|
When first discovered by Christopher Columbus at the end of the 15th century, this little chain of Islands was named "Baja Mar “ when translated into English means, "shallow sea." As part of the little Bahama Bank, the shallows of Grand Bahamas’ north shore extend 50 miles to Walker's Cay where it turns southeast to encompass the Abaco chain. Ultimately the shallows re-join at Grand Bahamas’ east end. Grand Bahama in turn means “large or extensive shallows." These shallows are home to the elusive bonefish. With an island whose name relates to bonefishing habitat, it’s not hard to understand how incredible our fishing can be.
The island of Grand Bahama itself stretches 90 miles east to west as the crow flies, and its north shore’s vast area of creeks, cays and flats create hundreds of miles of fishable shoreline. Low lying structures vary from both hard and soft sands or grass flats to harder light coral or marl flats, creeks or cays. These features are perfect feeding areas for bonefish and permit. The fishing is primarily done from Pelican Bay Bonefishings' fleet of Maverick Mirage flats boats, but anglers are encouraged to wade during times when large concentrations of fish are found tailing in ‘skinny’ water.
Our bonefish can vary greatly in size. From small 2 to 3 pound fish that are often found in schools, to single fish or pairs and small groups that can weigh 10 lbs or more! The average size of our bonefish is a healthy 4 to 6 pounds. Amazing bonefish of 7 and 8 pounds are encountered on an almost daily basis. The trophy sized specimens of 10 + pounds can be spotted at any time. Anglers should always be alert and ready to cast their offerings accurately. Pelican Bay's record Bonefish, caught by fly, is a remarkable 14 1'2 pounds.
Although Pelican Bay has long been considered a world class bonefishing destination, there are several other great gamefish that frequent our vast northern shore flats. Permit and tarpon arrive during the spring and stay until December. Barracuda is found almost daily. There is also the chance of running into packs of hard fighting horse eye jacks that average 10 to 15 pounds. Pelican Bay Bonefishing encourages all of our anglers to bring at least one heavier fly rod rated for either 9, 10 or 11 wt. line.
There are no roads to access our fishing areas. The bonefishing habitat sees little to no pressure. You will not see the engine scars that are such a prominent and unappealing feature so often encountered on the flats of the Florida Keys. The entire area is pristine. The variety of land and marine based animals like ospreys and turtles are not only pleasing to the eye, but also strong signs of a healthy environment. Once on the water, our anglers hear nothing more than the gentle lapping of the tide and the busy screeching of their reels.
|
