International Bonefish

[capt ed]

Is anyone a member of the International Bonefish Society? Is it worth the $35 membership fee?

[Vic T]

I have been a member for 2 years and it is well worth the fee to get unbiased information about lodges, guides, destinations, etc. I am happy to spend $35 annually to be able to do my homework and avoid unpleasant and expensive surprises. I have learned not to rely on outfitters for information as they have a financial interest in your decision.

[capt ed]

Thanks for the info. I've been thinking about joining for a while, but didn't know if it was a reputable organization. You never know about things you see on the internet.

[MDBones]

Capt Ed,

Depends on what you are going to use the info for. If its independent guides, or DIY info that you are looking for this board can supply you with more than enough quality information. If you are looking for some clear reviews around some of the better known Lodges I think IBS has an advantage.

I was member last year but did not renew this year. The concept is a strong one. Members give feedback after spending time with the guides or at the lodges mentioned. However for what I needed it for - honest feedback around independent guides - it seems like the Website lacked active members giving feedback in order to give solid & consistent ratings of the guides. I took the time to rate at least 17 or 18 guides but did not see reciprocity from other members. Does not mean that I will not join again - but I will wait a year to see if the membership grows to give it another shot.

One thing that is worth the cash is that they have taken the time to give open and honest feedback around a number of well known lodges. The descriptions that I have read are accurate and much closer to reality than many of the national "outfitters" descriptions.

Mike

[mbrown]

I have been a member for two years,and I have found it worthwhile.I live in Colorado and don't know JACK about the ocean-other than for the last decade have become a hopeless saltwater junkie.One of the best features is the destination and guide reviews,I have been lucky enough to read reviews from members right before I hop a plane,with very up to date info.Another feature is the free tide tables for your trip-which helps this mountain boy with trip timing(for instance,North Andros seems to fish better for me with a midmorning high tide) I have also been able to fill spots for trips with members.Hope this helped,Mick

[Robstar55]

I used to belong to IBS back in 2001 and 2002, when we planned a trip to the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. It was well worth the 35 dollar membership fee. We found a superb guide and accomidations. We havent been bonefishing in a while so we dropped the membership, but are going again this spring and are going to sign back up. This is a great organization that can hook anybody up with the guide/ lodge that best suits them.
Tight Lines,