COMBO CULTURAL/FISHING TRIP REPORT
Touring Plaza Vieja in old Havana
Well, in three short words, IT WAS GREAT! This was the first ever trip we had booked that stepped a bit outside of the fishing only box, and added in several days of visiting sights in and around Havana, as well as outside of the town of Playa Larga where we were based for our fishing. Joining me were two college buddies, a husband and wife, as well as a father and son.
Part of what made this a great trip was that all people on the trip were easy to deal with, and went with the flow. As a host, nothing could be better, and makes the job much easier. In Havana, our local Cuban guide Alfredo organized several days of sightseeing, and everything went without a hitch. We had great food, heard great music, toured a cigar factory, drove the town in vintage cars, saw Hemingway's ranch outside of town, and much more. Alfredo was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and truly had everything dialed in for us.
The beach right in front of our quaint casa
After Havana, we traveled southeast a few hours to the small beach town of Playa Larga, at the very end of the famous Bay of Pigs. We had opted for accommodations at a private Cuban house, and that was a great call. The family took care of us, and every night after a long day of fishing we had the beach in front of us for a quick swim, and cocktails while watching the sunset. Our organizer in Playa Larga was Alex, who equaled Alfredo in his skills. Again, he was perfectly organized, and we went to different small restaurants after fishing each night that would never have been found without a local's knowledge.
We fished four days around Playa Larga. The first was on the Rio Hatiguanico. Famous for Tarpon, the river also has Snook, Snapper and Jacks that are sometimes in feeding frenzies. We also fished three days on the saltwater flats of Las Salinas. Overall, our fishing was a bit slower than average, largely due to strong winds that made some areas hard to access, while other places had water that was somewhat stirred up by the wind. That said, we landed Tarpon, Bonefish, Jacks, Snapper, and one lovely Permit.
I am so pleased with how this trip turned out. As I said, our group was great, but the staff setting this up, and the staff in Cuba was incredible. Thanks to Alfredo in Havana, and Alex in Playa Larga for all their hard work, and in going the extra mile to make this a truly memorable trip. If this the kind of trip that would interest you, please reach out. Some new dates to be set soon, but custom dates and itineraries can be accommodated for groups of 5 or bigger.
We were surprised by a pig roast in our honor after coming off the skiffs our last day. Here we are with staff, guides, and a few other guests.