Middle Bight Anchorage

Approach and Navigation

Enter Middle Bight from the east, typically passing south of Mangrove Cay and threading the channel toward the western bank. Local fishing lodges on Mangrove Cay can provide current conditions and waypoints; their guides pole these waters daily and know every shoal.

Tidal timing remains critical. The unusual Andros tides mean high water on the east side corresponds to low water on the west, allowing boats to ride the flood through the Bight. Anchor midstream and wait if you run short of water; forcing the issue risks hard groundings on sand bores.

Holding and Protection

The bottom alternates between hard sand and softer mud depending on location. Sandy pockets near the countless unnamed cays offer the best holding; probe with the lead line or dive on the anchor if uncertain. Protection is excellent once inside the Bight, with low islands blocking wind and swell.

Insect pressure can be severe near mangroves, especially in calm conditions. Anchor away from dense vegetation when possible and deploy screens at dusk. A generator running or a breeze across the deck helps keep biting bugs at bay.

Fishing and Wildlife

Middle Bight is sacred water for fly anglers. The flats inside and west of the Bight hold bonefish averaging six to eight pounds, with double-digit trophies a realistic possibility. Permit and tarpon occasionally cruise the deeper channels.

Cruisers without guides can wade the edges at low tide, watching for the tell-tale puffs of mud that betray feeding fish. Catch-and-release fishing preserves the resource. Beyond bones, expect sightings of lemon sharks, rays, and ospreys hunting over the shallows.

Mangrove Cay and Beyond

Mangrove Cay Club and other lodges on the island's north shore cater to anglers and can provide provisions, meals, and local intel to visiting cruisers. The community is welcoming and accustomed to waterborne visitors.

From Middle Bight, adventurous gunkholers can continue to South Bight or exit west onto the Great Bahama Bank. Both routes are extremely shallow and demand local knowledge or meticulous chart study. Most cruisers retrace their path east to the deeper waters of the Tongue of the Ocean.

Getting there

Access Middle Bight from the east by sailing south of Mangrove Cay and entering the channel on a rising tide. Mangrove Cay is reachable by ferry from Lisbon Creek or by air to Congo Town airport, from which a taxi can reach the waterfront. Provisions are limited; stock up in Andros Town or Nassau before arrival. Explorer Charts are essential for navigation. Inquire with local lodges for current conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Can I hire a fishing guide from Middle Bight?

Yes. Mangrove Cay Club and other lodges on Mangrove Cay employ experienced guides who pole the flats daily. They can take visiting cruisers out for a day of bonefishing and share local knowledge of the channels.

Is Middle Bight navigable at low tide?

Generally not for keelboats. Depths of three feet or less are common at low water. Plan transits around the tides and be prepared to anchor and wait for the flood if you run short of depth.

What should I bring into Middle Bight?

Arrive fully provisioned with food, water, and fuel. Bring strong insect repellent and full boat screens. If you plan to fish, catch-and-release is the local ethic; bring barbless hooks and a good camera.