La Pescadora Mexico Permit Fly Fishing Report:
Due to the substantial rainstorms in Ascension Bay prior to our trip to La Pescadora Lodge, one could almost fish for baby tarpon on the flooded streets of Punta Allen. We watched the weather forecast constantly as heavy rain pounded the East Coast of Quintana Roo, while the Pacific Coast prepared for Hurricane Patricia; branded “the most devastating storm to hit Mexico.” Needless to say, we braced ourselves for bumpy boat rides and less than ideal sight fishing conditions in Ascension Bay. Despite the recent rainfall and modest forecasts during our stay at La Pescadora, the fishing was exceptional, and the great company of anglers and guides made for a truly unforgettable experience.
With so many uncontrollable variables one encounters while fishing on the flats, it’s always nice to know exactly what to expect when arriving at La Pescadora. The quiet lodge, just south of Punta Allen, is nestled only about a far cast from the beach. The outstanding food, warm and welcoming staff, and fully stocked bar reminds you that even after a tough day of fishing, you are in paradise. La Pescadora employs some of the top guides in the Caribbean, who’s astoundingly sharp eyes led us to numerous shots at permit every day, from both in and out of the boat.
Our group of anglers consisted of four WorldCast employees (C.G. Sipe, Ben Rogers, Brad Boyer, and myself (Robb Scott)), and two friends of WCA. The week started especially strong for WCA guide Ben Rogers. In his first trip to Mexico and having never fished for permit, he proceeded to land a 15lb permit with his first cast of the trip. The trip did not slow down from there, as Ben landed a total of 8 permit over the 6 days of fishing. Each member of the group landed at least one permit, hooking roughly 25, and landing a total of 19.
Although Ascension Bay is regarded as one of the world’s premier permit fisheries, the bay is riddled with other fish species such as bonefish, tarpon, and snook. While the permit fishing was excellent, the entire bay was alive with fish activity. The group recorded a total of 3 grand slams, with various shots at super grand slams throughout the trip. We landed bonefish and tarpon every day, as well as several snook over the course of the trip. If you want to catch multiple species of fish on a fly rod, and want potential shots at trophy permit, this trip should be high on your list of destination fishing locations.
Our recent experience was a prime example that weather forecasts do not make the trip. Managing expectations and adapting to uncontrollable variables are important faculties for any angler, but perhaps nothing is more important than maintaining the attitude that something incredible could happen at any moment.
