Who is best suited to this destination?
For serious anglers that want great guides, a chance at multiple species, and the opportunity to fish near the lodge after hours, this is the place.
Where is the lodge?
Blue Bonefish Lodge is located on Belize’s famed Ambergris Caye, four miles south of San Pedro Town.
How do I get there?
Anglers access Blue Bonefish Lodge by flying into the Belize International Airport and connecting with Tropic Air for a short 11-minute flight to San Pedro. From San Pedro, it is a 30-minute golf cart or cab ride to the lodge.
When should I go?
Blue Bonefish is open year-round. February through May is prime time with September through November offering a fantastic secondary season. The lodge typically runs a summer/fall pricing special which can be great for chasing tarpon and is provides some more affordable traveling options.
How will I fish?
Anglers fish two per boat with a single guide and take turns fishing. Purpose built panga style skiffs are specifically setup for fly fishing and the lodge offers an experienced staff of local guides.
Is there wade fishing?
Most fishing is accomplished from the boat with a few opportunities to wade depending on your fishing desires.
Where will I fish?
The fishing program focuses on the flats, lagoons and numerous cays of northern Belize in and around Ambergris Caye.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds?
There are productive bonefish zones within 10-20 minutes of the lodge. Depending on conditions, productive tarpon and permit areas can be more than an hour from the lodge. It’s a good idea to discuss your preferences regarding travel time with the on-site fishing manger when you arrive.
What type(s) of fish will I catch?
Bonefish, permit, tarpon, barracuda, jacks, snapper and snook are all available. The majority of bonefish in northern Belize are in the 1-to-2-pound class. The available fish species can vary greatly each day, so we recommend anglers come prepared for anything and follow their guide’s advice on what fish to chase each day. Many times, it’s a case of taking what the day gives you instead of pigeon holing yourself in to one species or another. Migratory tarpon may be present from late May to September. Guides can find bonefish on most days while on other days you may focus on schools of small permit. Sometimes it’s a case of patrolling the mangrove edges for snook or dredging a channel for laid up migratory tarpon. Our best advice is to have a frank talk with the fishing manager and your guide to make a general game plan, but then be willing to change the whole plan at a moment’s notice.
How many fish will I catch?
Conditions can be variable. Any time you hook double-digit numbers of bonefish, it’s a good day. The permit can be challenging so if you land one in a week, that’s considered a win. In season, large tarpon can be found which can be tough to catch but just one will certainly be a memorable experience. It’s best to come to Belize with a “throw at anything that moves” mentality rather than a specific species goal.
Will I see other anglers?
It’s common to see other anglers while fishing in this area. However, it is rare for fishing pressure to negatively impact your day.
What are the guides like?
Guides are local Belizean captains with extensive training from the lodge and are experienced on their waters. It’s a good idea to let us help you match your fishing goals with a guide that best matches your desires and skill level. English is the first language of guides in Belize, which obviously helps a ton with communication on the boat.
What are the physical demands?
Good balance in the boat and casting proficiency always help increase your opportunities at catching fish.
Are there any special skills required?
Good casters will always benefit when fly fishing in saltwater.
Does the lodge provide equipment?
Yes, Blue Bonefish Lodge has rods and reels available for guests that need them. They also have a fly shop that is located closer into town, so if you need some extra items, you can make a run down there.
What is your favorite setup for the trip?
Fast action 8-weights with floating lines are ideal for bonefish. Fast action 9-weights are ideal for permit or if the wind picks up. An 11-weight is ideal for migratory tarpon.
What are the top flies?
Permit: Puglisi Mantis Shrimp Tan Size 1; Mantis Shrimp size 4 or 6, & 8; Becks Fleeing Crab Size 2 & 6; Casa Blanca Crab 2 & 4
Bonefish: Turneffe Flats Charlie Tan Size 6; Crazy Charlie Shrimp Pearl Size 6; Crazy Charlie Shrimp Tan size 8; Chili Pepper Size 6; Micro Crab; Becks Sili Legs
Tarpon and snook: EP Minnows or Mullet; Clouser Minnows; Gummy Minnows
What are the options if weather conditions become challenging?
If the wind is extremely strong, the guides will find protected areas in the bay out of the strongest winds. If it is rainy or extremely cloudy, the guides will often fish in the lagoons where sight fishing is not important as guides are looking for rolling tarpon that can be spotted without the sun.
What is a typical day like?
Breakfast is between 7-7:30AM. Coffee is ready at 6AM for the early risers. After breakfast guests are greeted by their guide and their assistant guide to help carry gear down the dock and load it into the boat. The boat will leave the dock between 7:45-8AM. The fishing day is eight hours dock to dock. Lunch will take place on the water and the boats return to the dock around 4PM. The guests are greeted by a happy hour at the lodge with drinks and appetizers. Many guests choose to play cards, cornhole, or continue fishing on foot on the lodges beautiful frontside ocean flats.
What is the general vibe, atmosphere and style of the lodge?
The lodge is typically on the quiet side with guests and anglers utilizing the amenities on the property. Staff are attentive and helpful with anything guests need.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like?
The meals are hearty, delicious and locally sourced.
What is the alcohol policy?
Guests are required to provide their own beer, wine and liquor. Ask us how we can assist you in purchasing and have it available for your arrival.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like?
The lodge has as a swimming pool, Wi-Fi access, cable television, and a large open dining area with French doors that open to a beautiful ocean-side deck with seating area and BBQ. The property has six tasteful private rooms enjoying 270-degree views of the ocean, as well as four additional rooms with private balconies. They include tile showers and floors, along with the added luxury of personal a/c, and locally made mahogany furniture. Their sandy open beachfront is dotted with hammocks and a gorgeous palapa lined dock
Is there internet and/or cell service?
Wi-fi is available throughout the lodge and some mobile phone services do work. You’ll need to check with your provider.
Are there other activities?
Yes, there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, diving, biking, kayaking and eco-adventures.
Do I need a visa?
No. Only a valid passport is needed to travel to Belize.
Are there any health concerns, dangers or annoyances?
We recommend that guests always consult with the U.S. Department of State and the Center For Disease Control websites for general travel information and guidelines.
