Part One,

We got the opportunity to arrange a bespoke trip for one of our clients from New Zealand. Our client asked for a fly-fishing & popping trip to Fiji.

Our journey began on the beautiful Coral coast of Fiji, where the turquoise waters held the promise of exciting catches. The initial week was a challenge, as we had to navigate the unfamiliar territory and deal with the ever-changing tides. But for us, these challenges were all part of the process, and we embraced them with enthusiasm.

As we gradually figured out the areas, we slowly started to land some fish. We managed a good few bluefin trevally, GT, wrasse species, barracuda, and grouper and even had a shot at parrot fish, although they proved elusive.’

The experience was incredibly rewarding, and there’s something magical about deciphering the patterns that keep drawing us back to the water.

Part two,

The popping part of the trip was what we looked forward to the most. We were based on a small island on the south side of Fiji living with the locals and experiencing the rich culture to the full extent. This was my highlight of the trip, as we discovered the genuine kindness of the local people and their deep connection to the ocean, which they’re determined to preserve for future generations.

We focused on the local reefs in the area and they proved to be very productive with loads of GT around the 15kg mark and the Bohar Snappers were in abundance. They absolutely could not leave a pencil popper behind. The GTs were tuned in on the slower and louder sound of a popper.

We decided to bite the bullet and go further out to get to what seemed like untouched reefs. The GTs were definitely bigger and more aggressive. Delivering an adrenaline rush that any angler would cherish. We even had a surface doggy bite. The speed that the fish took off left me in awe and that was definitely one of the species we were targeting.

One remarkable day, we stumbled upon a massive school of Mahi Mahi, keeping us busy for a significant part of the day. We decided to try our luck with fly rods and managed to land a couple each—an unforgettable experience that every angler should try at least once.

Our meals consisted of freshly caught fish and local starch, but the final night was extra special, as we were treated to the full Fijian experience, starting with some Cava.

Leaving the small island was bittersweet, as our experience had been incredibly enjoyable. However, we couldn’t contain our excitement for the next leg of our journey: Christmas Island, Kiribati.

Part three,

Upon arriving on Christmas Island (CXI), we were met with a challenging situation: our equipment had arrived, but our rods were missing. It was a tough blow, but the gracious assistance of Jiji Airways staff helped us locate and retrieve our rods.

Our first day at CXI was spent fishing right in front of the lodge, where we had an absolute blast with bonefish. At one point, while we were reeling in a bonefish, a massive GT made a surprise appearance, startling both us and the fish. We managed to hook more than 15 tailing bones during that session alone.

The following day was pure excitement, with eight GTs caught in one session. The fish seemed to linger in the area for an extended period, a sight none of us had ever witnessed before. Each passing day brought us opportunities to encounter XL GTs on the flats, but spotting them was the real challenge, especially with the overcast weather obscuring our vision.

Trigger fishing provided a different thrill altogether. Deciphering each fish’s mood was like solving a complex equation, but once you cracked it, the reward was worth every second of effort. Bones and bluefin trevally were abundant, and once you knew where to look, connecting with them became second nature.

Conclusion,

For a South African angler, the journey to these remote fishing paradises may be tough, but combining a popping trip in Fiji with a week of fly fishing on Christmas Island is a recipe for

ultimate angler’s satisfaction. From the challenges of exploring new waters to the thrill of landing incredible catches, this journey left us as happy and fulfilled fishermen, forever grateful for the memories we made along the way.