wide reputation for fantastic
bonefishing due to its endless firm, white flats of sand that are teeming with small to
medium-sized bone fish. These flats are ideal for barefoot wading and in their shallow
waters you will find many opportunities to tail and hook a variety of bonefish. As you
stand in the crystal clear waters looking for the fast and slippery one, don't forget to
notice the other exciting and beautiful marine life.
Whether you are hoping to plan the fishing trip of a lifetime, or you just want
a chance to try an exciting sport, bonefishing in Great Exuma, Bahamas is an appealing
activity for all! There are several experienced guides on the island who will gladly
escort you for a day, or a week, from sun up to sun down. As you cast your line into the
turquoise sea, you will undoubtedly feel the excitement of standing among a mysterious
underwater world. There is nothing quite like hooking your first bonefish and you may find
yourself adopting this sport as a favorite past time. Experience the pinnacle of sport
fishing today in Great Exuma, Bahamas. Fun describes it well!
Can you conquer the bones? Sure, the Bahamas can offer sunshine, seclusion,
solace, and a sexy tan, but did you know it can also offer the chance to engage in some of
the best fishing in the world? Exuma bonefishing is truly a challenging and gripping sport
and the regional coastlines are particularly exceptional for this spirited pastime.
Bonefish are some of the most elusive fish in the sea and can be a slippery prey to hook;
however with a knowledgeable guide and a few tricks and know-how, hooking yourself a
"bone" can be a truly satisfying and pleasurable experience.
The Bonefish
Bonefish are native to the Caribbean, but are particularly plentiful just off the coast of
the Exuma Islands. The immaculate sandy flats of the Exumas provide the ideal location for
this sport, as bonefish keep to shallow muddy and sandy flats when digging for food. Parts
of the south-east side of the island are known to have some particularly good spots.
Bonefish are usually caught for the sport and spirit of the chase; they are not
particularly known to be so great-tasting. In fact, bonefish are said to have the most
fight per pound of any other fish!
Fly fishers flock to the islands of the Bahamas every year to experience the
challenge and adventure of Exuma bonefishing. Bonefish are silvery in color and are very
fast-moving; it is not uncommon to see three or four enthusiastic fishermen splashing
merrily through the shallow waters, rods in hand, to chase down a school, which can reach
up to approximately 300 fish. A bonefish can streak up to 25 miles per hour in order to
evade sharks, barracudas, and of course, energetic fishermen! An average bonefish weighs
between 4 and 6 pounds, but can reach up to a whopping 19 pounds. Although bonefishing is
popular in any season, the months of May to July are said to be particularly exceptional
for this spirited sport.
Exuma bonefishing
Bonefishing is not your typical fishing expedition by any means. Exuma has many resources
and facilities where visitors, whether amateur or pro, can visit to learn the techniques
of bonefishing and seek aid from experienced and enthusiastic guides. Most guides on the
island have grown up in the area and are well-versed in the movements of this slippery,
silvery fish. It is important to rig up your rod straight away while your guide prepares
the boat; you definitely do not want to be caught unprepared as a school of bonefish
swiftly heads your way. If the tides are high, you can expect to be fishing in creeks and
mangrove shorelines, as Exuma bonefishing is tide-dependent. Depending on the weather and
seasonal changes, the average number of bonefish schools sighted per day in Exuma is 40 to
400, while the average number of fish caught per day is between 3 and 45.
Essentials for Eager Bonefishers
Fly rods
Reels with plenty of backing (150-200 yards)
Spare flylines
Leader material/tippets
Flies (Gotchas, Christmas Island Specials, Charlies)
Pliers/clippers/hook sharpener
Wading shoes
Wading pack
Fly tying kit
Sunglasses, hat & sunscreen
Water bottle
Light rain gear
Whether you have the craving for an exhilarating fishing experience or just want
to try something new and different, Exuma bonefishing is the ideal choice. It is
definitely not a passive activity and can be enjoyable for the whole family. Hooking your
first bonefish is a unique and fulfilling experience that may have you adopting the sport
full-time. As any local bonefisherman will tell you, there is nothing as exciting as
casting your line out into that azure sea and waiting in anticipation for that impending
thrill of the chase. The avid bonefisher is always scanning, anticipating, and moving in
order to hook their next big one.
About the Author
Amanda Smith-Barrett is the author of numerous articles for http://www.oceaniaproperties.com
concerning the Bahamas and has her finger on the pulse of new and exciting opportunities
that arise in the area. By exploring current trends, traditions, and the Bahamian
lifestyle, she was uncovered several fresh, exhilarating activities and events native to
the region. See Oceania Properties
Bahamas Real Estate for more information.
