Bonefish: Your First Cast at Andros South Lodge

In the angling world, few experiences rival the adrenaline spike that comes from watching a curious bonefish cruise over to your fly, follow it, flare its gills, and then blaze across the flats at 30 miles per hour with your Gotcha fly firmly attached. This moment is the foundation of saltwater flats fly angling, and if you’ve been pondering a jump into the saltwater world, there may be no better place to wade in than the storied Andros South Lodge in the Bahamas.

South Andros Island, Bahamas
Andros South Lodge’s fishery, located on the southern portion of Andros Island, is riddled with shallow flats, mangrove lagoons, small islands, channels, and some of the most fertile bonefish habitat found anywhere in the world. 

The sheer variety of fishing zones on South Andros is perfect for new anglers, offering high numbers of shots at smaller fish and the opportunity to graduate to true trophies as your skills progress. For those experiencing their first flats trip, Andros South Lodge provides the flexibility to target areas teeming with eager, schooling bonefish. These zones often present groups of milling fish where precision casting isn’t critical, but the action keeps your head in the game and delivers the repetition needed to train your eyes, build confidence, and experience the surprising power of these fish. These invaluable reps from the bow of the skiff help you learn how to spot fish and work effectively with your guide.

Bonefish Masters & the Learning Curve
As your confidence grows, the famed West Side of the island offers the perfect next challenge, where you can apply what you’ve learned and pursue more instinctive, and considerably larger fish. Bonefish on the West Side can push upwards of 10 pounds, and experienced anglers often dream of stalking this expansive wilderness for a shot at a double-digit trophy. 

Like anything new, there’s a learning curve, and having a patient teacher who speaks your language and can offer timely, skilled advice makes all the difference. The guide team at Andros South Lodge is second to none. This tight-knit crew of bonefish masters offers centuries of combined experience on the flats. More than just impeccable boatmen or skilled captains, they are pillars of their community, friendly faces, and bonefishing teachers who genuinely want to see you succeed. The opportunity to help you hook your first bonefish on a fly rod is something they relish. Saltwater flats fly fishing can feel intimidating to newcomers, but this guide crew is in your corner and ready to move mountains to make it happen.

While there are many places in the world to chase bonefish, it’s especially important on your first trip to be able to communicate clearly with your guide. In the Bahamas, English is the first language, so subtle nuances around spotting fish, delivering your fly, and managing the fight are easily communicated in real time.

SAGE EXPERIENCES
Jumping into a bonefish trip also requires the right tackle. Saltwater-resistant reels, strong and adjustable disc drags, fast-action rods, and tropical floating lines are all standard at Andros South. As a Sage Experiences Outfitter, the lodge makes things easy by offering an elite onsite tackle experience. Premium gear from Sage and RIO Products, perfectly suited to the fishery, is available to all guests at no extra cost. Just show up with your carry-on, some patience, and an open mindset, and Andros South will take care of the rest.

Life at Andros South Lodge
Andros South Lodge prides itself on delivering a relaxed, professional, no-frills bonefishing experience. The program emphasizes high-quality skiffs, experienced guides, premium tackle, and a fishing-first schedule. Hearty, home-cooked meals, a beachside tiki hut for spinning stories in the evening, and cold self-served Kaliks (Bahamian beer) are all hallmarks of the lodge experience.

For decades, Andros South Lodge has offered a legendary mix of comfort, adventure, affordability, and success for bonefish anglers. With an incredibly diverse fishery, ranging from easy-access schools to elusive West Side trophies, it’s the perfect venue for anyone looking to make the jump from freshwater to salt.

Finding Success on Your First Bonefish Trip
Your first bonefish trip may feel like a leap of faith. But with Andros South Lodge’s expert guide team, well-equipped program, and welcoming island charm, it’s a leap worth taking. Private single-room accommodations with hot showers and comfortable bedding are included for all guests. The lodge’s laid-back atmosphere makes it easy to connect with fellow anglers, share stories over family-style dinners, and soak up the island vibe at sunset from the tiki hut. It’s all part of what makes Andros South Lodge such a perfect setting for your first flats experience.