WHICH BAHAMAS DESTINATION IS YOUR FAVORITE?

CAPT. MICK AIXALA BRISA KEY BISCAYNE, FLORIDA

That’s a loaded question. For me, it’s almost like asking a parent who their favorite child is, and the Bahamas really has so much to offer. But to narrow it down, I’d have to say Chub Cay. Its proximity to the United States, private airstrip, and recently renovated marina and resort help to make logistics uncomplicated. Chub is a great place to base a summer trip for all members of the family. However, when the conditions are right—November through May, during the full moon cycles— you can set out and catch just about every species that makes the Bahamas home.

MIKE SAMUELS PRINCESS LILY PALM BEACH, FLORIDA

Clarence Town’s Flying Fish Marina on Long Island in the southern Bahamas has really transformed over the past few years into a real destination with a number of great offshore fishing spots within 8 miles, rather than just a fuel stop. We like to use Flying Fish as a home base, where weekend trips to Rum Cay or Crooked Island are much more efficient. First-class amenities, including a fantastic on-site restaurant, make for a comfortable place to stay, and yet it still feels like the old Bahamas where the staff and locals welcome you on arrival.

CAPT. BRIC PEEPLES COIN OPERATED NORTH KEY LARGO, FLORIDA

Having been to nearly every inhabited Bahamas island, my favorite has changed over the years, but because I like seclusion and great fishing, my choice is San Salvador. Most South Florida boats don’t want to travel 300-plus miles just to go fishing, but they’re missing out. Even though San Sal’s world-class billfishing provides many areas to fish—Sandy Point to the southeast corner to the Bridge and Rum Cay—the winter wahoo fishing is nothing short of epic. With fish pushing 100 pounds, some locals say there are 200-pounders just waiting to be caught. And the owners and operators at Riding Rock Inn Resort and Marina are wonderful people who will do anything to help.

CAPT. JIMMY WERLING TRIPLE SEA PORT CANAVERAL, FLORIDA

Boat Harbour Marina in the northern Abacos is definitely my favorite out-island destination in the Bahamas. The new docks at the

Abaco Beach Resort are incredible, and the staff, led by manager Kevie Thomas, always makes us feel welcome. Within a 20-mile radius, you have the ability to hop around some of the best little spots in the area: Green Turtle, Treasure Cay, Guana Cay, Little Harbour and Hope Town. There’s a lot available to do nearby, which enables you to keep your guests exploring and having a great time.