The weather is turning warm, which means a fishing trip is in order. A Bahamas fishing vacation is a blast for you and the family.

The Islands of the Bahamas have been associated with travel and vacation in the American mindset for many years now. It is an independent and English speaking country that consists of over 2000 small islands and keys located in the Atlantic Ocean east of the United States and north of Cuba. The mention of the name Bahamas usually conjures up images of sun drenched beaches where bikini clad women stroll over pure white sands while crystal clear or brilliant blue water laps on the shore in gentle waves.

However, for the fisherman, the word has a different image. It conjures up an image of a Bahamas fishing vacation usually consisting of a quest for one of the most elusive and exciting game fish in the world, the bonefish. Although deep sea fishing is also popular here, fly fishing for the bonefish is almost the national sport. Two bonefish can even be found swimming around on the surface of the Bahamian ten cent coin.

It is hard to pin down just why fishing for the bonefish is almost a vision quest for so many fishermen. The fish, which is a close relative of the tarpon, does not grow to monster size. The largest recorded specimen of the species weighed in at just over 16 pounds. The average size ranges between three and five pounds. It is a fighter though and that is certainly part of the attraction, but most fishermen will argue that pound for pound, it puts up no better fight than many other game fish.

It may very well be the setting that makes the difference. Bone fish like shallow waters. They come in from deeper water to the shallows around the Islands to feed. The normal way to catch them in the Bahamas is to go out on a small skiff between the keys and catch them with a fly. The clear shallow water and the coloration on the fish gives a visual thrill as the fish can be clearly seen as they knife through the water and engulf the fly.

The blue skies, the clear blue water, and the warm tropical climate are all part of the Bahamas fishing vacation. It is an experience that is never forgotten. Almost all of the beach resorts will be able to make arrangements for guides that can take you to the bonefish feeding grounds. This is one of the few places where you can leave the wife behind to go fishing and not expect to hear a single complaint.

Nomad Fishing Journals make great gifts for dad and you can get them at NomadJournals.com.