Who is best suited to this destination? Bair’s Lodge is perfect for beginners and advanced anglers alike that prefer comfortable surroundings, fine cuisine and good attention to detail.
Where is the lodge? Bair’s Lodge is located on the east side of the southernmost island of Andros in the Bahamas.
How do I get there? Guests fly in to Nassau and connect via Western Air to Congo Town on Andros Island. Options also exist for a scheduled charter seat with Watermakers Air, direct to Congo Town from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
When should I go? Bair’s operates from October through early June. Peak months of interest remain March and April, however, more and more anglers are realizing the benefits of the October through January time window. Anglers that can pull away during this time often experience less pressured, more responsive fish, lower rates, and slightly cooler temperatures.
How will I fish? Two anglers and a guide set out in a flats skiff each day. These boats are well equipped for fly fishing and have all the needed safety equipment. Opportunities for wading are also possible depending on tides and weather.
Is there wade fishing? Some wade fishing is possible depending on tides and weather. The far southern end of the island has good wading when the wind is not too strong to get down there. Ultimately, the guides will feel like more water can be covered more effectively from the boat but wading is possible most days. For wading enthusiasts, it’s reasonable to expect 60% of your fishing from the boat and 40% from your feet. This ratio depends highly on the tides, your preferences, and your guide.
Where will I fish? The guides at Bair’s Lodge focus on a vast area of southern Andros, including several large lagoons that cross the island, the south end of the island and the famed West Side.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds? Productive flats can be reached in as little as 15 minutes, however, runs of up to 1.5 hours are possible depending on wind and tides. Generally, it’s reasonable to expect runs from 35 – 50 minutes on average.
What type(s) of fish will I catch? The prime focus at Andros is bonefish. There are also regular encounters with barracuda, sharks, and snapper.
How many fish will I catch? An average angler on an average day stands a good chance to land double digit numbers of bonefish.
Will I see other anglers? There are several other operations in the area, but the guides do a great job of staying out of each other’s way. Rarely will you ever see another boat, but occasionally you will encounter another guide motoring on the horizon. The available fishing area is vast.
What are the guides like? Bahamian guides have a reputation for being “passionate”. This means they show their emotions which may mean they could express disappointment at poorly executed casts or missed opportunities. However, they are also quick to laugh, smile and tease you but they are always on your team. My advice any time when dealing with foreign guides is to try and relax, realize that many cultural differences are at play and that when things get heated in the boat, try to smile and laugh your way through it. As always, never suffer in silence. If you ever have an issue, be sure to bring it up with lodge management. English is the first language of the guides.
What are the physical demands? There are no serious physical demands for this trip. Decent balance is required to cast from the bow of a flats skiff and properly preparing for hot days out in the sun is important.
Does the lodge provide equipment? It’s best to bring all of your own tackle. The lodge does have a selection of rental equipment and a small fly shop for forgotten odds and ends.
What is a typical day like? What is the general vibe, atmosphere and style of the lodge? Bair’s Lodge is like staying at a high-end bed and breakfast on the sea. The staff is friendly and the surroundings are intimate. Bair’s feels more like a luxurious guest house, rather than a fishing lodge.
Is there an on-site owner, manager or other point-person at the lodge? Yes, the management team is always on site.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? Meals are rooted in Bahamian cuisine with ample amounts of fresh seafood.
What is the alcohol policy? Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? Guest room at Bair’s Lodge are air conditioned, beautifully decorated, comfortable and feature ocean views.
Is there internet and/or cell service? Bair’s Lodge does have basic wi-fi available at the lodge. Cell service is spotty so you’ll have to check with your provider.
Are there other activities? Yes, but only if you count sitting on the beach drinking a cold Kalik and watching the sun go down.
Are there any other expenses? Rod fees, transfer fees, gratuities, purchasing food/bev/accommodations outside the lodge
Do I need a visa? Are there any health concerns, dangers or annoyances? Sand fleas and doctor flies (biting black flies) can be a nuisance. It’s recommended to bring long sleeves and pants and a good bug repellent on the trip. We recommend Ultrathon from 3M or Sawyers with picaridin.
We recommend that guests always consult with the U.S. Department of State and the Center For Disease Control websites for general travel information and guidelines.