Fly Fishing GOK Cuba
Tarpon paradise
Gardens of the King, known locally as Jardines del Rey, is a vast and ecologically rich archipelago on Cuba’s north coast, offering some of the most untouched and productive saltwater fly fishing in the Caribbean. This pristine region is made up of a chain of barrier cays, including Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Romano, and Cayo Cruz, stretching along the northern coastline of Camagüey Province.
The region’s fly fishing zone encompasses 366 square kilometers of protected flats, lagoons, and estuaries, where commercial fishing is strictly prohibited. This conservation approach has preserved one of the cleanest and most biologically diverse marine ecosystems in the world—a rarity in a Caribbean region that has otherwise been subject to decades of overfishing. With over 50 square kilometers per skiff, anglers experience virtually untouched waters, making this one of the best places to target bonefish, permit, and tarpon in solitude.
The Fishing
The Gardens of the King fly fishing experience offers an untouched saltwater paradise—an expanse of pristine, fish-rich waters where impressive populations thrive with minimal angling pressure. This idyllic Caribbean setting, with its crystalline flats and sprawling mangroves, provides an unrivaled environment for world-class fly fishing.
Tarpon – The Ultimate Prize
What truly sets Gardens of the King apart is its exceptional tarpon fishery. With resident tarpon present year-round and migratory tarpon arriving from March to August, anglers have the chance to hook fish ranging from 10 to well over 100 pounds. Whether targeting juvenile tarpon in the backcountry channels or giant silver kings in open waters, this destination offers consistent opportunities to land one of saltwater fly fishing’s most sought-after species.
Bonefish – The Foundation of the Fishery
Bonefish here are abundant and consistently large, averaging around 4 pounds, with anglers frequently encountering fish in the 8 to 10-pound range. Schools of tailing bonefish glide across the shallows, appearing in singles, pairs, and massive groups numbering in the hundreds, making for incredible sight-fishing opportunities.
Permit – The Ultimate Challenge
Gardens of the King is also one of the few places in the world where anglers can reliably target permit every single day. These prized fish, ranging from 8 to over 30 pounds, are known for their elusive nature and heart-pounding runs. Their eager tailing behavior in shallow waters makes this an exceptional destination for sight casting to world-class permit. The combination of trophy bonefish, permit, and tarpon solidifies Gardens of the King as one of the most extraordinary fly fishing destinations on the planet.
The flats of Gardens of the King are varied in depth, creating ideal year-round conditions for bonefish, permit, and tarpon. With a mix of sandy bottoms, turtle grass, and coral patches, the ecosystem supports healthy fish populations throughout the seasons.
Tarpon fishing here is exceptional, with key locations offering shots at fish ranging from 30 to 100 pounds. Guides often reserve these spots for anglers chasing a Grand Slam after landing a permit. Beyond the flats’ marquee species, anglers can also target mutton snapper, snook, cubera snapper, jack crevalle, barracuda, and more, ensuring plenty of action.
Fishing takes place along expansive flats, mangrove shorelines, and winding channels near the main cays. The average boat ride to prime fishing areas is just 20 minutes, with some spots accessible in as little as 5 minutes from the dock. With over 50 square kilometers of water per skiff, anglers enjoy vast, lightly pressured waters teeming with life.
Your Guide to Gardens of the King
From travel logistics to seasonal fishing tips, we’ve curated all the essential details to make planning your Gardens of the King trip as smooth and exhilarating as the experience on the water.
The Gardens of the King Fishing Program
The skiffs depart from the marina each morning after a hearty breakfast, setting out for a day of world-class fishing in Gardens of the King. The region is divided into seven distinct sectors, which rotate regularly to ensure a fresh and productive experience for anglers. Depending on the guide rotation that day, you may be heading to any number of these prime fishing zones.
Stretching from Cayo Paredón Grande in the north to Cayo Guanaja in the south, this vast expanse is filled with islands, lagoons, and bays, creating an endless playground of pristine, fish-rich waters. Whether stalking the flats or exploring the backcountry, each day on the water presents new opportunities in one of Cuba’s most spectacular fly fishing destinations.
Fishing in Gardens of the King, Cuba, offers quick and easy access to some of the most productive flats in the Caribbean. In just 10 to 20 minutes from the marina, you’ll find yourself surrounded by vast turtlegrass flats, pristine sandbars, and winding mangrove channels—all teeming with life.
Whether you’re casting to schools of bonefish, scanning for tailing permit, or targeting tarpon in the channels, the short ride means more time fishing and less time traveling. With strict conservation regulations and minimal fishing pressure, this pristine fishery remains untouched and abundant, delivering an unforgettable fly fishing experience just minutes from where your day begins.
With its pristine flats, abundant fish, and expert guiding just minutes from the marina, Gardens of the King offers an unforgettable fly fishing adventure.
Fish Species Of Gardens of the King
Tarpon, Permit & Bonefish
Gardens of the King is a truly special destination, offering ideal habitat and world-class angling for trophy tarpon, permit, and bonefish. The region’s expansive flats, channels, and mangroves provide the perfect setting for anglers in search of hard-fighting migratory and resident tarpon.
During the tarpon migratory season (March to August), trophy tarpon exceeding 100 pounds flood the waters, providing multiple shots each day at these acrobatic and powerful fish. Even outside the migration, resident tarpon ranging from 10 to 80 pounds remain present year-round, ensuring consistent action for those targeting this species.
While tarpon take center stage, permit fishing in Gardens of the King is also outstanding, with strong numbers found in deeper flats and channels. Anglers can expect regular opportunities to target these elusive fish, making this one of the best destinations for a chance at a Grand Slam.
The bonefishing is equally spectacular, with large, aggressive bonefish patrolling the flats in impressive schools. These fish offer exciting sight-fishing opportunities and are known for their explosive runs across the shallow waters.
Beyond the sought-after tarpon, permit, and bonefish, Gardens of the King is home to a diverse range of species, including barracuda, snapper, jacks, and more, providing a well-rounded saltwater fly fishing experience. Whether you’re chasing giant tarpon or looking for a high-quality, remote fishery, Gardens of the King delivers some of the most rewarding fly fishing in the world.
Tarpon
Permit
Bonefish
Best Seasons For Fly Fishing Gardens of the King Cuba
Year Round Fishing oportunities
From January to March, as with most Caribbean destinations, there is a chance of cold fronts moving in from the northeast. However, Gardens of the King is well-protected, shielding many of the prime fishing areas from the effects of these weather shifts. Despite occasional fronts, fishing remains productive, especially for sizable bonefish, resident tarpon in the 20 to 30-pound range, and the ever-present permit.
April to June is widely considered the prime season, offering ideal weather conditions and the arrival of large migratory tarpon, alongside consistently strong opportunities for bonefish and permit.
While July and August bring warmer temperatures, the fishing remains as productive as in spring and early summer. From a pure angling perspective, this can be the best time of year, with an increase in permit numbers on the flats and ample prime shots at tailing permit throughout the day.
From September to December, the fishery enters another highly productive period, offering excellent opportunities for all species, making it a fantastic time for anglers to experience the diverse and thriving waters of Gardens of the King.
Blue Sanctuary
One of the primary reasons for the continued unspoiled and intact ecosystems found in Cuba is a result of conservation efforts implemented by Blue Sanctuary.
For over 27 years, conservation organizations have worked alongside partners in the Gardens of the King Archipelago, ensuring the long-term protection of this massive no-take marine preserve—one of the most pristine and ecologically significant areas in the Caribbean. The primary conservation focus is on research, management, and sustainable economic development related to what are considered some of the healthiest and most extensive coral reefs in the region.
Project Blue Sanctuary, in collaboration with the Cuban Center for Coastal Ecosystems and the Marine Research Center of Cuba, plays a vital role in studying the area’s natural resources, biodiversity, and ecological value. This forward-thinking initiative not only safeguards Gardens of the King’s fragile marine ecosystems but also serves as a global model for marine protected areas. The research conducted here advances our understanding of healthy coral reef ecosystems, offering critical insights that guide marine conservation efforts worldwide.
Beyond environmental preservation, this innovative conservation and education model is fostering deeper connections between Americans and Cubans. Former commercial fishermen and their families have transitioned into roles in diving and fly fishing operations, contributing to a sustainable, ecotourism-driven way of life. Through their work, they educate visiting anglers and ecotourists, creating a new generation of stewards dedicated to protecting this marine sanctuary for years to come.
Garden of the King Rates
2025 RATES
2025 Rates
Weekly Fishing Packages
(8 Nights, 7 Days w/ 6 Days Guided Fishing)
Standard Rates
Low Season
High Season
2026 RATES
2026 Rates
Weekly Fishing Packages
(8 Nights, 7 Days w/ 6 Days Guided Fishing)
Standard Rates
Low Season
High Season
What Is Included?
**Included**
- 7 Nights All Inclusive in Gardens of the King w/ *Double Occupancy Room at all inclusive resort, *double room base, full board
- 7 Day & Night All Inclusive in One Gallery Resort w/ Double Occupancy Room
- 6 Full Days Fishing w/ Double Occupancy Skiff
- Ground Transfer To/From Santa Clara Airport
- All Meals Daily
- Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic Beverages
**Not Included**
- International Flights to/from Santa Clara, Cuba
- Travel Visa
- Guide & Staff Gratuity
- $300 Conservation Fee per angler, per week
- Fishing Equipment & Flies
How to Get to Gardens of the King
Traveling to Gardens of the King (Jardines del Rey) is straightforward and seamless, with multiple options for arriving in Cuba.
Most travelers fly into Santa Clara Airport (SNU).
For those flying directly, there are regular flights from Miami (MIA) to Santa Clara (SNU) on American Airlines, typically departing midday. From Santa Clara, it’s approximately a 2.5-hour drive to the resort.
For groups or travelers arriving in Havana, private transfers can be arranged, with a scenic 5-hour drive offering an introduction to Cuba’s landscapes.
Once you arrive in Cuba, all travel logistics are taken care of, ensuring a smooth transition from the airport to your luxurious accommodations and, ultimately, to the incredible fly fishing waters of Gardens of the King.
Recommended Airports
Guests are advised to fly into Santa Clara Airport (SNU).
Note: If necessary, there are alternatives to getting there outside of Santa Clara but they involve additional flights and/or transfers.
Guests are met by a representative at the airport to coordinate the transfer to Gardens of the King (2.5 hours).
Gardens of the King Itinerary
Fishing Trip Itinerary
The fishing program typically runs from Friday to Saturday.
Friday:
Arrive in Miami early Friday morning or Thursday with an overnight in Miami. Flights to Camaguey, Cuba through American Airlines depart Miami around 12:45pm.
After arriving in Camaguey you will be greeted by our team with refreshments and cigars as soon as you walk out of the airport. We will then be transported by a fleet of our famed classic cars to our hotel in the heart of downtown.
After settling into our hotel we will head out to see the sights and have lunch in Camaguey.
At 6:30 we will head over to our venue for the Welcome Party. The party will end around 10:00-10:30 and everyone will head back to the hotel for the night. We can arrange for a night on the town with VIP services for those looking to check out the nightlife.
Saturday:
After breakfast at our hotel guests are led to do some shopping and some last sightseeing downtown.
Departure to Cayo Cruz is at 12pm which makes for a very relaxing and easy entry into Cuba.
After arriving in Cayo Cruz we settle in and unpack for the week. Lunch will be served shortly after we arrive and guests have all day to enjoy the pools, spa, refreshments and maybe a trip to the beach.
Orientation is around 5pm and dinner is at 7pm.
Sunday:
Breakfast is at 7am and the coffee bar is open 24 hours so we welcome guests to come down as early as they like.
At 7:45 we will head over to the Marina that is a short walk with all of our fishing equipment for the week. Your guide will put together all of your rods and rig them for the week. Your fishing luggage will be stored for the duration as well.
Fishing hours are roughly 8am-4pm every day. After arriving back to the marina after Day 1 you will take your personal items, flies and tackle back to your room. Your rods, reels and line will be cleaned with fresh water each night.
Happy hour drinks and appetizers are from 4pm-6pm. Dinner will be served at 7pm.
Monday:
Day 2 of fishing, 8am-4pm. Happy hour drinks and appetizers are from 4pm-6pm. Dinner will be served at 7pm.
Bowling is a popular option on Monday night but guests are more than welcome to do whatever they like of course. The boutique hotel is all ours for the week.
Tuesday:
Day 3 of fishing, 8am-4pm. Happy hour drinks and appetizers are from 4pm-6pm. Dinner will be served at 7pm.
Cigar Presentation and Pairing with Cuban rum, coffee and chocolate. All cigars during the pairing are included in the package. The presentation is not something to miss and additional cigars are available for purchase.
Wednesday:
Day 4 of fishing, 8am-4pm. Happy hour drinks and appetizers are from 4pm-6pm. Dinner will be served at 7pm.
Thursday:
Day 5 of fishing, 8am-4pm. Happy hour drinks and appetizers are from 4pm-6pm. Dinner will be served at 7pm.
Friday:
Day 6 and your final day of fishing, 8am-4pm. After fishing your guide will clean all of your equipment with fresh water and help you pack everything in your preferred luggage for travel home the next day.
Happy hour drinks and appetizers are from 4pm-6pm. Dinner will be served at 7pm.
After dinner and some closing stories of the weeks events, we have a Cuban themed party with a local band for our final night in Cuba.
Saturday:
Breakfast from 7am-9am.
Transportation to the Camaguey airport is at 10am. After arriving to the airport you will check in and relax while you await your plane.
Give yourself plenty of time for your connection in Miami because you will go through customs in Miami for the last time before your flight home.
Pre Trip & Travel Requirements
Travel Details
Transportation: We take care of all of the travel once you arrive in Cuba, so there is nothing for you to worry about beyond getting to the closest airport.
Travel Requirements: Beyond your passport there are a few documents that need to be prepared prior to your arrival in Cuba. Please use the link below to start the process with our step by step guide.
Accommodations
The One Gallery Resort
Nestled in the breathtaking surroundings of Cayo Santa María, Cuba, The One Gallery Resort is a 5-star luxury retreat offering an unparalleled escape in the heart of Gardens of the King. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand beaches, this resort is designed to blend seamlessly with the lush natural beauty of the region, creating an idyllic tropical sanctuary.
Guests at The One Gallery Resort can enjoy ocean-view accommodations, exquisite dining experiences, and a wide range of water activities, from snorkeling and paddleboarding to swimming in the resort’s stunning pools. For those seeking pure relaxation, lounging on the beach under the Caribbean sun offers the perfect way to unwind.
Hotel Rooms
The spacious, air-conditioned rooms at The One Gallery Resort provide a comfortable retreat after a day on the flats, complete with modern amenities and private en-suite bathrooms. Each room features a balcony or terrace, allowing guests to soak in serene garden views or stunning ocean vistas. Whether staying in a Deluxe Room, Deluxe Ocean View Room, or Deluxe Junior Suite, guests will enjoy satellite TV, a minibar, a coffee maker, a safety deposit box, and complimentary internet access for added convenience.
This accommodation strikes the perfect balance between remoteness and connectivity, fostering a true “lodge atmosphere” for fly anglers. While the resort is immersed in a pristine and secluded natural environment, unlimited wireless internet access is available in the main lodge, ensuring guests can stay connected and share their experiences throughout their stay.
Dining
At The One Gallery Resort, guests enjoy a diverse culinary experience with a variety of buffet, à la carte, and snack bar options, ensuring a satisfying meal at any time of day.
Each morning, start your day with a hearty breakfast at the resort’s buffet restaurants, featuring an array of fresh fruits, eggs, meats, cheeses, cereals, juices, and traditional Cuban coffee—the perfect fuel for a day on the water.
For lunch, guests can choose from buffet-style offerings or grab a bite at one of the resort’s casual snack bars serving grilled specialties, fresh seafood, and light fare. Anglers heading out for the day can enjoy a packed lunch with fresh breads, meats, cheeses, and fruits, ensuring they stay energized while fishing.
Dinner at The One Gallery Resort is an exceptional experience, with three distinct à la carte restaurants offering a rotation of flavors and cuisines. Depending on the night, guests may indulge in:
Freshly caught seafood specialties at Harbour Sea and Salt, Authentic Cuban cuisine, including roasted meats, rice and beans, and fried plantains at El Criollo, International and fusion dishes, from Mediterranean-inspired creations to Asian specialties, at Las Llamas and El Asiático.
In addition to its fine dining options, the resort offers several bars and lounges, including a beachside bar, a pool bar, a 24-hour lobby bar, and a cigar lounge, where guests can unwind with Cuba’s finest cigars and expertly crafted cocktails.
With its exceptional dining variety, immersive cultural flavors, and a mix of casual and fine dining venues, The One Gallery Resort provides the perfect culinary complement to a world-class fly fishing adventure in Gardens of the King.
Amenities
The One Gallery Resort offers a luxurious and relaxing retreat after a day on the flats, with a wide array of amenities designed to keep guests entertained and rejuvenated. Cool off in two sparkling swimming pools, the perfect oasis to unwind after a day on the water. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, indulge in a soothing massage to loosen up your shoulders for another exciting day of fishing.
If you’re up for a little friendly competition, the resort features basketball and tennis courts, beach volleyball, table tennis, and foosball, ensuring plenty of opportunities for fun. For those looking to fully immerse in Cuban culture, the resort’s bars offer a selection of Cuba’s finest cigars, best enjoyed alongside a handcrafted cocktail.
Beyond its spectacular setting, The One Gallery Resort also features a unique artistic and cultural program, enhancing the guest experience with live entertainment, creative exhibitions, and immersive performances. With its combination of luxury, nature, and engaging activities, the resort provides the perfect home base for anglers and travelers looking to experience the wonders of Gardens of the King.
Gardens of the King Cuba Fly Fishing Photo Gallery
