Belize Fly Fishing: Diy Adventure On The Water

Belize is a small country in Central America, nestled between Guatemala and Mexico. It is a popular destination for fly fishing due to its diverse angling opportunities, ranging from the northern waters of Ambergris Caye to the southern town of Punta Gorda. With the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere and endless flats, Belize offers a unique experience for anglers seeking the Grand Slam of fly fishing: Tarpon, Permit, and Bonefish. The country's diverse landscape, including its lagoons, estuaries, creeks, and river mouths, provides the perfect habitat for these sought-after species.

For those seeking a DIY fly fishing adventure in Belize, the Cayes, or small islands located on the barrier reef, offer miles of fishable water. San Pedro Island, in northern Belize, is a popular choice for its productive DIY fishing beaches. However, staying on the mainland can also provide opportunities for game fish, although access to the flats may be challenging without a boat. When planning a DIY fly fishing trip to Belize, it is important to consider factors such as weather conditions and lodging options, as well as the need to bring your own fly fishing gear.

Where to find the best flats for fly fishing in Belize

Belize is a haven for fly fishing enthusiasts, with its coastline offering a range of species and fishing scenarios. The best flats for fly fishing in Belize can be found in the following areas:

Ambergris Caye

Located in northern Belize, Ambergris Caye is the largest of the country's islands and is known for its consistent tarpon fishing. It offers some of the largest "classic-style" tarpon flats found anywhere in the world outside of South Florida, making it a popular destination for anglers seeking a challenging and rewarding fishing experience. The island also has a healthy permit fishery and is a great place to target bonefish, snapper, jacks, and other species.

Turneffe Atoll

Turneffe Atoll is the largest and most biologically diverse coral atoll in the Caribbean. It is located about 25 miles east of Belize City and is known for its wadeable flats, which are perfect for targeting bonefish, permit, and other species. The atoll also has a rich history, with evidence of Mayan settlements dating back to 400 AD. It is also rumoured to have been a hideout for the notorious pirate, Blackbeard.

Placencia

Placencia, located in southern Belize, has long been synonymous with world-class permit fishing. The area offers a vast network of hard-bottomed, sand-and-turtle grass flats that are ideal for wading and sight-fishing. It is also home to some of the most experienced flats fishing guides in Central America, making it a great place for anglers to learn the intricacies of technical flats fishing.

Punta Gorda

Punta Gorda, the southernmost town in Belize, is a sleepy fishing village that has become known for its world-famous permit fishing. The waters off the coast of Punta Gorda are arguably the finest in the Caribbean for targeting permit on the fly. While other species are present, the fishing here is primarily focused on permit, making it a great destination for anglers seeking a classic flats-style fishing experience.

Hopkins and Placencia

Hopkins and Placencia, located in southern Belize, are known for their diverse fishing opportunities. In addition to permit, bonefish, and tarpon, anglers can target snook, snapper, jacks, barracuda, and other species. The offshore flats and waters in this area offer world-class permit fishing, with many experienced flats guides operating in the region.

What to pack for a DIY fly fishing trip in Belize

Packing for a DIY fly fishing trip in Belize requires careful consideration of the weather, the type of fishing you plan to do, and the fish you hope to catch. Here is a comprehensive list of what to pack to ensure you are well-prepared for your trip:

Clothing:

• Quick-drying clothing suitable for hot and humid weather. This includes lightweight shirts, shorts, and trousers.
• Rain gear, including a waterproof jacket and trousers, to protect you from sudden downpours during the rainy season.
• Sun protection, such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with polarised lenses, and long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against sunburn.
• Comfortable footwear, such as wading boots or sandals, for walking on uneven terrain and in the water.

Fishing Gear:

• Fly rod and reel: A 7-weight to 9-weight rod is recommended for bonefish, an 8-weight to 10-weight rod for permit, and an 8-weight to 11-weight rod for tarpon.
• Flies: A variety of flies in different sizes, colours, and sink rates. For bonefish, small shrimp imitations, Christmas Island Specials, and Crazy Charlies (#4, #6) are effective. Permit flies should mimic crabs and shrimp in various sizes, colours, and weights. Tarpon flies should be bright and colourful, such as the Tarpon Toad and EP Peanut Butter (#2/0, #3/0).
• Leaders and tippet: A standard 9-foot, 12-pound tapered leader is recommended for bonefish, with additional 10-16 pound leaders and tippet. For permit, a 9-foot, 16-pound tapered leader is common, with leaders and tippet ranging from 12 to 20 pounds. For tarpon, use a 10-foot, 20-40 pound tapered leader with a heavier butt section and a 20-pound bite tippet.
• Wading gear: Waders and wading boots are essential if you plan to wade in the flats.
• Kayak or paddleboard: Consider bringing an inflatable kayak or paddleboard to access fishing spots around the islands.

Other Essentials:

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay in Belize.
• Travel insurance: Protect yourself in case of unexpected events, such as severe weather or medical emergencies.
• Fishing license: Purchase the appropriate fishing license before your trip. Daily, weekly, and annual permits are available.
• Weather forecast: Check the weather forecast and be prepared for rainy and windy conditions, which can impact fishing conditions.
• Insect repellent: Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects.
• First aid kit: Include any personal medications and basic first aid supplies.
• Sun protection: Reapply sunscreen frequently and bring lip balm with SPF to protect your lips.
• Water and snacks: Stay hydrated and energised throughout your fishing adventures.

Remember to pack your gear in a durable travel bag or luggage that can withstand the elements and transport your equipment safely. Additionally, consider bringing a waterproof bag or case to protect your gear while fishing.

The best times of year to go fly fishing in Belize

Belize is a year-round fishing destination, with its ideal climate and diverse, abundant fish stocks. The temperature averages 80°F, and even during the rainy season, it is rare for fishing to be disrupted. However, some months are better than others for catching certain species.

January to March

January is the most likely month for a "Northern" or cold front, which can make fishing more challenging. In February, the chances of a cold front drop off, and by mid-February, you can expect some of the best catch rates for permit. March is the start of the most favourable time for fly fishing for permit in southern Belize, and it's also a good month for bonefish and tarpon.

April to June

April is a good month for bonefish and permit, and more tarpon begin to arrive. May is the hottest and driest month, with calm, clear weather, and excellent permit fishing. June is the start of the rainy season, but it's also one of the best months for a "grand slam": catching permit, bonefish, and tarpon on the same day.

July to September

July, August, and September are considered the best overall fishing months, with good numbers of all three grand slam species available. August and September are also when the most and the largest tarpon are caught.

October to December

By mid-October, the migrating tarpon have mostly moved on, but it's still a good month for permit and bonefish. November can offer ideal conditions, with calm, clear weather, little wind, and good numbers of bonefish and permit. In December, the ideal weather sometimes continues, and bonefish, permit, and tarpon can all be found. However, December and January are the months most likely to be affected by cold fronts.

How to get to Belize by plane

Belize is located in Northern Central America and is easily accessible by air. There are daily direct flights to Belize from Miami, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Newark, and Charlotte. The country's international airport offers nonstop flights from numerous North American cities, making it a convenient destination for fly anglers.

When planning your trip to Belize, it is important to consider the fishing season and the specific tides. The dry season, also known as the tourist season, runs from December to May, with the winter months being cooler and April and May typically the hottest. This is a popular time for visitors, so resorts and hotels tend to be at full capacity and rates are higher. The rainy season, from June to November, sees less tourism and lower lodging rates, but there may be more frequent monsoons.

For fly fishing, it is recommended to plan your trip around good tides, which typically occur during a new or full moon. Consulting a professional, such as a local outfitter, lodge, or booking agent, can help you determine the best times for fly fishing based on the tide tables.

Additionally, if you are specifically interested in tarpon fishing, it is worth noting that the migratory tarpon season is from late spring to late summer.

When travelling to Belize for fly fishing, it is important to remember that the Grand Slam species, which include Tarpon, Permit, and Bonefish, are strictly catch-and-release. You will need to obtain a fishing license before your trip, with options for daily, weekly, or annual permits available.

Where to stay in Belize for fly fishing

Belize is a haven for fly fishing enthusiasts, with its endless flats, estuaries, creeks, bays, and river mouths. The best spots to stay for fly fishing in Belize include:

Ambergris Caye

Located in the heart of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, Ambergris Caye offers year-round fly fishing opportunities. You can target Tarpon, Permit, and Bonefish, as well as Barracuda, Snook, and Jack Crevalle. The endless flats and lack of crowds make it an attractive destination for anglers.

Tarpon Caye

Tarpon Caye is an intimate fly fishing destination located in the heart of Victoria Channel. Anglers visit local lodges for wading and the chance to catch trophy-sized Tarpon. You can also find tailing Permit and attempt the Belizean Grand Slam.

Permit Alley

Nestled between Placencia and Dangriga, Permit Alley is a 30-mile chain of cays that is renowned for its Permit fishing. You can also find excellent Bonefish and Tarpon fishing here. It's a great place to avoid crowds and enjoy the endless flats.

Turneffe Atoll

Turneffe Atoll is a remote and generous fishing destination, offering a gorgeous ecosystem of reefs, lagoons, mangrove islands, and channels. It is considered the best spot for Permit fishing in Belize. The remote location and vastness of the atoll make it a productive and diverse fishing ground.

Punta Gorda

Punta Gorda, located in Southern Belize, offers a unique fishing experience. You can enjoy the views of the mountains of Honduras and target Permit on the soft mud bottom lagoons and pancake flats. Tarpon fishing opportunities are also available, along with the chance to explore the flats and lagoons for other species.

Frequently asked questions