World Class Destinations from Frontiers - Saltwater
publication date: Sep 13, 2007
Saltwater
Pez Raton Lodge, Los Roques - Venezuela
The islands of Los Roques in south-east Caribbean is truly one of the most unique and special places in the world of flats fishing. The bonefish here are bigger on average than in other regions of the world. Los Roques also offers unique places in which to fish for bonefish. There are small turtle-grass covered “pancake flats” surrounded by deep water providing fishermen with opportunities to experience quintessential bonefishing: walking up on tailing fish in knee-deep water. On certain stages of the tide the white sand beaches might be the place to fish, walking along the edge of the water and watching large dark forms coming out of the deep grass-covered bottom to feed on baitfish that have gathered over the firm sandy shallows. The remainder of the bonefish habitat tends to be more traditional, with mangrove-lined lagoons and long transitional types of flats, almost all of which are easily waded. There will frequently be opportunities to cast to tarpon, horse-eye jacks, permit, snook and large barracuda, so taking a 9-11 weight outfit is recommended. Pez Raton uses the Posada Mediterraneo to accommodate a maximum of ten fishermen in five air-conditioned rooms complete with safes and en-suite bathrooms. This charming posada has a simple and relaxed elegance that features rooftop terrace dining, wonderfully prepared meals by Chef Evelio and pleasant island hospitality. Elena’s reputation as an outstanding hostess continues to grow with our fishermen. Many return with their non-fishing companions, confident they will also enjoy this delightful posada on this amazing island.
Another unique characteristic of Los Roques is the weather. This part of the Caribbean provides the most stable year-round weather patterns, with moderate winds, no real hurricane or tropical storm threats, and temperatures that stay around 26C.
Mangrove Cay Club, Andros Island - Bahamas
Waterfront cottages, spacious and air conditioned with separate sitting rooms and verandas overlooking blue waters; a wonderful and diversified menu featuring freshly caught seafood, fresh vegetables, beef and fantastic desserts; a fully stocked bar; friendly staff; a fly shop and a crew of professional and helpful experienced guides — all located in the middle of one of the richest flats fishing resources in all of the Bahamas. The club sits just inside the middle bight on Central Andros Island’s eastern shore, affording access to about half of the entire island’s premier flats, including those of the north, middle and south bights, as well as the famed and remote west side. Realistically a fisherman with average skills can expect to catch several fish in the 3lb range each day and on most days there will be opportunities to present a fly to fish much larger, often in the double-figures . . . after all, Andros has earned its reputation as a big-fish resource. There is a 26-ft power catamaran which can ferry fishermen to wadable flats to the south on days when the weather does not allow safe or comfortable travel in the skiffs. It is also available for on-site chartering, either for a day of offshore fishing or for accessing the remote flats to the south for those that wish to mix in some wade fishing opportunities.
Kamalame Cay, Andros Island - Bahamas
Situated on a beautiful 100 acre private cay off the north-east coast of Andros Island sits one of the most unique properties in the Caribbean. Kamalame Cay is the perfect island escape for those seeking superior accommodation, gourmet cuisine, miles of white-sand beach and great flats and offshore fishing.
Fishermen can fish the numerous flats immediately around Kamalame or take a drive north to the world-class Joulter Cays. The Joulters are a series of beautiful hard, white, sand flats that extend as far as the eye can see — reminiscent of the Seychelles or Christmas Island. Expect large schools of bonefish in the 3lb range with an occasional fish in the 7-10lb range. Kamalame also offers access to the virtually untapped waters near Red Bays on the north-west side of the island.
Light-tackle offshore fishing is also offered. The Tongue of the Ocean, a 6,000ft trench along the third-largest barrier reef in the world, is just a mile from the shores of Kamalame. Offshore enthusiasts can expect to encounter dorado, wahoo, tuna and even marlin. Kamalame’s full-time captain is well versed in both fly and conventional tackle. Kamalame offers an assortment of villa suites that are spread throughout the property. Each air-conditioned beachfront villa has a a private veranda overlooking the Atlantic. Also available are the Marina Rooms which face the mouth of Staniard Creek. These smaller rooms are perfect for guests wanting to concentrate more on fishing, yet still enjoy all of Kamalame’s wonderful amenities.
Non-fishers will enjoy Kamalame’s amazing beach, freshwater swimming pool, tennis court and sea kayaks as well as guided island tours, snorkelling and diving with experienced PADI certified instructors. There is also The Spa which is perched over the water at the end of a 200ft pier an offers conventional as well as unique treatments incorporating wonderful natural ingredients available on Kamalame Cay.
For full details of these and other saltwater destinations please see the Frontiers website and tell them you saw them on Fish & Fly!
Alternatively you can also call them in the UK on 01285-741340 or in the USA on 1-800-245-1950 or 724-935-1577