Ikari House

 

Ikari House on Christmas Island provides professional service and quick access to Kiritimati's world-class saltwater flats. 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 lodge is clean and comfortable, featuring simple guest suites and direct access to the fishing grounds. The outstanding fishery, comfortable accommodations, and delicious regional cuisine make Ikari House a top choice for anglers of any ability on Christmas 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, Boxfish, Barracuda, and many others. For anglers who want a change of pace, there is the option to go offshore for a day of targeting pelagic species with conventional and fly gear. Regularly encountered species offshore include Tuna, Sailfish, and Wahoo.

 

Boats

Large outrigger skiffs and center console pangas are used to transport anglers and guides from flat to flat throughout the day. 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 Ikari House. 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 Ikari House 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.

 

Day 3: From Honolulu to Ikari House

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 an Ikari House representative who will drive you about 45 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 beverage with fellow guests, or retire early.

 

Day 10: From Ikari House to Home

After your week of fishing, you'll enjoy breakfast on Wednesday morning before beginning your 45-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

Ikari House features 12 double-occupancy suites that can each accommodate one or two anglers for a total of up to 24 anglers per week. Each air-conditioned room provides anglers with an en suite bathroom with a shower. A large open-air thatched-roof maneaba is a common area where meals and drinks are shared each morning and evening. Although the lodging accommodations are rustic, they provide a clean and restful environment for your week at Ikari House.

 

Food

Meals at Ikari House are a flavorsome mix of local and international favorites well-suited to Western palates and typically include freshly caught seafood, rice, chicken, and salads. 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 is available each evening.

 

Connectivity

Limited WiFi is available at Ikari House, but can be affected by adverse weather conditions. It's best to plan on having no internet connection. There is no cell service on Christmas Island.

Rates

2026 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.

 

Double Occupancy / Shared Guide / (Per Person) = $4,450

• Maximum of 4 anglers per transfer boat
• 60-liter daily fuel allowance
• Fuel surcharge $2.50 per liter

 

Premium Package / Private Guide (Per Person) = $6,150

• Private room
• Private Guide
• Senior Guide will be assigned or requested
• Private boat with 80-liter fuel allowance daily
• Best Boat provided or personal choice
• Max of 2 anglers per boat

 

What's Included:

• Lodging
• Meals on Christmas Island
• Guided fishing (1 guide per 2 anglers per twin share rate)
• Juice, coffee, and tea, filtered water
• Airport transfers (CXI)
• Laundry service
• VAT taxes on package rate
  
• Fishing License

 

What's Not Included:

• Gratuities for guides, boatmen, and lodge staff
• International airfare
• Lodging and meals in Hawaii
• All fishing equipment
• Alcoholic beverages
• VAT taxes on all additional charges (beer, soda, fuel surcharges, etc.)

FAQ

What skill level is required for this trip?

Ikari House 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 Ikari House Family Friendly?

Because of the remote nature of Ikari House, 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?
Ikari House has a capacity of 24 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?

Ikari House uses 120-volt electrical outlets, the same style as 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 tipping customary on Christmas Island?

Yes, tipping is customary although it is at your discretion. Trident will provide tipping guidelines in pre-trip planning materials.

 

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.