MANGROVE CAY LODGE ANDROS, BAHAMAS
DESTINATION BROCHURE ALL CONTENTS © TAILWATERS FLY FISHING 2014-2015
[ MANGROVE CAY LODGE ]
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DESTINATION DESCRIPTION
THE FISHING
ACCOMMODATIONS
TRAVEL & ITINERARY
WHEN TO GO
RATES
OUR TRAVEL SERVICES ARE FREE OF CHARGE! You the client don’t pay a penny for our travel services! Our destination recommendations, organization, and pre-trip planning services are completely free of charge – and oftentimes less expensive than booking direct with a lodge or outfitter. We can assist with every question, concern, or special request related to your adventure at zero cost!
BOOKING INFORMATION TRAVEL DEPARTMENT
2416 MCKINNEY AVE
DAVID@TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
DALLAS, TX. 75201
WWW.TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
(888) 824-5420
MANGROVE CAY QUICK HITS +
LOCATION & TRAVEL
ANDROS ISLAND, BAHAMAS Clarence A. Bain Mangrove Cay Airport (MYAB) Guests travel to Mangrove Cay by way of charter flight from Ft. Lauderdale with Air Flight Charters or through a connection in Nassau (NAS) with local airlines, Flamingo Air or Le Air. Tailwaters will assist with charter flight coordination. +
TYPE OF FISHING & SPECIES
Bonefish are the dominant species at Mangrove Cay. The soft-natured mud flats surrounding Mangrove Cay dictate fishing from the skiff the majority of the time. However, there are times in which wading is feasible depending upon the conditions and location. There are opportunities on the flats for barracuda, jacks, as well as permit and tarpon if you are lucky – especially if you can make a run to the west side. Guests also have the option to go outside and fish for dolphin, wahoo, and other reef species as well if requested. +
SEASONALITY & WHEN TO GO
Mangrove Cay Club is closed July, August, September. Anglers can expect good fishing anytime the lodge is open. While March-May are the most popular months with most anglers, there are pros and cons to every single month of the season. (See WHEN TO GO for more details.) +
IS ADU RIGHT FOR YOU
Mangrove Cay Club is perfect for folks who are interested in a traditional Andros fishing lodge experience, but would prefer something a little more upscale. It is not the best fishery to consider if you prefer to wade fish as most of the areas fished are done from the boat. It is a fantastic spot to consider for couples who are both fishing – and a very comfortable place for low maintenance non-anglers to relax. +
COST & EXPENSES
6 NIGHTS / 5 DAYS FISHING (BASED ON SHARED ROOM/GUIDE) IS $4550 PER PERSON. Shorter and longer stays available. Additional expenses include, but are not limited to, airfare to Mangrove Cay, imported liquors, gratuities and Bahamian departure taxes. (See RATES for more details).
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: Val Atkinson
THE
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DESTINATION
ARGENTINA CAY MANGROVE DOVES LODGE UNLIMITED - ANDROS - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
Andros Island is the largest of The Bahama islands and while it is only a short flight from Nassau, Miami or Fort Lauderdale, it is mostly uninhabited and unspoiled, protected from development by its shallow water shorelines and lack of natural harbors. Flat and heavily forested, Andros is not a single island, but a labyrinth of islands, cays and waterways. It extends about 100 miles from north to south and 45 miles east to west at its widest point, with an area of 2,300 square miles. Andros is also one of the least populated islands with a mere 8,000 souls. All live in small settlements on the eastern side of the island leaving the vast interior and western shores untouched. Mangrove Cay is located on the Middle Bight of Andros Island, on the central part of the island; ten minutes drive from the Mangrove Cay Airport. The site for building Mangrove Cay Club was selected first and foremost with close proximity to numerous flats in mind, and secondly, to give fishermen access to the West Side. This legendary area is home to some of the largest bonefish that swim in the Atlantic, and is less than an hour’s boat ride from the Mangrove Cay dock on a calm day. The Mangrove Cay Club has earned a reputation in the last few years as an extremely nice (but not pretentious) and efficient operation, run by amazing hosts Liz and Alton Bain, and in the heart of perhaps the best part of the island to consistently find eager bonefish. Mangrove Cay is somewhat of an anomaly in the Bahamas - five star accommodations, things are always on time, amazing food, efficient boats and equipment, a complete staff if quality guides, and not a single disappointed guest. LIZ BAIN – MANAGER Want to know how to run a fishing lodge perfectly? Meet Liz Bain. Liz Bain is one of the original partners and has been involved with Mangrove Cay Club since its planning stage. She was hands on during construction and has managed the lodge since its opening in 2000. Liz is assisted by her husband, Alton and they make sure that everyone who visits Mangrove Cay Club receives the utmost in attention during their stay. Mangrove Cay is not Liz’s first lodge. She has made the Bahamas her home since 1990, managing the former Cargill Creek Lodge on Andros Island. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Liz has a background in accounting, customer service, and management that she puts to good use at Mangrove Cay Club.
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THE
FISHING
Like everything at Mangrove Cay the fishing program runs smooth as silk. From the front porch, guests have easy access to the Middle Bight, South Bight, and the West side is conditions are right for a longer boat run. Mangrove Cay uses updated (and well maintained) Dolphin Super Skiffs equipped with 85 horsepower outboards, poling platforms, and comfortable cushioned chairs for anglers. The lodge employs a full time boat mechanic who maintains all nine of the lodge’s skiffs daily to ensure that they are all in working order. THE FISHING DAY A typical fishing day begins with coffee and breakfast around 6:30AM. Following breakfast anglers build their own lunches, which are packed and placed in a cooler along with several cold drinks. The fishing day starts around 8:00AM, lunch is taken on the water, and anglers return to the lodge by 4:00PM for cocktails, a shower, and a wonderfully prepared dinner. The North and Middle Bights offer opportunities for smaller (3-4 pound) bones in large schools that quicken the learning process for beginners; however anglers also have the ability to go looking for the larger (10 +) sized fish that Andros is famous for. The guides at Mangrove are accommodating, well kept, experienced, and very professional.
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ARGENTINA CAY MANGROVE DOVES LODGE UNLIMITED - ANDROS - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
OTHER SPECIES The soft-natured mud flats surrounding Mangrove Cay dictate fishing from the skiff the majority of the time. However, there are times in which wading is feasible depending upon the conditions and location. Although typically known as bonefish fishery, there are opportunities on the flats for barracuda, jacks, as well as permit and tarpon if you are lucky – especially if you can make a run to the west side. Guests also have the option to go outside and fish for dolphin, wahoo, and other reef species as well if requested. EQUIPMENT PROVIDED AS NEEDED Mangrove Cay provides spinning rods and equipment for those anglers who are not interested in fly-fishing. They also have quality Thomas & Thomas and Sage fly rods and Abel reels rigged for back-up purposes free of charge. Mangrove’s guides all carry first aid kits, radios, knotless nets, pliers, hemostats, nippers, and other terminal accessories in every boat - just one of the many thoughtful and small details that are indicative of every aspect of Mangrove Cay’s operation.
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THE
GUIDES
THE
ACCOMMODATIONS
The comfortable lodging at the Mangrove Cay Club features eight spacious air-conditioned ocean-view rooms, each with sitting room, private bath and porch. The maximum capacity at the lodge is sixteen guests. Each villa is a separate duplex style facility, which provides an extra sense of privacy. Andros Island’s most famous chef, Iyke Moore, prepares unique meals with a Bahamian twist. T he lodge facility was completed in 2000, the entire facility has a very new and fresh feeling. The grounds are perfectly manicured, and all the villas are situated next to a small beach and flats inhabited by the occasional cruising bonefish. Mangroves cottages are each split into two guest
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suites. On the outside wall of each suite is an extensive rod rack with a bucket for cleaning reels and a freshwater hose for washing rods and all other equipment each day – an important feature for any saltwater lodge. Both outside and inside the entrance are hanging pegs or hooks for wet clothes and gear. Once inside, one enters the sitting room with sofa and chairs and some small tables – ideal for laying out tackle and equipment. To one side of the sitting room is the bathroom with lots of shelf and hanging space and a very large walk-in shower with plenty of shelving for shampoos, razors etc. All bathrooms have copious amounts of towels, robes, a hairdryer,
ARGENTINA CAY MANGROVE DOVES LODGE UNLIMITED - ANDROS - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
partner. Each villa has adjustable air-conditioning and hot water is plentiful, has lots of pressure, and hot 24 hours a day (Each cottage has its own system so there is no competition for hot water). All rooms also have plenty of electrical outlets for camera, video and laptop computer charging. The main lodge house has a fun bar, traditional restaurant, and an idyllic outdoor seating area overlooking the docks and the Middle Bight. It is the perfect setting for a few cocktails and relaxing after a electrical outlet (electricity is standard US 110 volt), as
long day in the sun. Mangrove Cay also has a small
well as a full range of bathroom products supplied. Through double sliding doors is a spacious bedroom with two comfortable queen-sized beds. There are sliding doors out on to the veranda, which overlooks the Middle Bight. Each bedroom is equipped with a bedside table as well as a good-sized hanging cupboard and chest of drawers. There are four large pillows with a sheet, light blanket and tropical-weight duvet allowing for a choice of layers for each guest. Each room has drinking water and glasses, as well as a regularly filled ice bucket.
fly shop with a modest amount of equipment to sup-
The floor plan allows an angler who has awoken early to work with his fishing gear in the sitting room or have an early shower without awaking your fishing
plement whatever you forget including sunglasses, hats, shirts, sungloves and sunscreen. The shop has selection of tackle and supplies, but we do advise anglers to arrive with a good selection of flies, terminal tackle and items recommended on the equipment list provided in the pre-trip packages received upon booking. There is also a fly-tying table with material for guests to use. CAPACITY: 16 Anglers is 8 Double Occupancy Chalets
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TRAVEL & ITINERARY There are two main options for flying to Mangrove Cay: VIA NASSAU WITH FLAMINGO AIR OR LE AIR Daily commercial flights are available to Andros Island from Nassau with the Bahamian airline, Flamingo Air and Le Air. Usually these flight schedules dictate an overnight in Nassau en route, however depending on your originating city it may be possible to travel all the way to the lodge in one day via Nassau. CHARTER FLIGHTS FROM FT. LAUDERDALE There is also a charter flight option available from Ft. Lauderdale directly to the Mangrove Cay Airport. We have worked with Air Flight Charter service for many years. They provide excellent service, well maintained Cessna 402 aircraft, and offer up the quickest way to travel to Mangrove Cay. Please inquire for details.
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ARGENTINA CAY MANGROVE DOVES LODGE UNLIMITED - ANDROS - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
DEPARTURE DAY
SAMPLE ITINERARY
Transfer to the airport for your charter flight back to
DAY 1 Travel to Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Upon arrival at Ft. Lauderdale, you will take a charter flight directly to Mangrove Cay. (Commercial Flights are available from Nassau with Flamingo Air, however for convenience we recommend the charter flight option if the group is large enough to allow this economically). If flying commercially into Mangrove Cay, anglers usually must overnight the night before scheduled arrival at the lodge in Nassua on New Providence Island. We suggest and can facilitate all required flight and hotel arrangements for this portion of the trip. Mangrove Cay’s air strip is well maintained and approximately
Ft. Lauderdale or on board a daily Flamingo Air flight to Nassau for the connection back to Ft. Lauderdale. Upon arrival back in Ft. Lauderdale, return to the commercial terminal for your flight home. CHARTER FLIGHT SERVICES The charter flight option is a direct one-hour flight to the island from Ft. Lauderdale International. Using the charter flight is an economical and practical option for larger group sizes. The cost of the Round-trip charter flight from Ft. Lauderdale to Andros is based upon the number of people in your party and the
5000 feet and can accommodate private aircraft.
amount of baggage and passenger weight in your
Note: Under some circumstances, you can actually
ates comfortable, eight passenger Cessna 402B and
arrive at the lodge in time on arrival day to get in a
party. Our charter service, Air Flight Charters, oper402C aircraft. To determine the cost of the round-trip
full day of fishing.
airfare to/from Ft. Lauderdale and the Mangrove Cay
Upon arrival at the Mangrove Cay Airport, the group
these rates are always fluctuating due to the price of
Airport per person, please contact us for a quote as
is driven five minutes the lodge in an eight passenger van. At the lodge, you will meet Liz Bain, the lodge manager, get situated in your room, and prepare yourself for cocktails, dinner, and the next few days
fuel. Generally speaking, a 1-9 person Cessna 402 aircraft is approximately $2500-$3000 roundtrip depending upon the equipment required in accordance with weight limits.
of fishing. FISHING DAYS Guests typically awake around 6:30AM for breakfast, which is served in the main restaurant. Following breakfast anglers build their own lunches, which are packed and placed in a cooler along with several cold drinks. The fishing day starts around 8:00AM, lunch is taken on the water, and anglers return to the lodge by 4:00PM for cocktails, a shower, and a wonderfully prepared dinner by famous chef, Iyke Moore.
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WHEN TO GO Mangrove Cay Club is closed July, August & September as well as December 19 – January 2 One thing people often neglect when considering a trip to the Bahamas is the weather. The Bahamas are actually in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean Sea. As a result the islands are more susceptible to northerly cold fronts than their Caribbean neighbors to the south. There are a few loose weather guidelines you must consider. DECEMBER – FEBRUARY
The fish are of course always there, but you run the risk of getting cooler weather from the States. However, it is equally as possible to have 80-degree days and little wind. Some of the best bonefishing occurs following the passing of a cold front when water on the flats warm inviting rested bones back on to feed. This is a great time for trophy bonefish. MARCH - JUNE 15 The prime spring months to fish the Bahamas. Consistently warm (not too hot) weather dominates the forecast. There is typically less wind as well.
Cool weather and windier conditions can be a factor.
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ARGENTINA CAY MANGROVE DOVES LODGE UNLIMITED - ANDROS - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
JUNE 15- AUGUST 1 The fish are there, however hotter conditions and little breeze often exist. If you don’t mind the heat, the fishing can be excellent and is a good time for beginners to learn because of the lack of wind. AUGUST 1 - OCTOBER 15 Peak Hurricane Season! There is a serious risk of lousy weather, however we have had wonderful trips during this time frame --- especially if you are flexible and able to book on short notice. OCTOBER 15 – NOVEMBER The best time to fish in the fall. Conditions are very similar to March - April type conditions.
NON-ANGLING ACTIVITIES Fishing is the predominant activity at Mangrove Cay. Mangrove Cay is an ideal place for non-anglers who do not require activities beyond relaxing around the lodge. However, Mangrove Cay does have a small beach and is a wonderful place to soak in some sun, read a book, and get away from it all while his / her spouse or friend is out fishing. Non-anglers are also welcome to tag along with the anglers if they would like under most circumstances. Andros Island has tons of photography opportunities for those interested. Please inquire about the non-angling rates.
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RATES BASED ON SHARED ROOM / GUIDE
WHAT’S INCLUDED
»» 7 nights/ 6 days – $5,200
Accommodations; All Meals; Local Liquors, Beer,
»» 6 nights/ 5 days – $4,550
House Wines, Soft Drinks; Guided bonefishing; Room
»» 5 nights/ 4 days – $3,850
taxes; Roundtrip airport - lodge transfers.
»» 4 nights/ 3 days – $3,100 »» 3 nights/ 2 days – $2,275
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
»» 2 nights/ 1 day – $1,425
Airfare and associated travel expenses to/from Andros
Island;
Imported
Alcoholic
beverages;
BASED ON SOLO ROOM AND GUIDE
Gratuities for guides and staff; Bahamian departure
»» 7 nights/ 6 days – $7,800
tax of $15; Telephone calls; Laundry service
»» 6 nights/ 5 days – $6,800 »» 5 nights/ 4 days – $5,800
TERMS & CONDITIONS
»» 4 nights/ 3 days – $4,700
Tailwaters Travel must adhere to the cancellation
»» 3 nights/ 2 days – $3,400
policies of the guides, outfitters and lodges which it
»» 2 nights/ 1 day – $2,100
represents. Mangrove Cay’s policy follows: A deposit of 50% is required to confirm a reservation and is due
SINGLE OCCUPANCY/SHARED GUIDE
within 21 days of booking. The balance is due 90 days
»» 7 nights/ 6 days – $6,350
prior to departure. The deposit will be refunded,
»» 6 nights/ 5 days – $5,700
less a processing fee of $250/person, if cancellation
»» 5 nights/ 4 days – $4,925
is made 90 days prior to departure. Thereafter the
»» 4 nights/ 3 days – $3,925
individual is responsible for the total land cost and
»» 3 nights/ 2 days – $2,900
no refund will be made unless client replacement is
»» 2 nights/ 1 day – $1,800
found (client’s responsibility). No refund can be made for unused land arrangements. Refunds of deposits/
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY/SINGLE GUIDE
payments made on credit cards will be charged a 3.5%
»» 7 nights/ 6 days – $7,100
service charge to fully compensate Tailwaters Travel
»» 6 nights/ 5 days – $6,200
for all bank charges incurred. Receipt of deposit and/
»» 5 nights/ 4 days – $5,200
or final payment is acknowledgement that registrant
»» 4 nights/ 3 days – $4,150
has read and accepts the cancellation, refund and
»» 3 nights/ 2 days – $3,000
responsibility clauses.
»» 2 nights/ 1 day – $1,750 *ALL PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE
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ARGENTINA CAY MANGROVE DOVES LODGE UNLIMITED - ANDROS - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
TRAVEL INSURANCE! Given the inherent strict refund policies associated
We will provide you with more detailed information about
with nearly all fishing packages, we cannot stress the
travel insurance from our sponsored provider, Travel
importance of obtaining travel insurance to protect your
Guard, when you book a trip with Tailwaters Travel.
investment.
We can conveniently process a very comprehensive insurance policy for you in-house after asking a few simple
Travellers can obtain coverage for pre-existing health
questions.
problems (related to yourself, your family, business partners, or your travelling partners), emergency
CALL TODAY TO PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT:
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FIND US:
TAILWATERS FLY FISHING CO. | 47 | |4|
TRAVEL DEPARTMENT
2416 MCKINNEY AVE
DAVID@TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
DALLAS, TX. 75201
WWW.TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
(888) 824-5426
Palometa Club - Ascension Bay, Mexico ARGENTINA DOVES UNLIMITED - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA ALL CONTENTS © TAILWATERS FLY FISHING 2014