Trip Overview
CUBA’S TOP SPOT FOR GRAND SLAM’S AND SUPERSLAM’S
Summer Season
Fly fishing Cuba during the summer months, particularly July, are considered Prime Time for this destination. During this season, the weather and the water are warm, and the flats are teeming with all the diverse saltwater species. These fish are extremely aggressive and hungry, making them very willing to eat a fly.
Massive schools of Bonefish, averaging 5lbs, are found marauding the vast flats. Anglers will encounter opportunistic Permit, which are typically following the feeding bonefish. The Permit fishing can be exceptional during this time, with seasoned Permit anglers landing multiple fish a week in the 10-30lb range. Tarpon are found throughout the various flats, especially in the "red water" which occurs after night rain showers. Barracuda, Mutton and Cubera Snapper offer anglers a real plethora of species to chase daily.
Fall/Winter
Even in the "off season", the fly fishing in Cuba offers its anglers an exceptional flats fishing experience. When the weather shines, the fishing will outshine the weather. During the calm, warm periods, the fishing will be outstanding. Bonefish, Permit, and Tarpon will be readily available to encounter.
When windy days do come, the fishing will still offer success due to the variety of fishing options to escape the wind ie... in the mangroves, channels and lee side of the numerous island keys.
Rates
Low season $5,000-7,500
October - March. October to March is considered the off-season and allows the chance to escape the colder Northern climates and still enjoy chasing the juvenile Tarpon, Permit, Bonefish, and Snook around its sandy flats.
High Season $7,500-10,800
March – July . From April thru July, the Peak season offers THE ONLY opportunity to tackle the enormous migratory Tarpon (80-100+lbs) and large Permit (15-30+lbs), Bonefish(4-11+lbs) and Snook. For clients, is the season for anglers interested in catching both the big Tarpon as well as Big Permit as well as those trying for a Super Slam (Tarpon, Permit, Bonefish, Snook all in the same day).
Stillwater Travel Hosted 2024 Dates:
May 4 - 11. SOLD OUT
July 13-20. Limited Availability
July 20 - 27. SOLD OUT
July 27-Aug 3. Limited Availability
Oct 5 - 12. 4 Spots Available
Nov 30 - Dec 7. SOLD OUT
Dec 7 - 14. 6 Spots Available
Stillwater Travel Hosted 2025 Dates:
May 17-24. 2 Spots Available
July 12-19. 4 Spots Available
July 19-26. 5 Spots Available
July 26-Aug 2. Limited Availability
Oct 4-11. SOLD OUT
Oct 11-18. 8 Spots Available
Nov 8-15. 8 Spots Available
Nov 15-22. 6 Spots Available
Logistics
We have all of the logistics covered. Our goal is to create an unforgettable experience where you don't have to worry. We spend our time hammering out the details so that you don't waste your time!
Accommodations
Liveaboard
Lodging in Cayo Largo is aboard the JA1.
This spacious 110-foot live-aboard yacht has ten rooms with 2 being convertible queen-sized cabins featuring side by side beds and eight deluxe rooms, each with two single beds. Each room comes equipped with a private bathroom, toilet, hot shower, individual climate controls, and a safe.
Whether you are looking for a quiet place to read, a place to sunbathe, a warm jacuzzi to relax, or a bar to tell your fish stories at, the mothership provides more than enough space to accommodate any activities.
The food aboard the JAI consists of a beautiful selection of Cuban cuisine, grilled fresh seafood and vegetables, and many international delights. The chef is well versed in many different styles and will be sure to amaze you during your stay. Also, there is a full bar with a selection of Cuban beers and rum, international wines, and a variety of spirits. Our attentive crew will be there to take care of your every need and make sure you have a wonderful trip.
Life on the live-aboard is relaxed and completely customizable. With the yacht keeping us close to the fishing grounds, the commutes are short, allowing you to fish as long as you would like to each day. You can read more details about the benefits of life on a liveaboard here.
Gear List
These suggestions are for the Angler looking for the basic idea of what to bring on this trip. If you would like our in-depth and concise checklist, you can request it HERE. We have one of the largest inventories for saltwater gear in the country. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are here to help you.If this doesn’t fit your budget, we also have rental equipment for your trip.
Rod: 9’ 8wt. – (Bonefish) Speed and accuracy: G Loomis Asquith Fly Rod
Reel: Shilton SR Fly Reel
Line: Scientific Anglers Amplitude Bonefish Fly Line
Rod: 9’ 10wt. – (Permit/Tarpon) Easiest loading rod in the market: Scott Sector Fly Rod
Reel: Nautilus CCF X2 Silver King
Line: Scientific Anglers Amplitude Tarpon Fly Line
Rod: 9’ 12wt. – (Tarpon) Quick efficient casts are a breeze: Sage Maverick Fly Rod
Reel: Nautilus CCF X2 Silver King
Line: Scientific Anglers Amplitude Tarpon Fly Line
Accessories
• Sunscreen
• Saltwater Pliers with cutter
• Polarized sunglasses (we recommend Smith’s low light ignitor lens)
• Small waterproof pack for wading
• Reusable bottle for water
• Flats wading boots
• Breathable rain gear
• Bug repellant - cream suggested
