Bahamas bonefish adventures can be surprisingly affordable. Here are 7 things Canadian anglers should know

#7  TRY THE CONCH

Even though it’s just a 15-minute flight from the bright lights of Nassau, North Andros is sparsely populated, and it feels surprisingly remote. It’s important to understand that budget bonefish lodges aren’t Sandals resorts—they don’t have poolside drink service, or pools for that matter. But they do have comfortable double-occupancy rooms, air conditioning, hot water, internet access and cell service. And as Andros veteran Chris Clacker says, most of the time, most of it works.

Locally owned lodges also let you appreciate the warm and welcoming island culture, including the cuisine. For example, one Bahamian specialty is conch, a large mollusk and that can be served many ways. One of the high points of my trip was eating home-cooked conch soup (below) for the first time in the crowded little dining room at Two Boys, then immediately begging for seconds.

The fishing lodge business is tough for small operators, especially in remote spots such as the Out Islands, so there aren’t a lot of lodges similar to Two Boys and Big Charlie’s. But they offer world-class sportfishing at an accessible rate, and that feels like a great service to the angling world. In turn, as a travelling angler, I like putting my dollars into the local economy rather than some offshore account.

By the time I unpacked my tackle after returning from the Bahamas, I was already dreaming about another visit. I hope more anglers also get to embrace the experience. And seriously, if you go, try the conch.

Associate editor Scott Gardner regular visits the tropics with his fly rod.