Located on the northeast shore of the eastern province of Cuba, Cayo Romano (formerly Cayo Cruz) Lodge offers a huge variety of salt water fly fishing. This newly formed fishery is surrounded by a marine park and offers an enormous and expansive system of flats, lagoons and pristine estuaries. Virtually untouched, this fishing location represents one of the cleanest and most biologically diverse ecosystems providing opportunities for catching bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, and barracuda. The flats are an inviting combination of hard packed white sand and a semi-firm mottled bottom great for wade fishing. Spend the day wading or boat fishing the flats and then return to the  hotel for some rest and relaxation.

Cayo Romano: The Premier Destination for Permit and Bonefish

Cayo Romano stands out among Cuba’s myriad fishing locations, offering unparalleled opportunities for permit and bonefishing. Its expansive white sand flats create the perfect environment for these sought-after species, providing anglers with exceptional sight-casting chances.

Fishing Highlights

• Bonefish: Target both solitary fish and large schools. The bonefish here average 4-5 lbs, with some reaching up to 8 lbs. Cuban bonefish are notably larger and more aggressive compared to those found in other Caribbean locales.
• Permit: Encountering permit is a daily norm at Cayo Romano. With patience and focus, you’ll have opportunities to land these prestigious flats species. Keep an eye out for nervous water and, importantly, never overlook stingrays—permit often hover near them, making them a prime spot for a successful cast.

Cayo Romano offers more than just fishing; it provides a luxurious retreat that caters to both anglers and non-anglers. The accommodations include:

• Four-Star Hotel: Newly built and ideally located close to the flats.
• Dining Options: Multiple restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
• Relaxation and Wellness: Open bar areas, a gym, and a spa with massage services.
• Recreation: Enjoy the beachfront ocean or multiple swimming pools after a day on the water.
• Entertainment: Evening local acts and shows to immerse you in Cuban culture.
• Connectivity: Internet service is readily available.

Whether you’re focused on fishing or seeking a relaxing getaway, Cayo Romano ensures a top-tier experience for all guests.

Accommodations

The accommodations at Cayo Romano are perfect for both anglers and non-anglers. Guests stay at a luxurious beach resort conveniently located just across the road from the boat launch. The newly built hotel features clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned rooms, along with both outdoor and indoor gathering areas. Multiple bars add to the appeal, making this resort an ideal base for your fishing adventure and a relaxing retreat for everyone.

For those not inclined to fish, the resort offers plenty of ways to unwind. Enjoy the pristine white sand beaches or take a dip in one of the resort’s many inviting swimming pools. After a day on the water, you can relax at one of the full-service beverage bars or savor delicious local Cuban cuisine.

• Four-Star Hotel: Newly built and ideally located close to the flats.
• Dining Options: Multiple restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
• Relaxation and Wellness: Open bar areas, a gym, and a spa with massage services.
• Recreation: Enjoy the beachfront ocean or multiple swimming pools after a day on the water.
• Entertainment: Evening local acts and shows to immerse you in Cuban culture.
• Connectivity: Internet service is readily available.

Cuisine

The dining room is located on the first floor and it typically produces a variety of traditional Cuban food, with dinners ranging from fish and seafood to roast pork and chicken. Breakfast is simple yet delicious, with a heavy emphasis on eggs, fruit and toast. The bar area is located just inside the main entrance to the house. It is well stocked with rum, vodka, scotch, red and white wines from Spain, as well as both of Cuba‘s domestic beer brands.  Additionally, there are 3 restaurants consisting of Mediterranean, Italian and Cuban style cooking

General Program

Each morning, skiffs depart from Cayo Romano, with destinations varying based on the guide rotation for the day. You could be heading to numerous areas, from Cayo Paredon Grande in the north to Cayo Guanaja in the south. The region is rich with islands, lagoons, and bays that offer abundant fishing opportunities.

Most fishing occurs around the expansive island of Cayo Romano, with an average boat run of about 20 minutes to the prime spots. In some cases, you could be fishing within just 5 minutes of leaving the dock, depending on your guide’s choice and your targeted species. With approximately 50 square kilometers per boat, the fishing options are virtually endless. The diversity and richness of this fishery can be a delightful sensory overload for anglers.

When considering Cayo Romano, it’s essential to know that while the flats fishing here is exceptional, this fishery is still in its early stages. The flats offer an appealing mix of hard-packed white sand and semi-firm mottled bottoms, making it ideal for wading. For those who enjoy wading, this location is reminiscent of Los Roques, Venezuela, with vast areas where you can wade for up to 4 hours without needing to return to the boat.

Cayo Cruz embodies the allure of a newly discovered, pristine fishing destination. The waters are teeming with large numbers of fish, and their impressive size is matched by their remarkable lack of exposure to flies and leaders. Coupled with the stunning natural beauty of the cays and the crystal-clear waters, Cayo Romano offers a truly unforgettable fishing experience.

At Cayo Romano, the average bonefish weighs a solid 4 pounds, with the chance of landing one or two in the 10-pound range over the course of your week. Tailing bonefish are frequently spotted, and you may encounter them in singles, doubles, or even in schools numbering several hundred.

What truly distinguishes this location is the exceptional opportunity to consistently target permit. Unlike many other fisheries, Cayo Romano offers regular shots at permit each day, with sizes ranging from 8 to 30 pounds. It’s rare to have a day without encountering permit, making it a standout destination for those seeking both impressive bonefish and reliable permit action. 

Guides

The guides are exceptional fishermen with extensive knowledge of the local waters. Born and raised on these shores, they are intimately familiar with the ocean and the flats. While their English proficiency may vary, each guide is equipped to assist effectively while fishing. Good communication, a positive attitude, and preparation are key to enhancing your experience on the boat. For additional support, be sure to review our helpful “Saltwater Fly Fishing Tips” packet included in your pre-trip paperwork.

GETTING THERE

Guests can fly directly from Miami to Camagüey, Cuba, with American Airlines, which offers one daily flight in the middle of the day. For those traveling from the western U.S., an overnight stay in Miami is typically required on the return journey.

Upon arriving in Camagüey, you’ll be greeted by an Avalon representative who will assist you with your transfer. You’ll then board a private bus for the approximately 3-hour journey to Cayo Romano. Once you reach the hotel, you’ll check into your room and have time to settle in and prepare for an exciting week ahead.

Paperwork

Our dedicated travel team ensures that all necessary paperwork is prepared well in advance of your trip. We visit Cuba multiple times a year to stay updated on the latest travel documentation requirements. While traveling to Cuba involves some unique procedures, we are committed to making the process as smooth and hassle-free as possible for you.

Upcoming Hosted Trips and Pricing

*Our Travel Team works with Lodges to find the best prices in the industry

7 night/ 6 Day package
-Feb 22 – Mar 1, 2025 – 1 Spot Available – Regular price $4,990- Special rate $4,200 per person – with a $500 deposit by Dec 1st 2024
-Oct 18th-25th, 2025 – 6 Spots Available -Regular price $4,990- Special rate $4,200 per person – with a $500 deposit by Dec 1st 2024

What’s Included
-Lodging
-All meals and beverages at the lodge
-Guided fishing (1 guide for every 2 anglers)

What’s Not Included
-Personal expenses
-Travel outside of the package
-Flights, and hotels
-Personal fishing gear
-Gratuities for staff and guide
-Conservation fee
-Cuba Visa