Fishing in Ambergris Caye is one of the most authentic experiences you can get in Belize. The island is known for hosting fun water activities, but these tourist attractions mainly revolve around the beach. This time around, try going a few miles off the coast with a local guide, and let the locals show you how to make the most of the area's best fishing action.
Thanks to the tropical climate, fishing in Ambergris Caye varies only from great to amazing. Visit the crystal clear flats and you'll be able to target Tarpon, Bonefish, and Permit. Head out to deeper water, and you could be battling Barracuda, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Kingfish, or even Marlin. Fishing is good year round, but you should time your trip between June and early September to catch the peak season.
With so many game fish in the area and different fishing grounds to explore, it's impossible to cover everything in just one trip. A full day trip will allow you to target a variety of fish, while a four-hour trip will be enough if you've got your mind set on a particular fish.
The best departure point is in San Pedro, which is easily accessible even if you're located on the mainland. You can take a 20-minute flight or a 90-minute ferry ride from the marina in Belize City.
Rules & Regulations
A fishing license is necessary for all anglers. Some guides cover licenses for their guests, some don't – get in touch before the trip to confirm your guide's policy. One of the reasons these waters are so bountiful is that anglers are doing their best to preserve the fish population by releasing their catches. Your guide will let you know which species you can take if you're planning a fish feast after the trip.