Friday, October 16, 2009

Orvis ProAm Bonefish Classic, Grand Bahama Island






GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND - -It's funny who you can meet whilst enjoying the nightlife here in Grand Bahama.
I was at Funky Friday held at Sabor Restuarant & Bar last night and got talking to two gentlemen. Oddly enough, they were both called Jason.
They then proceeded to educate me on the art of fly fishing & conservation of marine life as it generates millions of dollars in income for the Islands of the Bahamas, and especially Grand Bahama, where it seems we have some of the best fly fishing in the world.






Jason Elkins, a pro fly fisherman who angles bonefish works with a company called Orvis and they are hosting a workshop here in Grand Bahama starting Monday 19th October, 2009.


As part of the four-year partnership with The Orvis Company, The Islands Of The Bahamas will host the second annual Bahamas Orvis Pro-Am Bonefish Classic from Oct. 21-24 on Grand Bahama Island. Anglers of all skill levels will participate in research, educational seminars, guided flats fishing and special events with local guides and professional fly anglers.







Proceeds from the Pro-Am will support Bonefish & Tarpon Trust in conducting valuable research and educational programs, ensuring that bonefish will be plentiful throughout The Bahamas flats for years to come. Research will include collecting fin clippings for genetic analysis and tagging fish to learn more about life cycles and migration patterns. Participating anglers will work closely with Aaron J. Adams, Ph.D., Director of Operations and Research, Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, to collect the research.







“Research shows that tagging is one of the best ways to gain understanding of the bonefish’s movement and growth patterns,” said Jason Elkins, fly fishing travel manager, The Orvis Company. “We’re looking forward to involving anglers of all skill levels in this impactful effort in a world renowned bonefishing destination - The Bahamas.”

“It’s no secret The Islands Of The Bahamas are the premiere destination for saltwater fly fishing, and our longstanding partnership with Orvis reflects our dedication to both the sport and to the conservation of our fisheries,” said Vernice Walkine, director-general of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism. “The Bahamas Orvis Pro-Am Bonefish Classic provides saltwater fly-fishing enthusiasts an opportunity to catch and release our bountiful bonefish, conduct valuable research and experience Grand Bahama Island in a unique setting.”

for more information Click HERE