Where is the lodge? Gran Roque, Venezuela is located approximately 90 miles north of the Venezuelan mainland within the Los Roques National Park. The coral archipelago is made up of over 300 cays, spanning an area of some 850 square miles.
How do I get there? To get to Los Roques, guests will first need to arrange international flights into Caracas International Airport. Upon arrival, guests will be met by a member of the Fly Fishing Los Roques team. Depending on arrival times, anglers will either be transferred to the included hotel for an overnight stay or directly to the domestic terminal for the included charter flight to Gran Roque. If guests overnight in Caracas, a Fly Fishing Los Roques team member will pick them up the following morning and assist with the transfer back to the domestic terminal, where they will board the included charter flight to Gran Roque.
Why should I go? Los Roques offers some of the finest bonefishing found anywhere in the world. For anglers that love to wade fish, there are not many destinations that can compete. Anglers can expect larger than average bonefish in a beautiful location mixed with a relaxed and comfortable lodge atmosphere.
When should I go? Los Roques sits only 11 degrees north of equator. Because of this the weather is fairly predictable and the fishery is viable all months of the year.
Where do they fish? Anglers fish the Los Roques archipelago’s vast expanse of white sand beaches, pancake flats and mangrove lagoons.
How do they fish? The vast majority of the fishing will be done while wading. There are situations where anglers may fish from the boat for blue water species or Tarpon closer to the beaches.
What fish will I catch? Bonefish are the highlight of the show, averaging on the larger side. That being said, there are ample opportunities for Permit and Tarpon, as well as other species such as Triggerfish, Jacks, Parrotfish, Bonito, and Snook.
How many fish will I catch? It is not uncommon for anglers to catch double digits numbers of Bonefish each day.
Is there wade fishing? Yes. Wade fishing is the primary mode of operation. If they choose, anglers may wade fish the entire trip.
What are the physical demands? Although wading the flats is not physically demanding, anglers should expect to spend the day on their feet.
Are there other special skills required? Saltwater fly fishing inherently requires special skills to be highly successful. Contrary to a lot of public perception, it is not necessary to be able to cast a long distance. Sure, it’s great if you have the ability to cast 70+ feet, but if it takes you five or six false casts to reach that distance, the length is worthless because the bonefish will typically be gone. It is far more important to be accurate and speedy from 40 feet to 60 feet. Meaning, it is far better to be able to consistently deal with the wind from any direction and make your presentation to the fish in three false casts or less.
Does the lodge provide equipment? We recommend that anglers come prepared with their own tackle. If absolutely necessary, the lodge can provide equipment if informed in advance.
What is your favorite setup for the trip? We prefer fast action, 9 foot fly rods in weights 8, 9, and 10. Rods should be paired with tropical weight forward floating fly lines and high quality reels with a sealed disc drag.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? Guests will stay in the Acuarela Lodge on Gran Roque. The location is a short 1 minute walk to the beach where your fishing days will begin. The lodge offers 10 rooms, each with a private bathroom, hot water, A/C, WiFi, and small safe deposit boxes.
What is the alcohol policy? Alcohol is not included in your Los Roques packages. The only exceptions to this rule are the beers already on the boats.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? Acuarela Lodge is known to have some of the best cuisine on the island. Breakfast includes yogurt, fresh fruits, eggs, and freshly squeezed juices. Lunches will be packed and served on the water during your fishing days. Upon your return from the lodge, appetizers will be ready in preparation for a 4-course dinner. Table fare is typically fresh Seafood and fresh fruit.
Is there internet and cell service? Internet is available in the hotel lounge areas as well as guest rooms. Cell service is not likely.
Are there other activities? There are plenty of opportunities for fantastic snorkeling, diving, and water sports galore. Adventurous non-anglers are very much welcome at Los Roques.
Are there any other expenses? Any purchases made in Caracas or on Gran Roque are not included in your package.
Do I need a visa? Yes. Anglers traveling to Venezuela are required to apply for a tourist Visa, the process takes about 2 weeks for approval. The new process can be done online through the US Embassy in Caracas.
Are there any health concerns, dangers, or annoyances? Venezuela has recently undergone a regime change, and US travelers are now able to safely travel back to the country. Gran Roque has always been an incredibly safe island, with no immediate dangers. Like many of the Caribbean Islands it has an overall friendly feel with welcoming locals.
Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be present but are generally not a big problem. A good bug repellent will help solve this issue.
For more information regarding traveling to Venezuela, please visit the US Department of State Website.