If you're planning to use a guide, be advised that most guides do not provide fishing equipment or tackle.
We have created a printable CHECKLIST to help you insure that all the essentials are included in your packing. (Please see our article on Traveling With Fly Rods for information on carry-on items as the result of 9/11)
If you are traveling to the Bahamas from the U.S., you'll need a passport OR a driver's license and certified birth certificate.
For entry requirements from other countries please refer to Bahamas Travel Tips. Remember - Don't spend ALL your cash while in Eleuthera. You must have $15 per person for departure tax. (Children under the age of six are exempt from this tax.)
American currency is accepted everywhere and the exchange rate is the same.
The size of bonefish can vary greatly in Eleuthera. You could encounter a large school of 1 to 3 lb bonefish or you may encounter a 10 lb bonefish. Be prepared.
Fly Rods - 7 to 9 wt rods should handle most bonefish of Eleuthera.
Fly Reels - Have at lease 200 yards of backing on your fly reels. Make sure that your reel has a good drag system. If you've never caught a bonefish before, you'll know why this is important as soon as you hook your first Eleuthera bonefish.
Flies - Primarily sizes 4 and 6 hooks should be used for these bonefish. Gotcha and Crazy Charlie patterns are always a good bet. Light colored bodies to match the color of the sand are the best on the flats of Eleuthera.
Leaders & Tippets - Bring several 9 ft leaders -Tapered leaders to 8 lb.
Fly Line - It's always a safe bet to bring an extra fly line.
Spin Rod - If you plan to bring a spin rod for bonefish, don't forget to bring small jigs and bait hooks. Conch is readily available and is a great bait. 6 -8 lb test line and a reel with a good drag system are needed.
Booties - The white sand flats of Eleuthera are a pleasure to wade. Bring booties to ensure foot protection while wading.
Wading Belt - You'll need to bring a wading belt to carry your flies, leaders, clippers and a water bottle while wading the flats of Eleuthera.
Sunscreen & Lip Balm - SPF 30 or higher. The sun in Eleuthera reflecting off the flats can burn quickly.
Tools - Pliers, hemostats, knot tying tool, snips, hook sharpener
Raingear - Be prepared and pack light raingear. You never know when a quick shower might pop up.
Sunglasses - Polarized sunglasses are the only way that you're going to spot the gray ghost. Good quality sunglasses are well worth their cost. Amber lenses are the best for these flats.
Hat - A billed hat to take the glare of the sun off of your eyes will help in spotting bonefish.
Camera - Capture your bonefish memories on film. Bring plenty of film and check for fresh batteries. Send your pictures to us to be included in our BONEFISH GALLERY.
Alarm Clock - You may need this to get yourself up in time to meet the guide or catch the perfect tide. Definitely an optional item!
Cooler - You'll need a cooler for your lunches and Kaliks. There's nothing quite like sitting down underneath a palm tree and enjoying your lunch while viewing the spectacular beaches of Eleuthera.
Bottle Opener - If you really want to enjoy that Kalik, you'd better bring a bottle opener mon!
VHF Radio - This is a good means of communication thought out all the out-islands.
Walkie Talkies - - We've found that this is a great way to communicate with your fishing partner while wading the flats.
Entertainment - - - A good book or a good game of dominos is a great way to spend your spare time when you're not fishing the flats.
We have created a printable CHECKLIST to help you insure that all the essentials are included in your packing. (Please see our article on Traveling With Fly Rods for information on carry-on items as the result of 9/11)
