I recently traveled to Kiritimati Island for work and was interested in observing the fishery given the continued deterioration of the lagoon's water quality as the population increases (planning objective of the Kiribati Govt and Line Islands Council).
I was impressed with the bonefish population and fishery management. Clearly, the $1,000 AUD fine and the threat of deportation for non-I-Kiribati is effective. The fish populations seem strong but probably should be studied given the changes underway on the island.
I did get out for my first ever bonefish, albeit, under equipped and with only half a day. Guide set-up was good (through The Villages) and I caught at least a doz bones and missed a 50-60lb GT (probably best). Lessons for me (stupid novice):
- Take a greater range of flies including weights (mine were mostly too heavy)
- Be ready to fish shallow
- Take purpose made footwear (novice mistake)
- Accuracy with the 13wgt declines quickly so a lighter/2nd rod is important (13wght purchased for FYT, GTs and sails)
- Practice accuracy before traveling
- Taking a guide, at least to begin with i.e. 2-3 days, is important otherwise too many false positives (milkfish).
Other comments:
- Many fisher-folk spend their entire time on the island fishing and don't leave the accommodation when on land. This is their choice but having spent 3 years working almost full-time in Kiribati I would say that they are missing out on getting to know arguably the nicest people in the world (IMO). Kiribati people are unique culturally and socially and there's a lot to learn from them that you won't experience in the motel/hotel nor with a guide on the flats. You have to invest the time outside the accommodation to experience this. Your choice though, of course.
- The Villages: community run and profits used to benefit the community. Excellent accommodation, food, and fishn' operation. I was less impressed with the cultural dancing. Mainly Polynesian and not I-Kiribati. I-Kiribati dance is one of the most intricate in the world where they tell more detailed stories and legends with their hands than Polynesian dance. Integrating more sexualized Polynesian-style dance (with 8 -14 yr olds) to appeal for donations means the fisher-folk are missing out the unique and interesting I-Kiribati dance. Feedback to guiding operations on this would be worthwhile, and I'm sure the same level of donations would be achieved.
Final comment: I'm not hooked on bonefishing (yet) but would do it again (maybe half a day at a time). Popper fishn' for GTs, now that's another thing altogether. Next trip to the Line Islands: I holiday in Taburean Island in 2-3 years time - my flight was canceled this work trip.
Anyway, I hope at least a few find the above interesting.
Andrew