Fly Fishing Bahamas | Skilled Anglers Charter
Private Trip
Flats/Shallows Fishing
Expert charter targets bonefish, permit, and tarpon on flatsCaptain Iris brings 14 years of local Bahamas knowledgeSkilled anglers only, fly fishing and light tackle focused
When you've spent enough time on the water to know the difference between a good cast and a great one, you're ready for what Captain Iris has waiting for you in the Bahamas. This isn't your typical tourist fishing trip - it's designed for anglers who've already earned their stripes and want to test their skills against some of the most challenging fish in saltwater. With 14 years of local knowledge backing every move, Captain Iris will put you on bonefish that'll make your drag sing and your heart race. These "grey ghosts of the flats" didn't earn their nickname by being easy to catch, and that's exactly what makes landing one so rewarding.
Picture this: crystal-clear flats stretching as far as you can see, with Captain Iris quietly poling the skiff while scanning for any sign of movement. This is sight fishing at its finest, where your ability to spot a shadow or a nervous wake separates success from going home empty-handed. You'll be working the flats with fly rods and light tackle, making long, accurate casts to fish that spook at the slightest disturbance. The boat holds up to two anglers, which means you're not fighting for casting space or waiting in line for your shot. When conditions line up just right, Captain Iris will also put you on permit and tarpon - two species that'll truly test everything you've learned about reading water and presenting your fly. The pace here isn't rushed; it's methodical, calculated, and incredibly rewarding when everything comes together.
You'll be working primarily with 8 to 9-weight fly rods matched with floating lines, though having an intermediate line ready isn't a bad idea when the fish are holding deeper. The standard setup includes a 9-foot leader tapered down to 12-pound test, but don't be surprised if Captain Iris suggests adjustments based on water conditions and fish behavior. Bonefish flies like Gotchas, Crazy Charlies, and small crab patterns are go-tos, but the captain will let you know what's been producing recently. If you're more comfortable with light tackle, spinning gear in the 3000 to 4000 size range works perfectly with 10 to 15-pound braid and small jigs or shrimp flies. The key here is stealth - these fish have seen every trick in the book, so your approach, cast accuracy, and retrieve technique need to be spot-on. Captain Iris will position the boat to give you the best possible shots, but it's your job to make those shots count when a school of bones comes cruising within range.
Bonefish are the stars of this show, and for good reason. These silvery speedsters typically run between 3 to 8 pounds in Bahamian waters, though don't be shocked if you hook into something pushing double digits. They're most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours when they're actively feeding on the flats, cruising in small schools or singles while rooting around for crabs and shrimp. What makes them so special isn't just their fight - though that initial run will test your drag system - it's the chess match that happens before you even make a cast. You need to read their movement, predict where they're headed, and place your fly in exactly the right spot without spooking the entire school. Permit show up when conditions are right, usually around deeper edges of the flats or near coral heads. These disc-shaped fighters are notoriously picky eaters and will test every ounce of patience you've got. When tarpon move through the area, you're looking at fish ranging from juvenile "baby" tarpon around 10 to 30 pounds up to full-grown silver kings that can exceed 100 pounds. Landing a tarpon on fly tackle is something most anglers remember for the rest of their lives - the jumps, the head shakes, and the sheer power these fish possess make them one of the most sought-after species in saltwater fly fishing.
Captain Iris has spent 14 years learning every flat, channel, and feeding area in her home waters, and that local knowledge is what separates a good day from a world-class fishing experience. This skilled angler charter is built for folks who understand that the best fishing isn't always about numbers - sometimes it's about that one perfect cast to a tailing bone or the split-second decision that puts you in position for the fish of a lifetime. With space for just two anglers, you're getting personalized attention and prime casting opportunities all day long. Whether you're looking to sharpen your sight fishing skills, add new species to your life list, or simply enjoy some of the best bonefishing the Bahamas has to offer, this trip delivers exactly what experienced anglers are looking for. Don't forget that guide gratuity should be a minimum of $100 for a trip of this caliber - Captain Iris works hard to put you on fish, and a good tip shows you appreciate the effort that goes into making your day successful.
The Dolphin 2000 cuts through Bahamian waters with the precision serious anglers demand. Built specifically for flats fishing, this motorboat gets you into those skinny-water zones where bonefish cruise without spooking them or running aground. Captain Iris relies on this boat's shallow draft to access prime flats where the "grey ghosts" feed, plus it handles reef edges and drop-offs when targeting permit and tarpon. The onboard GPS keeps you on productive water, while the icebox ensures your catch stays fresh and drinks stay cold during those long days sight-fishing. With space for two anglers, you'll have plenty of room to work your fly rod without tangled lines. This boat's designed to handle everything from technical presentations on glass-calm flats to fighting fish in deeper channels. Whether you're working over turtle grass or coral heads, the Dolphin 2000 positions you for success in some of the world's best bonefishing waters.
The Bahamas