The Fishing

The coolest part of the H2O Bahamas program is their never ending desire to develop their fishing program and offerings. They are constantly investing in new vehicles and boats, training their guides, targeting new species, and exploring their incredible fishery.

The Island of Grand Bahama stretches ninety miles east to west, and its north shore’s vast area of creeks, cays and flats create hundreds of miles of fishable shoreline. H2O Bonefishing accesses this expansive fishery by SUV trailered skiffs which allow for convenience and flexibility with many of the north shore’s launching points. They employ four full time guides and run beautiful Maverick Mirage flats boats equipped with quick 85 horsepower Yahama outboards and modern electronics.

Bottom structure varies from both hard and soft sand or grass flats to harder light coral or marl flats, creeks or cays . . . all of which provide excellent feeding areas for bonefish, permit, and numerous other species. Whereas most fisheries in the Bahamas are nearly exclusively fished from the skiff, the north shore of Grand Bahama does have hard, wadeable, sandy flats that anglers frequently fish productively.

Grand Bahama bonefish can vary greatly in size from smaller 2 to 3 pound fish that can be found in schools, to solitary pairs and small groups that will weigh into double figures. The average size of Grand Bahama bonefish is a healthy 4 to 5 pounds and fish of 7 and 8 pounds are almost a daily encounter. The trophy sized specimens of 10 + pounds can be located at any time with proper conditions. H2O’s fly caught record bonefish, so far, is a remarkable fish of 14 1/2 pounds!

OTHER SPECIES

The Bahamas are normally booked as an exclusively bonefish fishery. However, the north shore of Grand Bahama Island offers opportunities for permit, tarpon (summer), jack crevalle, barracuda, sharks, mutton snapper, and even the occasional tailing triggerfish. Tarpon are also often encountered during warmer months, and when conditions are right you would be remiss not to consider targeting the mighty Silver King. Barracuda and sharks can be found almost daily, and there is also the possibility of running into packs of the hard fighting horse eye jacks or jack crevalle that average 10 to 15 pounds. Greg and Jason have even dialed in a few flats that offer encounters with tailing triggerfish or hard fighting mutton snapper.

NO BOUNDARIES PROGRAM (MAY, JUNE, JULY)

Greg and Jason have recently invested in a speedy, brand new, 21 foot custom Maverick skiff designed to go further and faster than your traditional flats boat. Totally unique to the Bahamas, their “No Boundaries” program allows anglers to comfortably venture to the most remote locations on the Little Bahama Bank targeting more diverse species with little competition. The No Boundaries program is usually a combination 5 night / 4 fishing day package split between their productive ‘local‘ program and this new venture; however, custom itineraries can easily be arranged. Inquire for details.

OFFSHORE FISHING OPTION (MAY-SEPTEMBER)

During the months of May – September, H2O offers an offshore fly fishing program for yellowfin tuna, dorado (mahi-mahi), skipjack and blackfin tuna. All are found feeding on or near the surface on calm afternoons during these summer months. What really makes it special is that die-hard anglers can enjoy a full day on the flats and head out for the evening offshore bite. Following a full day of bonefishing, anglers venture into the bluewater in a 33 foot cruiser around 3:00PM and fish until dark. This is also a great option to consider for the afternoon of your arrival day on Grand Bahama. All offshore fly fishing equipment and flies are included in the offshore trips. Due to the nature of the program and ever changing fuel prices please inquire for current pricing and details.

Accommodations

We feel that the Pelican Bay Hotel offers perfect accommodations for the family and the “hard-core” angler alike. The hotel is in an ideal location – close to all the beach and town activities of Lucaya. Anglers who are not interested in non-angling activities can retreat to the quieter confines of the hotel, while non-anglers can send the family across the street to the Lucaya Beach, or take a swim in the hotel pool.

Pelican Bay at Lucaya is Grand Bahama’s newest boutique hotel where visitors find Caribbean charm mixed together with Western European service. Danish architects incorporated sophisticated European design to create timeless Caribbean architecture and luxurious accommodations. Each of the 69 rooms has a private balcony that overlooks the courtyard area and the marina, shops and restaurants of Port Lucaya Marketplace. There is also high speed wireless internet access throughout the resort. A fee applies or use the complimentary business center that provides hardwire hook up.

The spacious accommodations include your choice of king-size bed or twin double beds and boasts satellite TV, direct dial phone, refrigerator and in-room coffee maker. Rooms are decorated with colorful island spreads and drapery and white washed furniture. Floors are Italian tiled. Other guest amenities include a tropical fresh water pool, hot tub and pool bar. The Ferry House Restaurant, adjacent to the hotel, has established a new standard for excellence in fine dining on Grand Bahama. Having worked in some of the world’s finest restaurants, chefs create what they describe as “a blend of contemporary cuisine fused with the unique flavors of the Caribbean.” Menus change daily depending on availability of fresh, local seafood and fruit as well as the availability of foreign quality foods which are brought in by air on a regular basis.

Also available are new one-bedroom suites offering unsurpassed luxury, lush tropical gardens and varying color-scheme. Mahogany wood and beautifully appointed custom décor highlight each of the 48 spacious, 750 square foot suites. Freshly baked croissants, breads, and newspapers are available at the suites every morning. In-room espresso machines with a variety of coffees enable guests to enjoy a private breakfast on their balconies overlooking the beautiful Bell Channel Bay.

CAPACITY

8 Angler Maximum (4 Boats)
Unlimited Number of Accommodations for Non-Anglers

Travel

THERE IS NO EASIER ISLAND IN THE BAHAMAS TO GET TO!

Several major airlines serve Freeport, Grand Bahama on a daily basis including American, United, Delta, Bahamasair, and JetBlue. These flights originate from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Atlanta. After clearing customs in Freeport, guests take a cab transfer to the hotel (approx. 15 minutes drive in an air-conditioned taxi). Charter flights are also an option from Ft. Lauderdale.

Sample Itinerary

TRAVEL DAY

Depart home city on a morning flight to Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, or Atlanta. Connect on to Freeport, Grand Bahama (FPO). Once through customs, guests take a cab transfer roughly 15 minutes to the hotel. On the evening of arrival, meet with H2O Bonefishing staff member for orientation.

FISHING DAYS

After a free breakfast at the poolside restaurant at the Pelican Bay Hotel, anglers are met in the lobby by their guide and drive approximately 10-25 minutes pulling the skiff to one of several remote launching points on both the north or south shores of Grand Bahama Island. Spend a full day on the water with one of H2O’s four full time guides. Lunch is taken on the water and anglers are usually back to the hotel by 4:30PM in time for cocktails and a night on the town in the Lucaya resort area of Freeport. Anglers participating in the evening offshore or no boundaries programs return to the hotel a little earlier, freshen up, and head back out for four hours of fishing!

DEPARTURE DAY

Depending on flight departure time, guests typically check out after a leisurely brunch, and are transferred to the Freeport airport via taxicab for the flight back to the States.

When to Go

H2O BONEFISHING IS OPEN YEAR-ROUND

One thing people often neglect when considering a trip to the Bahamas is the weather. The Bahamas are actually in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean Sea. As a result the Bahamas are more susceptible to northerly cold fronts than their Caribbean neighbors to the south. However, some of the largest bonefish are caught during the winter when the weather cooperates.

The summer fishing should not be ignored either! There are often great chances for other species like tarpon and permit during the summer months, the winds lay down, and weather is usually very predictable when tropical storms are not present. H2O’s summer offshore program for tuna and dorado can also be gangbusters – and is great to combine with a morning bonefish session. The autumn often enjoys beautiful springlike conditions and can be very productive on the flats for all species as well.

Here are a few loose weather guidelines to consider:

DECEMBER – FEBRUARY

Cool weather and windier conditions can be a factor. The fish are of course always there, but you run the risk of getting cooler weather from the States. However, it is equally as possible to have 80-degree days and little wind. Some of the best bonefish fishing follows the passing of a cold front when water on the flats warms up, inviting rested bones back on to feed. This is a great time for trophy bonefish.

MARCH – JUNE 15

The prime spring months to fish the Bahamas. Consistently warm (not too hot) weather dominates the forecast. There is typically less wind as well.

JUNE 15 – JULY

The fish are there, however hotter conditions and little breeze often exist. If you don’t mind the heat, the fishing can be excellent and is a good time for beginners to learn because of the lack of wind.

AUGUST – OCTOBER 15

Peak Hurricane Season! There is a serious risk of lousy weather, however we have had wonderful trips during this time frame — especially if you are flexible and able to book on short notice.

OCTOBER 15 – NOVEMBER

The best time to fish in the fall. Conditions are very similar to March – April type conditions.

Non-Angling Activities

A wide variety of options for non-anglers exist due to H2O’s location immediately adjacent to the island’s main entertainment area of Count Bassie Square (only a 60 second walk from the resort) and is the heartbeat of the island’s entertainment. You will never need to arrange transport of any kind. The new casino is only a short two minute stroll from the resort lobby.

In addition to all the customary Caribbean water sports that are available i.e. parasailing, snorkeling trips, glass bottom boat trips, scuba diving, sea kayaking, sailing, jet ski rental, deep sea fishing etc., there are also organized island tours including eco tours of the many more remote areas of the island — kayak tours, jeep tours and many other nature related activities.

Although there are many options within yards of your door, all guests can rest assured that they are never too far away from the more private area of this intimate resort. The choices are varied and all within a short stroll. In addition to the numerous restaurants and nightlife within a five minute walk of the hotel, the following is a basic list of both organized and casual activities on the island to choose from:

GOLFING

5 Golf courses to choose from including 2 USGA certified 18 hole championship courses at the Lucaya and Reef courses. Both are within a mile of the resort.

SWIMMING WITH DOLPHINS

A short boat ride departs from the hotel several times a day to swim and interact with Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.

SCUBA DIVING

2 tank and 1 tank dives depart from within yards of your hotel room every day to the great wall and reef diving on the south shore.

ECO TOURS

See parts of the beautiful island by horseback and ride on the world famous Gold Rock beach in Grand Bahama’s largest national park with miles upon miles of brilliant white sand. There are also daily sea kayaking tours and native tours to the settlements of the East or West End to experience the more traditional Bahamian way of life.

OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:

Deep sea fishing, reef fishing snorkeling trips, glass bottom boat tours, picnic and booze cruises, parasailing, jet skiing, shell collecting tours, sea kayaking tours. Gambling at a choice of two casinos, duty free shopping, fine restaurants, bars, nightclubs, shell collecting, barbecues, nightly dancing and a host of other activities around the island.

Rates

H2O Bonefishing provides exclusive packages to ensure that dedicated bonefishing clients have the availability for their multi day fishing trips. We cannot charter H2O Bonefishing’s boats and guides on a daily basis to non Pelican Bay Hotel guests.

Customized packages to include extra nights before and/or after your fishing days, along with non-angling activities, can easily be arranged.

Please inquire for non-angling rates, as well as suite upgrades.

Fly and conventional tackle may be rented for $20/day.

3 NIGHTS / 2 DAYS FISHING

Per person, shared room / boat . . . $1495
Private room / boat . . . . . . . . $2595

4 NIGHTS / 3 DAYS FISHING

Per person, shared room / boat . . . $2249
Private room / boat . . . . . . . . $3799

5 NIGHTS / 4 DAYS FISHING

Per person, shared room / boat . . . $2988
Private room / boat . . . . . . . . $4845

6 NIGHTS / 5 DAYS FISHING

Per person, shared room / boat . . . $3599
Private room / boat . . . . . . . . $5865

7 NIGHTS / 6 DAYS FISHING

Per person, shared room / boat . . . $4195
Private room / boat . . . . . . . . $6795

“NO BOUNDARIES” PROGRAM

Per person, shared room / boat . . . $3150

OFFSHORE FLY FISHING

31 foot Contender, 4 anglers max . . . $1250 per day

CUSTOM PACKAGE PLANS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

(Including Golf, Diving, Dolphins, Kayaking, Sightseeing, Deep-Sea and Reef Fishing, etc.)

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Accommodations as specified; Full Days of Guided Fishing; Breakfast; Daily deluxe picnic lunch including non-alcoholic beverages; Hotel, Resort & VAT Taxes

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

Airfare to Freeport, Grand Bahama (FPO); Tips for fishing guide; Alcoholic beverages; Equipment rentals ($20 per day); Flies & terminal tackle; Dinner Meals; Taxi Transportation to and from the airport.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

Tailwaters Travel must adhere to the cancellation policies of the guides and lodges which it represents. H2O BONEFISHING’s policy follows:

FOR BOOKING DATES THAT FALL ENTIRELY WITHIN JUNE TO FEBRUARY AS FOLLOWS:

50% deposit required with reservation. No booking is considered confirmed until receipt of deposit. Final payment must be paid 45 or more days prior to arrival date. Any bookings requested within 60 days of reservation date must be paid in full. Cancellations made 90 days or more prior to reservation date is a full refund. Cancellations made between 45 to 89 days prior to reservation date is a 50% refund of the deposit amount ie. 25% of total package. Cancellations made less than 45 days to arrival date is no refund. If a cancelled package is re-sold then a full refund will be sent minus a $ 100 fee per angler.

FOR BOOKING DATES OF WHICH ANY PART FALLS IN THE PERIOD MARCH 1 TO MAY 31:

50% deposit required with Reservations. No booking is considered confirmed until receipt of deposit. Final payment must be paid 90 or more days prior to arrival date. Full refund if package is cancelled before January 1st. 50 % refund of deposit if cancelled after January 1st and 90 or more days from arrival date. 50 % refund of total package (deposit) if cancellation is made 61 to 89 days prior to arrival date. There is no refund for cancellations made on or within 60 days of arrival date. If a cancelled package is re-sold then a full refund will be sent minus a $ 100 fee per angler.

Refunds of deposits/payments made on credit cards will be charged a 3.5% service charge to fully compensate Tailwaters Travel for all bank charges incurred. Refunds or credits cannot be issued for fishing time lost due to inclement weather. Receipt of deposit and/or final payment is acknowledgement that registrant has read and accepts the cancellation, refund and responsibility clauses.