I joined mate Will Jephcott and David Noble from Ocean Blue to travel to the very north of New Caledonia in search of the huge bonefish that are legendary in this friendly, French speaking archipelago.

Due to the complex nature of local tribal permissions New Caledonia is not a destination within which you can easily self-guide. In the past there had been some guided fishing opportunities available in the North of New Caledonia that ceased operation a few years ago. I had however recently learned of a new guiding operation involving a Northern Kanak tribal “elder” Benjamin Damas and sportfishing guide Etienne Piquel and I was keen to experience big bonefish first hand.

Getting There

New Caledonia’s capital of Noumea is such a short plane flight from Sydney that you could be forgiven for driving to the domestic terminal at the Airport. With only a short diversion, Will ably steered the car away from domestic toward International. We then travelled 2.5 hours North East into the Pacific aboard Air Calin.
Once in Noumea Etienne met us with his cheeky grin, a car and a boat in tow. Etienne spoke perfect English and his effusive personality and contagious enthusiasm were a delight. Added to the mix was a healthy dose of Aussie-style humour that lead to light -hearted sledging in no time at all……this was going to be fun.

The drive North from Noumea is around 5.5 hours long and as we weaved along the West Coast we caught glimpses of the turquoise blue waters of the coastal lagoon. The lagoon covers a total area of around 24,000km and is one of the largest in the world. Flyfishing opportunities in and around this lagoon have barely been explored and surveying the vast expanse of tropical water and coral bommies certainly got the heart racing. Etienne told stories of gargantuan GT’s and other reef ”ooglies” such as Coral trout, Red Bass, Yellowfin and Dogtooth tuna inhabiting the lagoon and beyond.

Towering mountains, paperbark swamps and streams inhabited by Jungle Perch were all part of the scenery as we meandered our way through small towns and villages. Our destination was the beautiful Gite De Poingam (dwelling at Poingham) just East of the community of Poum. Shortly after arriving we settled in for a cold local beer, some fantastic fresh local fair which includes spit roast venison and local fish washed down with a bottle of complimentary aged Bordeaux, things were looking grand.

The Flats

The following morning we planned to take Etienne’s boat to the flats to wade in search of bones. The tides were higher in the early mornings making for difficult conditions due to low light coupled with deeper, waist deep water, however, as the sun got higher and the water drained off the shallows the fish would be mobile and visible. After a short boat ride we slipped into the water on the edge of some great looking flats. The first thing to notice is the terrain; there are weed beds, sand bars, drop-offs and coral outcrops. Some of the sand was fairly barren whilst other areas were dotted with holes and burrows of all manner of crustaceans and worms. Cruising fish would be most likely to follow natural features such as weed lines and drop-offs, whilst feeding fish were more likely to be found where the holes and burrows were located.

It pays to hold your gallop and let your eyes adjust to the flats rather than wading at high pace. You need to immerse yourself in the whole environment and adjust to the little nuances that are part of the conglomerate of shades and shapes around you. Bonefish are called ghost of the flats for a reason and it’s more likely you will see bones as a smudge or slight contrast on the bottom, fast wading is also a great way to spook fish. The other thing to consider is that there are far more fish here than just bones. Multiple Trevally species including huge Gt’s and Goldens, Barracuda, Mullet, Sharks and Emperor cruise these areas and can divert your eyes. October/November see’s aggregations of Stingrays on the flats and whilst these pose little threat to waders they certainly attract bonefish as they stir up the sand.

Using Ben’s help was invaluable, especially whilst our eyes adjusted the first few days. Spotting bonefish is as much about trained eyes as it is about 20/20 vision. Ben’s ability to spot fish was a fast learning curve for Will and myself.
It was barely 20 minutes when Ben was calling to Will as some bonefish cruised some thigh deep water just out of casting range ………ain’t that always the way.

My first encounter with a bonefish was brief. After spotting several maybe/maybe nots cruising out wide I wandered to an exposed sandbar. A thigh deep drop formed a perfect highway and I spotted a pair of Trevally heading my way. A short cast and the fly was inhaled, both a smaller and larger Trevally joined the action and Will took to joining the mellee with a few casts. As I brought the Trevally in for release I looked up to see a green torpedo riding down the drop off. A double figure bonefish was right in front of me. Shaking the Trevally free I planted a rather unconventional cast in front of the fish, one twitch and the line went rigid. Within milliseconds the Bone disappeared, along with my fly. I suspect my pliers damaged the line as I freed the Trevally, the leader broke seconds later on that bonefish……….damn.

The following hours progressed with us spotting numerous bonefish travelling in schools of 5-8, none of which looked under double figures. The wind by now had increased and those buggers just knew which way to swim to give you the hardest cast. We headed home for dinner, beaten by the rising tide and the lowering sun.

Putting it Together

After months of perfect conditions we awoke the following day to a wind front that had hit most of the Pacific, we arrived 2 weeks outside of bonefish season, lesson learnt! Having a choice between wind and cloud I’d choose the wind any day, just give us the sun! The strength of the wind meant our planned day of chasing reef species before hitting the flats was not possible, for the next 2 days we were forced to fish the flats closer to land. We were not to experience the plethora of reef and bluewater opportunities this time. No problem, we had sun and bonefish.

The first sighting was a smudge, about 80 feet away, a stingray possibly? The number one rule with bonefish is cast first and question later. It was a very long cast and the fly was so much at the mercy of the wind I thought it was hopeless. With an absurd amount of luck the fly plopped within centimetres of the mark, within two small strips the line tightened, I lifted immediately to bend the rod and watched close to 150 meters of line exit my reel.

Once hooked it’s a matter of letting the fish run its course, keeping a solid bend, as much line as possible clear of the water to avoid drag and winding quickly to maintain tension. The inertia of the initial take and run is notorious for popping tippets, especially fluorocarbon, so react quickly but gently.
After considerable winding a fish of more than 6kg was in hand, this first fish was certainly very impressive. The following days also brought some smaller fish of around 3.5kg as well as more double figure fish.

BONEZILLA

By far one of the most memorable fish I have ever seen in my life came on the 3rd day. After landing some impressive fish I was standing within meters of Etienne and Ben with Will and Dave also located nearby. As I swung to talk to Etienne Something caught my eye and we all gasped at the same time. A fish of more than a meter long cruised between us. I distinctly saw the stripes on its flank and the unmistakable green back.
“Are your Barracuda green here?” I exclaimed, refusing to believe what I was looking at.
“NO, Bonefish, Bonefish” came the urgent reply!

“Oh my god…!!”

With the fish so close I dared not cast. The mammoth fish cruised behind me, I held my breath and awaited a cast where my rod movement would not spook it. The opportunity came and the Crazy Charlie landed 10 feet in front of the ambling goliath, but it just kept swimming. I can only assume 30lb bonefish don’t want size 4 flies…………..Aaaargh “where’s that 2/0 clouser when you need it?”

It was one of those moments that stay’s with you for a lifetime and I am so pleased to have had 4 other people who witnessed the fish at close range to convince me I wasn’t imagining it. I now truly knew what it meant when people talked about New Caledonia’s bonefish being some of the largest in the world.

GEAR

You need to consider the amount of gear you will be able to carry on the flats. Chest packs or waist packs that can be placed over the neck in deeper water are ideal. A small backpack for water, camera, waterproof jacket etc is important. It can get very cool depending on the month so be prepared.

The possibility of encountering huge GT’s on the flats mean a loaded12wt should be on hand. I personally would have been happy with my 6wt and a larger capacity reel for bones however the wind meant the 9wt was my chosen rod. Due to the size of the fish and conditions an 8wt or 9wt loaded with a highly visible floating line is ideal. Floating lines ensure it’s easier to see the fly location than clear tips, however sink tip or intermediate lines are useful when dredging the drop offs. Reels should have good drags and line capacity and you should wind with your fastest hand.

Leaders are best constructed of 5-8kg line, around 9-10 foot long is ideal. I opted for tapered leaders as well as constructing my own at other times. I used 3-4 foot of 20kg but, 3 foot of 10kg followed by 3 foot of my chosen tippet that was mostly clear 7kg monofilament.

Standard bonefish flies will work with most successful patterns being a tan Crazy Charlie and a white and chartreuse Clouser. Flash was kept to a minimum and the ties were generally quite sparse. Don’t discount throwing some bigger flies as these fish are seriously large. Ensure you have a good selection of eye weights with a leaning towards heavier versions. Most the fish were caught between knee and waist deep and the fly must be on the bottom to catch bones consistently.

A spray bottle with fresh water is great to remove salt from polaroids whilst alcohol wipes remove sunscreen smears and the like. Sturdy wading boots with socks to avoid chaffing are essential for wading.

With New Caledonia being so close to mainland Australia it’s amazing how much you feel a part of another world. It’s an infectious place that gets under your skin. The people, the scenery, the economy that seems to run on baguettes and those enormous bonefish that start an appetite that’s hard to fill. It’s not a place for the beginner, rather, the seasoned angler who seeks quality, not quantity. I know for sure that I’ll be ordering another helping very soon.

Justin Duggan…

Join this adventure and focus on casting lures, jigging and some trolling for Vanuatu’s premier sportfish such as dogtooth tuna, GT’s, yellowfin, wahoo & more. Based at our waterfront Angler’s Lodge ‘Tree’s & Fishes’, you are located close to a selection of islands, reefs, bluewater FAD’s & inshore fishing areas.

The Fishing Trip

During this adventure you’ll fish a variety of reef systems, underwater sea mounts and remote volcanic islands with steep cliff faces not only offering superb fishing but spectacular scenery. Sports anglers can target a variety of species including GT’s, dogtooth, yellowfin tuna, wahoo & red bass on casting and jigging gear. Our team also targets big doggies on popping gear, a technique that gets explosive action & is thrilling to witness. There are light tackle options for if anglers wish to add some inshore fishing to the mix. The big EdgeWater centre console is perfect for 4 anglers casting & jigging.

The Experience

Fishing the deep waters with Vanuatu’s volcanic islands and seamounts as a backdrop always has a very Jurassic feel to it. Time can be spent jigging drop offs, FAD’s and deep reefs, popper casting for trevally and red bass, trolling island fringes for wahoo and sailfish or sending big baits out for marlin or dogtooth. We’re located on the secluded north west coast of Efate, our lodge in Vanuatu is unique in that anglers can cover such a variety of fishing techniques in such close proximity from base. Traditionally a big game fish destination, we realise there is so much more on offer to sports anglers, with plenty of surprises in store…

This trip is perfect for…

• Sportfishing enthusiasts wanting to fish Vanuatu with like minded anglers.
• Anglers unable to charter the whole boat who wish to experience the simplicity of a scheduled charter.
• Anglers wanting to experience some of the most explosive dogtooth tuna, GT, sport fishing available.

Your Lodging

With excellent proximity to remote fishing grounds, our Trees & Fishes anglers retreat is a private and secluded waterfront retreat nestled on the shores of picturesque Port Havannah. Anglers stay in well appointed cabins each with own private outdoor en suite. The social hub and laid back dining area is situated right on the waters edge, and the fishing boat is stationed only a few steps away at the end of your private jetty. Excellent meals are served to anglers, using the freshest seafood and local ingredients. After each days fishing, wind down with a few well earned drinks with friends while you watch the sun setting over the tranquil waters of Port Havannah.

Your Vessel & Guide

32ft EdgeWater, Azzura Fishing Vanuatu on board this beautiful 32ft EdgeWater centre console, a fully equipped sportfishing vessel ideally suited for up to 5 anglers. Tackle is provided including a full range of Shimano gear for gamefishing, medium and light tackle. Top of the range popping and jigging gear is available on a replace if damaged basis. Our experienced skipper Andrea Traverso offers genuine hospitality onboard, and customises the trip to suit your groups requests. Offshore he specialises in dogtooth tuna, pelagics and jigging, and is equally capable around the islands casting for GT’s and flicking plastics for light tackle species.

Getting There

Vanuatu is a short 3.5 hour flight from Sydney, 2.5 hour flight from Brisbane and 3 hour flight from Auckland. Air Vanuatu, Pacific Blue and Air New Zealand offer daily flights to Port Vila. Upon arrival into Port Vila airport you will be met by an Ocean Blue representative, then transferred to Trees & Fishes Anglers Retreat at Port Havannah.

Itinerary: 1st-7th May 2012

1st May 2012 

Upon arrival our team will meet you at the airport and transfer you to Leaves & Fishes anglers retreat. Upon arrival into Port Vila you will be transferred to ‘Trees and Fishes’ Anglers Retreat at picturesque Port Havannah for your first evening of accommodation. After a warm welcome anglers have time to familiarise themselves with the lodge, prepare fishing gear, while relaxing with a cold beverage.  Angler’s are comfortably accommodated across cabins each with landscaped outdoor ensuite.  Excellent meals are prepared using the freshest island grown ingredients which keep anglers taste buds and energy levels up for the week.

2nd May 2012 – 6th May 2012

After breakfast and initial briefing from the skipper & crew, board the 32ft EdgeWater ‘Azzurra’ & commence your charter. During this adventure you’ll fish pristine reef systems, underwater sea mounts and remote volcanic islands with steep cliff faces not only offering superb fishing but spectacular scenery. Target Vanuatu’s premier sportfishing species on poppers, jigs and tease and switch methods.  Sportfish include GT’s, red bass, coral trout, jobfish, wahoo and ofcourse Vanuatu’s famous dogtooth tuna – a species our team successfully targets on poppers aswell as vertical jigging.

Some trolling for pelagics will be on offer, once fish are located you can jig and cast to good effect.  Trophy species including yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi mahi while billfish are always around.
After each enjoyable days fishing you will return to Leaves & Fishes where you can enjoy the evening at your own leisure, have a swim or prepare gear over a few cold beers before a hearty dinner.

7th May 2012

After breakfast, a representative of Trees & Fishes will transfer you to Port Vila Airport in time for your return international flight.

Trip Inclusions

• Stay 6 nights, (pay 5) at Trees & Fishes Anglers Lodge
• Breakfast & dinners at Anglers’ Lodge
• 5 days (pay 4) fishing onboard 32ft EdgeWater Azzurra.
• Lunches, snacks whilst on board
• All ground transfers
• All Tackle
• Experienced skipper & crew

Price: AUD$3480 per angler (based on 4 anglers)

*Prices are a guide only and may be subject to change. All prices in Australian Dollars AUD.
**Rods, reels provided. Lures on a replace if lost basis.

On behalf of the Ocean Blue team & Fin Nor we would like to Congratulate Mr Steve Palmer, winner of our escape your world promotion.

Steve & a friend are off to experience fishing Vanuatu in 2012 with the following prize inclusions:

2 x Return Airfares (economy), Sydney to Port Vila
3 x Nights stay at Leaves & Fishes Anglers Retreat, Vanuatu
2 x Days Game & Sport fishing
1 x Fin-Nor Offshore OFC16H overhead reel
1 x Fin-Nor Offshore Jig 80lb overhead rod
1 x Fin-Nor Offshore SP OFS75 spin reel
1 x Fin-Nor Offshore Jig 80lb spin rod
2 x Rovex Depth Finder 80lb jigging braid
2 x Rovex 10X Leader 100lb

Once again congratulations to Steve and we thank you for registering into the promotion and stay tuned for 2012 for some exclusive offers and new fishing trips in the new year.

The Fishing Trip

Fish the edges of the Great Astrolabe Reef, using poppers and stick baits to target a range of ferocious species’. Plenty of big GTs inhabit these waters, and their eagerness to snatch a lure off the surface often results in double or even triple hook ups! The wide variety of areas to fish, from endless shallow coral lagoons to isolated atolls barely breaking the surface of the water, means that anglers have a chance to target a whole range of species’ off the surface, including GT’s, red bass, coral trout, yellowfin tuna, spanish mackerel and wahoo.
If jigging is your thing then this trip also offers you the opportunity to fish a range of underwater ridges and channels for a variety of species including huge dogtooth tuna, yellowfin tuna, coral trout and puka puka to name just a few.

The Experience

The continual reef is made up of bommies, coral heads, shallow reef, deep gutters and passages into the huge lagoon, itself up to 60 meters deep in parts. Many big pelagic fish and reef heavyweights are found along the miles of remote reef encircling the northern end of the Kadavu and Ono group. The outer side of the fringing reef quickly drops away into deep water; there are so many untouched areas to discover. On this adventure you can expect to target a variety of species including GT’s, dogtooth and yellowfin tuna, bluefin trevally, spanish mackeral, red bass, coral trout, job fish, grouper and mahi mahi, as well as a host of other reef and lagoon fish, allowing anglers plenty of action.

Your Lodging

Oneta Resort With exquisite attention to detail, Oneta Resort is a quality anglers’ ecolodge. It offers each group exclusive accommodation nestled in a pristine, tropical environment. At the end of each days fishing, spend the evening at Oneta enjoying a few beers, or soothe aching muscles with the in house massage service. Excellent meals are prepared by the resort’s chef, using fresh seafood and local ingredients. At Oneta you will discover a resort as attractive as the fishing that surrounds it.

Your Vessel & Guide

Fish aboard our 28 foot centre console, which offers an excellent fishing platform for up to 4 anglers. A hard top canopy shields anglers from the sun whilst jigging or taking a break from casting. This boat is the perfect platform for casting poppers around reef passages and surf breaks, and your skipper & crew know these waters intimately. A second boat is available for larger groups.

Getting There

Flights from Nadi to Kadavu Island run daily with Pacific Sun, and take approximately 40 minutes. Upon your arrival into Kadavu Airport, you will be met by an Ocean Blue representative and transferred to Oneta Island Resort by boat, stopping only to cast into schools of yellowfin tuna and mahi mahi that can often be spotted on the way to Ono Island.

Trip Itinerary

June 16th
Arrive in Fiji. Flights to Kadavu run once per day, and schedules require an overnight stay and flight the next day. Accommodation and airport transfers will be pre-arranged for the overnight stay in Nadi, twin share at Raffles Gateway Hotel.

June 17th
Late morning transfer to the airport, where you will board your connecting domestic for the spectacular 40min flight to Kadavu Island. Upon arrival you will be transferred by boat along the extensive scenic lagoon to Oneta Resort, your home and base for the next 5 nights. After a warm welcome and introductions, anglers have time to familiarise themselves with the resorts facilities and plan and prepare fishing gear, while relaxing with a cold beverage. Excellent meals are prepared using the freshest island grown ingredients which keep anglers taste buds and energy levels up for the week. Angler’s are very comfortably accommodated in Oneta’s ‘big bure’, a large spacious bure with separate sleeping for up to 6.

Fishing Days 18th – 22nd 
Board your vessel each morning and commence your charter, within minutes you will be fishing the endless locations on offer. Fishing is onboard a fully set up 28ft centre console sport fisher. During this adventure you’ll fish the Great Astrolabe reef system, Solo reef, extensive lagoons, islands, bommies, inshore mangroves and underwater sea mounts not only offering superb fishing but spectacular scenery. Target a variety of species from GT’s and red bass to big yellowfin tuna and spanish mackeral. If jigging is your thing then dogtooth tuna, GTs, red bass, jobfish, pukapuka and more can be found around the deep reefs, drop offs and seamounts.

After an enjoyable days fishing you will return to your resort where you can enjoy the evening at your own leisure, have a swim or cold beer at the end of the day. A massage service is also available at the days end to iron out any fishing induced aches!

June 23rd
Spend the morning at your own leisure, then a boat transfer will be provided from Ono resort to the airport in time for your early afternoon flight. Upon arrival into Nadi, transfer pick up to Raffles Gateway Hotel Nadi for overnight twin share accommodation.

June 24th
Transfer will be provided to Nadi airport in time for your return international flight.

Inclusions

• All land and boat transfers
• 6 nights exclusive accommodation staying at Oneta Resort
• All meals at Oneta resort
• 2 nights twin share accommodation at Raffles Gateway, Nadi
• 5 days sport fishing aboard a fully equipped 28 foot centre console sport fisher
• lunch and snacks whilst on board
• bottled water
• experienced captain and crew
• 2nd boat available if required
  

Price AUD$3370.00 per angler (based on 4 anglers)

PE#                                                Diameter

PE 0.6 ………………………….. 0.128mm
PE 0.8 ………………………….. 0.148mm
PE 1 …………………………….. 0.165mm
PE 1.2 ………………………….. 0.185mm
PE 1.5 ………………………….. 0.205mm
PE 1.7 ………………………….. 0.218mm
PE 2 …………………………….. 0.235mm
PE 2.5 ………………………….. 0.260mm
PE 3 …………………………….. 0.285mm
PE 3.5 ………………………….. 0.310mm
PE 4 …………………………….. 0.330mm
PE 5 …………………………….. 0.370mm
PE 6 …………………………….. 0.405mm
PE 7 …………………………….. 0.435mm
PE 8 …………………………….. 0.470mm
PE 10 …………………………… 0.520mm
PE 12 …………………………… 0.570mm
PE 14 …………………………… 0.620mm
PE 16 …………………………… 0.660mm
PE 18 …………………………… 0.700mm
PE 20 …………………………… 0.740mm
PE 22 …………………………… 0.780mm
PE 24 …………………………… 0.810mm
PE 28 …………………………… 0.870mm

The PE standard of measurement is based on a numbering system known as “gouw”, the system that the Japanese originally used to measure the diameter of silk thread. This measurement system has since been applied to monofilament and braided fishing lines. The “PE” stands for Polyethylene, the fibre used to make Dyneema and Spectra braided lines.

The PE rating is a constant measurement, so while two lines advertised as being rated to 50lb may actually test at different breaking strains, two lines with the same PE rating will always be the same diameter. As a very general rule, you can multiply the PE# by 10 to get an approximate breaking strain of a braided line, i.e. PE4 x 10 = 40lb, as it will rarely test below (10xPE#). However, the breaking strain can vary a great deal between different lines of the same diameter. This is especially true in many of the high end braids that use more strands and a tighter weave, resulting in a rounder, smoother finish and higher breaking strain for the same diameter as lines of lesser quality. For instance, YGK Galis Ultra Jig Man X8 in PE5 is rated to 86lb, but Sunline Super PE PE5 is rated to 50lb. Higher end lines are often specialised for either casting or vertical jigging, and usually carry a higher price tag to match their superior finish and higher breaking strain/diameter ratio.

Indulge yourself both on and off the water with a personalised fishing getaway that combines first-class bluewater game, and access to incredible sportfishing; all within easy reach of a unique and secluded anglers retreat.

The Fishing Trip

You will be literally on the doorstep of Vanuatu’s famous Marlin Highway, Moso, Hat island and Nguna Volcano offering sport & game anglers access to a range of fisheries including FAD’s seamounts, inshore and productive reefs!

Based at Port Havannah, you will be fishing productive waters within 10 minutes of boarding your vessel. For anglers chasing big pelagics like marlin and dogtooth tuna, this trip is perfect. The waters adjacent to your Port Havannah base offer some of the best blue marlin fishing found anywhere in the world. Other species you can encounter include sailfish, yellowfin tuna, mahi mahi, wahoo and big dogtooth tuna. You also get to fish on the islands lee side making the fishing as comfortable as it is exciting.

The Experience

Located on the secluded north west coast of Efate, our location in Vanuatu is unique in that anglers can cover such a variety of fishing techniques in such close proximity from base. Time can be spent jigging drop offs, FAD’s and deep reefs, popper casting for trevally and red bass, trolling island fringes for wahoo and sailfish or sending big baits out for marlin or dogtooth. On a typical day we will have you out fishing at dawn and back to the lodge late afternoon for that well earned ale waiting for you. Fishing the deep waters with Vanuatu’s untouched volcanic islands and seamounts as a backdrop always has a very Jurassic feel to it, and without doubt the fish found here can be equally as intimidating! Traditionally a big game fish destination, we realise there is so much more on offer to sports anglers, with plenty of surprises in store…

Your Lodging

With excellent proximity to remote fishing grounds, “Leaves & Fishes” is a private and secluded waterfront retreat nestled on the shores of picturesque Port Havannah. Anglers stay in well appointed cabins each with own private outdoor en suite. The social hub and laid back dining area is situated right on the waters edge, and the fishing boat is stationed only a few steps away at the end of your private jetty. Excellent meals are served to anglers, using the freshest seafood and local ingredients. After each days fishing, wind down with a relaxing massage or enjoy a few well earned drinks with friends while you watch the sun setting over the tranquil waters of Port Havannah.

Your Vessel & Guide

Fishing is onboard a fully equipped 34ft Deep Vee, a classic in gamefishing circles and synonymous with Vanuatu.

Your tournament winning skipper, Juannick Harris is experienced in a range of game and sportfishing, and has fished extensively throughout the Vanuatu islands.

Getting There

Vanuatu is a short 3.5 hour flight from Sydney, 2.5 hour flight from Brisbane and 3 hour flight from Auckland. Air Vanuatu, Pacific Blue and Air New Zealand offer daily flights to Port Vila. Upon arrival into Port Vila airport you will be met by an Ocean Blue representative, then transferred to Leaves & Fishes Anglers Retreat at Port Havannah.

Itinerary: 1st-7th April 2012

1st April 2012 

Upon arrival our team will meet you at the airport and transfer you to Leaves & Fishes anglers retreat.

2nd April 2012 – 6th April 2012

Fishing onboard 34ft Deep Vee gamefisher

5 days game & sport fishing for anglers.  Gamefishing for marlin, tuna and sportfishing for GT’s and dogtooth to name a few. At the end of each day you will return to your Port Havannah base, Leaves & Fishes Anglers Retreat to spend the evenings at your leisure.

7th April 2012

After breakfast, a representative of Leaves & Fishes will transfer you to Port Vila Airport in time for your return international flight.

Trip Inclusions

• Return Airport/Lodge ground transfers
• 6 nights shared cabin accommodation at Leaves & Fishes Anglers Retreat
• 5 days guided sport & game fishing on board “Ratua” 34ft Deep Vee
• Tackle available for clients use (replace on lost basis)
• All meals

Price: AUD$3220 per angler (SOLD OUT)

*Prices are a guide only and may be subject to change. All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars AUD.

**Rods, reels provided. Lures on a replace if lost basis.

Big doggies are one of the most challenging species to locate, hook and land. They are armed with razor sharp teeth, power that can match the limits of any tackle & make blistering deep runs around reefs and dangerous terrain. No doubt they are hooked during charters targeting other species, this usually ends quickly and convincingly, with those onboard left speechless after a big dogtooth bust-off.

The Fishing Trip

During this adventure you’ll fish a variety of reef systems, underwater sea mounts and remote volcanic islands with steep cliff faces not only offering superb fishing but spectacular scenery. Sports anglers can target a variety of species including GT’s, dogtooth, yellowfin tuna, wahoo & red bass on casting and jigging gear. Our team also targets big doggies on popping gear, a technique that gets explosive action. There are light tackle options for sheltered waters, flats fishing for those who want to add some inshore fishing to the mix. The big EdgeWater centre console is perfect for up to 5 anglers jigging.

The Experience

Located on the secluded north west coast of Efate, our location in Vanuatu is unique in that anglers can cover such a variety of fishing techniques in such close proximity from base. Time can be spent jigging drop offs, FAD’s and deep reefs, popper casting for trevally and red bass, trolling island fringes for wahoo and sailfish or sending big baits out for marlin or dogtooth. On a typical day we will have you out fishing at dawn and back to the lodge late afternoon for that well earned ale waiting for you. Fishing the deep waters with Vanuatu’s untouched volcanic islands and seamounts as a backdrop always has a very Jurassic feel to it, and without doubt the fish found here can be equally as intimidating! Traditionally a big game fish destination, we realise there is so much more on offer to sports anglers, with plenty of surprises in store…

Your Lodging

With excellent proximity to remote fishing grounds, our Trees & Fishes anglers retreat is a private and secluded waterfront retreat nestled on the shores of picturesque Port Havannah. Anglers stay in well appointed cabins each with own private outdoor en suite. The social hub and laid back dining area is situated right on the waters edge, and the fishing boat is stationed only a few steps away at the end of your private jetty. Excellent meals are served to anglers, using the freshest seafood and local ingredients. After each days fishing, wind down with a relaxing massage or enjoy a few well earned drinks with friends while you watch the sun setting over the tranquil waters of Port Havannah.

Your Vessel & Guide

32ft EdgeWater, Azzura Fishing Vanuatu on board this beautiful 32ft EdgeWater centre console, a fully equipped sportfishing vessel ideally suited for up to 5 anglers. Tackle is provided including a full range of Shimano gear for gamefishing, medium and light tackle. Top of the range popping and jigging gear is available on a replace if damaged basis. Our experienced skipper Andrea Traverso offers genuine hospitality onboard, and customises the trip to suit your groups requests. Offshore he specialises in dogtooth tuna, pelagics and jigging, and is equally capable around the islands casting for GT’s and flicking plastics for light tackle species.

Getting There

Vanuatu is a short 3.5 hour flight from Sydney, 2.5 hour flight from Brisbane and 3 hour flight from Auckland. Air Vanuatu, Pacific Blue and Air New Zealand offer daily flights to Port Vila. Upon arrival into Port Vila airport you will be met by an Ocean Blue representative, then transferred to Trees & Fishes Anglers Retreat at Port Havannah.

Trip Inclusions

• Stay 6 nights (pay 5*) at Trees & Fishes Anglers Lodge
• Breakfast & Dinners at Anglers’ Lodge
• 5 days (pay 4) fishing onboard 32ft EdgeWater Azzurra.
• Lunches whilst on board
• All ground transfers
• All Tackle bait & lures
• Experienced skipper

Price Guide

Prices are a guide only and may be subject to change. *Bonus accommodation offer based on minimum 4 anglers. All prices in Australian Dollars AUD.
**Rods, reels provided. Lures on a replace if lost basis.

Ocean Blue’s Vanuatu Sportfishing guide, Andrea Traverso has always been passionate about dogtooth tuna. Big doggies are one of the most challenging species to locate, hook and land. They are armed with razor sharp teeth, power that can match the limits of any tackle & make blistering deep runs around reefs and dangerous terrain. No doubt they are hooked during charters targeting other species, this usually ends quickly and convincingly, with those onboard left speechless after a big dogtooth bust-off.

Andrea is continually studying new areas, refining techniques, testing the latest in popping and jigging gear all to increase the success rate when our anglers are targeting dogtooth tuna. The 32ft EdgeWater centre console ‘Azzurra’ gets you quickly and comfortable to out of the way areas and is set up perfectly for casting and jigging.

The Ocean Blue Vanuatu team spent 3 days recently fishing and filming this kind of action, the result was ‘textbook’ with the following report a testimony to what they are achieving.

Apart from the packs of GT’s chasing the poppers, the challenge was dogtooth…

Targeting doggies on jigs was the order of the day with some good fish landed and a number of bigger bust offs.
The focus though was to experiment with raising these doggies on poppers. Ocean Blue stalwart Eric Festa was on board to lend a hand. Eric, one of the most well respected angler’s in Vanuatu knew exactly what we needed to do…!!! It’s a well known fact doggies are nocturnal feeders so Eric’s suggestion…fish late. Dogtooth will feed on the surface later in the day.

So at 4.30pm we halted our jigging and GT popping efforts and focussed on a few of Eric’s secret dogtooth haunts. Andrea was determined to land big doggies on poppers.

Andrea casted a brand new Kaiser El Toro 125g popper. Within 10 minutes, the first doggie smashed the popper but missed…then pop, another miss, pop again and we’re on!
Andrea made short work of his first doggie, landing a nice 20kg specimen.

It didn’t take long for Andrea to have his popper back in the water and 3 casts later, pop, pop, whooshka, crunch…he’s on again! This fish was a little bigger & with line peeling off the Stella under heavy drag, Eric did well to lead the fish into deeper water. After a 10 minute ordeal a nice 30kg fish came on board for a quick photo. By this time light was fading and the fish turned on big time. After a few misses, a monster fish launched into the air, somersaulted with the shiny blue popper in mouth…Andrea was on again. This was a better fish! Andrea really put the pressure on, pushing his gear to the limits. Five minutes into the fight…crack!! His heavy popping rod snapped at the join. This didn’t stop quick thinking Eric and Andrea from landing the fish together. Eric worked the rod’s top section, the guys worked in unison, comically raising the fish inch by inch. After 20 minutes the guys, in hysterics managed to land the fish. The fish was a solid 40kg specimen, while the tale of this epic capture provided all on board with new levels of amusement.

Having proved we can raise these fish on poppers the next 2 days we refined our techniques and gave it a real go. The fish didn’t disappoint with numerous landed fish, bust offs and plenty of exciting angling. Popping for dogtooth was visual and spectacular, on numerous occasions the fish were airborne. Definitely and exciting few days!

Enough said for now, watch this space for the YouTube clips of dogtooth getting airborne, broken gear and Vanuatu’s big dogtooth on poppers, Ocean Blue style…

From The Ocean Blue Team

Fishing New Caledonia’s remote & untouched far north is now available to International anglers! Anglers seeking huge flats bonefish & sportfish on fly & spin gear can access remote flats & reefs on this very, very special adventure.

The Fishing Trip

We have a unique option catering for serious fly anglers only, plus an allround sportfishing package for anglers after variety on spin gear. New Caledonia’s bonefish tend to be less in number than other global destinations, however the attraction here is their size! 15lb plus bonefish are not uncommon and the chance to encounter much larger bones is very much a possibility here. Other trophy species include GT and other trevallies, emperor, red bass, mackeral, jobfish and a lot more.

The Experience

In New Caledonia’s north, le poisson banane is the local name given to the big banana shaped fish on the flat! From your base at Poignam at the very northern tip of Grand Terre, you will fish a variety of areas such as remote offshore flats, mangrove fringed bays, sand cays, reefs and islands. Many of these areas have been off limits to anglers in the past, so you will have the thrill of fishing our guides’ locations offering superb fishing. The experience in the north is one of warm friendly people, rugged and extreme landscapes and a vast & complex fishery that can be extremely rewarding.

“We spotted way more bonefish over the double figure mark than under it, including one fish of “mythical” proportions. We landed fish many fly anglers would travel the world for!”
Justin Duggan, Sydney Fly Fishing Guide

Fly Fishing

For the serious fly angler who wishes to push beyond the well worn path and venture into a fishery of world class Bonefish, New Caledonia is your destination. The geological age of New Cal has enabled time to create expansive sand flats adjacent to deep sea canyons that create an absolute playground for the fly angler.

Long casts are not essential but being able to cover water no matter which direction the wind blows is a skill worth practicing to make the most of your opportunities. It is for this reason we recommend New Caledonia for intermediate to advanced anglers.

Rods from 7-9wt will suit flats fishing for bonefish whilst a larger rod of 11-12wt should be on hand when one of those “car bonnet” GT’s cruises up the flats in search of a meal. Standard bonefish flies with minimum flash such as Crazy Charlies, Clouser Minnows, Flats Fodder, Chilli Peppers, Gotchas and Crab Patterns will all work. Make sure to have some larger bonefish flies up to 1/0 as there have been Bonefish over 25lb sighted on these flats.

Your Lodging

Anglers are very well looked after in a small family run beachfront lodge at Poignam. The mid range bungalows are basic yet very comfortable and nestled amongst coconut trees and tropical gardens. It is a brilliant base with excellent meals prepared by the friendly staff, specialties include their famous mud crab, venison & pig spit roasts and selection of French wines.

Your Guide

You will be guided by renowned New Caledonian guide, Ben Damas. Ben has a wealth of knowledge and experience fishing these waters & his trained eyes are able to spot bonefish well before any angler. He also is very experienced in sportfishing the reefs, offshore waters for a host of trophy species. Ben has access to exclusive areas, this opens up a number of opportunities to anglers. At times, sportfishing guide Etienne Picquel will also accompany groups on these trips.

Getting There

New Caledonia is a short 2.5 hour flight from Sydney, 1.45 hour flight from Brisbane and 3 hour flight from Auckland. Aircalin, Qantas and Air New Zealand all offer daily flights to Noumea. Upon your arrival into Tontouta International Airport you will be met by an Ocean Blue representative and begin your adventure. You will stay overnight en route to the far north as it.

Trip Inclusions

• 4 days guided fly or sportsfishing
• 2 nights stay en route at Nekweta Lodge (required for all trips), including meals
• 5 nights bungalow stay at Poingam Guesthouse
• All meals, bottled water
• Bottled Water
• All ground transfers

Price Guide

*Prices are a guide only and may be subject to change. All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars AUD.
**Rods, reels provided. Lures on a replace if lost basis.

Find out more about this trip