The middle of March on Alphonse delivered a mix of technical flats fishing, standout permit moments and the return of quality GT from both the lagoon and blue water. While conditions shifted throughout the period, anglers adapted well and were rewarded with memorable catches, personal milestones, and a broad range of species across the atoll.
GT fishing was selective but produced some standout fish, including one of the best of the season. Houston stole the show with a powerful 114 cm GT landed in the lagoon after an intense fight that saw the fish tearing through deeper water before finally coming to hand. Bob added an exciting 80 cm GT after casting into blue water chaos, while Jamie landed a strong 70 cm fish after a well-placed presentation along a coral edge.
Earlier in the period, an unexpected moment saw a 70 cm GT landed offshore while targeting sailfish, highlighting the unpredictability of the atoll. Smaller but hard-fighting GT were also landed by Simon and Houston as they ticked off their first encounters with the species.
Permit were a major highlight, delivering some of the most rewarding moments of the period. Robert set the tone early with a trophy 63 cm permit after a patient stalk on the flats of St Francois. Mark followed with his first-ever permit, a beautifully executed catch measuring 53 cm, marking a special milestone on the flats.
Bonefish remained the backbone of the fishing, with well over 200 fish landed across the period. Ian landed a standout 65 cm fish early in the week, while Margaret raised the bar with an exceptional 69 cm bonefish, one of the largest seen in recent weeks. Multiple anglers enjoyed sessions of over 20 fish, including Paul, who landed more than 20 bonefish in a single outing, highlighting the consistency and quality of the fishery.
Triggerfish added a technical and rewarding challenge with 4 fish landed.Derek opened the account with a well earned 41 cm moustache trigger after multiple attempts in the surf. Houston and David both added to the tally, landing yellow margin and moustache triggerfish respectively after working the grass lines and shallow flats. Peter also celebrated landing his first triggerfish, a memorable achievement after persistence and multiple shots at these notoriously tricky fish.
A single batfish added variety to the species list. Doug landed a strong batfish after a demanding fight in the current, with the fish using its broad body to full advantage before finally being brought to hand.
Overall, Alphonse delivered a rewarding and varied period of fishing. From trophy permit and metre class GT to exceptional bonefish numbers and technical triggerfish, the atoll once again proved that persistence and adaptability are key to unlocking its full potential.