Ascension Bay Bonefish Club

Imagine for a moment the ideal flats fishing destination. It would accommodate only a few anglers at a time and would fish one angler per guide. It would have to have some of the world’s largest permit, prolific numbers of bonefish and superb shots at a Grand Slam. It would be well managed and, of course, would have fine lodging, excellent meals, great guides, and well-maintained boats and motors. This would seem an impossible dream, but Joe Sugura has created just such a resort. Joe has developed a dedicated fishing lodge at his Ascension Bay Bonefish Club that provides both exceptional service and access to some of the world’s best light-tackle angling.

One of the reasons seasoned anglers journey to this region is the spirited and elusive permit. Most experts would rate these waters among the world’s best for finding permit on the flats. Many fisherman have landed their first permit at ABBC, and many permit of over 30 lbs. have been caught here.

ABBC’s flats are extensive, stretching southward from Punta Allen for well over a dozen miles. White sand, hard-packed flats not only provide easy wading, but serve as ideal backdrops for spotting the many bonefish. Other flats are "carpeted" with lush layers of nutrient-rich turtle grass studded with mangrove shoots. These flats are best fished aboard one of the camp’s shallow-draft skiffs. Myriad islands dot the flats affording good wind protection.

Often several schools of bonefish are visible at one time telegraphing their every move zig-zagging in the skinny water. Feeding eagerly and tailing often in the rich marl, these bones present perfect targets for a delicately presented fly or jig.

Ascension Bay bonefish will never be a threat to topple IGFA world records, but they are often larger than those taken elsewhere in the Yucatan, and they are plentiful. A typical bone is two-three lbs., with the occasional fish weighing over four. A bonefish that tops six is a trophy.

While tarpon aren’t usually as plentiful here as in other tropical waters, this species provides exciting, acrobatic sport when available. The best time for them is in the fall, though it’s possible to "jump" a silver king just about any month of the season. Most tarpon will be 15-30 lbs., although 80 lb. plus fish are occasionally hooked.

A fishing lodge is only as good as its guiding staff. The guides must know the many moods and intricacies of their home waters, as well as the habits of the targeted species. A camp must also provide the right skiffs to get the guests into the best fishing locations comfortably, safely and quietly. The ABBC guides have learned well and the high percentage of repeat clientele reflects this. ABBC uses two guides per boat; one senior guide to handle the poling and the other to accompany the angler. Both guides are constantly probing the flats searching for fish so anglers have two experienced pairs of eyes behind them.

The fiberglass skiffs are 21 ft. long with a broad beam and plenty of open room for storage. Forward casting platforms are generous. These skiffs may lack some of the glamour of more sophisticated craft, but they can navigate the shallowest of flats and provide a stable casting platform.

ABBC is a small, private lodge virtually at the water’s edge. Bedrooms are large and airy, with overhead fans and electricity. A full bathroom with hot-water shower facilities is standard for each bedroom. Some bathrooms are en suite while others are located just across a narrow hallway. Screened windows provide views of the Caribbean and garden, as well as cross ventilation. A combination lounge-dining room with patio is the focal point of the lodge. Once again, capacity is limited to six anglers.

Varied meals, both American dishes and local Caribbean and Mexican favorites, are tasty, ample and served family style. They include fresh meats, seafood, chicken, vegetables, fruits and delicious desserts including their famous flan and homemade pies. Bottled water is used for drinking and ice.

ABBC is an exclusive, small, dedicated fishing lodge that has a one-to-one guide to fisherman ratio. It is American owned and managed. ABBC provides fine accommodations, excellent, healthy meals, guides that really work hard to put you on fish, and skiffs that are designed for flats fishing. If you are interested in booking ABBC you should plan six months ahead of time, especially if you are interested in the peak season of March - June.

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