|
The biggest bonefish in the Bahamas are often found feeding on shallow flats adjacent to deeper cuts and dropoffs. Trophy bones grow old by learning very young that easily gained deeper water provides an important escape route from sharks and barracuda. The best spots in the Bahamas to find these monsters are on Andros, Great Abaco and Grand Bahama Islands.
One of the best big fish spots in this northern tier of islands is at the southern tip of Abaco near the village of Sandy Point. If you have never fished the extensive marls to the north or the white sand flats to the south or the magical offshore cays to the west of the village, you have missed one of the premier bonefish destinations in all the Bahamas. Many experienced anglers return to Sandy Point year after year drawn to the huge, hard-bottomed and easily waded, white sand flats that stretch seemingly to the horizon.
In the early winter of the new millenium, one of Sandy Point's best guides, Ricardo Burrows, along with his wife Monique, opened the Rickmon Bonefish Lodge. Returning anglers, used to more rustic accommodations at Sandy Point, have given high marks to the food, lodging, and of course, the guides. One fellow told us that he expected the fishing to be good, the guides great and the people friendly, but he added, "I didn't expect Ricardo's place to be this nice."
The Burrow's 10 room lodge was built right on the ocean. Some of the rooms have private balconies that look out over the magnificent flats adjacent to the village. From here it is quite possible to watch fish tailing while you enjoy your evening cocktail. The lodge also boasts a very comfortable dining room/bar area. Here you can enjoy the sumptuous Bahamian-style meals that emphasize fresh seafood. A 50' x 20' wooden deck built near the beach provides a great spot for barbeques and to watch the sun slide beneath the horizon with a cold Kalik beer in hand.
The rooms all have air-conditioning, private baths, TV and are roomy and very comfortable. Monique Burrows has considerable experience in hotel management and it shows in all the little details that make or break a bonefishing lodge. Rickmon is one of those rare fishing destinations that combines great food, lodging and service with terrific and very friendly guides. And yes, for all you Sandy Point devotees, you can book Patrick, Anthony, Nicholas, Paul, Derreck, and, of course, Ricardo and stay at Rickmon Bonefish Lodge!
|
