H20 BONEFISHING FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA
DESTINATION BROCHURE ALL CONTENTS © TAILWATERS FLY FISHING 2014-2015
[ H20 BONEFISHING ]
CONTENTS 4 6 12 18 20 24
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
H20 QUICK HITS +
LOCATION & TRAVEL
FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND (FPO) Numerous commercial airlines service Freeport daily from several portals on the east coast making H2o one of the most convenient and affordable Bahamian destinations. +
TYPE OF FISHING & SPECIES
H2o has a very technical approach to their fishing on the north shore of Grand Bahama primarily focusing on large bonefish year round. Some of the largest bonefish in the world live here. H2o offers good wading opportunities for bonefish in addition to fishing from the skiff – and anglers enjoy as seasonal shots for permit, tarpon, jack crevalle, barracuda, sharks, mutton snapper, and even tailing triggerfish. H2o offers an afternoon offshore fly fishing program targeting yellowfin tuna and dorado as a combination flats / offshore day. Their “No Boundaries” program utilizes a 21’ Maverick that has opened up doors for exploring areas of the Little Bahama Bank not normally fished.
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SEASONALITY & WHEN TO GO
H2O BONEFISHING IS OPEN YEAR ROUND. The Spring months of March – May are invariably the most popular, but if flexible anglers can time a winter trip properly you can enjoy some of the best bonefishing of the year with minimal pressure and the biggest bones seen all season. Summer months should not be ignored for their consistent weather patterns and opportunities for other species like tarpon and permit – as well as H2o’s unique offshore program for tuna and dorado. The autumn often enjoys beautiful springlike conditions and can be very productive on the flats for all species as well. +
IS H20 RIGHT FOR YOU?
H2o is the ideal Bahamian destination for anglers in search of bigger bonefish, an easy to get to Bahamian fishery, and access to restaurants and a little nightlife. It is also a perfect venue to consider to folks wanting to combine the family or couple’s beach holiday with zero compromise to world-class bonefish fishing. We send a number of anglers to H2o who are looking for a quick “fix” as well as dedicated anglers interested in a sophisticated flats experience on an extended trip. +
COST & EXPENSES
6 NIGHT / 5 DAY FISHING PACKAGE (BASED ON SHARED ROOM/BOAT) IS $3195 PER PERSON. Shorter and longer visits are options as well. (See RATES for details). Fishing packages include accommodations at the Pelican Bay Hotel, guided fishing, breakfast and lunch on fishing days, as well as hotel and resort taxes. Exclusions are airfare to Freeport, dinner meals, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, and equipment rentals
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT: H20
THE
DESTINATION
With H2O Bonefishing, you can experience saltwater flats fishing at its very best on the extensive remote flats of the northwest shore of Grand Bahama Island... and enjoy all of the comforts and amenities of resort living at the same time. Whether you are an avid angler seeking some of the best fishing available in the Bahamas, or you wish to provide a quality vacation for non-angling companions or family at absolutely no compromise to the quality of your fishing, then H2O Bonefishing and the Pelican Bay Hotel is the ideal destination.
While most out island bonefish destinations require multiple connections through Nassau, or expensive charter flights, Freeport is serviced daily by multiple commercial carriers with inexpensive fares from numerous portals on the east coast. There is no easier to get to or more affordable destination in the Bahamas.
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H20 BONEFISHING - FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA
H20 Bonefishing is a professional saltwater out-
poolside within the privacy of the resort and its
fitter with modern equipment and highly trained
gourmet restaurant.
guides that are on the water every month of the year. Grand Bahama’s extensive flats do not receive
H20 Bonefishing’s uniqueness is its ability to pro-
nearly the fishing pressure of the more high profile
vide world-class saltwater fly fishing along with ease
fisheries in the Bahamas such as Andros Island. It is
of access to a myriad of alternative options for both
also a fishery with much more species diversity than
anglers and their non-angling companions. H2O
your average Bahamian angling destination.
Bonefishing should never be overlooked by the most “hard-core” anglers who are also considering
Located at the entrance to Grand Bahamas Bell
the more traditional “lodge” type of trip. This fish-
Channel, this private waterfront resort sits adjacent
ing is simply incredible, and H2O delivers the com-
to both the white sands of Lucaya beach and Count
plete flats fishing experience. And while avid angler
Bassie Square. This area of Freeport is the center of
can be rest assured that while providing his or her
the islands’ entertainment with a wide selection of
spouse or family with a wonderful tropical vacation,
restaurants, bars, duty free shopping, water sports
they are also enjoying perhaps the most impres-
and evening entertainment. Guests can access the
sive, convenient and unique fishery in the Bahamas.
entire area with only a two-minute stroll, or remain
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THE
FISHING
The coolest part of the H2O Bahamas program is their never ending desire to develop their fishing program and offerings. They are constantly investing in new vehicles and boats, training their guides, targeting new species, and exploring their incredible fishery. The Island of Grand Bahama stretches ninety miles east to west, and its north shore’s vast area of creeks, cays and flats create hundreds of miles of fishable shoreline. H2O Bonefishing accesses this expansive fishery by SUV trailered skiffs which allow for convenience and flexibility with many of the
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H20 BONEFISHING - FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA
north shore’s launching points. They employ four full time guides and run beautiful Maverick Mirage flats boats equipped with quick 85 horsepower Yahama outboards and modern electronics. Bottom structure varies from both hard and soft sand or grass flats to harder light coral or marl flats, creeks or cays…all of which provide excellent feeding areas for bonefish, permit, and numerous other species. Whereas most fisheries in the Bahamas are nearly exclusively fished from the skiff, the north shore of Grand Bahama does have hard, wadeable, sandy flats that anglers frequently fish productively.
Grand Bahama bonefish can vary greatly in size from smaller 2 to 3 pound fish that can be found in schools, to solitary pairs and small groups that will weigh into double figures. The average size of Grand Bahama bonefish is a healthy 4 to 5 pounds and fish of 7 and 8 pounds are almost a daily encounter. The trophy sized specimens of 10 + pounds can be located at any time and anglers with proper conditions. H2O’s fly caught record bonefish, so far, is a remarkable fish of 14 1/2 pounds! OTHER SPECIES The Bahamas are normally booked as an exclusively bonefish fishery. However, the north shore of Grand Bahama Island and accessed only by flats boat offers remote wading opportunities as well as seasonal shots for permit, tarpon (summer), jack crevalle, barracuda, sharks, mutton snapper, and even the occasional tailing triggerfish. Tarpon are also often encountered during late spring through summer with May-September better months and when conditions are right you would consider targeting the mighty Silver King. Barracuda and sharks can be found almost daily, and there is also the possibility of running into packs of the hard fighting horse eye jacks or jack crevalle that average 10 to 15 pounds. Greg and Jason have even dialed in a few flats that offer encounters with tailing triggerfish or hard fighting mutton snapper.
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NO BOUNDARIES PROGRAM (MAY, JUNE, JULY) Greg and Jason have recently invested in a speedy, brand new, 21 foot custom Maverick skiff designed to go further and faster than your traditional flats boat. Totally unique to the Bahamas, their “No Boundaries” program allows anglers to comfortably venture to the most remote locations on the Little Bahama Bank targeting more diverse species with little competition. The No Boundaries program is usually a combination 5 night / 4 fishing day package split between their productive ‘ local ‘ program and this new venture however custom itineraries can easily be arranged. Inquire for details. OFFSHORE FISHING OPTION (MAY-SEPTEMBER) During the months of May – September, H2O offers an offshore fly fishing program for yellowfin tuna, dorado (mahi-mahi), skipjack and blackfin tuna. All are found feeding on or near the surface on calm afternoons during these summer months. What really makes it special is that die-hard anglers can enjoy a full day on the flats and head out for the evening offshore bite. Following a full day of bonefishing, anglers venture into the bluewater in a 33 foot cruiser around 3:00PM and fish until dark. This is also a great option to consider for the afternoon of your arrival day on Grand Bahama. All offshore fly fishing equipment and flies are included in the offshore trips. Due to the nature of the program and ever changing fuel prices please inquire for an exact price. Inquire for details.
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H20 BONEFISHING - FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA
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THE
ACCOMMODATIONS
We feel that the Pelican Bay Hotel offers perfect accommodations for the family and the “hard-core” angler alike. The hotel is in an ideal location - close to all the beach and town activities of Our Lucaya. Anglers who are not interested in non-angling activity can retreat to the quieter confines of the hotel, while non-anglers can send the family across the street to the Lucaya Beach, or take a swim in the hotel pool. Pelican Bay at Lucaya is Grand Bahamas’ newest boutique hotel where visitors find Caribbean charm mixed together with Western European service. Danish architects incorporated sophisticated European design to create timeless Caribbean architecture and luxurious accommodations. Each of the 69 rooms has a private balcony that overlooks the courtyard area and the marina, shops and restaurants of Port Lucaya Marketplace. There is also High speed wireless internet access throughout the resort. A fee applies or use the complimentary business center that provides hardwire hook up.
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H20 BONEFISHING - FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA
The spacious accommodations include your choice
parents can ‘ supervise ‘ from the bar. A swim up
of king-size bed or twin double beds and boasts
bar is also part of the clubhouse.
satellite TV, direct dial phone, refrigerator and inroom coffee maker. Rooms are decorated with col-
Also available is an already expanding retail area
orful island spreads and drapery and white washed
selling a selection of fly rods, reels, fly lines, flies,
furniture. Floors are Italian tiled. Other guest ame-
leader, tippet, sun protection items such as Buffs,
nities include a tropical fresh water pool, hot tub
lip balm and sunscreen and of course clothing,
and pool bar. The Ferry House Restaurant, adjacent
mostly shirts and hats. A restaurant is coming soon,
to the hotel, has established a new standard for ex-
but the Bones Bar does have some snack type bar
cellence in fine dining on Grand Bahama. Having
food as well.
worked in some of the world’s finest restaurants, chefs create what they describe as “a blend of con-
CAPACITY
temporary cuisine fused with the unique flavors of
8 Angler Maximum (4 Boats)
the Caribbean.” Menus change daily depending
Unlimited Number of Accommodations for Non-Anglers
on availability of fresh, local seafood and fruit as well as the availability of foreign quality foods which are brought in by air on a regular basis. Also available are new one-bedroom suites offering unsurpassed luxury, lush tropical gardens and varying color-scheme. Mahogany wood and beautifully appointed custom décor highlight each of the 48 spacious, 750 square foot suites. Freshly baked croissants, breads, and newspapers are available at the suites every morning. In-room espresso machines with a variety of coffees enable guests to enjoy a private breakfast on their balconies overlooking the beautiful Bell Channel Bay. THE NEW ‘BONES BAR’ The Bones Bar at the hotel is the meeting place for all H2o guests for orientation on arrival with all H2O Bonefishing clients receiving reserved seating. It will serve daily as an ‘Apres Fish’ clubhouse for all anglers to relax, swap stories and the usual shenanigans. Please note that Bones provides all anglers bringing their no angling wives a quality place to enjoy a few sundowner cocktails overlooking the bay. It is also great for kids to enjoy the pool while
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TRAVEL & ITINERARY
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H20 BONEFISHING - FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA
THERE IS NO EASIER ISLAND IN THE BAHAMAS TO GET TO! COMMERCIAL FLIGHTS DAILY TO FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA (FPO) Several major airlines serve Freeport on a daily basis including American Eagle, Bahamasair, Continental and Laker International. The majority of scheduled flights arrive from Charlotte, Miami, with several flights from Ft. Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. After clearing customs in Freeport, guests take a cab transfer to the hotel (approx. 15 minutes drive in an air-conditioned taxi). Charter flights are also an option from Ft. Lauderdale.
SAMPLE ITINERARY DAY 1 Depart on a morning flight to the East Coast (usually Charlotte, Miami or Ft. Lauderdale as well as other direct flights from eastern US cities). Connect on to Freeport, Grand Bahama (FPO). Once through customs, guests take a cab transfer roughly 15 minutes to the hotel. FISHING DAYS After a free breakfast at the poolside restaurant at the Pelican Bay Hotel, anglers are met in the lobby by their guide and drive approximately 10-25 minutes pulling the skiff to one of several remote launching points on both the north or south shores of Grand Bahama Island. Spend a full day on the water with one of H2o’s four full time guides. Lunch is taken on the water and anglers are usually back to the hotel by 4:30PM in time for cocktails and a night on the town in the Lucaya resort area of Freeport. Anglers participating in the evening offshore or no boundaries programs return to the hotel a little earlier, freshen up, and head back out for four hours of fishing! DEPARTURE DAY Depending upon what time your flight departs from Freeport; guests typically check out after an early lunch, and are transferred to the airport via taxicab for the flight back to the States.
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WHEN TO GO H20 BONEFISHING IS OPEN YEAR-ROUND.
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 Bahamas are more susceptible to northerly cold fronts than their Caribbean neighbors to the south. The summer fishing should not be ignored either! There are often great chances for other species like tarpon and permit during the summer months, the winds lay down, and weather is usually very predictable when tropical storms are not present. H2o’s summer offshore program for tuna and dorado can also be gangbusters – and is great to combine with a morning bonefish session. The autumn often enjoys beautiful springlike conditions and can be very productive on the flats for all species as well.
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H20 BONEFISHING - FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA
HERE ARE A FEW LOOSE WEATHER GUIDELINES YOU MUST CONSIDER: DECEMBER – FEBRUARY Cool weather and windier conditions can be a factor. 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. 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 There is a wide variety of options as to non anglers – H2O’s location is immediately adjacent to the
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islands main entertainment area of Count Bassie
SCUBA DIVING:
Square (only a 60 second walk from the resort) and
2 tank and 1 tank dives depart from within yards of
is the heartbeat of the islands entertainment. You
your hotel room every day to the great wall and reef
will never need to arrange transport of any kind.
diving on the south shore.
The new casino again is only a short two minute stroll from the resort lobby.
ECO TOURS: See parts of the beautiful island by horseback
As well as all the normal Caribbean water sports
and ride on the world famous Gold Rock beach in
that are available i.e. parasailing, snorkeling trips,
Grand Bahamas largest national park with miles
glass bottom boat trips, scuba diving, sea kayaking,
upon miles of brilliant white sand. There are also
sailing, jet ski rental, deep sea fishing etc. There are
daily sea kayaking tours and native tours to the set-
organized island tours including eco tours of the
tlements of the East or West End to experience the
many remoter areas of the island. Kayak tours, jeep
more traditional Bahamian way of life.
tours and many other nature related activities. OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Although there are many options within yards of
Deep sea fishing, reef fishing snorkeling trips, glass
your door, all guests can be rest assured that they
bottom boat tours, picnic and booze cruises, para-
are never too far away from the more private area of
sailing, jet skiing, shell collecting tours, sea kaya-
this intimate resort. The choices are very varied and
king tours. Gambling at a choice of 2 casino two,
again all within a short stroll. In addition to the nu-
duty free shopping, fine restaurants, bars, night-
merous restaurants and nightlife within a five min-
clubs, shell collecting, barbecues, nightly dancing
ute walk of the hotel, the following is a basic list of
and again a host of other activities around the is-
both organized and casual activities on the island
land.
to choose from: GOLFING: 5 Golf courses to chose from including 2 USGA certified 18 hole championship courses at the Lucaya and Reef courses. Both are within a mile of the resort. DOLPHIN SWIMMING: A short boat ride departs from the hotel several times a day to swim and interact with Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.
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H20 BONEFISHING - FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA
WWW.TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
RATES H2O Bonefishing provides exclusive packages to ensure that dedicated bonefishing clients have the availability for their multi day fishing trips. Customized packages to include extra nights before and/or after your fishing days can easily be arranged. WE DO NOT (AND CANNOT) CHARTER H2O BONEFISHING’S BOATS AND GUIDES ON A DAILY BASIS TO NON PELICAN BAY HOTEL GUESTS. PLEASE INQUIRE FOR NON-ANGLING RATES.
PEAK SEASON RATES JANUARY 1 - JUNE 30 & OCTOBER 1 - DECEMBER 31 DELUXE ROOM W/KING OR 2 DOUBLE BEDS 3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing
»» Per Person, Double Occupancy, Room & Boat - $1340 »» Per Person, Single Occupancy - $2295 4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing
»» Per Person, Double Occupancy, Room & Boat - $1990 »» Per Person, Single Occupancy - $3375 5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing
»» Per Person, Double Occupancy, Room & Boat - $2645 »» Per Person, Single Occupancy - $4295 6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing
»» Per Person, Double Occupancy, Room & Boat - $3195 »» Per Person, Single Occupancy - $5150 7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing
»» Per Person, Double Occupancy, Room & Boat - $3745 »» Per Person, Single Occupancy - $5995
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H20 BONEFISHING - FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA
LUXURY SUITE W/KING OR 2 DOUBLE BEDS 3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing
»» Per Person, Double Occupancy, Room Boat - $1460 »» Per Person, Single Occupancy - $2525 4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing
»» Per Person, Double Occupancy, Room Boat - $2150 »» Per Person, Single Occupancy - $3645 5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing
»» Per Person, Double Occupancy, Room & Boat - $2845 »» Per Person, Single Occupancy - $4595 6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing
»» Per Person, Double Occupancy, Room & Boat - $3415 »» Per Person, Single Occupancy - $5495 7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing
»» Per Person, Double Occupancy, Room & Boat - $3990 »» Per Person, Single Occupancy - $6399 INQUIRE FOR SUMMER SEASON AND NON-ANGLING RATES OFFSHORE FLY FISHING RATES: Max 4 Anglers $1250 / DAY NO BOUNDARIES RATES: (Late Spring / Summer)……..$2685 Per Person double occupancy ROD & REEL DAILY RENTAL: Spin (10# Test) - $20.00 Per Day Fly Rods & Reels (Sage and Lamson) - $20.00 Per Day CUSTOM PACKAGE PLANS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST (Including Golf, Diving, Dolphins, Kayaking, Sightseeing, Deep-Sea and Reef Fishing, etc.)
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WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodations as specified; Full Days of Guided Fishing; Breakfast; Daily deluxe picnic lunch including non-alcoholic beverages; 6% Hotel Guest Tax, 6% Resort Tax. WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED Airfare to Freeport, Grand Bahama (FPO); Tips for fishing guide; Alcoholic beverages; Equipment rentals ($20 per day); Flies & terminal tackle; Dinner Meals; Taxi Transportation to and from the airport. TERMS & CONDITIONS Tailwaters Travel must adhere to the cancellation policies of the guides and lodges which it represents. H2O BONEFISHING’s policy follows: FOR BOOKING DATES THAT FALL ENTIRELY WITHIN JUNE TO FEBRUARY AS FOLLOWS: 50% deposit required with reservation. No booking is considered confirmed until receipt of deposit. Final payment must be paid 45 or more days prior to arrival date. Any bookings requested within 60 days of reservation date must be paid in full. Cancellations made 90 days or more prior to reservation date is a full refund. Cancellations made between 45 to 89 days prior to reservation date is a 50% refund of the deposit amount ie. 25% of total package. Cancellations made less than 45 days to arrival date is no refund. If a cancelled package is re-sold then a full refund will be sent minus a $ 100 fee per angler. FOR BOOKING DATES OF WHICH ANY PART FALLS IN THE PERIOD MARCH 1 TO MAY 31: 50% deposit required with Reservations. No booking is considered confirmed until receipt of deposit. Final payment must be paid 90 or more days prior to arrival date. Full refund if package is cancelled before January 1st. 50 % refund of deposit if cancelled after January 1st and 90 or more days from arrival date. 50 % refund of total package (deposit) if cancellation is made 61 to 89 days prior to arrival date. There is no refund for cancellations made on or within 60 days of arrival date. If a cancelled package is re-sold then a full refund will be sent minus a $ 100 fee per angler. Refunds of deposits/payments made on credit cards will be charged a 3.5% service charge to fully compensate Tailwaters Travel for all bank charges incurred. Refunds or credits cannot be issued for fishing time lost due to inclement weather. Receipt of deposit and/or final payment is acknowledgement that registrant has read and accepts the cancellation, refund and responsibility clauses.
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H20 BONEFISHING - FREEPORT, GRAND BAHAMA
TRAVEL INSURANCE! Given the inherent strict refund policies associated
We will provide you with more detailed information
with nearly all fishing packages, we cannot stress
about travel insurance from our sponsored provider,
the importance of obtaining travel insurance to
Travel Guard, when you book a trip with Tailwaters
protect your investment.
Travel. We can conveniently process a very comprehensive
Travellers can obtain coverage for pre-existing
insurance policy for you in-house after asking a few
health problems (related to yourself, your family,
simple questions.
business partners, or your travelling partners), emergency evacuation, lost baggage, delay, life
CALL TODAY TO PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT:
insurance packages; even “no questions asked” or
(214) 219-2500 OR (888) 824-5420
“for work reasons” coverage.
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TRAVEL DEPARTMENT
2416 MCKINNEY AVE
DAVID@TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
DALLAS, TX. 75201
WWW.TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
(888) 824-5420
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