Fish Belize

With inland rivers, lagoons, mangroves, hundreds of square miles of flats, together with over 160 miles of barrier reef just offshore, Belize boasts some of the world’s most exciting fishing. Attempt the “grand slam” of tarpon, bonefish, permit and snook on the shallow flats, or head out into the deep sea where wahoo, marlin, baracuda and tuna are in abundance. Here are some noteworthy places and events…

Belikin Spectacular - Blue water fishing tournament

Belikin-Spectacular-Blue-water-fishing-tournament-BelizeOn Pan-America day in mid October, Belikin Beer host a fishing tournament in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, for the largest marlin, sailfish, wahoo, barracuda or tuna caught. It’s not uncommon for up to 300 pound fish to get netted, particularly when the prize money gets into the thousands.

Port Honduras Marine Reserve

Port-Honduras-Marine-Reserve-Goliath-GrouperDeclared a protected area in 2000, the Port Honduras Marine Reserve lies just north of Punta Gorda and encompasses over 300 square miles of coastal Caribbean Sea. With its mangrove coast, clear rivers, hundreds of protective cayes and the Barrier Reef, it forms one of the most important fish nurseries in the Caribbean.

For fly fishermen, the area is definitely off the beaten track, meaning that the area is still completely pristine and the fish not yet weary of the sport. Sustainable fishing is promoted and the reserve has made the use of gill nets illegal. Manatee and dolphin sightings are also common in this area.

El Pescador Lodge

Belize-El-Pescador-Lodge-FishingFor over 25 years, the family-run El Pescador Lodge has attracted top anglers from across the globe. With all activities concentrated on the sea, catering to all types of angler and specializing in light tackle, salt water and fly-fishing, El Pescador is the perfect angler’s base.

Even if you’re not staying at the resort, you can take advantage of their guides and expertise. The resort also boasts the Fly Shop, the only Scientific Anglers, Mastery Series Fly Shop in Belize.

Belize River Lodge

Belize-river-lodge-fishingIn operation since 1960, the Belize River Lodge is the oldest fishing lodge in Belize, located in a lush tropical setting on the Belize Olde River, about 3.5 miles from the river mouth. About three-quarters of the clientele are fly fishers in pursuit of the Grand Slam. Guests can fish or tour from the Lodge or enjoy a fishing cruise on a live-aboard 52 foot motor yacht.