Mangrove Cay

The Bonefishing Capital of the World

Andros Island is widely recognized as the bonefishing capital of the world, and Mangrove Cay sits at the epicenter of this fishery. The district's location between the North, Middle, and South Bights provides access to an enormous variety of flats, channels, and mangrove shorelines where bonefish feed on rising tides.

The West Side of the island, accessible only by boat, remains a vast uninhabited wilderness that sees little angling pressure. Here, anglers can fish true backcountry flats for trophy bonefish in bone-white sand against emerald and turquoise water. Professional guides know these waters intimately and can coach beginners or hunt specific trophy fish with experienced fly anglers.

The Bights of Andros

The three bights that bisect Andros from east to west are among the most distinctive features of the island's geography. The Middle Bight and South Bight, both accessible from Mangrove Cay, are wide tidal channels connecting the shallow Bahama Bank to the west with the deeper waters of the Tongue of the Ocean to the east.

These bights create a constantly moving ecosystem where bonefish, permit, and tarpon follow the tides through mangrove-lined channels. Fishing the bights requires local knowledge to read the water and position anglers at the right place as fish move through, but the rewards include encounters with large, unpressured fish in dramatic settings.

Lodges and Accommodations

Mangrove Cay Club has operated as a dedicated bonefishing lodge since the 1990s, offering comfortable waterfront accommodations and professional guiding services. The lodge provides all-inclusive packages that include lodging, meals, and guided fishing, with boats departing directly from the private dock each morning.

The area also supports independent anglers willing to arrange their own guiding and accommodations. Local guides such as Bonefish Elvis have built international reputations, and several small guesthouses and rental properties cater to DIY fishing travelers. Regardless of approach, advance booking is essential during peak season from late fall through spring.

Island Life Beyond Fishing

While bonefishing dominates Mangrove Cay's reputation, the district offers authentic Out Island character for non-anglers as well. Small settlements dot the eastern shore, connected by the Queen's Highway that runs the length of Andros. Local restaurants serve traditional Bahamian cuisine, with fresh grouper, cracked conch, and peas and rice featuring prominently.

The surrounding waters support snorkeling on the barrier reef, and the island's interior pine forests and mangrove ecosystems reward exploration by kayak or on foot. The annual All Andros Crab Fest, held each June during the land crab migration, celebrates the island's crab-catching heritage with cooking competitions and Rake n' Scrape music.

Getting there

Mangrove Cay is most commonly reached by ferry from Nassau, with Bahamas Ferries stopping at Lisbon Creek en route to South Andros. The journey takes approximately two and a half hours. Alternatively, visitors can fly to Congo Town Airport in South Andros or Andros Town Airport in North Andros and arrange ground transportation across the bight bridges. Most fishing lodges coordinate transfers for their guests. The island's remoteness is part of its appeal, but planning connections in advance is essential.

Frequently asked questions

Is Mangrove Cay good for beginner fly fishers?

Yes. Professional guides on Mangrove Cay are experienced at coaching anglers of all skill levels. The flats offer opportunities ranging from easy wading to challenging sight-fishing, and guides can match the experience to the angler's abilities.

What is the best time of year to fish Mangrove Cay?

Peak bonefishing season runs from October through May, with the most consistent conditions typically from November through April. Summer months can be productive but bring higher temperatures, humidity, and the possibility of tropical weather.

Are there things to do on Mangrove Cay besides fishing?

While fishing is the main draw, visitors can snorkel the barrier reef, kayak through mangrove channels, explore local settlements, and sample traditional Bahamian cuisine. The All Andros Crab Fest each June offers cultural festivities during land crab season.