Description
Christmas Island Lodge provides excellent service and convenient access to Kiritimati's world-class saltwater fly fishing. Located roughly 1,340 miles south of Hawaii, this remote atoll is home to seemingly endless flats holding strong populations of large Bonefish, Triggerfish, and several Trevally species. The quaint beachfront lodge is peaceful and comfortable, featuring simple bungalows and unbelievable views of the Pacific Ocean. The outstanding fishery, comfortable accommodations, and delicious regional cuisine make Christmas Island Lodge one of the finest operations on the island.
Who It's For
- Bonefish, Triggerfish, & GT Anglers
- Fishing-Oriented Couples & Groups
When To Go
Because Kiritimati is only 144 miles north of the equator, there is very little seasonal change in the weather and fishing conditions on Christmas Island, and the lodge is open year-round. The primary target flats species can be found here at any time of the year, including Bonefish, Triggerfish, and various Trevally species. The best time to visit Christmas Island is whenever your schedule allows!
Bonefish
Bonefish are an abundant target species on Kiritimati, with expansive wading flats within close proximity to the lodge. It's common for anglers to have shots at countless Bonefish per day, ranging in size from three to over ten pounds, with five-pound fish being very common. From sight-fishing large cruisers to targeting schools of tailing fish, there are plentiful bonefishing opportunities for anglers of any ability.
Triggerfish
With behavior similar to Permit, this unique reef species can be found foraging in shallow coral flats at any given time. Although they can be challenging to hook, the real test comes in landing them - as they are notorious for destroying flies with their enormous, human-like teeth and powerful mouths. What's more, Triggerfish dart for cover once hooked, making break-offs on sharp coral heads extremely common. Because of their difficulty, Triggers have become a highly sought-after gamefish on Christmas Island.
Giant Trevally
Also known as the "gangsters of the flats", GTs are the pinnacle shallow-water gamefish for many fly anglers. Although shots for these apex predators can be few and far between, it pays to be ready at a moment's notice, as they can rush a flat in a feeding frenzy in a matter of seconds. The visual eats and the raw power of GTs make them a bucket list species for dedicated saltwater anglers.
Other Species
In addition to the excellent Bonefish opportunities, anglers can have shots at various other reef species such as Bluefin Trevally, Golden Trevally, Milkfish, and many others.
Boats
All flats fishing is done wading. Large outrigger skiffs are used to transport anglers and guides from flat to flat throughout the day. These traditional watercraft feature rod storage and a shaded area to escape the direct sun between fishing beats. Anglers fish on foot with their guides, who can maintain contact with the boatmen via radios.
Equipment
A range of rod sizes with matched reels and floating tropical lines will be necessary for a week at Christmas Island Lodge. We recommend bringing 4 rods: an 8wt for Bonefish and smaller reef species plus one backup, a 10wt for Bluefin Trevally and Triggerfish, and a 12wt for GTs. Your guides will help you rig appropriately for the day's fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.
Itinerary
Days 1 - 2: From Home to Honolulu, Hawaii
A weeklong trip at Christmas Island Lodge is from Tuesday to Tuesday. Getting to the lodge begins with a Sunday flight to Honolulu, Hawaii (HNL). Upon arrival in Honolulu, you will take a taxi to a prearranged hotel in the Waikiki area where you will spend two nights. The built-in layover day provides a buffer for any travel delays, and allows you to readjust your sleep schedule and explore Honolulu. Some anglers will also arrange guided Bonefishing for their layover day.
Day 3: From Honolulu to Christmas Island Lodge
On Tuesday morning, you'll take a taxi to the Honolulu International Airport (HNL) where you will board your 3.5-hour flight to the Cassidy International Airport (CXI) in Christmas Island. Upon arrival at Christmas Island, you'll be met by a Christmas Island Lodge representative who will drive you about 15 minutes to the lodge.
Note: You will cross the international dateline on your flight from Hawaii to Christmas Island. When you arrive in CXI, it will be Wednesday.
Days 4 - 9: The Fishing Days
Fishing days start with a full breakfast before heading out with your guide for the day. Lunches are typically served on the outrigger canoes, allowing you to relax, eat, and rehydrate. Following an afternoon fishing session, you'll return to the lodge before dark to unwind and enjoy a flavorful dinner consisting of regional and international dishes. After dinner, feel free to fish off the beach, enjoy a cold beer with other guests, or retire early.
Day 10: From Christmas Island Lodge to Home
After your week of fishing, you'll enjoy breakfast on Wednesday morning before beginning your 15-minute vehicle transfer to the Cassidy International Airport (CXI), where you'll board your flight to Hawaii and your subsequent home destination.
Note: You will cross the international dateline on your flight from Christmas Island to Hawaii. When you arrive in Hawaii, it will be Tuesday.
Lodging
Accommodations
Christmas Island Lodge features thatched-roof bungalow suites that can each accommodate one or two anglers for a total of 12 anglers per week. Each air-conditioned bungalow provides anglers with a fully stocked refrigerator and an en suite bathroom with a shower. Although the lodging accommodations are rustic, they provide a clean and restful environment for your week at Christmas Island Lodge.
Food
Meals at Christmas Island Lodge are a flavorsome mix of local and international favorites, typically including freshly caught seafood. Breakfast and Dinner are generally served family-style in the dining room, allowing for plenty of fishing stories and camaraderie. Hearty lunches are packed each day by your guide, allowing you to eat on the water. Cold beer and wine are available each evening in the maneaba common area.
Connectivity
Starlink Internet is available at Christmas Island Lodge. Although this is a fairly reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions or satellite connectivity issues. It is best to plan on having no internet connection while on Christmas Island. There is no cell service on Christmas Island.
Rates
Fishing Packages
Trident Travel's expert planning service is free of charge. The rates below are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge.
All rates below are per person for seven nights and six days of fishing. Rates and inclusions are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing.
2026
Double Occupancy / Shared Guide (Per Person) = $4,650
Double Occupancy / Private Guide (Per Person) = $5,150
Single Occupancy / Shared Guide (Per Person) = $5,150
Single Occupancy / Private Guide (Per Person) = $6,150
What's Included:
- Lodging
- Meals
- Guided fishing
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- Beer and wine
- Airport transfers (CXI)
- Fishing license
- Laundry service
-
Departure and VAT taxes
What's Not Included:
- Gratuities for guides and lodge staff
- International airfare
- Lodging and meals in Hawaii
- All fishing equipment
- Alcoholic beverages other than beer and wine
FAQ
What skill level is required for this trip?
Christmas Island Lodge offers something for everyone, from beginners to advanced anglers. No previous experience is required for this trip, although we highly recommend practicing your casting before a flats trip to get the most out of your experience.
Is Christmas Island Lodge Family Friendly?
Because of the remote nature of Christmas Island Lodge, fishing is the main attraction here. We recommend this trip for fishing-focused groups who don't mind more rustic accommodations.
How do tides affect fishing?
Tides have a significant impact on flats fishing. Spring tides occur during full and new moon phases, resulting in the most dramatic fluctuations in tidal swings. These are excellent times to consider booking if Giant Trevally is your primary target species. Neap tides occur during quarter moon phases and result in less tidal fluctuation, creating longer-lasting conditions ideal for bonefishing. Booking a transition week will provide a combination of both scenarios.
Is the water safe to drink?
Purified water is available at all times at the lodge.
How many other anglers will be at the lodge?
Christmas Island Lodge has a capacity of 12 anglers per week. Due to the large size of Kiritimati Atoll, it's common to have vast flats to yourself each day.
What kind of electrical outlets are there?
Christmas Island Lodge uses 120 volt electrical outlets, the same style that are found in the USA (type A and B).
What is the weather like?
Christmas Island has a hot and humid tropical climate year-round. Due to its proximity to the equator, there isn't much of a seasonal change in the weather.
Is there WiFi available?
Starlink Internet is available at Christmas Island Lodge. Although this is a fairly reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions or satellite connectivity issues. It's best to plan on having no internet connection.
Is tipping customary on Christmas Island?
Yes, tipping is customary, although it is at your discretion. We generally recommend tipping 15-20% of your trip total per person. All tipping is done at the end of the week and is divided among the entire staff on predetermined percentages.
What happens if I’m injured during the trip, and should I purchase travel insurance?
Medical emergencies and evacuations can happen in remote destinations, which is why we strongly recommend enrolling with Global Rescue before your trip. Global Rescue provides industry-leading medical and security evacuation services, and they also offer comprehensive travel insurance plans serviced through IMG. This all-in-one solution allows anglers to secure both emergency evacuation coverage and travel insurance through a single provider, helping ensure you’re protected if something unexpected occurs before or during your trip.
