El Pescador Fly Fishing Lodge – Belize Fly Fishing: Belize has always held a special place in the minds of travelers. Beautiful, pristine tropical environment where jungle meets the Caribbean Ocean and incomparable access to the world’s second largest intact, alive reef system. A seemingly endless series of islands or locally called “cayes” lie between the mainland of central America and the reef, making up an aquatic paradise that is protected and maintained by the Belizean government. As anglers, Belize is one of the most sought after destinations in the world because its sport fishing, specifically shallow water sport fishing, offers a diverse, well maintained blue ribbon fishery with both resident and migratory fish populations. The acclaimed El Pescador Lodge, located on Ambergris Caye in northern Belize, offers the quintessential Belizean fishing experience while setting the local standard for service and accommodation.
Long History
El Pescador first opened its doors in 1974 and has been fully operational ever since. Purchased in 1997 by the current owner, Ali Flota, the lodge has since won numerous awards and accolades including most recently, the Orvis Endorsed International Lodge of the year in 2022. Still run as a family business, the lodge currently provides the best of everything Belize has to offer in both fishing and eco tourism alike. Located directly on the ocean, no more than a few hundred yards away from the reef, the beautifully remodeled lodge and pristine setting are idyllic, perfectly situated for a tropical fishing experience, family vacation or a combination of the two.
Multitude of Species
Ambergris Caye and its surrounding waters are central to El Pescador’s identity and offerings. Situated off the southern tip of the peninsula extending south from the bottom of the Yucatan and lying directly between the reef and Chetumal Bay, this region boasts an unbelievable health in terms of fish species, variety and population. This corridor is famous for “super slam” species of Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon and Snook which are present year round as well as many other target species including Barracuda, Snapper and Jack Crevalle. Notably, the waters around Ambergris Caye get a remarkable Tarpon migration each spring featuring large ocean fish cruising onto shallow turtle grass flats to reproduce and provide what many consider the apex saltwater fly fishing experience. There are very few places in the world where such a phenomenon occurs annually.
Oceanside Fly Fishing Lodge
In terms of lodging, El Pescador offers a unique and customizable variety of options depending on your group and preferences. The main mahogany lodge features 14 newly renovated rooms right on the beach within walking distance from the bar and pool, each with en suite bathrooms, air conditioning and ceiling fans. There is also the option of staying in one of the private villas which are two stories with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Each one is designed in a lock-off configuration which enables guests to rent a 1, 2 or 3 bedroom villa depending on the size of the group. These are great options for families or larger groups who want a little more privacy and potential self sufficiency with the kitchen space.
Something for every Angler
Speaking of families, El Pescador provides arguably the best family friendly environment for a fishing trip in the business. This is one of WCA’s favorite locations for the fishing trip featuring non-angler spouses or children. The activities are seemingly endless from diving to snorkeling to sailing to eco tours or simply renting a golf cart and exploring the town of San Pedro. There is also always the option to stay at the lodge and enjoy the beautiful pool and wonderful hospitality that has made El Pesacdor so famous over the last 25 years.
Belize Family Hospitality
El Pescador is arguably the most well rounded fishing lodge and destination travel operation that WCA is lucky enough to work with. They have a world class fishery, with a deep and experienced english speaking guide staff, a beautiful and comfortable lodge with diverse rooming options and a range of amenities and services that are rare to come by. If you are eager to go on your first saltwater fly fishing adventure, traveling with a non fishing angler or family, or a dedicated passionate angler, this is an amazing destination that is steeped in a long lived tradition or service and hospitality.
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