As autumn approaches, the sun softens, the breeze cools, and the chaos of high season fades into memory. From October through December, a quieter, more intimate Bahamas emerges—and for those who know where (and when) to look, this stretch marks one of the finest bonefishing windows of the year.

Big bones, clear light, quiet water

At Bair’s Lodge in South Andros and Abaco Lodge in the Marls, the autumn months deliver bigger bones on average, less fishing pressure, and some of the most consistent tailing behaviour of the entire season. It’s a time when conditions align—weather, tides, visibility, and solitude—to create the kind of days anglers dream about.

Bairs Lodge, Bahamas, Aardvark McLeod (1)

Autumn in the Bahamas is a rare combination of calm, comfort, and opportunity—nestled between the heat of summer and the rush of the holidays. With hurricane season mostly in the rear view, the weather tends to stabilize, delivering more clear skies, glassy water, and uninterrupted days on the flats.

Why autumn is a sweet spot for serious anglers

• Prime conditions for big bonefish: Autumn is known for fewer juvenile fish and more chances at trophy-sized bones. Some of the largest fish of the year are caught during this time.
• Mild, comfortable weather: Temperatures cool off after summer, making days more pleasant for both anglers and fish.
• Great tides: Autumn tides tend to be moderate and predictable, creating optimal feeding windows across a variety of flats and creeks.
• Less fishing pressure: With fewer anglers on the flats, fish are less spooky and more likely to feed naturally.
• Tailing fish are more consistent: Ideal tides and temperatures bring fish into skinny water more regularly, offering more visual shots.
• Peak time for singles and doubles: While schools are still around, autumn offers more chances to stalk larger, solitary fish—arguably the most rewarding experience in saltwater fly fishing—the real thrill is in sight-casting to singles and doubles.
• Ideal light conditions: The lower sun angle this time of year can actually improve visibility in certain directions during key fishing hours.
• World-class lodges, no compromise: Whether you choose Bair’s or Abaco, you’ll enjoy premium service, gourmet meals, comfortable accommodations, and expert guides—all set up for the serious angler.

Last available dates in the autumn season

Bair’s Lodge
Oct. 18-25 (7 nights 6 days)
Nov. 1-8 (7 nights 6 days)
Nov. 8-15 (7 nights 6 days)

Abaco Lodge
Oct. 30 – Nov. 3 (5 nights 4 days)
Nov. 3-8 (5 nights 4 days)
Nov. 8-13 (5 nights 4 days)

For more information on Bair’s Lodge or Abaco Lodge, or fishing in the Bahamas in general please contact Alex Jardine or call us on +44 (0) 1980 847389.

Charlotte Opperman, Aardvark McLeod

About the author

Charlotte Opperman

Charlotte's primary role at Aardvark McLeod is all things marketing – but she’s also got a keen eye for what appeals to the part-time fisher