Fishing in Eleuthera

Eleuthera/ Harbour Islands

The island of Eleuthera, with it’s well-preserved coral reefs, swaying coconut palms, stunning white and pink sand beaches and general air of luxurious tranquility, was recently dubbed in an article in the Wall Street Journal as “the next trendy island destination”. Eleuthera is already receiving a lot of attention among international travelers, travel and real estate agents. The legacy of Eleuthera as a major vacation destination dates back to the 1960’s, when the Cotton Bay Club was the place where ‘the Who’s Who went barefoot in the Bahamas”. This resurgence in the island’s popularity has deemed it a great tourist destination for those who want to experience some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, the warm hospitality of the Bahamian people and overall natural beauty. Eleuthera Island may sound like a mouthful, but its Greek definition says it all. Eleuthera means “freedom,” and that’s exactly what you’ll get with this serene Bahama Out Island. A perfect place to take a break from the hustle-bustle of everyday living, the island is home to some of the greatest fishing and diving experiences in the world.

Fishing in Eleuthera

The Eleuthera Islands present some of the best deep-sea sport fishing experiences in the Bahamas, with numerous charters and guides at the ready to take new and experienced anglers on a trip they won’t soon forget. If you’re looking for bonefishing, flats, fly or deep-sea fishing, Eleuthera has it all. It is considered a premium sport fishing destination with an abundance of dolphin or mahi-mahi, wahoo, swordfish, sailfish, tuna, white and blue marlin, bonefish, and a slew of other gamefish. The bonefish is especially popular, particularly with anglers who forgo traditional saltwater tackle for the challenging sport of fly-fishing. Other activities for the outdoors enthusiast include parasailing, jet skiing and surfing, as well as horseback riding, hiking and bicycling.

Over 100 miles long, Eleuthera barely exceeds two miles in width. Firm white sand flats and shallow water ring the island, making it perfect for fishing for the elusive bonefish. On a clear day, one can wade knee-deep in the water and spot the sunlight glinting off the bonefish’s glittering scales. One of the more challenging saltwater specimens with some weighing up to 15 pounds, the bonefish put up an unbelievable fight, made all the more fun when using light tackle such as a fly rod. With a little patience, a smooth cast just beyond the reach of the school, the wily bonefish just might take your bait and run off most of your line in seconds. But once you have one hooked, be prepared for one a most exhilarating fishing experience, a feeling you can only get from being connected to this remarkably fast and furious fish.

If you are planning to fish in The Bahamas, there is a vast amount of resources whether you plan on bringing your own boat, booking a charter fishing expedition or fishing the aforementioned shores and flats. If you are flying into the Out Islands in search of a fishing trip, the islands are chock full of experienced guides who will be more than happy to show you the most memorable fishing The Bahamas has to offer.

With flats, reefs and drop-offs throughout the islands, there is a plethora of fishing opportunities at your disposal. For big game adventures, you can always troll the deep waters of the Atlantic. It’s no surprise that countless fishing competitions held in The Bahamas, from The Bahamas White Marlin open Fishing Tournament to The Bahamas Billfish Tournament to the BBC Treasure Cay Championship.

If fishing is your passion, the Eleuthera and Harbour Islands of The Bahamas is a sure bet!