Seychelles: Alphonse Island Resort and St Francois Atoll

The ultimate saltwater destination combining unparalleled service, comfort and exclusivity

The Seychelles

The Seychelles, located in the eastern Indian Ocean, consists of 41 spectacular granite islands and 74 sparkling sand cays and out-of-the-way atolls. There are more than 100 atolls and islands, which are scattered over an area of some 1,400,000 square kilometres. For the fly-fisherman however one location stands head and shoulders above the rest - Alphonse Island Resort and St Francois atoll where you will live in unparalleled comfort and fish some of the most pristine and well-protected flats in the world.

Alphonse Island Resort and St Francois Atoll location <<< Click here to find out where Alphonse Island Resort and St Francois Atoll are.

Alphonse Lodge & Swimming Pool
Alphonse Lodge & Swimming Pool
Bonefish on the white sand flats of St Francois
Bonefish on the white sand flats of St Francois

The Accommodation at Alphonse Island

Giant Trevally
Giant Trevally

Alphonse Island Resort has recently undergone a major facelift turning what was already a stunning location into one of the most luxurious fishing lodges in the world. Catering for just 10 anglers per week each person is housed in an individual ocean view chalet. All are air-conditioned and come complete with Jacuzzi bath, satellite television and international direct access telephone. The restaurant on the beach offers guests the choice to either eat at the bar or with ones feet in the sand at one of the more intimate tables nearby.

The Fishing at Alphonse & St Francois

Each day you will depart from Alphonse in Tam Tam, a comfortable and fast mothership, which will take you on a 40 minute journey to the uninhabited atoll of St Francois. Consisting of a central lagoon, vast hard white-sand flats and a coral perimeter reef it is considered by many to be the worlds most exquisite and diverse saltwater fishery. Sixty different species of fish are available to be caught on fly however it is the Bonefish, Milkfish and Giant Trevally for which it is has obtained its almost mythical status amongst saltwater anglers.

  • Bonefish (Bones) - The ghosts of the flats, Bonefish patrol the white sand flats in huge numbers providing superb action. The more experienced anglers may wish to migrate to the shallow waters surrounding St Francois where the sport is incomparable. The average size of the fish is between 4-6lbs
  • Milkfish
    Milkfish
  • Giant Trevally (GTs) - These are one of the most sought-after gamefish and will challenge anglers and their tackle like none other. They are fearsome predators growing to over 100lbs and will attack virtually any large baitfish pattern cast in their path. Once hooked, they are a handful on a fly rod and only the strongest rods and reels will subdue these bruisers. Stalking Giant Trevally in the surf is an unforgettable experience however be prepared to hop back to the skiff to chase these fish down.
  • Milkfish - Algae and weed eaters, until fairly recently milkfish were considered virtually impossible to take on a fly. Techniques pioneered by anglers staying at Alphonse have unlocked the secrets needed to entice Milkfish to take and they are now targeted almost exclusively by some anglers. Pound for pound Milkfish are considered one of the strongest flats fish, and once hooked, require a boat in order for the angler to stand a chance of landing them. Runs of over 200 metres are not uncommon and they often leap clear of the water during the fight.

Non-Fishing Options at Alphonse Island

Over and above the fishing there is a freshwater pool, tennis court and a range of non-motorized watersports including kayaks, windsurfers, peddle boats and lazer sailboats. For a more relaxed stay there are sublime ocean walks and great snorkelling. All additional activities are free for guests use whilst at Alphonse.

Getting to Alphonse

Guests fly to Mahe International Airport in the Seychelles, a 10 hr flight from the UK and 7 hrs from South Africa. There are direct services from Heathrow, Paris and Johanesberg. You will be met on arrival and then take a 1hr charter flight to Alphonse included in the cost of the trip.

St Francois Atoll
St Francois Atoll
Your Individual Chalet
Your Individual Chalet

Best Times to go to Alphonse

The season is from October to May. Only a limited number of set weeks are available, so please enquire well in advance for availability.

Availability and Pricing for the 2010 Seasons

Season: The 2010 season
Rate: Angler - US Dollars $7,350/person
Non-Fisher - US Dollars $4,400/person
Package Includes:
  • Seven (x7) nights at Alphonse Island Resort
  • Six days guided fly-fishing with a guide shared between 2 rods
  • Price includes individual accommodation
  • Includes transportation from Mahe International Airport
  • All meals and soft drinks
Note: Price does not include international flights, alcoholic drinks, gratuities, meals on Mahe Lodge capacity is 10 anglers.

If you would like to know more about this trip, please contact us and we will provide you with more details. For availabilities, prices, pre trip information, booking form etc. please contact:
Justin Maxwell-Stuart with a Sea Trout from the Rio Gallegos River Justin Maxwell-Stuart

Mobile: +44 (0)7711 519 857
Fax: +44 (0)20 7352 0942
E-mail: justin@wherewisemenfish.com
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Online Enquiries
 


Background reading for your trip:


"Fly-Fishing for Bonefish" by Chico Fernandez, Aaron J. Adams

Our Comments:

If you’re a novice bonefisher, buy this book before you read anything else. If you’re a hard-bitten wrangler of bonefish around over the world, you’ll be pleased and enlightened. As Sandy Moret says in the introduction to the book, “What we always seemed to agree on is that there are no tricks, no gimmicks, and no instant-pudding mixes for catching bonefish.” Chico Fernández has come closer than many will come for a long time. --Review by Marshall Cutchin Editor of Midcurrent


US customers: Buy at Amazon.com

UK customers: Buy at Amazon UK

"Fly Fishing in Salt Water" by Lefty Kreh

Our Comments:

"Lefty is a unique treasure for fly fishers. He is full of experience, eager to share it, and able to communicate his wisdom. Unlike more typical fly fishing writers who specialize in conveying mood and meaning, such as Lyons, Gierach, and Weatherell, Lefty's books make you want to be there because you are now armed with so much useful information. I can't wait to delve into ocean flyfishing for the first time."--Review by Rick Whitten


US customers: Buy at Amazon.com

UK customers: Buy at Amazon UK


Write a Recommendation:


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If you would prefer to speak to us directly regarding a trip to Seychelles, please contact us at the following:

United Kingdom Office:
Justin Maxwell-Stuart
Mobile: +44 (0)7711 519 857
Fax: +44 (0)20 7352 0942
justin@wherewisemenfish.com

United States Office:

US Country Code: +1
Telephone: 646 797 2945
info@wherewisemenfish.com

Or alternatively email us via our Booking Enquiries Form to request more information.

 
Online Enquiries
 

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