From river fishing to reef fishing to barracuda and tarpon, Belize is an anglers dream! Belize's reef and flats provide some of the best sport fishing in the world, and it's no wonder so many anglers have us on their bucket list!
Here at St. George's Caye, we're fortunate to be located adjacent to the flats, close to the reef, and a short ride from the Belize River so our guests enjoy a variety of fishing during their Caribbean vacation. Read on to learn about the types of fishing available and what you can expect to hook on your next Belize fishing adventure.
Belize Fishing Locations
Flats
Did you know the shallow waters of Belize contain the only classic tarpon flats outside of Florida? Saltwater Flat Fishing is popular among those who want to catch the "Big Three" of permit, tarpon, and bonefish. Experienced anglers prefer to use fly gear while flat fishing, while beginners will typically use spin gears. No matter your experience, this is an exciting fishing adventure for one and all- especially in the summer months that are also known as Grand Slam Season- where you have the best chance of catching the big three in one trip!
River
The Old Belize River is our location of choice when it comes to river fishing and is located about 30 minutes from the resort. You'll actually pass it as you travel from the airport to the island, so be on the lookout for a sneak peek on your way in! This river empties into the Caribbean Sea, which means the water here is unique as it is a mix of fresh and salt water, also known as "brackish water". In this type of water we target snooks, jacks, tarpon (catch and release) and snappers. If you're lucky, you may even land yourself a grouper or spot a manatee!
Reef
Take a short boat ride south of the resort with our experienced guides and experience fishing on the Belize Barrier Reef- the 2nd largest in the world and home to over 500 species of fish! Snappers, barracuda, mackerels, groupers, and jacks are among the many fish you may catch during your time on the reef. Check out this exciting fishing experience a recent guest shared with us!
"My wife and I went on a half day fishing trip, it was guided by a local fisherman and he put us on some Barracuda! We caught 9, it was my wife's first time salt water fishing. She caught the largest one (3.5 - 4 ft, 20 - 25 lbs). The staff cooked our fish for all the guests to enjoy as part of the evening meal, mouthwatering!! We will be returning to this resort as soon as we can!"
Fish
Tarpon
Our flats are renowned for the opportunity to site cast to tarpon 12 months of the year. Tarpon numbers begin to increase in April and May and drop off in September or October, with the peak months being June, July, and August. Some resident tarpon stay throughout the year. Moon phases tend to effect tarpon more than other fish so the guideline is to fish around the new moon. But remember, this is only a guideline and plenty of guets catch tarpon at other times too.
Belize Permit
Permit are found on what is called "the bonefish flats" and on many of the tarpon flats as well. They are found in large schools and range from four to thirty pounds, with the majority in the range of eight to ten pounds. Permit fishing tends to be more predictable when the prevailing winds are most consistent - generally in the winter, spring, and summer.
Bonefish
The bonefish in the waters of Belize run from two to five pounds and are plentiful year-round. Most fly fishing for bonefish is done from the bow of the boat, but there are flats that may be waded as well.
Fishing with St. George's Caye Resort
Whether you're a novice angler or experienced fly fisherman, you'll have an unrivaled experience on the water with our native Belizean guides who have fished these waters their entire lives. We provide everything you need from gear to bait to beverages with each of our guided fishing experiences. Choose from one of of our many fishing packages (meals and room included) or add your guided fishing experience to any stay. See you in the sun and on the waters real soon!
Off the Dock and Kayak Fishing
Casting a line off our docks or kayaks is a complimentary option – bring your own rod and reel, or check out free fishing gear with a member of our staff. We can also help with bait and finding the best spots to hook a snapper, grouper, or snook.