DIY January - the perfect [impossible] trip

[gcw]

My wife and I are trying to plan a last-minute trip in January. Looking for a place with DIY bonefishing, I'd get a guide for a half day or day but would prefer DIY. I would also like to do some windsurfing.

I've been to Cherokee in the Bahamas and loved it - fished a lot on my own and was succesful enough to enjoy it. Sounds like the weather is too questionable that time of year.

Thinking about Mexico? Belize? Any other suggestions? Specific suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

[gammarus]

Try Casa Iguana on Little Corn island off the coast of Nicaragua (provided you are bringing your own windsurf gear). It is relatively undeveloped and there are bonefish on the flats. The guide is cheap and goes by the hour. I haven't been yet but it's on my list for DIY destinations.

[gcw]

Thanks for the advice. Turns out we're going to Anguilla with another couple. I have my doubts about fishing opportunities, but will give it my best shot.

[BobG]

gcw,

Then you won't be dissapointed. :brow My wife and I have been to Anguilla on extended stays, and there is little to no fishing opportunities to be had. I explored that island from one end to the other, and didn't find very much.
On the other hand, the food is world class.
You got to try the Straw Hat, located right behind the airport. The incredible moonlit view of St Martin was only surpassed by the food! :brow

[gcw]

Thanks Bob. I read your anguilla-related posts, and it sounds like I won't be getting my hopes up. I'll still bring the rod.

Without being distracted by fishing, I'll have lots of time to spend on my windsurfing.

Any other info you've got on Anguilla would be helpful - we're travelling with another couple and we're a little limited in terms of budget (not good on Agnuilla from what I understand!), but anything 'not to be missed' would be great to know about.

gcw

[BobG]

gcw,

Funny place Anguilla. Of all the places we've been to in the Caribbean, this was the island which had the least to do. There really is no 'must see' or 'do not miss' thing here.
It's arid, and the landscape is a rather inhospitable combination of scrub, cactus, and rocks. Everything is very pricey, and all the currency is EC (eastern Caribbean).
However, the local people are world class friendly. Some of the nicest we've encountered. The beaches are stunning, and there's no shortage of them.
Something we've done on numerous occasions was to take the ferry out of Blowing Point, and zip over to St Martin. The last time we were there it was very cheap ($12 a person). Sort of a nice break from what can be boring on Anguilla over time.
Don't be afraid to eat where the locals eat, b/c these places offer the best deals. Those touristy beach bbq places are just that, tourist traps, and are very expensive (esp Uncle Ernies's!!!!<---avoid this place!)
Best restaurants on the island are Straw Hat and Hibernia.

[TimOBrien]

I recommend Mexico. I wrote about going to Xcalak last year. See if you can find it. It's very informal about the fishing there. You can spend a week down there and pay very little. Great fishing for bones, permit , tarpon, and snook year round.