On Tue, 21 Nov 2006 22:40:36 -0000, "Andy Lawson"
wrote:

Hi Guys,

I'm hopefully going for a holiday around next April or May to Cuba and the
Cayos region.

That might not be the best choice. I'd guess that economics plays into
this decision, and depending on when Castro (Fidel) dies, things might
not be as good a deal. I don't see any indications that tourist safety
will be much of an issue, but things are likely to be a bit, um,
unpredictable when he dies and for several months afterward. The short
answer is that I'd offer that the Bahamas and/or Florida Keys might make
a more certain prospect even if hindsight indicates it wasn't the
least-expensive. This is a case where a guide, or at least a boat and
operator, isn't necessary, but perhaps worth considering if time is
short.

I'm a reasonable fly fisherman for Trout on river & lake but I've not done
any fly fishing for Bone Fish or Permit before, so I'd welcome any
recommendations on web pages, good books, DVD's etc. which will help me
research before hand.

I've been talking to my local Orvis shop on tackle, flies, etc but any
advice from the group Bone fisher people as to tactics etc would be really
appreciated as well.

If you don't already have a salt-suitable setup, I'd recommend a good
used Billy Pate reel (with some basic spare parts pre-purchased) and any
decent 9ish weight rod that happens to strike your fancy (and budget).
If the budget allows, a brace might make a good investment, and if it is
a "once in a lifetime" trip, one or both sold off after the adventure.

Thanks in advance,

You're welcome,
R