Grand Slam Paradise
Cuba
Why book a Cuba fly fishing trip? With its untouched flats, abundant grand slam species, and remote waters only accessible by liveaboard, Cuba delivers one of the most epic and authentic bucket list experiences in the world of saltwater fly fishing.
Accommodation
Live-aboard Yacht
Season
February – December
Species
Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit
Style
Fly-fishing
THE CARIBBEAN'S BEST GRAND SLAM DESTINATION
Highlights:
- Fish remote, protected waters with virtually no angling pressure, thanks to Cuba’s extensive marine conservation zones that limit commercial activity and preserve natural habitats.
- Target bonefish, permit, and tarpon in the same day on expansive flats and mangrove-lined channels, offering some of the best chances at a grand slam anywhere in the Caribbean.
- Stay aboard comfortable, fully staffed liveaboards anchored right on the doorstep of prime fishing grounds, eliminating long commutes and maximizing your time on the water.
- Experience a truly wild and scenic Caribbean fishery, where healthy ecosystems, vibrant marine life, and stunning island landscapes combine to create a once-in-a-lifetime fly fishing adventure.
PACKAGES starting from
$5,250 per angler
- Seven nights live-aboard accommodation.
- Six full days guided fishing.
- All-inclusive – three meals per day on yacht.
- Full bar tab & all-inclusive drinks while aboard.
Fly fishing in Cuba offers one of the most pristine saltwater flats experiences anywhere in the Caribbean. The country’s marine conservation efforts have created vast sanctuaries where commercial fishing is restricted, resulting in healthy, thriving populations of game fish. Shallow flats stretch for miles, surrounded by mangrove-lined channels, turtle grass beds, and coral-fringed cays. These areas are prime habitat for all three species of the grand slam—bonefish, permit, and tarpon—which anglers can often target in a single day. The water clarity is exceptional, and the low fishing pressure means fish are less spooky and more likely to take a well-presented fly.
Bonefish are found in good numbers, often tailing in just inches of water, and average around 3 to 5 pounds, though larger fish are not uncommon. Permit, the most elusive of the trio, cruise the edges of flats and channel mouths, offering challenging but rewarding opportunities for skilled anglers. Perhaps most impressive is the tarpon fishing, especially during the peak migration from late spring through early summer, when silver kings ranging from 30 to over 100 pounds move through the protected channels and lagoons. Year-round, juvenile tarpon populations thrive in the mangrove creeks. With its remote locations, diverse habitats, and strong fish stocks, Cuba delivers a fly fishing experience that still feels wild, untouched, and genuinely world-class.
Anglers will stay onboard a 6-16 person live-aboard yacht depending on group size and desired location and budget.
The liveaboard yachts in Cuba’s prime fly fishing zones offer anglers a unique way to access remote, untouched waters without sacrificing comfort. These floating lodges are custom-outfitted yachts that serve as mobile fishing bases, allowing guests to stay directly in the heart of the fishing grounds. Anchored in protected channels or quiet lagoons, the vessels eliminate the need for long daily commutes and provide first-light access to the flats. Rooms are typically air-conditioned, with private bathrooms and hot water, and the staff-to-guest ratio is high, ensuring personalized service throughout the trip.
Meals aboard are a highlight, with freshly prepared Cuban cuisine, local seafood, and international dishes served in a relaxed communal dining setting. After a long day on the water, anglers can unwind with drinks on deck, review the day’s catches, or simply take in the sunset over the mangroves. The liveaboard setup isn’t just about luxury—it’s about maximizing time on the water and creating an immersive experience in Cuba’s most protected and productive fisheries. For those serious about chasing the grand slam in a truly wild setting, this is as close to a fly fishing expedition as you can get, without roughing it.
Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, located just 90 miles south of Florida, and surrounded by some of the region’s most diverse and fertile saltwater ecosystems.
Traveling to Cuba for a fly fishing trip is surprisingly straightforward. Most trips begin with arrival in Havana or Cayo Coco, depending on the fishing zone. From there, anglers are transferred by domestic flight or private ground transport to the marina where the liveaboard departs.
Despite the longstanding embargo, Americans can legally travel to Cuba under the “Support for the Cuban People” category, which applies to most fishing itineraries. We documentation and ensure compliance with U.S. regulations, removing any guesswork or concern.
Direct international flights to Havana operate regularly from cities such as Miami, New York, Atlanta, and Houston in the U.S.; Toronto and Montreal in Canada; and Madrid, Paris, Frankfurt, and London in Europe.
- Day 1: Arrive in Cuba and transfer to the liveaboard vessel, usually departing from a nearby marina. After settling into your cabin, enjoy a welcome briefing and dinner as the boat cruises toward the first fishing grounds.
- Days 2 to 6: Spend full days on the water guided by experienced captains and mates. You’ll fish a variety of habitats including shallow flats, mangrove-lined channels, and deeper lagoons. The focus is on chasing the grand slam species—bonefish, permit, and tarpon—with opportunities for both sight fishing and stealthy presentations. Lunch is served onboard or packed for the flats, with breaks for rest and occasional night fishing sessions. Evenings include fresh meals, daily catch recaps, and time to relax under the stars.
- Day 7: Head back to the marina. After docking, you’ll be transferred to the airport or your next destination, ending the trip with memories of some of the Caribbean’s most untouched fly fishing waters.
Rates per angler: Rates vary by yacht, low/high season and group size. Please get in touch for a quote.
Options range from intimate 6-person yachts to luxury 16-person yachts. Prices range between $5,250 and $10,960 per angler.
Land-based, all-inclusive hotel options are also available. Please get in touch with us.
What’s Included:
- Meet-and-greet reception upon arrival at airport
- Land and water transfers to/from yacht
- Seven (7) nights accommodations on live-aboard yacht
- Three meals per day (all-inclusive meal service)
- Six (6) full days of guided fishing (two anglers per skiff)
- Full bar tab and all-inclusive drinks while aboard
- Taxes and GSTs
What’s Not Included:
- International flights to Cuba
- Entry Visa for Cuba
- Fishing tackle, equipment, flies, and all terminal tackle
- Gratuities for guides and staff
- Conservation Fee ($300)
- Travel insurance
GALLERY
Frequently Asked Questions:
What species can I target on a Cuba fly fishing trip?
Cuba is world-renowned for its saltwater flats, where anglers can target bonefish, permit, and tarpon—the “Grand Slam” of flats fishing. Bonefish are abundant year-round, permit are challenging but rewarding, and tarpon migrate through in larger numbers between April and August. You’ll also encounter barracuda, snapper, and jack crevalle for variety.
When is the best season for fly fishing in Cuba?
The prime season is typically from November through June, when weather conditions are stable, winds are lighter, and fish are more active on the flats. Tarpon enthusiasts often prefer April to August for peak migratory runs, while bonefish and permit are consistent targets almost all year.
Where are the top fly fishing destinations in Cuba?
The most famous spots include Cayo Largo, Jardines de la Reina, Isla de la Juventud, and Cayo Cruz. These areas are protected marine parks and exclusive fisheries, ensuring healthy populations and limited angling pressure. Each destination offers a slightly different mix of species and environments, from pristine coral flats to mangrove-lined lagoons.












