Las Salinas is a target rich environment. What makes this flats fishery special in the world of saltwater fly fishing is its vast expanse of wadable flats, similar to what we found on Los Roques, Venezuela over 30 years ago. The flats of Las Salinas are characterized by a mix of shallow sand and turtle grass, with 8 slightly deeper channels, known as “Las Bocas”, running through the mangroves. This variety of water creates prime habitat for both bonefish and permit year-round, ensuring excellent numbers of fish regardless of the season.
The bonefishing here is outstanding, with large, aggressive fish patrolling the flats in excellent numbers. Beyond the renowned bonefish, permit, and tarpon, Las Salinas also offers exciting opportunities to target barracuda, snapper, jack crevalle, snook, and more. The variety of species and lightly pressured waters make this fishery a true paradise for saltwater fly anglers.
Bonefish thrive in this habitat, averaging 3 to 5 pounds, with larger specimens in the 8 to 10-pound range making frequent appearances throughout the week. Tailing bonefish are a common sight, whether in singles, pairs, or large, foraging schools cruising the shallows.
What sets Las Salinas apart is the remarkable opportunity to target resident permit in the lagoon consistently, a dream for dedicated saltwater anglers. When the tides are high you will find more Permit on the interior and Oceanside flats. This fishery provides an ideal combination of good sized bonefish and daily encounters with permit, making it a true hot spot for fly fishing enthusiasts. Permit here range from 8 to 30+ pounds, and the shallow, protected waters of the Zapata Peninsula create the perfect conditions for spotting and presenting flies to these elusive fish. For anglers seeking the ultimate challenge of catching a permit on the fly, Las Salinas stands out as one of the top destinations in the world.
Tarpon fishing in Las Salinas is another major highlight, with juvenile tarpon holding in the mangrove-lined channels and larger migratory fish appearing in greater numbers during peak season. Anglers have a strong chance of targeting tarpon ranging from 30 to over 100 pounds, and guides often save these spots for anglers looking to complete a Grand Slam. In addition to bonefish, permit, and tarpon, other prized species include snook, mutton snapper, jack crevalle, cubera snapper, barracuda, and more...
The fishing grounds extend throughout the Bay of Pigs and the nearby protected waters of the Zapata Peninsula, offering an incredible range of flats and back-country fishing. The average boat run to prime fishing areas is about 15 - 25 minutes, though in some cases, fish can be spotted within minutes of leaving the dock. With vast, lightly pressured waters to explore, the experience at Las Salinas is as diverse as it is exhilarating, offering endless opportunities for saltwater anglers.
Las Salinas Typical Fishing Day:
• 6:00 AM: Breakfast & Coffee is served
• 7:00 AM Departure to Fishing (45 minute drive through the Ciénaga de Zapata National Park)
• 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Full day of fishing, lunch on the fly
• 4:00 PM Back to the marina
• 4:15 PM Departure to Lodge (45 minute drive through the Ciénaga de Zapata National Park)
• 5:00 – 7:00 PM Happy Hour – cocktails and appetizers available
• 7:00 PM: Dinner is served
The Fly Fishing Guides of Las Salinas:
The guides at Las Salinas bring decades of experience to the water, having led anglers from around the world through the flats, lagoons, and mangrove channels of the Zapata Peninsula. Many of them were born and raised in this region, with deep knowledge passed down through generations. Their backgrounds often include work as former commercial fishermen, giving them an intimate understanding of fish behavior, tides, and the complex ecosystem that makes this area so special.
Fluent in English and Spanish, these guides are not only experts in the craft of fly fishing but also passionate ambassadors of Cuban culture and conservation. Their commitment to client success and satisfaction is second to none, and they take pride in sharing the history, stories, and techniques that make this fishery unique. Whether you’re pursuing bonefish, permit, or tarpon, their skill, patience, and dedication will ensure an unforgettable experience on the water.
