Abaco’s sheltered Marls region is big. So big that it could swallow 13 Manhattans within its 300 square mile footprint. Instead of sputtering cabs and people crammed into skyscrapers, however, this wilderness flats area is peppered with unpopulated pine forest islands, mangrove cays, and a prodigious bonefish population.
From Abaco Lodge’s central location, we fish the Marls from as far south as Cross Harbour to its northern extremities
off the west side of Treasure Cay. A twenty-minute skiff run due west puts anglers within striking range of the
Marl’s ocean-side edge.
And from all points in between, Marls bonefish average 2 to 4 pounds. Larger fish in the 5 to 8 pound class, although fewer and harder to seduce, are also found in good numbers. Permit and juvenile tarpon shots are frequent enough that you should be prepared with gear for targeting both species, and barracuda, jack crevalle, plus various shark species also call the Marls home. But bonefish generally rule this kingdom thanks to an ideal mix of sheltered habitat and prime forage sources through the seasons.
In addition to wonderful flats, Abaco has incredible blue water fishing. We are happy to coordinate a day, or two,
with the best captains available. Target species include: marlin, sailfish, dorado, wahoo, and tuna—depending on
the season. Arrangements can be made at the lodge, but the best captains book early and we recommend you do as well. There will be an additional charge for this type of fishing.
Fishing in the Marls is done from our meticulously maintained Maverick flats skiffs. At Abaco we have 5 Maverick HPX 17’s with 70 Yamaha 4 strokes, and 1 Maverick HPXV 18’s with 115 Yamaha 4 strokes available, all moored next to the lodge, so there’s no trailering needed. Wading opportunities also exist. From the lodge dock, runs to the flats vary from 10 to 45 minutes. All skiffs are fishing (and comfort) friendly, with padded seats, backrests, line mats and lean bars on the bow. They’re also equipped with first aid kits and an emergency satellite phone
Daily Itinerary
The typical trip does not fish on arrival or
departure, but if time allows and guides are
available, half-day trips can be arranged prior to
getting here.
Typically you’ll be shuttled from the airport to
the lodge where you can check into your room,
prepare gear, and spend an afternoon relaxing on
the lodge grounds. Here is a sample schedule of
the daily program:
§ 7:00 am Breakfast
§ 8:00 am Depart dock
§ 4:00 pm Return to lodge
§ 4:00 pm Onwards Cocktail hour
§ 5:30 pm Appetizers
§ 6:30 pm Dinner