Los Roques is one of the world's great saltwater fly fishing destinations. Situated in the southern Caribbean, approximately 80 miles north of the Venezuelan mainland, this spectacular archipelago comprises hundreds of islands, sandbanks, shallow lagoons and extensive white sand flats, surrounded by some of the clearest turquoise water imaginable.

Protected as a national park since 1972, Los Roques remains a remarkably beautiful and largely unspoilt marine environment. Its enormous variety of flats, combined with excellent numbers of bonefish and opportunities for several other saltwater species, makes it a particularly rewarding destination for fly fishermen.

For anglers who enjoy stalking fish on foot, there are few places quite like it.

The Fishing

Los Roques is best known for its outstanding bonefishing. The archipelago offers an extraordinary variety of shallow flats, ranging from firm white sand and coral rubble to turtle grass beds and the edges of deeper channels.

Bonefish are present in excellent numbers, with fish typically averaging around 3–5 lb and regular opportunities to encounter larger specimens. Fish of 6–8 lb are a realistic possibility, while considerably larger bonefish are occasionally encountered.

The fishing is predominantly undertaken on foot, with skiffs used to transport anglers between the many islands and flats. In suitable conditions, it is possible to spend hours wading beautiful, shallow water, sight-fishing for cruising and tailing bonefish.

One of the great attractions of Los Roques is the sheer quantity and variety of fishable water. There are hundreds of individual flats to explore, each with its own character, and experienced local guides have an intimate knowledge of the tides, conditions and movements of the fish.

Although bonefish remain the principal attraction, Los Roques has much more to offer.

Permit are found throughout the archipelago, providing challenging opportunities for anglers wishing to pursue one of saltwater fly fishing's most elusive species. Triggerfish are another exciting target, often encountered feeding across shallow coral and turtle grass flats.

Tarpon inhabit the lagoons, mangrove channels and deeper water. Smaller resident fish provide excellent sport on lighter tackle, while larger specimens can also be encountered. Barracuda, jacks, snook and snapper offer further variety, making it well worth carrying several rods rigged for different species.

The possibility of targeting bonefish, permit and tarpon during the same trip adds another dimension to what is already an exceptional fishery.

A Wade Fisherman's Paradise

Perhaps more than anything else, Los Roques is renowned for the quality of its wade fishing.

Unlike destinations where much of the fishing is undertaken from the bow of a skiff, here the great majority of the fishing is done on foot. The extensive, firm-bottomed flats allow anglers to stalk fish quietly in clear, shallow water, often with extraordinary visibility.

There is something particularly rewarding about spotting a bonefish in the distance, carefully approaching it and making a well-placed cast from the flat itself.

Los Roques is therefore especially appealing to anglers who enjoy active, visual fishing, although the variety of water and abundance of bonefish also make it an excellent destination for those relatively new to saltwater fly fishing.

The archipelago's tropical climate allows fishing throughout the year, with seasonal variations in wind, weather and water conditions. The experienced guides select different areas of the fishery to make the most of the prevailing conditions.

Gran Roque and the Islands

The fishing is only part of the attraction.

The small island of Gran Roque is the archipelago's principal settlement and has a wonderfully relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. Colourful buildings, sandy streets, friendly local people and the absence of ordinary road traffic give the village a distinctive character.

Accommodation is generally in small, privately run guesthouses known as posadas, where guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, welcoming hospitality and excellent meals, often featuring freshly caught seafood.

Each morning, anglers head out by boat to explore the surrounding islands and flats, returning to Gran Roque in the afternoon. The evenings are wonderfully sociable, with time to enjoy a drink, a good meal and stories from the day's fishing.

The extraordinary scenery is another highlight. White sand beaches, shallow turquoise lagoons and remote uninhabited islands make Los Roques one of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean. It is also an excellent destination for couples, with opportunities for snorkelling, swimming, relaxing on secluded beaches and exploring the islands.

Fishing Holidays with Go Fishing Worldwide

Los Roques has long been an important destination for Go Fishing Worldwide, and we have extensive experience arranging fishing holidays to the archipelago.

We work with established local guides and accommodation providers, and can arrange individual trips as well as small group departures.

Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to explore more of this remarkable fishery, Los Roques offers a wonderful combination of outstanding bonefishing, varied saltwater species and a truly memorable Caribbean atmosphere.

For details of forthcoming fishing weeks, availability and tailor-made itineraries, please contact info@gofishingworldwide.co.uk.