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Paul Mattie's Fishing FAQ

Paul has shared his fishing experience with us generously on the Abaco Message Board.

Here's a work in progress that he began with Justin. There is a lot of good advice here in just a few paragraphs.

What species of fish are available?

There is a tremendous variety of fish found around the Abacos. In the shallow protected backwaters are bonefish, barracuda, small mutton snappers, yellowtail, and a very rarely permit. Inlets such as Tillo Cut have a variety of fish pass through generally at night such as mutton snapper, sharks and many others. Nearshore to offshore amberjack, grouper, mackerel, jacks, barracuda, dolphin, sailfish, wahoo, tuna, and marlin are present at various times. These fish can be found a short distance from the beach or many miles out depending on the bait, water temperatures, and wind.

What are the best baits?

For trolling nearshore or offshore rigged ballyhoo with a plastic skirt is the preferred bait. Live bait can be caught and rigged as well. Trolling lures of all sizes will work depending what species of fish are abundant at the time.

For bonefish shrimp or fly fishing work well.

What are the bait sources?

Lighthouse Marina has frozen squid, shrimps, and ballyhoo-rigged on wire or unrigged. I am sure there are other sources in Marsh Harbor. Bait is expensive and sometimes there are interruptions to the supply.

What kind of tackle do I need?

Depending on your target species anything from a med-light 7 spinning rod to 130lb boat rods for offshore trolling.

What is the best source of fishing information?

The back issues of Florida Sportsman magazine are filled with information and techniques used to catch fish in this area..

Your first fishing trip to the Abacos - a few comments

Rental boats are not allowed outside the Sea of Abaco, nor are they made to venture into the shallower waters which are subject to tidal movement. Rental boat operation is restricted to daylight hours. I strongly suggest that you book a trip or two with any the Abaco fishings guides that serve the area where you are staying. The elements can be very unforgiving should you find yourself unable to start your boat or aground in the shallows. Please remember to have plenty of drinking water on board if venturing off the beaten path. Its important that you let someone know your plans in case of a mishap. A vhf radio is a must.

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