Fly fishing
Fly fishing in Belize: permit, bonefish and tarpon, and where to stay
Behind the world's second largest barrier reef, Belize has flats where all three of the big saltwater species can be caught in a day. Where to stay on Ambergris Caye and in Placencia, and when to go.
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The little plane from Belize City flies low over the flats. Below you lie pale green water, dark patches of turtle grass and a thin white line where the reef breaks the swell. Fifteen minutes later you touch down on a strip beside the beach in San Pedro.
Belize is the only country in Central America with English as its official language, which makes independent travel easy. The barrier reef shelters the flats from the open sea, so the water stays calm and shallow for much of the year. You can fish for all three of the big species without travelling far.
In short
Belize is one of the world's best places for permit on the fly, with bonefish and tarpon in the same waters. Stay on Ambergris Caye for the most guides and a short hop from the airport, or in Placencia in the south for the finest permit flats. The best months are March to June.
Our first choice: Victoria House Resort & Spa on Ambergris Caye, a quiet beachfront hotel south of San Pedro.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Victoria House Resort & Spa
When and how
March to June: The best time for permit and tarpon, with settled weather and light winds.
All year: Bonefish are on the flats year-round, often in large schools.
Autumn: August to November is hurricane season, with a higher risk of storms.
Licences: Visitors need a sport fishing licence. The three flats species are protected as catch and release, and guides usually arrange the licence.
Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye is Belize's largest island, with San Pedro its only town. It has the most guides and hotels, and you arrive by small plane or water taxi from Belize City. Golf carts are the usual way to get around.
Victoria House Resort & Spa
Victoria House sits on the beach a little south of San Pedro, in colonial style with thatched casitas. There are several pools and a dock where guide boats can collect you.
Ideal for staying somewhere elegant and calm with town close at hand.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Victoria House Resort & Spa
Matachica Resort & Spa
Matachica is on the north of the island, with brightly painted cabanas under the palms and adults-only guests. You reach it by water taxi or golf cart, and the quiet is part of the appeal.
A good fit for couples combining fishing with a restful holiday.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Matachica Resort & Spa
Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection
Alaia is the newest of the large hotels on Ambergris Caye, on the beach just south of San Pedro. Rooms are modern and spacious, and there are several restaurants on site.
Suits families and anyone wanting full service within walking distance of town.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection
Chabil Mar, Placencia
Villas with private terraces run down to the sea on the peninsula in southern Belize. Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Placencia
Placencia is a narrow peninsula in southern Belize, with a lagoon on one side and the Caribbean on the other. The flats and cayes offshore rank among the world's best for permit. Flights from Belize City take under an hour.
Chabil Mar
Chabil Mar is made up of villas with kitchens and sea-facing terraces, plus a pool and a dock. Placencia village is within walking distance.
Good for families and groups of anglers who want space and the option to cook some meals.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Chabil Mar
Naïa Resort and Spa
Naïa sits halfway along the peninsula, with beach houses scattered through gardens facing the sea. It has a spa and a long dock where guides can tie up.
The choice for fishing permit every day while staying in real comfort.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Naïa Resort and Spa
Laru Beya Resort
Laru Beya is on the beach towards the north of the peninsula, with apartments that have kitchens and balconies. Rates are often below those of its neighbours.
A sensible pick if you would rather spend the money on a guide and a boat than on the room.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Laru Beya Resort
Turtle Inn by Francis Ford Coppola
Turtle Inn has thatched cottages facing the sea and a garden that supplies the kitchen. It is close to the village and one of the best-known hotels in Belize.
For couples who want something with character between fishing days.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Turtle Inn by Francis Ford Coppola
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to fly fish in Belize?
The best time to fly fish in Belize is from March to June, especially for permit and tarpon. Bonefish can be caught all year. August to November is hurricane season, so book flexible rates if you travel then.
Do you need a fishing licence in Belize?
Yes, visitors need a sport fishing licence in Belize. Guides usually arrange it for you. Bonefish, permit and tarpon are protected species, and every fish must be released.
Where should you stay for fishing in Belize?
Ambergris Caye has the most guides and hotels and is close to the airport in Belize City. Placencia in the south has the best permit flats and a quieter feel. Many anglers split their trip between the two.
How do you get to Belize from the UK?
There are no direct flights from the UK to Belize. Most travellers fly via the United States, for example through Miami or Houston, to Belize City. Small planes then connect to Ambergris Caye and Placencia.