In contrast, the tropical fish and thatched-roof overwater bungalows in Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora attract guests wanting splurgeworthy accommodations for anniversaries, honeymoons and romantic getaways. Built on stilts over aquamarine lagoons, they feature private plunge pools and tubs with breathtaking views. Some bungalows have Plexiglas floor panels. Fish – as brilliant as costume jewellery – dart below. We swayed in hammocks, admiring the jade peaks that rise dramatically from the lagoon. Paddling outrigger canoes to a nearby islet with powder-soft beaches, we couldn’t resist a dip in the sensuous-as-silk warm water. Many of the resorts host Polynesian feasts on the beach. Staff and guests wear head wreaths and garlands of fragrant tropical flowers. Chefs place breadfruit, taro, sweet potatoes, red bananas and whole piglets over hot lava rocks in an earth-oven. Covered with leaves and soil, the food steams for several hours. Tantalizing aromas fill the air as the cooks open the oven and serve the meal on woven palm-leaf plates. After everyone eats their fill, musicians play drums and guitars for Polynesian dancing. If you prefer fishing in a wilderness setting closer to home, consider a Canadian fly-in fishing lodge. In northern Saskatchewan, a floatplane transported us over pristine forests to a Churchill River lodge. Housekeeping fish camps supply accommodations with kitchen facilities. Full-service lodges provide American Plan meals, boats, motors, fuel and guides. Saskatchewan’s Churchill River has a reputation for some of the best walleye and northern pike fishing in Canada. We confirmed the river’s fame while fishing near Twin Falls Lodge. Casting our lines into the rushing water, we immediately pulled them back in with enormous walleyes. Shore lunches are essential components of fishing trips. While our guide cooked our freshly caught walleyes, we sliced up potatoes and onions and fried them until brown and crispy in another cast iron pan. Combined with baked beans, lodge-baked bread and coffee, the meal satisfied our fresh air-sharpened appetites. After a day of fishing, we joined other guests in the lodge for a delicious roast chicken dinner. Anglers compared notes about their catches, including hilarious tales of snagged sticks that “put up real fights” and “gigantic fish” that snatched walleyes from their lines. tahititourisme.com Fishing fanatics Romantic abodes tourismsaskatchewan.com CSANews | SPRING 2023 | 15 Travel
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