Ascension Bay Trip Report

We have just had two large groups of anglers down in Ascension Bay in November. Paul Procter UK angling writer and guide has put together a summary of their fortnight below. Paul will be taking a group back to Casa Blanca Lodge in March for those interested in joining a trip with him.

Paul's Report

November 2009 proved a highpoint in my season during a visit to Ascension Bay. Given light breezes the first week we were treated to exceptional conditions. Consequently, blue skies and clear water allowed for top drawer sight fishing. Better still the highly prized and much elusive permit were up on the flats and even in a cooperative mood (does it get any better?). The group landed no less than 12 permit in the first two days with other fish being reported hooked and lost, I can tell there’s not many places that boast such stats.



To be honest, I’d gone in search of bonefish, but to squander such an opportunity would have been unforgivable. Besides, forgetting all around me, I turned to a gibbering wreck when the guide whispered “permit”, nothing can prepare you for the moment those dark sickle like tails come ghosting into view. Thankfully, following good fortune, by lunchtime the first day our skiff had three decent permit under its belt, not a bad start to the 14 day campaign!



With permit being seen and cast to everyday, it was hard to tear yourself away from the hunt. However, a few sessions wading ankle deep water, looking for tailing bonefish proved just as exhilarating. Nothing beats seeing those slender, transparent tails glinting in the sun from afar. I have fond memories for spending the penultimate day strolling along a golden shallow flat. With so many fish to throw at, it was even possible to target larger specimens. Believe me, 6lb of hooked bonefish has blistering pace in skinny water. More substantial bones were contacted, but their guile and speed certainly outdid me, especially amongst mangrove roots.



The breeze eventually yielded to cooler east winds which in turn favoured tarpon and snook. Either side of high water, we poled the mangrove margins for such tenacious predators and were handsomely rewarded with tarpon topping 40lb and snook into double figures. On a 10-weigth outfit the ensuing battle is real “heart in the mouth” stuff. What with dolphins, turtles, flamingos and even crocodiles watching on, it’s hard to imagine any better experience. However, chatting with the guides on our recent visit, aside from the usual suspects they reckon March is a prime time when permit can be found in numbers. With that, our scheduled trip in March 2010 to Ascension Bay promises to be something very special indeed.




We have a few spaces left on trips to Ascension Bay in 2010 but these trips are filling fast. If you are interested in joining one of these or fishing Ascension Bay at any time of year please contact us on +44 (0) 1621 743711 or email us.