For those seeking the ultimate sailfish-on-the-fly experience, Casa Vieja in Guatemala is the place. With experienced captains, well-appointed boats, and daily releases averaging 12 fish per boat per day, this is truly the finest operation for serious anglers in search of Pacific sailfish on the fly. Tasteful accommodations and fine dining complete this high-end saltwater experience. Due to very high return rates, open spaces are in high-demand and reservations made well in-advance are typically required.

The offshore waters immediately outside of Puerto San Jose and Puerto Iztapa, Guatemala are without question the most sailfish-rich waters in the world. For anglers looking for the maximum number of shots, this is the place. Most of the fishing occurs in an offshore bowl that begins roughly fifteen miles offshore and terminates roughly forty miles offshore. The region’s sailfish typically run from 70 to 120 pounds and are known to be willing takers of both flies and baits. While the fish are in the region year-round, prime time is considered November through mid-April, as this is the time when the seas and weather are most agreeable.

Boats available to anglers range from 35- to 44-feet and accommodate one to five guests, depending on the vessel. Each boat is operated by an experienced, licensed Captain and rates vary depending on the number of anglers and boat. Fly anglers troll hook-less teasers to “raise” the fish and then the mates will attempt to tease the fish in close to the transom. When the fish is roughly 20 feet away, the teaser is yanked from the water and the fly angler ties to immediate lay his or her fly in its place. If the bait and switch works, the fish will pick up the fly – often a large popper floating on the surface – and head away from the boat with it. The rest is mayhem!

Indulging anglers from around the globe in unequaled comfort is Casa Vieja Lodge, a classically-styled sportsman’s retreat surrounded by landscaped gardens and tropical foliage, which provides the ultimate in privacy. The bedrooms feature luxurious linens and pillows, with either one King size bed or two Queen beds.

Breakfasts include fresh eggs, fruit, and juice with toast and cereal choices. Lunches on board the boats consist of sandwiches, burgers, fruit, potato salad, chips, etc. If someone catches a mahi or tuna, they can also have some sushi or take the fish back to the lodge for appetizers or dinner. Dinners typically consist of steak, chicken, shrimp, mahi, tuna, side salads, and gourmet desserts. There is also a full bar and decent wine selection.

Day 1: Arrive Guatemala City, transfer to lodge.

Days 2-4: Full days of guided fishing

Day 5: Depart lodge for Guatemala City and points beyond.

Typical Daily Schedule:

6:00 AM - Breakfast

6:45 AM - Pick up

7:00 AM - Depart the marina

5:00 PM - Return to dock

6:00 PM - Hors d'oeuvres

7:30 PM - Dinner

2024 Rates: Per person based on double occupancy

• 36'-39' Boats: 4 night/3 day package: $5,090
• 40' Boats: 4 night/3 day package: $5,870
• 44' Boats: 4 night/3 day package: $6,565
• 48' Boats: 4 night/3 day package: $7,240

Included: Accommodations and meals at the lodge, airport reception and round-trip transfers to/from Guatemala City, domestic alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages, lunch and bottled water/soft drinks on the boat, daily lodge-marina transfers, guided fishing, all trolling, spin and fly tackle, bait, lures and flies

Not Included: Airfare, non-domestic beer and alcohol, room tax (per night), laundry services, meals/drinks/touring outside the lodge, staff and guide gratuities, items of a personal nature

Species: Sailfish, blue marlin, black marlin, dorado, yellowfin tuna

Season: Year-round with prime dry time October to June

Capacity: 35 anglers