Who is best suited to this destination? Kamalame Cay resort is best suited for anglers who want a Bahamian bonefishing experience at a destination that’s also suitable for non-anglers and families alike. Trips to Kamalame offer a premier beachside vacation resort with fantastic opportunities to fish pristine flats for bonefish. Anglers that prefer to have some do-it-yourself options will also appreciate Kamalame.
Where is the lodge? The resort is located near the small village of Staniard Creek on the northern tip of Andros Island in the Bahamas.
How do I get there? To get to Kamalame Cay resort, anglers fly into the Fresh Creek, North Andros airport via Nassau on Le Air. From Fresh Creek there is an approximate 20-minute taxi ride to the lodge.
When should I go? Kamalame Cay resort operates year-round, with the peak months of interest for anglers being March through May, and September through November. The spring months tend to offer better shots for high numbers of bonefish, while the fall may offer better opportunities for larger bonefish.
How will I fish? Two anglers and one guide set out in a flats skiff each day. These boats are well-equipped for fly fishing and have all the necessary safety equipment. Opportunities for wading are also possible depending on tides and weather.
Is there wade fishing? The northern portion of Andros is a quality wade fishery. Ultimately, the guides will determine which areas are best for wading and which are better suited for skiff fishing, however, it’s reasonable to expect that up to 80% of your time can be spent wading.
Where will I fish? Guests fish the east side of North Andros including the extensive Fresh Creek lagoon system and the Joulters Cays.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds? Each day anglers depart the lodge by truck with their guide and tow their skiff to a boat launch about 30 minutes away. From there, depending on the goals for the day and weather, anglers and guide will run anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour.
What type(s) of fish will I catch? The primary target is bonefish with rare opportunities for other species.
How many fish will I catch? On an average day, an average angler stands a good chance to land double digit numbers of bonefish.
Will I see other anglers? In general, this is not a heavily-pressured zone. Anglers will occasionally see another boat, but generally won’t be competing for available terrain, as the fishing area is quite vast.
What are the guides like? Bahamian guides have a reputation for being passionate. This means that they show their emotions, and they sometimes express disappointment at poorly-executed casts or missed opportunities. They are also quick to laugh, smile and jokingly tease their clients, but they are truly always on the anglers’ team. My advice any time when dealing with foreign guides is to relax, realize that many cultural differences are at play, and that when things get heated in the boat, 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. We have not experienced negative personality issues with any of the guides at Kamalame Cay; in fact, the reality is quite to the contrary.
What are the physical demands? There are no serious physical demands for this trip. Anglers can spend significant amounts of time standing on the bow of a flats skiff, looking for fish. Decent balance is also required to cast from the skiff. Properly preparing for hot days out in the sun is important as well. Anglers that are fit and free of physical impairments will find it easier to spend time wading.
Are there any special skills required? Fly fishing for bonefish can be demanding. Anglers often are asked to cast in the wind, make precise presentations at distance and utilize high line speeds to deliver the fly quickly. Anglers that excel with their casting skills are rewarded in the saltwater environment. Having keen eyesight is also advantageous, as finding and seeing bonefish is key to catching them.
Does the lodge provide equipment? The lodge can provide tackle in a pinch (i.e., lost luggage), but it’s best for anglers to bring their own.
What is your favorite setup for the trip? I prefer lightweight, fast-action saltwater rods in a 9’, 8wt configuration with tropical floating lines specifically developed for flats fishing.
What are the top flies?
- Pearl Gotcha
- Ververka’s Mantis Shrimp
- Peterson’s Spawning Shrimp
- Crazy Charlie
- Bonefish Bitter
What is a typical day like? A typical day begins with a sit-down breakfast and coffee at your accommodation or in the resort’s dining room. Anglers depart from the resort’s activity center, setting out in flats skiffs for 7- to 8-hours of on-water time, and then return to the resort in the afternoon.
What is the general vibe, atmosphere and style of the lodge? Kamalame is uniquely gifted with being able to maintain an intimate experience even while it primarily functions as a large beach resort. The resort rests beachside on a 100-acre, private island with an almost-endless amount of pristine beach access. The mature landscaping, towering palm trees and natural surroundings allow Kamalame’s accommodations to easily blend in without feeling crowded or ostentatious. Their goal is offer guests a “barefoot chic” experience with the flexibility to make the experience uniquely yours, whether that be a rigorously-planned tropical adventure or simple beachside R&R to recharge the batteries. Guests are also provided a golf cart to explore the island on their own.
Is there an on-site owner, manager or other point-person at the lodge? Resort staff and lodge management are always on-site and available to help with anything guests may need.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? Meals are a blend of American and Bahamian cuisine and are served daily in the resort’s restaurant with private tables per party (rather than family-style). The menu offers everything from Bahamian classics like conch salad and grouper fingers to pasta and burgers, with a full selection of spirts and imported wine. Kamalame is not currently offering meals as an inclusion in their packages; guests will order throughout the week and settle up at the end of their trip.
What is the alcohol policy? Alcohol is not included in the package and guests will settle their bar tab at the end of the week.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? Kamalame offers many tiers of lodging options from small and rustic cottages to luxurious, multi-bedroom private beachside residences with private swimming pools. All units are well-appointed, air-conditioned and very comfortable.
Is there internet and/or cell service? Yes, there is Wi-Fi available in the main office. The signal will reach some accommodations, but some may not. Cell service is dependent on your carrier but unlikely to be available.
Are there other activities? Kamalame is far from a fly fishing-only operation. Guests can snorkel, swim, dive, explore remote islands or take advantage of every water toy imaginable. There is an activity center on the island that constantly offers guests a varied catalog of unique adventures.
Are there any other expenses? Taxis or additional transfers may have extra expenses, as will specialty alcohol purchases.
Do I need a visa? No. Travel to the Bahamas only requires a valid passport.
Are there any health concerns, dangers or annoyances? We recommend guests only drink only filtered or bottled water while in the Bahamas. We also recommend guests check the U.S. State Department guidelines for travel.
