Providence Atoll – Indian Ocean

Providence Atoll – Indian Ocean: Providence was first explored by the South African based FlyCastaway team in 2004. This was the first documented fly fishing excursion to the destination and what they found has quickly become infamous. FlyCastaway immediately recognized they had “discovered” a gem: a remote and wild fishery that was practically untouched and home to some of the best Indian Ocean flats fishing. They ran six very successful seasons on the Atoll but we’re forced to halt all operations in 2009 due to the threat of piracy in the Indian Ocean. As of 2016, the piracy situation in the region was under control and FlyCastaway was able to resume operations on the atoll. Following an eye-opening reconnaissance trip to Providence in 2018 by WCA President Mike Dawes, WorldCast Anglers is beyond excited to be hosting trips to this wild, world class fishery!

Providence is one of the most southerly atoll’s in the Seychelles and contains two major landmasses: Cerf Island a the southernmost point and North Island at the northernmost point of the Atoll. The 40 kilometers between these two island is a mass of seemingly endless flas that are primarily comprised of turtle grass and white sand. These flats are hard bottomed, which makes wading and pursuing fish on foot ideal. This vast wilderness of flats has remained practically untouched by mankind. FlyCastaway estimates that less than a thousand people have visited Providence in the last century, which is amazing considering the health and reputation of the fishery.

On foot, anglers can pursue Giant Trevally, Triggerfish, Bumphead Parrotfish, Bonefish, Milkfish, Bohar Snapper, Bluefin Trevally, Indo-Pacific Permit, Great Barracuda, etc. Providence has developed a reputation as the premier, trophy Giant Trevally fishery of the world but it’s diversity of species is the cherry on top. You never know what your going to run into on the flat on any given day. Each day, anglers have the opportunity to fish the flats by foot or also pursue species in the bluewater that begins very close to the shore of the atoll. Fishing these waters with tenders, the common targeted species are Dogtooth Tuna, Giant Trevally, Barracuda, Wahoo, Yellowfin Tuna, Sailfish and the occasional Marlin. The combination of vast, endless flats and immediate access to blue water provides limitless potential to a 6 day trip. It would take a lifetime to fully fish this destination.

As if the fishery isn’t enticing enough, the cornerstone of the Providence experience are the world class FlyCastaway team and their excellent guide staff. Four of the most experienced and professional guides in the business will host the group for the week. FlyCastaway’s team of guides are widely respected as some of the most passionate guides and anglers in the world. They embody the term “fishy”, are excellent communicators and are obsessed with their fisheries and profession. Arguably one of the most enjoyable aspects of a FlyCastaway trip is spending time with the guide staff and absorbing their knowledge and unrelenting passion.

Each day, three anglers are paired with one FlyCastaway guide who utilizes a locally built Mahe style panga style boat to maneuver to and around the flats. Each night is spent on the Maya Dugong, a 150 foot expedition vessel that is manned by one of the most experienced crews in the region. The mothership can sleep 14 guests in 7 double cabins and has multiple large public, common areas and an air conditioned dining area for guests to relax and eat when not on the water.

Providence Atoll carries a profoundly excellent reputation in the saltwater fly fishing world. It is one of the most sought after destinations right now especially for anglers wishing to target Indian Ocean species in a remote, untouched ecosystem. This has been atop of list of international fishing destinations for WorldCast Anglers since it reopened in 2015 and the wait is finally over!