Our Story

Discover the legacy of Andros Outdoor Adventures led by Captain Shawn and our passion for the great outdoors.

Fishing boat on calm waters
Captain Rupert Leadon

Where It All Started

In the early 1980s, when most of the world didn't know Andros existed, one man saw its potential.

Captain Rupert Leadon wasn't just another guide. He was a pioneer—one of the first to recognize that the vast, untouched flats of Andros held something special. While others looked at the shallow waters and saw nothing, Rupert saw the world's best bonefishing.

With a borrowed boat and an intimate knowledge of the tides, he began taking anglers to places no one had fished before. Word spread quickly. The "ghost of the flats"—the elusive bonefish—seemed to appear at his command.

"Rupert didn't just show you fish. He taught you to read the water, respect the environment, and understand why Andros was worth protecting."

— Long-time client, 1992

Over two decades, Captain Rupert became internationally recognized. But fame never changed him. He remained committed to one principle: take only what you need, give back more than you take, and leave it better than you found it.

Flyfishing on pristine flats
Captain Shawn continuing the legacy

Learning From the Best

Some sons follow in their father's footsteps. Shawn walked beside his.

From the age of eight, Shawn Leadon was on the water with his father. While other kids were in school, he was learning to read clouds, predict tides, and understand why a bonefish moves the way it does.

But Rupert taught him something more important than fishing techniques. He taught him why it mattered.

A Memory That Changed Everything

"I was 12 when my father took me to a spawning site. Hundreds of bonefish, moving together like a silver river. He said, 'Son, if we're not careful, your kids won't see this.' That's when I understood—this wasn't just a job. It was a responsibility."

— Captain Shawn Leadon

By his twenties, Shawn wasn't just a skilled guide—he was a passionate conservationist. He began working with scientists, participating in research studies, and learning how tourism could actually help protect the environment instead of destroying it.

Kayaking through mangroves
Expanding beyond fishing to full island experiences

Andros Outdoor Adventures is Born

Why limit ourselves to fishing when there's an entire island to explore?

In 2011, Shawn launched Andros Outdoor Adventures with a bold idea: show people all of Andros—not just the flats.

Kayaking through ancient mangrove tunnels. Hiking to hidden blue holes. Camping under stars on remote beaches. Snorkeling the third-largest barrier reef in the world.

But the mission remained the same: low-impact, high-respect, unforgettable experiences.

2011 AOA officially launched
2012 Rupert passes; Shawn carries the torch
2015 Partnership with conservation groups
Today Leading sustainable tourism in Andros

Let's Plan Your Adventure

Every trip is customized to your preferences. Get in touch with us today and let's create your perfect Andros experience.

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