Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
DOLPHIN ENCOUNTERS
Several outfits across the Bahamas offer dolphin encounters, which range from hugging
tame dolphins in shallow water to diving alongside wild pods in the open ocean; details are
included in the islands' Activities sections. Bimini, Grand Bahama and New Providence
have particularly good options. Some high-profile international organizations (the US Hu-
mane Society, for one) point out the detrimental effects that these encounters can have on
the mammals and their lifespans, but Bahamian programs are generally well-run and hu-
mane.
FISHING
Very strict regulations are in place, and marine and sea parks are off-limits to all fishing
fans, so check with the relevant authorities.
Bimini, Andros and Abaco are the big fishing hotspots. These regions host major annual
fishing tournaments (often held from April to June), from big-game contests for serious
contenders to laidback, family-oriented contests.
BONEFISHING
The gin-clear waters of the sandbanks that shelve the perimeters of most islands are made
for battles with the bonefish: pound for pound, one of the world's fighting champions.
Related to the herring, it's named for its complex skeleton, and makes for bony eating.
Many lodges are devoted to bonefishing and there are local bonefishing guides on all is-
lands. Bait and tackle are sold and rods rented at many fishing lodges.
Andros, Grand Bahama and Abaco are all well-known for their bonefishing grounds, but
all the islands offer bonefishing to some extent.
SPORTFISHING
As fans of Ernest Hemingway realize, the archipelago's ocean waters are a pelagic playpen
for schools of marlin, dolphin fish, wahoo and tuna. And reef or bottom fishing for snapper
or yellowtail is plentiful. Bimini, where Hemingway once spent his summers, is the coun-
try's top big-game fishing island due to its proximity to the Gulf Stream.
In the Bahamas, fishing is strictly regulated. Visiting boaters must have a permit for
sportfishing. You can get a permit at your port of entry or in advance from the
Department
of Fisheries
( 242-393-1014; PO Box N-3028, E Bay St, Nassau) , which can offer in-
formation on current fishing regulations. The capture, possession or molestation of coral,
turtles and marine mammals is forbidden, as is long-line, spear and net fishing. Other re-
strictions exist.
CHARTER & GUIDE RATES
Dozens of commercial operators offer sportfishing charters, and will charge from $350 to
$800 per half-day or $600 to $1400 per day with bait and tackle provided. You usually take
