13
Oct 15

Press Release from the Bahamas

Here’s a recent press release out of the Bahamas. Basically, they want to remind you that nothing has changed and that the Bahamas is still a fantastic place to visit, even after Hurricane Joaquin screwed a few of the islands up. Hard to argue with any of these points.

This press release should not be taken as a defeat by the BFFIA (Bahamian F-ed-up Fiduciary Insanity Association). This points in that general direction and may be a sign some of the people in positions of power realize the LAST thing needed at this point is a confusing and xenophobic message telling some tourists they are not wanted.

The Cliff Note version of my take on things is this… You want to go to the Bahamas, go ahead. You’ll be able to fish, DIY, semi-DIY, fully-guided, partially-guided, at least for now, and that won’t change abruptly or in the really short-term. Of course, I’d urge you to support those who have supported us, the anglers. And… you may also want to chip in to help those who got leveled by Joaquin to get back on their feet, which you can do here.
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BUSINESS AS USUAL FOR BAHAMAS FLATS FISHINGNASSAU,

BAHAMAS, October 8, 2015 — The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism (BMOT) wishes to advise that all categories of anglers are welcome to fish The Islands Of The Bahamas this 2015-2016 season and that the vast majority of the islands are ready and open for business as usual after Hurricane Joaquin.

Anglers are further advised that no restriction on fishing, no new taxes, no across the board increase in prices or licensing fees have been introduced. In the event there are any changes, be assured that Ministry officials will notify the global fishing community well in advance.

Throughout The Islands Of The Bahamas you will find a mix of international and locally owned upscale, mid-priced and economy lodges with a range of affordable packages and options. Each bonefish lodge has its own charm and certified guides.

Local guides have been trained to provide a safe and customer friendly angling experience based on globally accepted sustainable principles. The practice of “Catch & Release” fishing is strictly observed.

The Bahamas continues to be the ideal flat fishing destination for avid fishermen with 100,000 square miles of the most renowned fishing flats in the world, and an abundance of fish species including bonefish, permit, tarpon and other tropical sports fishing species. The Out Islands of Abacos, Andros, Bimini, Cat Island, Eleuthera, and The Exumas are premiere flats fishing locales.

With close proximity to the Continental United States, just 50 miles from Florida and a 30minute flight via commercial airlines, and average winter temperatures ranging from 21°C to 27°C (or 70°F to 80°F), anglers can still make it for the perfect fall flats fishing experience. Visit http://www.bahamas.com/fishing for more details and to book your fishing trip to The Bahamas today.

About The Islands Of The BahamasThe Islands Of The Bahamas have a place in the sun for everyone from Nassau and Paradise Island to Grand Bahama to The Abaco Islands, The Exuma Islands, Harbour Island, Long Island and others. Each island has its own personality and attractions for a variety of vacation styles withsome of the world’s best golf, scuba diving, fishing, sailing, boating, as well as, shopping and dining. The destination offers an easily accessible tropical getaway and provides convenience for travelers with pre-clearance through U.S. customs and immigration, and the Bahamian dollar is on par with the U.S. dollar. Do everything or do nothing, just remember It’s Better in The Bahamas.

For more information on travel packages, activities and accommodations, call 1-800-Bahamas or visit www.Bahamas.com.

Look for The Bahamas on the web on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Media Contact:Anita Johnson-Patty Bahamas Ministry of Tourism ajohnson@bahamas.com


07
Oct 15

Getting the Bahamas Back on Their Feet

Let’s get on board with this, OK?

PRESS RELEASE

The Abaco Fly Fishing Guides Association (AFFGA) is spearheading a RECONSTRUCTION FUND to benefit fly fishing guides and the accommodating establishments that cater to fly fishing anglers that lost their ability to make a living because of the destruction in the Southern Bahamas from Hurricane Joaquin.

AFFGA is working with world-wide industry members and partners to raise funds and has organized a Bahamian Advisory Board to help get the word out to those affected.  The board will help gather relevant data regarding the requirements of those in the affected areas who are in need of assistance to rebuild their fly fishing businesses.

Once an assessment of the specific needs of the individuals affected by the storm are known AFGGA will reach out to our partners who may be able to help fulfill their requirements in order to alleviate some of the pain of the rebuilding process.  Your donations may pay for materials and equipment or be awarded as cash to recipients based on need.

Anglers and Industry partners, we need your help to make this happen!

You may make donations via PayPal at www.affga.org  Please indicate RECONSTRUCTION FUND or HURRICANE RELIEF as the purpose.  Or you can mail checks made payable to Abaco Fly Fishing Guides Association to the following address:

Abaco Fly Fishing Guides Association

c/o GB Express Exports Inc.

610 SW 34th St. Suite 107

Fort Lauderdale, FL  33315

 

Your generous donations will be distributed by the Board of Directors of AFFGA based on the needs expressed by those affected with the intent of helping as many people as possible.  A full accounting of donations and expenditures will be made within three months.

 

AFFGA Board of Directors:

Justin Sands

Cindy Pinder

Buddy Pinder

Patrick Roberts

 

AFFGA Reconstruction Fund Advisory Board:

Mr. Gregory Bethel, Senior Economist, Department of Marine Resources

Mr. Benjamin Pratt, Senior Manager, Ministry of Tourism

Ms. Cheryl Bastian, Vice President, Bahamas Out Island Promotion Board

Rev. Felton Rolle, Owner, Salina Point Bonefish Lodge, Acklins

Mrs. Arnette Chisholm, Owner, Chester’s Highway Inn Bonefish Lodge, Acklins *

Mr. Nevin Knowles, Owner, Long Island Bonefish Lodge, Long Island *

Shavonne Davrville, Owner, Gems of Paradise, Long Island *                      * still trying to make contact to confirm participation

 

If you need further information, please contact Cindy Pinder at 561-202-8575 or via email skeeterone@coralwave.com.  LIKE US ON FACE BOOK – ABACO FLY FISHING GUIDES ASSOCIATION to keep up to date on progress.  Please spread the word throughout the fishing world as we need your help to rebuild the fly fishing industry in the Southern Bahamas.  Thank you!

 


04
Oct 15

Joaquin Recovery – How You Can Help

Joaquin was kind of a bastard for the Bahamas. Since it formed locally it was difficult to complete preparations. Then, the storm nearly stalled over Long, Crooked, Acklins, Rum Cay and San Sal and dumped buckets of rain (up to 25″) and unleashed raging winds of over 100 mph. There is a lot of devastation.

These people are going to need some help. These are people you likely have stayed with, fished with or eaten with if you visited these islands.

Here are some funds set up to help.

Hurricane Joaquin Relief – a Crowdrise site.

Elbow Cay Community Association Hurricane Relief Fund – from Indiegogo.

I’m looking at setting something up to help the guide/lodge community get their businesses back up, but the immediate need is food, water, shelter.

A list of efforts from The Tribune.