When you arrive at your charter yacht destination, you’ll find an array of water sports to enjoy. Beyond the typical fishing from the yacht‘s stern or trolling in deeper waters, consider joining a local guide for an unforgettable bonefishing experience in the secluded flats.
Many are intrigued by the allure of “Why all the fuss about a little silver fish?”. Bonefishing offers an unparalleled thrill, stalking the pristine flats of the Virgin Islands and Bahamas. It’s a sport that demands skill and stealth, a personal connection between angler and fish. With the right gear – polarized sunglasses, a comfortable hat, and sturdy water shoes – you’ll move silently across the flats. Days can be spent in this meditative state, appreciating the potential, even if no fish are caught. You can wade in the shallows or balance on the deck of a specialized small boat. With a practiced cast of your lightweight rod, you’ll present a small fly near schools of shimmering bonefish. These elegant silver fish, with their bright eyes and unique underslung mouths designed for clams, crabs, and shrimp, make them a challenging and rewarding target. The locals will gladly share their knowledge and expertise, helping you choose the right fly for the conditions.
Fishermen must use stealth to approach and spot the bonefish before casting their lure. The British Virgin Islands and Bahamas boast some of the world’s best bonefishing flats. Epic Yacht Charters provides yachts that will transport you to the ideal location, where you can be dropped off at a grassy flat or join a skilled guide on a shallow-water skiff with a platform for optimal viewing.
It may seem like the guide is pointing at nothing until your eyes adjust. Remember, “You can’t cast until you see the fish.” However, trust your guide, cast where directed, and gently twitch your line. Suddenly, the line will tighten, and the reel will scream as the bonefish takes off on a powerful run. Lift your rod upwards, not to the side, as the bonefish’s mouth is positioned below. Play the fish skillfully, and after another exciting run, you’ll have it beside you for a quick photo before gently releasing it back into the water. Bonefish are more enjoyable to catch than to eat. Fishing kayaks are now a popular way to get to the flats, and they can be rented from specific tour operators.
Here are a few top seagrass flats to explore in the British Virgin Islands and the Bahamas:
Top Seagrass Flats:
Anegada: It’s highly recommended to hire a local guide (Sly or Garfield at the Anegada Reef Hotel are excellent choices). They can lead you to the best spots on this island, which features shallow barrier reefs. Some notable locations include Nutmeg Point, Bones Bay, and Setting Point on the South End.
Virgin Gorda: In Deep Bay, which connects to North Sound, you’ll find a great flat just to the right as you exit the channel between Saba Rock and Bitter End Yacht Club (BEYC). Another wading spot is to the right of the Oil Nut Bay dock in Deep Bay, near the resort. Other options include Colquhoun Reef and Eustatia Reef.
Great Camanoe: Locate the large seagrass flat on the east side of Cam Bay. Your charter catamaran can anchor there, and you can then reach the reef by dinghy.
Scrub Island: You can wade onto the flat reef facing north, located on the backside of the Marina and Resort.
Beef Island: Near the airport, after crossing the bridge, you’ll find good shallow reefs on the right, near Surfsong Resort—an ideal location to stay close to the fish!
Tortola: There are too many excellent spots to list. Trust the experienced local guides on the island.
Exuma Cays: This beautiful chain of islands lies southeast of Nassau. Sail with your charter yacht from Nassau; day trips with fly-fishing guides are available.
Andros: This is arguably the best place in the world for bonefishing. Although we don’t offer sailing charters there due to the shallow water, many guides are available if you find accommodation there.
To learn more, please contact the friendly & knowledgeable team at Epic Yacht Charters.
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