The solvent sublation using ion pairs of metal-2-naphthoate(2-HNph) and tetrabutyl ammonium ($TBA^+$) ion has been studied for the concentration and determination of ultra trace Bi(III), In(III) and Tl(Ⅲ) ions in water samples. The partition coefficients ($K_p$) and the extraction percentages of 2-HNph and the ion pairs to methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) were obtained as basic data. After the ion pair $TBA^+$·M$(Nph)_4^-$ was formed in water samples, the analytes were concentrated by the solvent sublation and the elements were determined by GF-AAS. The pH of the sample solution, the amount of the ligand and counter ion added and stirring time were optimized for the efficient formation of the ion pair. The type and amount of optimum surfactant, bubbling time with nitrogen and the type of solvent were investigated for the solvent sublation as well. 10.0 mL of 0.1 M 2-HNph and 2.0 mL of 0.1 M $TBA^+$ were added to a 1.0 L sample solution at pH 5.0. After 2.0 mL of 0.2%(w/v) Triton X-100 was added, the ion pairs were extracted into 20.0 mL MIBK in a flotation cell by bubbling. The analytes were determined by a calibration curve method with measured absorbances in MIBK, and the recovery was 80-120%.