Bahamas Flats Fishing: What to Bring
First off, I’m stoked for YOU! If you’re reading this, it’s likely that you’re either seriously considering a flats fishing trip to the Bahamas or you’re already booked. Don’t underestimate the fun of getting your gear dialed and flies sorted. Get that group text chain going and let the banter begin! I’ve gotten my Bahamas kit right where I like it and I’m excited to share my gear preferences with you. If you’re simply looking for a packing checklist click the button below… if you’re looking for a gear discussion then read on:
Clothing:
Comfortable, lightweight, breathable fabrics that have UPF built in. Muted, stealthy colors are best to stay hidden from your quarry.
Long sleeves and pants will ensure full protection from the sun and protection from biting bugs, like doctor flies and sand fleas, that can be a nuisance on some Bahamian islands. If you’re feeling edgy, throw a pair of shorts in but don’t forget the sunblock.
Rain pants and jacket. Even if it looks like a bluebird day, my light Bahamas rain gear always makes it into my boat bag for the day. Light rain gear doesn’t take up much space and it’s worth bringing along just in case.
We support Patagonia and highly recommend their gear, not only for the quality but when you buy Patagonia you are supporting the mission to address climate change, global clean water initiatives, better fisheries management & ethical and equitable treatment of people.
Footwear:
Shoes and sandals on the skiff inevitably get fly line caught underneath them. This can be the difference between getting your shot off or a missed opportunity. Barefoot or light socks for sun protection, are the way to go when fishing from the boat. I usually have a pair of sandals in the hatch, just in case.
Wading in the Berry Islands is a dream. White sand for miles and miles. But there are still some critters on the flats like sea urchins and rays that can be very unpleasant to encounter with a barefoot. Wade at your own risk with barefeet or throw on some flats booties to protect your hooves. Orvis makes a great pair wading booties and Patagonia is a great choice for light boots.
Around the lodge and on the island, sandals or light running shoes are great. Though, it’s not uncommon to ditch the shoes day one and not miss them until it’s time to pack up and head to the airport.
Sunglasses & Protection:
Polarized sunglasses are vital for a successful flats mission. Costa Sunglasses are our top choice and I always have a lens wipe in my pocket to keep my shades clean throughout the day. I like a frame that wraps around my face and shields my eyes from as much sunlight as possible. The green mirror lens is my go-to for everyday flats fishing and provides great contrast, aiding in spotting bonefish, permit and other flats species. In low light situations I like the sunrise silver lens. Those two lenses cover most situations for me, but when I’m hanging or offshore I like the blue mirror lens which lets the least amount of light in. ***At the lodge we currently have a Costa demo program that goes like this: Donate a minimum of $50, you get a pair to demo all week, we give your donation to Bonefish Tarpon Trust, at the end of the week we’ll give you a 50% off coupon for a brand new pair of Costas… bing, everyone wins.
Good sunblock is essential. Please choose a reef-safe option preferably in plastic-free packaging like what Waxhead offers. There are also some great mineral based, chemical free options that come in cardboard packaging, eliminating plastic waste, as well, like Avasol. I always have a buff around my neck for added protection and I love shirts with a hood.
Some good bug juice can go along way. Buzz Away Extreme from Quantum Health is a go-to for us. Sand flies can be kept away by a simple application of coconut oil.
Gear & Other Useful Items:
A waterproof backpack can be super handy to have. I stash all my flies, tippet material, extra Costa sunglasses, camera, rain gear, etc in my pack. If I decide to take off for an extended wading session it’s nice to be able to throw the pack on and roll.
Rapid fire on some other favorite items: nippers attached to a necklace, pliers on a belt, koozie, buff, a lucky charm, big YETI water bottle and a good camera.
Rods & Reels:
While we have rods & reels at the lodge for your convenience we recommend you bring your own equipment if that is a feasible option for you. Knowing the way your kit works will give you confidence and provide you with a great tool to practice with. If you want to rely on us for gear, just let us know when you book and we got you covered.
8wt is the everyday, go-to bonefishing rod paired with a high quality reel that has a good drag. 7wt might be fished when it’s super calm and a 9wt might make an appearance when it’s blowing 20 knots. For Bahamian permit I choose a 10wt with a reel that I implicitly trust every time. Rapid fire for the remaining species and suggested rod weights: Triggerfish 8 or 9wt // Barracuda 10wt // Mutton Snapper 8 or 9wt.
We work with Thomas & Thomas and Nautilus Reels. We also have a demo fleet of 14 complete set ups at the lodge. Please don’t hesitate to try one of our rigs for the day or the week.
Flies:
For a much deeper dive into fly selection scope the Fly Selection in the Berry Islands post.
In short, I like to have assorted sizes & weights to my flies from #4 down to #8 for Berry Island bonefish. Crab, worm and shrimp patterns are all on the menu. Tan and white are great colors because the flats are lighter in color. You may also fish over turtle grass where a weed guard and a darker colored fly can be very helpful. Permit fall for light colored crabs. It’s important to have these flies heavier in weight because you’ll be fishing deeper water than a typical bonefish flat. Triggerfish and Mutton Snapper like both shrimp and crab flies and we can help you select some winners when you get to the lodge. Barracuda like needlefish patterns.
Go-To Bonefish Fly: #6 Tan EP Spawning Shrimp
Go-To Permit Fly: #4 White Flexo Crab, blue and tan claw highlights
Line, Leaders & Tippet (Read full post on line/leader/tippet here):
Bonefish: Scientific Anglers Bonefish or Grand Slam line // 9 to 12+ foot leader // 10 to 16 lb tippet
Permit: SA #10 Infinity line // 10 to 16+ foot leader // 16 to 20 lb tippet
Mutton and Triggerfish: A well place fly with either of the above two setups will work but edging up to 12 to 16 lb tippet might give you the confidence to quickly land your quarry.
Barracuda: SA Grand Slam line #9 or #10 // 10 foot leader // 16” of 20 to 30 lb bite tippet
We have some convenience items at the lodge for you like flies, tippet, leaders, fly lines, some clothing and some other goodies! We’re happy to help. Reach out anytime and we’re happy to help get you dialed in with the right gear.