5 Secrets To The Ultimate DIY Bonefishing Trip At Mount Pleasant Fishing Lodge, Bahamas
Mount Pleasant Fishing Lodge in Central Andros, Bahamas, remains one of the most sought-after and unique destinations for serious saltwater anglers in late 2025. Unlike the high-priced, all-inclusive resorts that dominate the region, this family-owned operation has carved out a distinct reputation by focusing on a world-class, secluded "Do-It-Yourself" (DIY) fishing experience. The lodge offers direct access to some of the planet's most prolific bonefish flats, making it a bucket-list destination for those who prefer to wade fish on their own terms. This deep dive reveals the secrets to maximizing your trip, from the best fishing grounds to the unique history that makes this lodge a true Bahamian gem.
The latest reports from the region, including mentions in December 2025 fishing forums, confirm that the fishing conditions remain excellent, with large numbers of bonefish consistently moving across the hard-bottomed flats. The lodge's commitment to providing a comfortable, home-like base camp for independent anglers is what continues to draw a dedicated following of fly fishing enthusiasts from around the globe. It is a genuine slice of old-school Bahamian hospitality combined with unparalleled access to the "Bonefish Capital of the World."
The Legacy and Location of Mount Pleasant Fishing Lodge
Mount Pleasant Fishing Lodge is more than just a place to sleep; it is a piece of Bahamian history. The property is a family-owned and operated establishment, with the land having been in the possession of the local Farrington Family for over a century. This long-standing connection to the land and the local community is what gives the lodge its authentic, welcoming atmosphere.
Mount Pleasant Fishing Lodge Biography & Key Entities
- Location: Central Andros, Bahamas (near Cargill Creek).
- Ownership: Farrington Family (in possession of the property for over 100 years).
- Established: The lodge operation has been in business since 2001.
- Specialty: World-class DIY Wade Fishing and Guided Saltwater Fly Fishing.
- Primary Target Species: Bonefish (often referred to as the "Grey Ghost").
- Secondary Target Species: Permit, Tarpon, Barracuda, Jacks, Snapper, and Sharks.
- Accommodation Style: Secluded, family-friendly duplex-style cottages.
- Maximum Capacity: Approximately 10 anglers, ensuring a private experience.
The lodge is strategically positioned on an expansive, private beachfront property. Its location near Cargill Creek places it in the heart of Central Andros, which is widely celebrated as the Bonefish Capital of the World. This seclusion, reached via a long, private driveway, ensures that guests have a peaceful and uninterrupted experience, far from the crowds of larger, more commercial operations.
Secret #1: Mastering the DIY Wade Fishing Access
The single biggest draw of Mount Pleasant Fishing Lodge is the world-class, direct access to the flats for DIY wade fishing. This is a major distinction that sets it apart from other lodges that strictly require guided boat trips. Anglers can step out of their cottage and be fishing within minutes, a luxury almost unheard of in the Bahamas.
The Unrivaled Fishing Grounds
The flats immediately surrounding the lodge are the perfect starting point for the independent angler. The area is characterized by hard-bottomed flats, which are ideal for wading, offering a firm and comfortable footing while stalking fish. The vast, shallow waters extending from the lodge are renowned for holding large numbers of small to medium-sized bonefish, providing endless opportunities to practice sight fishing and casting.
- White Bight Flats: A short distance from the lodge, this area is one of the most beautiful and productive stretches of bonefish water on Andros. The huge flats of White Bight are a primary focus for both guided and DIY trips.
- Tidal Creek: The lodge property includes a tidal creek that runs like a river through a mile of mangroves. This creek is a natural highway for juvenile fish and a fantastic spot for anglers to explore when the tides are not optimal for the main flats.
- Guided Options: For those looking to explore more remote, deep-water areas for Permit and Tarpon, the lodge offers guided trips. The local guides are experts in navigating the intricate creeks and blue holes that make Andros so famous.
Secret #2: The "Big Three" and Other Target Species
While Bonefish are the undisputed main attraction, Mount Pleasant offers a genuine shot at catching the coveted Saltwater Grand Slam (a bonefish, a permit, and a tarpon in a single day). The lodge's proximity to various habitats allows anglers to target a diverse range of species, dramatically increasing the topical authority of the area for serious anglers.
Beyond the Bonefish
The flats are not just home to the "Grey Ghost." The ecosystem around Central Andros supports a healthy population of other sport fish. Experienced fly fishers will find seasonal opportunities to cast at:
- Permit: Though more elusive, permit are present on the deeper flats and near the channels, offering a challenging and highly rewarding target.
- Tarpon: Juvenile tarpon are often found in the sheltered mangrove creeks and channels, providing exhilarating action on a fly rod.
- Predatory Fish: Anglers can also find excellent sport from powerful Barracuda, hard-fighting Jacks, and various species of Snapper and Sharks, which provide a fun break from the technicality of bonefishing.
Secret #3: The Home-Base Advantage and Amenities
The philosophy of Mount Pleasant is to provide a comfortable, island-inspired home base, not a sterile hotel. The accommodations are designed for the practical needs of the traveling angler, blending functionality with genuine Bahamian charm.
Accommodation and Dining Details (LSI Entities)
The lodge features four air-conditioned, island-inspired duplex-style cottages. Each unit is spacious and comfortable, ideal for small groups, friends, or families. Key features include a living area, two separate bedrooms, and a full bath with a tub and shower. Crucially, each cottage includes a kitchen with a fully stocked fridge and snacks, a major plus for DIY anglers who need to pack their own lunches for a long day on the flats.
The main lodge is the heart of the operation, offering a spacious dining area where guests enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals. This communal setting is where anglers share stories and tips from their day on the water, fostering a unique camaraderie. For non-angling companions, the secluded beachfront and the safe, warm waters of the Tidal Creek offer a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation, and the area is also known for excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Secret #4: The Best Time to Visit and Fishing Strategy
To truly maximize your experience at Mount Pleasant, understanding the seasonal nuances of Andros Island fishing is essential. Bonefish are caught year-round, but the winter months often see cooler water temperatures, which can bring larger, "double-digit" bonefish onto the flats.
The most successful DIY anglers employ a few key strategies:
- Tide Awareness: The tides dictate the movement of the bonefish. Consult a local tide chart daily. The lodge's direct access means you can be on the flat the moment the tide is right.
- Fly Selection: While classic patterns like the Gotcha and Crazy Charlie are staples, having a variety of sizes and weights is crucial to match the hard-bottomed flats and the varying water depths.
- Footwear: Investing in high-quality, sturdy wading boots is non-negotiable. The hard-bottomed flats are generally safe, but protection from coral and stingrays is paramount for a long day of wade fishing.
- Non-Angling Activities: Take a break from the fishing to explore the nearby area. The lodge is a great base for exploring the unique ecosystem of Central Andros, which adds to the overall experience.
Secret #5: The Secluded, Private Experience
The final secret to Mount Pleasant’s enduring appeal is its commitment to privacy and a lack of commercialization. Located at the end of a long road, the lodge feels completely isolated. This is a crucial element for those seeking a true escape and an authentic connection to the environment.
With a maximum capacity of only about 10 anglers, the lodge ensures that the flats do not become overcrowded. This means less pressure on the fish and a more tranquil, personal experience for every guest. It is a place where the focus is solely on the fishing, the natural beauty of the Bahamas, and the warm, genuine hospitality of the Farrington Family.
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