Hi James,
Just a quick thank-you and update on our trip to the Maldives which was outstanding.
From the time you are welcomed with drums to your last look out of the Twin Otter float plane every minute on this beautiful atoll in the Maldives is a delight. The people, the very efficient service and the fantastic food make the resort absolutely first class. Our sunset villa was perfect with plenty of room for rods and gear, great private pool and privacy. Although not high season the weather in July was quite good.
The wonderful dining experiences meant Jenny and I made the fishing fit around a very leisurely breakfast and dinner each day rather than the other way a about. The food was simply too good to pass-up. So middle of the day fishing was the go for us and we generally got out for a couple of hours each day. We did have a bit of wind by midday so probably not the best time for sight fishing however it was just great to be able to cast a line while there.
Throughout our time there we managed some Bonefish, which true to their genetics gave a great run and rocked off when released. In front of the villas one morning a bonefish was working the extreme edge of the waves in the sandy slurry and was a delight to watch. Several trevally both blue fin and others were caught and all gave a great account of themselves.
I did see two triggers on different days but they weren’t interested in my clouser. On both occasions they slowly moved away on seeing the clouser, or the line even though the casts were careful. There were black tipped reef sharks doing there regular beats and as in other places they were neither spooked by nor interested in the fly.
Poppers attracted a lot of attention with teeth marks on the head, all to for the momentary excitement. The two sessions casting into the waves on the ocean side of the spit did not lead to more than a strong pull. Many vivid blue vegetarian fish swam in schools in the waves and showed no interest in clousers, crabs or poppers. I wished I had brought my weed flies for milkfish. Being the only people fishing at the resort and attracted to all it had to offer, we never ventured past the large spit on the end of the atoll. The staff right, up to the Australian manager, showed a great interest in the fly fishing and we simply couldn’t fault the resort which was all first class.
The best part of the fishing to us was walking 150m from your villa to start fishing in 30 degrees warmth and the simple stroll back for a beer, shower and dip! Would we go again? Absolutely.
Thanks again, Royce.