I am very sad to learn that Bita Kairaoi (head guide Christmas Island Outfitters) passed away yesterday. 
Presumably from lung cancer.
Bita was such a big strong guy when I first met him in early 2016, he could get people moving with just a look. Everybody on Christmas Island respected him and he was an important community leader. Over my several visits to the atoll I got to know him and part of his family. He was a devout Catholic and a shrewd businessman. Before beginning his fly fishing guide career he took tourists out scuba diving on the reefs. Then a fly fisherman visiting the atoll introduced him to the sport. Eventually he started up Christmas Island Outfitters guide service, which many board members on PNWFF have used over the years. Bita knew the patterns of tide and fish movements over the intricate atoll better than anyone. In early 2024 I fished a full day with Bita and had a great time catching tons of fish, laughing, and just talking about life. He had a great sense of humor and a wonderful laugh. I will really miss him. I hope his sons and the veteran guides of Christmas Island Outfitters land on their feet and keep the business going.
Presumably from lung cancer. Bita was such a big strong guy when I first met him in early 2016, he could get people moving with just a look. Everybody on Christmas Island respected him and he was an important community leader. Over my several visits to the atoll I got to know him and part of his family. He was a devout Catholic and a shrewd businessman. Before beginning his fly fishing guide career he took tourists out scuba diving on the reefs. Then a fly fisherman visiting the atoll introduced him to the sport. Eventually he started up Christmas Island Outfitters guide service, which many board members on PNWFF have used over the years. Bita knew the patterns of tide and fish movements over the intricate atoll better than anyone. In early 2024 I fished a full day with Bita and had a great time catching tons of fish, laughing, and just talking about life. He had a great sense of humor and a wonderful laugh. I will really miss him. I hope his sons and the veteran guides of Christmas Island Outfitters land on their feet and keep the business going.