Belize Hailed as the Top Spot for Permit Fishing in Central America

From the northern cayes all the way down to the flats in Punta Gorda, there’s no better place for permit fishing in Central America than Belize. That’s what Sport Fishing Magazine contributor Jim Klug had to say about the country in a recent travel article.

“When it comes to consistent and productive permit destinations, the tiny Central American country of Belize sits at the top of the list,” Klug notes.  But why exactly is that? Keep reading to learn what the outdoors magazine had to say about all things permit fishing in Belize.

Hard to Catch but Plentiful in Belize

Elusive but well worth the effort, the permit is one third of the species of fish that constitute landing a grand slam. And alongside its other counterparts, the tarpon and the bonefish, the permit is a flyfisher’s favorite in Belize. In recent years, this hard-to-catch fish has seen an increase in its numbers and this in turn has earned Belize the title of one of the best permit fishing destinations in the region. In his article, Jim Klug points out the three main reasons why permit are so abundant in Belize:

• Since 2008, Belize has had mandatory catch-and-release regulations when it comes to permit (as well as bonefish and tarpon). And, according to Klug, Belize is the only Caribbean nation with such regulations.
• Belize’s nationwide ban of gillnet fishing (a harmful and indiscriminate method) has worked in tandem with the catch-and-release laws to protect the species
• Belize’s fishing guides have evolved a deep sense of understanding for permit after “spending more time focusing on and targeting the species.”

These, says Klug, have the country sitting at the top of the list of “permit hotspots” in Central America.

Where to Fish for Permit in Belize 

Sport Fishing Magazine lists a wide variety of flyfishing destinations in Belize perfect for catching permit. Among them is Ambergris Caye, also regarded as a top spot for tarpon fishing.

“A guide is crucial for this part of Belize, as most flats are soft mud and difficult to wade,” advises Klug.

Undoubtedly the top spot for permit in Belize though, is its southern region. Home to the fabled “permit alley”, southern Belize is peppered with prime spots for flyfishing, ranging from Hopkins all the way down to Punta Gorda. Other notable spots include the Turneffe Atoll, Caye Caulker, and Long Caye.

Base Yourself in Southern Belize for Some Fly Fishing Fun 

In addition to being home to the famous permit alley, southern Belize is also home to a variety of resorts and lodges that offer tours and packages perfect for passionate fly fishers. Not sure where to start? Here are a few to consider.

Blue Horizon Fly Fishing Lodge 

Sitting right inside the permit alley, Blue Horizon Lodge is Orvis-endorsed and perfect for an all-inclusive fishing vacation. There are only five guest cabanas located on-site, making it private and intimate, too.

Copal Tree Lodge

Copal Tree Lodge is nestled inside the jungles of Belize’s deep south. But with the lodge perched right beside the Rio Grande, the flats of Southern Belize (and the Caribbean Sea) lie within close reach. This Orvis-endorsed lodge has a fly-fishing package that combines luxury with adventure.

Ray Caye Island Resort

This private island off the coast of the Placencia Peninsula is the perfect place to get away from it all. Ray Caye offers fly-fishing tours (as well as snorkeling and scuba diving). They also have a 4-night package that covers 3 full days of fishing.

Featured Photo by ROEming Belize Travel Agency. Read the full article “The Best Permit Fishing in Belize” by Jim Klug over at Sport Fishing Magazine.