Fly Fishing Blog by Alphonse Fishing Co™

ASTOVE ATOLL FLY FISHING REPORT |  24 MAR – 31 MAR 2025

Starting off week nine, Astove greeted us with promising conditions, clear blue skies, spring tides and gentle southeasterly breeze, creating the perfect conditions for anglers to maximise their efforts and catch their dream fish. Joining us this week was a group of four Norwegian anglers eager to test their skills in the world of saltwater fly fishing. Two of the group members, Burge and Christian, were experiencing their first tropical saltwater adventure.

On day one, the group set out with guides Sean and Donovan, who expertly led them through the waters. By mid-morning, the group had already landed a total of 50 bonefish, with Burge catching his very first GT on fly—an exciting start to the trip. Day two saw the team heading out again in pursuit of more prized catches. While the fishing was slower, they still managed to land a bonefish measuring over 60 cm in the surf. Standing out as angler of the day Peter caught his first permit of the week, a true milestone for any angler.

Day three brought a challenge, as the team struggled to find their rhythm amidst some trying conditions. However, their perseverance paid off, and Peter added another permit to his list by the end of the day. By day four, spirits remained high as Johan and Peter ventured into the surf with guide Bertrand. Both anglers managed to land impressive 60+ cm bonefish, and Johan broke his long-standing triggerfish curse by catching his first moustache triggerfish at 40 cm. The day ended with a collective total of 12 bonefish, keeping the team in good spirits.

Day five started strong as the team carried the momentum from their recent triggerfish success. Johan, having now developed a knack for catching them, added a 42 cm triggerfish to his tally. Later, Johan and Peter spent the afternoon at a well-known GT hideout, hoping for a shot at one of these elusive fish. While the fish didn’t materialise, it was an exhilarating end to the day nonetheless.

On day six, the pressure was on for the team. Johan and Christian, paired with guide Bertrand, ventured into an area known as “The Grounds.” After plenty of running around, both anglers managed to land larger-than-average bonefish in the surf. Then, Christian hooked his very first triggerfish, measuring 36 cm. A short walk later, and Johan found himself face-to-face with what was to be the biggest triggerfish of the week. With perfect presentation, the fish took the fly without hesitation, charging at it and making a long, spirited run through the coral heads of the atoll. After an exhilarating battle, Johan finally brought the fish to the net, measuring an impressive 48 cm.

Overall, week nine offered better conditions than previous weeks, with far less rain and only a little wind to contend with. Both anglers and guides made the most of the favorable weather, capitalizing on the spring tides. While the GTs were sluggish and not as active on the flats as hoped, the team found great joy in the triggerfish, proving to be an exciting and rewarding challenge in the clear blue waters of Astove.

Tight lines, Blue Safari Fly Fishing

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