|
Information Central (c) Larry Larsen
Exploratories and "Flight Insurance"
 Some booking agents offer "exploratories" which mean exactly that. Little is known about the fishing, although
the areas do show great promise, and the accommodations can be very minimal or even rough. I've been on a few
exploring trips where the fishing was very rewarding and a few where it was terrible. It's always a gamble, but
knowing that you're the first sportfisherman to wet a line in a little-known tributary can be exciting. Some booking
agents book the domestic (U.S) connecting flights as well as those from the U.S. city of international departure. If not, you will have to make your own.
Most agents in the know recommend a layover of at least 3 to 3 1/2 hours between the domestic flight arrival
and the international departure. Someone on a moderately late flight or a passenger on a canceled domestic flight
requiring some re-routing may be able to make the Miami connection with such built-in connection time.
Remember that many flights to the angling areas of South America only happen once or twice a week. If you
miss the international flight down, you often cannot re-route in order to catch up with your group. Too, many
operations depend on the entire group arriving at the same time for ground transfer, wheel and float plane charter connections and/or riverboat transportation logistics.
 Missing customers just cannot be accommodated in the outreaches of South America several hours or days
later. Most agents will provide a detailed itinerary along with their Rates & Responsibilities. You'll have this well
ahead of your trip so that you also can make any logistics plans on the connecting travel accordingly.
Acts of nature or political turmoil may take a toll on your fishing excursion, regardless of how well you plan the
trip. I learned early on that flexibility is a valuable commodity on any trip to South America. Most reputable
agents will provide you with a "Pre-trip Information" handout for the specific trip that you book. This information varies, depending on your destination.
|
