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Isla De La Juventud - Bonefish & Tarpon fishing in Cuba with Avalon Fishing CentersWelcome To The Isla De La JuventudQuick Links:The AreaThe Fishing The Accommodation Best Times to Go Pricing Map Location Recommended Reading Print This Page
Wise Men Fishing Tips
Tip 1: "For Bonefish, it is important to bring some very light, unweighted flies as well as the more standard charlies with eyes etc. Some of our favourites include Pearl and Tan Squimp, Bonefish Special, Tan Crazy Charlie, Snapping Shrimp, Epoxy Shrimp, Mantis Shrimp and small Merkins." Tip 2: "Bring a good pair of flats booties. These need to give good protection from shells and coral yet have good traction in the flats skiffs. " Tip 3: "If at all possible, always carry your rods, reels, flies, camera and one change of clothes onboard the airline with you. We have had several clients who due to international flight connections have had their luggage arrive several days later." The AreaIsla de la Juventud or the Isle of Youth, has recently been established as a sister operation to the larger and better know fishing on the Jardines de la Reina, also run by Avalon Fishing Centers . Similar in all but name the area covers the same mix of white sandy beaches, mixed coral and deep turtle grass that makes for equally fantastic salt-water fly-fishing. Where it differs from the Jardines de la Reina is that there is no significant reef in this area. What it lacks in variety it more than makes up for with outstanding opportunities for mature Tarpon and Bonefish. The Bonefish here are plentiful and large however for those who want the ultimate saltwater challenge you are invited to pit your skills against the abundance of medium to large Tarpon which are present.
The FishingBonefish, in fantastic numbers, are on hand to satisfy all levels of anglers whilst the opportunities to catch specimen fish will ensure that those who seek to break the elusive 10lb barrier are presented with opportunities on almost every day. Alongside this the potential for swapping 8 wt for 11 or 12 wt and tackling Tarpon up to 100lbs, means that the fishing here can produce some genuinely nerve rattling moments. The fishing is primarily from four "Dolphin" skiffs that have been the reliable workhorses used at the Jardines de la Reina. There are of course opportunities for flats wading as well. THE PROGRAMS
The fishing at Isla de la Juventud is a relatively new addition to the exceptionally well run operation that Avalon hosts at Jardines de la Reina. The fishing at Isla de la Juventud has now been conducted by Avalon for three full season and what was previously exploratory is now firmly established. ![]() Perola Live Aboard Boat Accommodation & LodgingPerola Live Aboard BoatSituated in the midst of the fishing area the Perola gives the sort of flexibility, in terms of fishing time, that should satisfy even the serious fishing desperados. The Perola is a 75 ft luxury yacht. Recently refurbished it is perfect for private groups of up to 6 anglers. The Perola has been recently refurbished, has polished hardwood floors and teak panelling. There are 5 bedroom, most with their own private bathroom, hot showers, A/C and plenty of space. The upper deck has a covered and open deck where you can relax after your fishing, enjoy a cocktail or two from the bar and discuss tactics for the next day’s adventures. Hotel RanchoSituated five minutes from the airport and fifteen minutes from the dock the hotel provides a simple base from which to enjoy the fantastic fishing on offer at Isla de la Juventud. This is particular popular with those who would rather stay on dry land. Its location on the outskirts of Genoa allow visitors a greater opportunity to see more of the Cuban lifestyle and culture. Hotel Rancho is no spa resort however all guests are accommodated in single rooms with air-conditioning and hot showers. Guests eat in their own dining room and your food is prepared by an Avalon chef who ensures that you have the very best of local Cuban cuisine alongside freshly caught seafood.
MealsBreakfast and evening meals are taken at the hotel or on board the Perola respectively. During the day a cooler for lunch is provided which you will take with you to eat somewhere on the archipelago. Sometimes guests choose to eat on the skiff or you might decide to meet up with some other groups, on a deserted island, have a barbecue, swap stories and enjoy a beer or two. All meals are included but the dishes are primarily fish, shellfish, pasta and salad. If you have any particular requirements or preferences please let us know prior to your departure. If you are partial to wasabi please bring some with you, as it is unavailable in Cuba. Alcoholic & soft drinks
Beer, soft drinks, wine and rum are available from the respective bars. Drinks from the bar are not included in the price and should be settled at the end of your stay in CVP’s US Citizens / Passport HoldersAn increasing number of US citizens have now succesfully enjoyed the fishing in Cuba. If you woukld like to find out more details on how American passport holders can visit ttthe Jardines de la Reina please get in touch. Best Times to GoThe high and peak seasons are based around the main migration of mature Tarpon which for many is the primary draw to the Isla de la Juventud. The Bonefishing remains consistently good.
Availability and Pricing for the 2013 Season
If you would like to know more about the fishing in Cuba, please contact us and we will provide you with more details. For availabilities, prices, pre trip information, booking form etc. please contact:
Background reading for your trip:"Fly Fishing for Bonefish" by C. FernandezOur Comments:Tarpon On Fly draws from two primary sources: the observations and knowledge that come with Rob's nearly 20 years' experience as a professional tarpon fishing guide, and the journals and the curiosity of lifelong fly fisherman Donald who came late to tarpon fishing but has savored every hour of it. The knowledge and experience of these two men has led to the definitive book on fly-fishing for the Silver King. Tarpon On Fly includes: in-depth coverage of tarpon biology and behavior; tackle; rigging up; flies for tarpon; setting up to cast; aiming and casting; retrieving; striking; fighting; guides and anglers; tournaments; references; and so much more. Clear illustrations and photography further enhance this classic. US customers: Buy at Amazon.com UK customers: Buy at Amazon UK "Tarpon on Fly"(Paperback) by Donald Larmouth, Rob FordyceOur Comments:"As a collector of tarpon books I know that this is the best tarpon book ever written." -- M Larkin As Flip Pallot says in the books' introduction, "...there is nothing that you need to know about tarpon and pursuing them with flies that is not contained in this book...". The information that Larmouth and Fordyce share within this book is simple, concise and as complete as it gets. Add to that Larmouth's wonderful narratives that precede each chapter, and you feel like you are on the casting platform of the guide's skiff! I found the book both entertaining and instructional and the photography is superb. A must read for anyone who is serious about fishing for tarpon on fly!-- Steve Krystyniak US customers: Buy at Amazon.com UK customers: Buy at Amazon UK "Bonefishing!"(Hardcover) by Randall KaufmannOur Comments:"Good grief, how good does a book on bonefishing have to be? Those who reviewed this book, either did not read it or do not recognise quality when they see it. No book in the realm of fishing equals this one for accuracy of information, interesting anecdotes, breadth of coverage, and spectacular photography. I have fished one half dozen times for bones in Florida, Mexico and Belize and can eagerly confirm everything included in Kaufmann's book. I am no expert, but I can tell you it's the best book on the subject written. It does contain fly patterns, but I did not expect tying instructions for the flies and the leaders. Those subjects are well covered in much more mundane books and video tapes. "-- Review by P Carlson US customers: Buy at Amazon.com UK customers: Buy at Amazon UK Write a Recommendation:Add your recommendation for fly fishing in Cuba. If you would prefer to speak to us directly regarding a trip to Cuba, please contact us at the following:United Kingdom Office: United States Office: Or alternatively email us via our Booking Enquiries Form to request more information.
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