Bahamas - Fishing Reports

Acklins Island - Top Choice Lodge

12/29/01 to 01/08/02

"For the life of me I cannot understand why more people don't fish this area. This is big fish country in every respect. Mainly bonefish, permit and a few big tarpon with barracuda, snapper, trigger fish, jacks and grouper if you are interested. I fished these waters in early January and found it absolutely amazing the amount of big fish that were around.

Bonefish generally average an amazing 6lb. and come in small groups of 3's 4's and 5's. I did see larger schools but they were the exception to the rule and were generally a smaller size about 4lb.

Mike Mulhearn holding the "smallest"of the two permit he released during his trip to Acklins in December 2001.

The Permit are truly amazing, with fish over 50lb.

I always stay at the same lodge, which is Top Choice, run by Mrs. Bain, a jovial woman who is always around to make things run smoothly.

 The lodge is clean and tidy, situated right on the beach. Air conditioning is standard, the rooms are very spacious with toilet and bathroom en suite. I also saw a permit feeding right off the beach in front of the lodge.

 You can wade or fish from a Carolina Skiff, or use the Maverick for fishing the far out flats. There is the choice of three guides who are JB, JJ or Joe. I have already booked my next trip in advance.

Total in 9 days fishing

• 25 bonefish over 8lb.
• 2 of 9lb.
• 1 of 10lb.
• 1 of 11lb.
• 7 shots at permit nothing under 25lb.
• 2 permit hooked and landed on fly 10 weight Sage between 30lb. and 40lb.

Summary

• Fishing: Excellent
• Lodge: Excellent
• Food: Excellent
• Atmosphere: laid back and relaxing
• Weather: Hot
• Guides: Good

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CST 1010581-10