What's it about?
Solomons On The Sauce invites anglers to Papatura Island Retreat in the Solomon Islands for a week-long adventure and hands-on experience. Over this full week package, experience epic fishing for a variety of species across different locations. From shallow lagoons, inshore reefs and bommies, offshore canyons and pinnacles, to secluded mangrove-lined rivers, the Solomons delivers world-class fishing for everything from mangrove jack, coral trout and Spanish mackerel, to yellowfin tuna and giant dogtooth. This is more than a fishing trip! Fishing World has teamed up with well-known chef and keen fisho, Mark LaBrooy, who will join On The Sauce host, Zac Panaretos and Fishing World editor, Scott Thomas, for this week-long fishing adventure and learning experience. Learn the science of fish care; the secrets of breaking down a fish; how to prepare your fresh catch and so much more. There will be workshops (fishing and culinary) and we have the flexibility to tailor this unique learning experience to each guest’s skill level and interests. This week long adventure takes place at Papatura, a short flight from the capital, Honiara. This secluded island resort offers comfortable accommodation, knowledgeable fishing guides, reliable boats, delicious food and world-class fishing right on its doorstep. Fishing World hand-picked this location for its variety of fishing styles and species and its reliable fishing in all weather conditions. Best of all, the Solomon Islands is only a few hours from Australia and provides a safe and enjoyable fishing trip you will never forget!
The Experience
The variety of species in the Solomon Islands is endless! The inshore fishing is particularly amazing and close to our accommodation. The deep lagoons hold large pelagics and offer red hot fishing in all weather conditions. There are Spanish mackerel, wahoo, GTs, red bass, coral trout and more! Let’s not forget the endless bommies and offshore reefs holding big dogtooth tuna, yellowfin tuna, sailfish and marlin. There’s also opportunities to sneak up a river for mangrove jack or the elusive spot tail bass. All fishing takes place onboard open pangas fitted with reliable and modern outboards. Each boat will have a local guide, while our three hosts, Zac, Scott and mark will move around boats throughout the week and offer further guidance on fishing and fish care.
This is more than a fishing trip. It’s a learning experience with a twist. We will cater to all skill levels to allow you ample opportunity to learn new fishing skills from the Fishing World team. But it doesn’t stop there… Learn from well-known chef Mark LaBrooy and On The Sauce Podcast host Zac Panaretos about sustainable fish care and post catch fish preparation. There will be workshops and hands on tuition on the following topics:
The science of fish care
- Iki Jime and Shinkei Jime
- Ice Slurries
- Fish Handling
Breaking down fish
- Filleting
- Skinning
- Cuts of fish
- Utilising the whole fish
Preparing our catch
- Pairing with different flavours
- Cooking over different mediums
- Learning recipes form particular cuts
- Traditional Solomons cooking
- Knife care
Plus, we’re flexible and will will cater to needs and interests of participants.
Chef Mark LaBrooy
Chef Mark LaBrooy is an Australian chef known for his wild, adventurous approach to cooking. A passionate hunter-gatherer, he champions sustainable practices and loves working with wild, foraged, and ethically sourced ingredients. Mark’s food celebrates nature, fire, and the outdoors, blending classical technique with a rugged, honest style that reflects his deep respect for the land.
Zac Panaretos
Zac is a highly experienced fisho on a mission to share and educate best practises for sustainable and ethical fish care and cooking processes. As a professional educator, the combination of Zac’s fishing skills and knowledge of sustainable fish care will ensure everyone who signs up will benefit from this experience, regardless of their level of aptitude.
Scott Thomas
Fishing World publisher and editor, Scott Thomas, is an experienced fisho with a broad interest in fresh and saltwater species. Scott is looking forward to sharing his fishing knowledge and assisting guests over the week to ensure its unforgettable adventure. Scott will also be documenting the week with photos and video that guests are welcome to share.
All Bungalows at Papatura Island Retreat are constructed using traditional materials such as sago leaf and wild beetle nut, all have large decks facing the Isabel mountain range and are a few steps back from the gorgeous white sandy beach and crystal clear water. They are tucked away between the coco palms, orchids and local plants, all fitted out with LED lighting, inner spring mattresses, mossie nets, fans and 240v Australian power outlets. Bath towels are supplied but please bring your own toiletries. With amazing views of the wild dusk sunsets and falling asleep to the gentle lapping sounds of waves would you rather be anywhere else?
Flights
- International flight from Brisbane to Honiara and the connecting domestic flight to Suavanao.
- Departing: 9am Friday, 22nd May 2026.
- Returning: to Brisbane at 6pm Friday, 29th May 2026.
- 30kg allowance to cater for rod tubes and tackle.
- Return airport boat transfers.
Accommodation and Activities
- 7 nights’ accommodation in a family or double story bungalow (2 or 3 share).
- Continental breakfast, lunch, and 2 course dinner daily, including fresh seafood.
- A remote island picnic to experience traditional cooking practices.
- Use of snorkel and fishing gear – our suggestion would be to bring your own.
- Use of surfboards and SUPs.
- Solomon Islands t shirt.
- Workshops with Zac, Mark, and Scott.
- High-resolution images from our Fishing World media team.
- Opportunities to be involved in podcasting and filming to document the experience.
Non-inclusions
- Any travel needed to get to and from Brisbane.
- Accommodation on the 21st if needed, in Brisbane. Recommended to avoid a connecting domestic flight on the morning of departure in case there are delays.
- Alcoholic beverages are available, but need to be purchased
Total cost $5649.00 per person.
We require a $1800.00 p/person deposit and a completed booking form.
All prices are subject to availability and change with notice until final balance has been made.
1. General
All bookings for transport, accommodation and related travel services (“the travel service”) are arranged by Go Tours Travel (“the company”) acting solely as agent for the service providers (“the principals”). All services are subject to these Terms & Conditions.
2. Responsibility & Liability
The company is not liable for cancellations, delays, schedule changes, loss of luggage, or failure by any principal to provide the agreed services.
The company accepts no responsibility for injury, loss, damage, or death arising from acts or omissions of principals, their agents, or any third parties.
3. Accuracy of Information
While we aim to provide the most up-to-date information, the company does not warrant the accuracy of information provided by staff, agents, or principals.
4. Bookings & Payments
A completed booking form and deposit are required to start a reservation.
Payment of the balance is due 45 days before departure, unless otherwise advised.
Late payments or bookings made within 21 days of departure may incur a $30 late fee.
Failure to pay by the due date may result in cancellation, with the deposit forfeited.
5. Cancellations (Client)
All cancellations must be made in writing.
Clients are responsible for any costs incurred in booking or cancelling services.
Cancellation fees:
-
Deposit is non-refundable.
-
60+ days before departure: Deposit non-refundable + 50% fee applies.
-
Within 60 days of departure: No refund of any monies paid.
Suppliers may apply their own cancellation fees.
6. Cancellations (Company)
The company may amend or cancel arrangements without notice if required.
If a group falls below minimum numbers, the company may cancel the travel service and refund monies paid (less fees and expenses).
7. Pricing
All prices are based on current land, airfare, and currency rates. The company may adjust pricing prior to departure if costs change.
8. Authority
Anyone signing a booking form on behalf of another person confirms they have full authority to accept these terms.
9. Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory.
10. Refunds
No refunds are available for unused accommodation, tours, or services.
11. Inclusions & Exclusions
Package inclusions are as outlined in your itinerary.
Not included: baggage fees, personal expenses, travel insurance (unless stated), airport taxes (unless stated), passports, visas, or vaccinations.
12. Passports & Visas
Passports must have at least 6 months validity beyond your return date.
Visas are the client’s responsibility. Assistance with visa applications may incur a $25 fee.
13. Communications
You agree to receive newsletters and promotional offers. You may unsubscribe at any time.
14. Papatura Island Retreat Conditions
Guests agree to follow the Papatura Island Retreat Code of Conduct.
If airline schedule changes result in an enforced extra stay, guests agree to pay the daily room rate ($150–$200 per person, per day) directly to the resort.
By completing your booking, you confirm that you have read and agree to these Terms & Conditions.
