Bair's Lodge, South Andros, Bahamas
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When most anglers read, think, speak or hear bonefish and Bahamas in the same sentence, they almost instinctively think, Andros! And for good reason as Andros has proven itself as the destination to stalk large schools of, or simply large bonefish.

While many "camps" or lodges have come and gone, Bair's set itself apart from the others with exceptional opportunities and exceptional guides. Under new ownership and management, their focus has not altered and their commitment to your comfort and angling experience only becomes more refined.
Anglers fly into Congo Town in South Andros by a one-hour flight from Miami or a 15 minute flight form Nassau. The transfer from the airport to the lodge takes about twenty minutes. Occassionally flights need to be directed to Mangrove Cay and then a short ferry transfer to South Andros is necessary. Either way, a representative of the lodge will meet you and personally escort you to the lodge.

Once you have arrived at the lodge, you are welcomed by either Laura or Hal, both if you are lucky, and your stay begins.

Rooms are quite luxurious with queen beds in all three rooms so single anglers have plenty of room to relax while couples also have plenty of room to spread out. Each room has remote controlled air conditioning and fans to help keep the hot months cool and the cooler months comfortable. All rooms are also equipped with private bathrooms and all subtleties have been tended to.

Boats are usually stored at the lodge, right on the beach unless the wind or other weather has forced them to move to Little Creek to seek shelter. Unlike many lodges, Bair's keeps and additional boat on hand, ready to fish, should a problem arise.

Lunch orders are taken the night before. Plenty of food is provided so that late risers can sustain enough energy to fish the day while leaving room for the home prepared dinners each night. On South Andros, there really aren't any grocery stores. Therefore, everything is shipped in weekly including fuel, most basic food items and supplies. The rest is all caught, baked and prepared fresh for you each day. Expect to sample both luxury food items such as lobster or crawfish to more typical local cuising as Conch Fritters and slaw. With not bakery on the island, all bread is baked daily using local ingredients. With advance notice, special menu requests can be accommodated.

Morning comes early and the guides are ready to get you into fish. Depending on weather, you may take a short boat ride due south to "Airport Flats" or on windier days head to the other side of the island through Little Creek and fish the estuary and extending flats. Either way, you are certain to cast not only to plenty of fish, but also have shots at many fish ranging from 7-10 pounds or larger.

Once done fishing for the day, which usually ends around 4-5 pm, the flat in front of the lodge has numerous fish cruising on a daily basis. This affords you the opportunity to test what you learn each day. While the kitchen staff prepares dinner, you can wade the flats, spot and cast to bones on your own. Or, sit back and amusingly watch as other attempt this feat while enjoying beverages and sharing stories from the day.

If you are used to the bustle of the city, and a break is what you are seeking, this is your place. Bair's has a pro shop to help you with flies or lines or rods if needed. Yet they really don't have a computer to help you keep in touch with your emails, if you forgot to notify your cell phone company to enable international calls, that won't work either. They just want to have you enjoy what you came for, the fishing and comfort of what you will consider your second home.

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