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West End, beyond comparison!
Maybe I should kick this thing off by describing the breathtaking view
from the hammock overlooking the vast expanse of the Little Bahama
Bank. Or maybe I should just talk about the hypnotic turquoise water
and coral sandy beaches. Then again, I could just describe the elegant
charm that filled our eyes everywhere we glanced.
Of course, I could always go in the direction of the world class big game fishery that’s available for tuna, billfish, dolphin and a host of other prizes literally minutes from the dock. Considering it, after visiting West End, trying to explain such a flourishing destination in a limited amount of space would be a futile attempt at best. Rather, I prefer to fill you in on West End’s unimaginable jewels.
I use the term unimaginable jewels because that’s precisely what they are. If you haven’t experienced them for yourself there is just no way the mind is capable of comprehending how incredible West End’s expansive flats really are. The mid 80 degree water here is clearer then Evian. Though the shallows are only a few inches to a few feet deep, it’s still absolutely amazing! The expansive flats go on and on for as far as the eyes could see. But what makes West End even more spectacular, is in two mornings of bonefishing we crossed paths with, ready for this, one other skiff! A single boat in two days! You quickly come to the realization that on a West End flat, seclusion and serenity are vast understatements.
You may be thinking to yourself “Maybe there are so few anglers because the bonefishing isn’t as consistent as other more popular Bahamian destinations?” Nothing could be further from the truth. During each of two half day trips we stopped counting at over two hundred. Now, of course those experienced in chasing the malicious grey ghost, know that number is only a reflection of how healthy the local bonefish population really is, and not an inclination of how many shots you’ll have. Though for individuals with fairly limited experience pursuing this unbelievably challenging adversary, we were thrilled to encounter so many and even more excited to have landed close to a dozen on both bait and jigs. The largest of which was close to eight pounds, a respectable bonefish by anyone’s standards.
Flats-fishing in the Bahamas is an aspect to our sport like no other. It’s almost surreal. Time actually stands still in the almost make believe world as you methodically scan for a target that is so well camouflaged, it’s next to impossible to see. Appropriately referred to as grey ghosts due to their mirror like scales, bonefish’s layer of armor perfectly reflects their surroundings. One second they’re there, the next they’re gone. When you do make visual contact, it’s all about stealth and precision. A simple shadow or step too loud, and the prowling formation of fifteen fish vanish in the blink of an eye.
Your heart races when a perfectly placed cast lands your morsel precisely where it was intended. Mesmerized, you dwell in anticipation as the fish close in. With eyes flickering back and forth from hunted to hunter, your adrenaline level soars as the distance closes. Afraid to move, you stand as still as a statue. In a fraction of a second the line jolts to life as the raging fish races for freedom toward the nearest cover.
Anyone who is under the impression bonefish aren’t aggressive, is sadly mistaken. When these fish commit, it’s all about pure speed and power. Even a three pound bone will undoubtedly inspire you with its will. These fish fight to the very end and along the way use every trick in the book to break free of the unfamiliar tether. I have to admit, bonefish are brilliant.
Of course all of this could not have occurred if it wasn’t for good old’ Freddy. A Bahamian native, Freddy has poled West End’s flats for over 30 years. He has seen it all. His knowledge of bonefish behavior, coupled with intuition and a somewhat supernatural ability to spot a single shadow cruising out in the distance, left us believing his skills were nothing short of top-notch.
We enjoyed Freddy’s company right from the start. Beaching his Dolphin Super Skiff feet from our doorstep, he lit up when he laid eyes on our stash of fresh shrimp. I would strongly recommend any shallow water anglers visiting Bahamian getaways come prepared. Shots are limited and you’ll want to make the most of each and every one. For fly fishing enthusiasts, this is the place to be! Even novice fly casters will have a multitude of opportunities.
Those who prefer light spinning gear should tag along a pair of light/med action graphite 7’to 7’6” rods. Silky smooth reels capable of packing on a few hundred yards of 15lb.braid are ideal. Two feet of 20lb. fluorocarbon will finish things off perfectly. I would also suggest bringing along a various small jigs, soft-plastics and stick-baits. You just never know what may appear. We crossed paths with a few tarpon, a single permit cruising the wake of a ray, a handful of snapper, jacks, ‘cuda and an assortment of sharks.
After landing the first bonefish that felt the need to introduce my PowerPro to a maze of mangrove roots, Freddy did all he could to contain his enthusiasm. Though the guide was already thrilled with our supply of fresh bait, he was more astounded with the durability of braided line. He couldn’t even begin to calculate how many trophies clients have lost over the years. As Freddy put it, “I don’t care what color it is. Eight and ten pound line doesn’t hold up to sharp roots.” Freddy, a little something special is on the way!
Our visit to West End was actually sparked by an assignment, an assignment to spend a few days at a one-of-kind facility and experience the unimaginable for ourselves. Very rarely are we left with the responsibility for destination pieces. Leah and I are always tied down with many other aspects of the magazine. You know our motto, One day we’ll fish everyday, but right now we’ve got a magazine to publish!
Nevertheless, after hearing so many overwhelming compliments from recent visitors, we decided to take this one on, and I’m glad we did. For days prior to the trip, I was really thinking, “There couldn’t possibly be one place that was so highly regarded and offered so many flavors for anglers of every taste. A destination with untouched flats, incredible reef fishing and deep dropping for a wide array of highly sought after bottom dwellers. A single place that offered all this, and where offshore enthusiasts could target pelagic wahoo, tuna, dolphin and billfish. If there was such a heaven on earth, it couldn’t be a mere 60 miles from Broward County. Such a destination was unimaginable.
Welcome to Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbour. Situated on the western-most tip of Grand Bahama Island, this mecca under the tropical sun is the epitome of tranquility. One look around and you get the impression some lucky fishermen was given free reign to design the most magnificent resort and marina his imagination could conjure, a Caribbean oasis that offered a total escape for men, women and children of all ages. Old Bahama Bay has a barefoot elegance ambiance with an out-island remote feel, but with the convenience of an international airport and major port just a short drive away.
The resort portion is nothing short of astounding. It’s the ultimate getaway for tranquility, relaxation and pampered service. Not to mention where angling dreams come true. For guests of all ages, the facility offers massage services, a complete fitness center, tennis court and a 4,000 sq. ft. heated infinity swimming pool containing a lounge area with massage jets, all overlooking the ocean.
Words can barely describe the upscale accommodations. Exquisite British Colonial furnishings adorn tiled floors. Full kitchens completely outfitted with appliances and dinner ware. Enter the master suite and your marble whirlpool tub is only steps away from the king size bed. A honeymooner’s paradise.
The property sits atop 150 lush acres of oceanfront real estate. Due to its prime geographical location at the western-most tip of Grand Bahama Island, all this luxury leads to imported French doors revealing an expansive furnished veranda overlooking inviting flats daring you to test your skills. Exit your front door and you’ll be walking into a picture perfect postcard. The cobalt blue waters of the Northwest Providence Channel lap gently against the coral encrusted shoreline just a stones throw away. I assure you, this 49 room all suite resort is sure to please even the most discriminating traveler.
What separates Old Bahama Bay even further, are its dedicated employees. To say the staff shines would be a sad understatement. From Bob Kramm the GM roaming the grounds to the Goddess of Conch manning the Straw Bar, your every need is quickly attended to. Washing down the best fritters in all the Islands with a pair of Kalik Gold’s has to be one of the world’s ten best ways to satisfy a palette.
Our visit to Old Bahama Bay happened to coincide with the resort’s monthly Croon to the Moon celebration, a multi-course beachside barbeque featuring a live band followed by A Salute to Motown, a musical performed by staff members. Plan your visit to coincide with the closest Saturday to the full moon. This is a classic event you don’t want to miss.
The Yacht Harbour portion of Old Bahama Bay boasts a full-service 72-slip marina. Boaters of all kinds will appreciate the convenience of showers, laundry facilities and your very own Customs & Immigration office. The Yacht Harbour is one of the only night navigable points-of-entry in the entire island chain. With a controlled depth of 8-ft.at mean low tide, the largest sport fishing yachts can be accommodated, and record setters will be pleased to hear the scale is IGFA certified. With three restaurants on premises and a full array of modern day conveniences, Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbour is the ideal haven for transient and long-term marina guests.
Along with the resort and marina, Old Bahama Bay offers one of the most naturally spectacular and elegant oceanfront residential communities anywhere in the world. Homesites boast up to an acre of land flanked on both sides by 145' of water. For those who dream of owning an island condominium, cottage style units with stunning views are set directly on the beach adjacent to the full service marina. Can you imagine?
Regardless if you’re looking for that first bonefish, blue marlin, or breathtaking building lot, Old Bahama Bay Resort & Yacht Harbour will unquestionably fulfill your every desire. This place is where dreams of all kinds come true, a modern day Fantasy Island for fishermen and their families alike.
Getting there:
A pleasant run across the Gulf Stream from any of Florida’s southeast ports and you too can be at the gateway to paradise in just a few short hours. For the most enjoyable crossings, travel with a light southerly breeze and seas of less than 4 feet.
Daily flights and cruises are also available from South Florida’s major hubs directly to Grand Bahama. 30 minutes after planting your feet on the ground, you’ll cross the gates of heaven.
OLD BAHAMA BAY GPS Coordinates: 26° 42.25N | 79° 00.20W
Additional resources:
*Capt. Segull’s Nautical Charts CCKW32
*The Cruising Guide to Abaco
*www.MarinePlanner.com
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