JARDINES DE LA REINA

Jardines de la Reina, or the Gardens of the Queen, is one of the Caribbean's most celebrated saltwater fly fishing destinations. Situated off Cuba's southern coast, this vast archipelago of mangrove islands, lagoons, shallow flats and coral reefs offers exceptional opportunities for tarpon, permit and bonefish in a wonderfully remote setting.

Much of the archipelago lies within a protected marine area, where fishing access is carefully controlled and the surrounding marine environment remains remarkably rich. With very little development and extensive areas of water to explore, Jardines de la Reina offers a genuine sense of adventure and solitude.

The Fishing

Tarpon are one of the principal attractions, with resident fish inhabiting the mangrove creeks, sheltered lagoons and deeper channels throughout the year. Anglers can encounter fish of varying sizes, from smaller tarpon in the backcountry to much larger specimens in more open water.

Permit and bonefish are also found throughout the fishery, offering excellent sight-fishing opportunities on the surrounding flats. The variety of habitats allows anglers to explore different areas according to the tides, weather and movements of the fish, with experienced local guides selecting the most promising water each day.

Barracuda, jacks, snapper and other saltwater species provide additional sport, and the possibility of catching bonefish, permit and tarpon during the same trip is a particular attraction.

The fishing is generally undertaken from shallow-draft skiffs, allowing access to the intricate network of mangrove channels, lagoons and flats. One of the great pleasures of Jardines de la Reina is the remarkable natural environment, with abundant birdlife, healthy coral reefs and an extraordinary diversity of marine life.

For anglers looking to experience remote saltwater fly fishing in a beautiful and largely undisturbed setting, Jardines de la Reina is a very special destination.

Accommodation – La Tortuga

Guests can stay aboard La Tortuga, a comfortable, two-deck floating lodge moored within the archipelago.

The lodge accommodates up to 14 anglers in air-conditioned cabins with private facilities. Communal areas provide a relaxed and sociable atmosphere, with comfortable spaces to unwind after a day on the water.

The food is a particular highlight, with freshly prepared meals featuring excellent Cuban cuisine and locally sourced seafood. Returning to the lodge after a day's fishing, enjoying a good meal and discussing the day's adventures is all part of the experience.

Staying within the fishing area allows anglers to make the most of their time on the water, without the need for lengthy daily journeys from the mainland.

Liveaboard Fishing

For those looking for an alternative experience, accommodation is also available aboard comfortable liveaboard yachts operating within Jardines de la Reina.

These vessels are particularly well suited to private parties, including smaller groups of four or more anglers, and offer the flexibility to explore more remote parts of the archipelago.

The liveaboard arrangements provide a wonderful combination of adventurous fishing, comfortable accommodation and excellent food, with the opportunity to experience different areas of this extensive fishery throughout the week.

Suggested Package: 2 nights' accommodation in Havana, 6 nights aboard La Tortuga, 5½ days' guided flats fishing and return transfers between Havana and Jardines de la Reina.