St Brandon's Atoll is one of the Indian Ocean's most extraordinary saltwater fly fishing destinations, renowned for its exceptional bonefish populations, large Indo-Pacific permit and vast expanses of pristine, wadeable flats.

Situated approximately 430 kilometres northeast of Mauritius, this remote archipelago comprises a scattering of low-lying coral islands, sandbanks, reefs and extensive shallow lagoons. Its isolation and limited fishing pressure have helped preserve a remarkable marine environment, providing some of the finest sight-fishing opportunities available to travelling saltwater anglers.

For those who particularly enjoy fishing on foot, stalking large bonefish and challenging permit across beautiful shallow flats, St Brandon's is a truly special destination.

The Fishing

Bonefish are the principal attraction at St Brandon's, and the quality of the fishing is exceptional.

The atoll is renowned not only for the abundance of fish but also for their impressive average size. Bonefish commonly weigh between 5 and 6 lb, with regular opportunities to encounter substantially larger specimens, including fish approaching or exceeding 10 lb.

The fishing is predominantly undertaken on foot, with anglers exploring extensive white sand flats, turtle grass beds and shallow lagoon edges alongside experienced specialist guides.

Depending on the tides and conditions, bonefish may be encountered in large schools or as individual fish and pairs feeding across the shallows. The opportunity to stalk these larger fish in clear, shallow water is one of St Brandon's greatest attractions.

Indo-Pacific permit are another important target. Fish are regularly encountered across the flats, often feeding individually or in small groups, and present a considerable challenge even for experienced saltwater fly fishermen.

The permit fishing can be particularly rewarding, with opportunities to sight-fish for fish in the 5–15 lb class and occasionally larger specimens.

Other species include bluefin trevally, golden trevally, yellowdot trevally, greenspot trevally and occasional giant trevally, providing further variety during a week's fishing.

The extensive flats and relative lack of fishing pressure create a wonderfully peaceful fishing experience. On many days, anglers may spend hours exploring beautiful stretches of water without seeing another person beyond their guide and fishing companion.

A Remarkable Wading Destination

One of the defining characteristics of St Brandon's is the sheer quality and extent of its wade fishing.

Unlike destinations where anglers spend much of the day casting from a skiff, St Brandon's offers extensive opportunities to fish on foot, moving quietly across firm sand and shallow turtle grass flats.

The clear water and open terrain provide excellent conditions for sight-fishing, although the large bonefish and permit can be exceptionally wary.

Success often depends on careful observation, accurate casting and thoughtful presentations rather than covering large amounts of water.

The tides play an important role in determining where and how the fishing takes place, with guides selecting suitable areas according to water levels, wind and fish movements.

For anglers who appreciate the traditional skills of stalking fish on the flats, St Brandon's offers an outstanding experience.

Accommodation – Raphael Island Guesthouse

Accommodation is provided in a small, comfortable guesthouse on Raphael Island, in the northern part of the atoll.

The guesthouse accommodates up to eight anglers in four air-conditioned twin rooms, with shared bathroom facilities.

The accommodation is simple and practical rather than luxurious, providing everything needed for a comfortable stay in this exceptionally remote location.

A covered outdoor dining and relaxation area offers a welcoming setting in which to enjoy freshly prepared meals, a cold drink and the company of fellow anglers after a full day on the flats.

A separate tackle and equipment room provides space for storing and preparing fishing gear, ensuring everything is ready for the following day's fishing.

The atmosphere is informal and sociable, with the emphasis firmly on the fishing and the remarkable natural surroundings.

A Remote Indian Ocean Wilderness

St Brandon's is a place of extraordinary natural beauty, with deserted islands, turquoise lagoons, extensive sand flats and abundant marine life.

Its remote location has helped preserve a remarkably undisturbed environment, supporting seabirds, turtles and a rich variety of fish species.

Fishing access is limited, and the small number of visiting anglers helps maintain the quality of the fishery.

The sense of isolation is an important part of the experience. Far removed from the conventional tourist destinations of the Indian Ocean, St Brandon's offers the opportunity to explore a remarkable wilderness where the rhythms of the tides and the movements of the fish determine each day's activities.

Fishing Holidays with Go Fishing Worldwide

St Brandon's is particularly suited to experienced saltwater fly fishermen who enjoy challenging sight-fishing on foot.

Its exceptional bonefish populations, opportunities for large Indo-Pacific permit and extensive wadeable flats distinguish it from the giant trevally-focused fisheries of the Seychelles' outer atolls.

For anglers whose principal ambition is to stalk large bonefish and permit in clear, shallow water, St Brandon's is one of the most appealing destinations in the Indian Ocean.

Go Fishing Worldwide can arrange specialist fishing expeditions to St Brandon's, including accommodation, transfers and guided fishing. We are happy to advise on tackle requirements, seasonal conditions and the particular demands of this remarkable fishery.

Suggested Package: 1 night's accommodation in Mauritius, return transfers to St Brandon's, 10 nights' full-board accommodation on Raphael Island and 7 days' guided saltwater fly fishing.