Who is best suited to this destination? Anyone from first time fly fishers to ardent saltwater anglers looking to travel with companions or families with diverse outdoor interests.
Where is the lodge? El Pescador Lodge and Villas is located on the eastern shoreline of Belize’s Ambergris Caye, seven minutes by boat from the small town of San Pedro.
How do I get there? Anglers access El Pescador 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 seven minute boat ride to the lodge.
When should I go? El Pescador 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 also easier on the budget.
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.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds? There are productive bonefish zones within 20 minutes of the lodge. Depending on conditions, productive tarpon and permit areas can be in excess of an hour from the lodge. It’s a good idea to discuss your preferences of 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 at El Pescador. The majority of bonefish are in the 1 to 2 pound class. The available fish species can vary greatly each day so we recommend anglers come to El Pescador 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 are able to 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. Permit can be challenging so if you land one in a week, that’s a good performance. 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? El Pescador’s 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.
What are the physical demands? Good balance in the boat and casting proficiency always helps keep the score in your favor.
Are there any special skills required? Good casters will always benefit when fly fishing in saltwater.
Does the lodge provide equipment? Yes, El Pescador offers a full fleet of loaner equipment as well as having a well stocked fly shop on-site. In the event that you use flies and tackle provided by your guide, it will be added to your bill at the end of your week.
What is a typical day like? What is the general vibe, atmosphere and style of the lodge? The lodge is typically bustling with guests and anglers. In the evenings, the music is on and the post fishing revelry gets into full swing. The staff is attentive, smiling and ready to help with anything guests need. The bar area features a pool table, foosball and plenty of lounge space for spinning fishing yarns.
Is there an on-site owner, manager or other point-person at the lodge? El Pescador is a family owned and operated business. Management is always around and very helpful and the owners are sometimes on site. El Pescador is one of the only lodges that employs a dedicated fishing manager to help out with requests, plan the next day’s fishing and create accurate fishing reports. Casting lessons on the dock in front of the lodge occur every evening after fishing to help those in need brush up on their skills.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? Meals are a perfect blend of traditional Belizean and American cuisine with several options to choose from at each meal. Guests typically dine alfresco under warm Belizean skies.
What is the alcohol policy? Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? Accommodations at El Pescador are elegant and luxurious. Private villa upgrades can offer an exclusive opportunity to reside away from the main lodge. Units are complete with kitchens, private baths, living room areas, decks and adjoining swimming pools.
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. El Pescador is a great destination for those that need to stay in touch.
Are there other activities? Yes, there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, diving, biking, kayaking and eco-adventures.
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.
