Our blog offers a vast collection of useful articles that include topics related to hatches, seasons, rivers, destination trip reports and more, Helpful checklists to make sure you include the proper clothing and gear for your Montana fishing trip, Information on rates for Montana and Yellowstone National Park fishing licenses. }. At a whopping six-hour drive from Cancun, not many tourists make it to Xcalak, and that's too bad for them. We zip up our wading boots and slide over the gunnel into the lukewarm water as quietly as possible. Night time temps were pretty cool, so having an AC was a non-issue and the showers were hot! Specifically, the joy found in our trip to the salt to fish the lesser known of the great Yucatan bays: Chetumal. Dr. Mike Larkin on Bonefish The Tom Roland Podcast. Theres more to Xcalak than fly fishing, heres our Ultimate List of Things to do in Xcalak, https://www.josexcalaktours.com/index.html. Heres a rundown of the Xcalak beach, and here are the Xcalak fly fishing basics: The saltwater flats are the biggest deal in Xcalak. Top Fishing Charters in Xcalak. Because of the diversity of waterscapes, Xcalak is an excellent place for fly-fishers to attempt the Grand-Slam, catching a bonefish, a tarpon, and a permit all in the same day. Ruin explorers can easily visit the Chacchoben archaeological site, about a two-hour drive from the village. Xcalak has been a favorite for over ten years. The second episode of the two-part sit-down with the owner of XFlats Lodge, Jesse Colton. Leave early to arrive before nightfall. These lagoons are mangrove-lined and accessible on all tidal phases. Anyone ever fish Xcalak, Mexico? - Dedicated To The Smallest Of Skiffs Xcalak on the Fly A link to purchase your Montana license online is also provided, Frequently asked questions related to fly fishing in Montana and about our fishing trips and packages, Montana Angler is a family run business that prides itself on working with the best guides and lodging options in Montana, Read what our guests have to say about our trips and learn why we are rated #1 in Trip Advisor and have a 5 star average on our Orvis reviews. March 3, 2023. Really like your blog. We fished for Permit, tarpon and Snook here also but I considered . Some of the most exciting underwater experiences include seeing manatees and diving with schools of yardstick-long tarpon. Destination fishing trips - Experience Xcalak Mexico!!! Join us on a 6 Night & 7 Day Guided fishing trip to beautiful Xcalak, Mexico. Hop in a panga, explain to your guide what you want to catch, and off you go. What would it take to help others find Xcalak? You can buy food from the local grocery trucks that ply the beach road. THE SUN IS SETTING OVER THE SLEEPY FISHING VILLAGE OF XCALAK, MEXICO, casting the barrier reef in amber light and bringing out the vibrant green and blue hues of the oceanside flats. There is a landing strip in Xcalak, but Patrick and I cant yet afford to charter our own plane, so we opted for Cancn, where Miguel and his brother Alberto, the amicable drivers of a shuttle arranged by Costa de Cocos, met us amid the throngs of vacationers outside the airport. Sign in to access your subscriptions and subscriber-only content. This phrase is somewhat of a mantra for a few who joined us on our recent trip this past December to Costa De Cocos in Xcalak, Mexico. Although more populous than Xcalak, the crowds here are nothing compared to the Riviera Maya. Spring creeks offer the ultimate challenge in the fly fishing world. Running south, we have a maze of grass . The average catch is 6 - 12 bonefish per day. Targeting the plentiful bonefish is always an option. Strangely enough, comfort should loose to joy, almost always. Its cheaper to stay at one of the non fishing lodges down there and book guides on your own and DIY. and guiding in Xcalak and I can tell you that things have never After getting into the groove of casting heavier rods, we even managed a few fish including the first bonefish of the trip caught by Jim. Discover the full adventure here, Learning is about looking at things differently, making your life a little better everyday., 9 more videos to help you discover Xcalak. About Xcalak - Xcalak Fishing reefs, islands, lagoons and bays of the beautiful Xcalak National Renting a car from Cancun is the most common way to reach Xcalak. @media only screen and (max-width: 600px) { At XOTF, our goal is to provide you with the most personalized and all-inclusive fly fishing experience. .fullwidth-signup{ foraging in the turtle grass, perfect cover for crabs and shrimps. CAR Most visitors to Xcalak arrive at the Cancun International Airport (CUN). 2 people are looking at this charter. While we all had our target fish we obviously would love to catch, I found it better to ask our guide what they thought would be the best option. With XOTF at Casa Paraiso, youre sure to have a rewarding and relaxing time. For Immediate Release: Wednesday, March 1, 2023 . Not just a fishing and diving lodge, Costa de Cocos boasts a restaurant, brewery, and distillery. Luggage options for the traveling angler. Filters 1. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Located just a few miles north of the border with Belize on the southern end of the Yucatan Peninsula, Xcalak is a tiny fishing village that shows little influence from the outside world. Search, book & review the best deals online with us! WordPress. Everyone was excited; my first permit, and it seemed like a good one. Maybe you are very serious about fly fishing maybe you are very excited about snorkeling or maybe you are just very ready for a vacation to explore the reefs, islands, lagoons and bays of the beautiful Xcalak National Park. display: block; The guides in Xcalak really know their stuff. Join International Living Today and Get the 2023 Global Retirement IndexFREE with This Special Offer. Bring your gear, your fly box, your sunscreen, your best double-haul cast and your sense of adventure for an amazing time at one of my favorite places to fly Read More Fly Fishing @ XTC Two units have generated flow nonstop, day and night. Whether it's the birdlife, stunning Caribbean vistas, or world-class fishing, we can promise you that we will show you a unique and memorable experience out on the water. Fly Fishing the Surf with 2 Handed Rods (8/1/2019) Essential Gear for Fly Fishing the Surf (7/16/2019) Casting in the Wind (Part 2) (7/9/2019) How to Choose a Combo (6/25/2019) Add 10 Feet to your Fly Cast (6/5/2019) Big, small, funny, and fast. I would reccomend it, even just for the entertainment value. Weather in the Northern Rockies can be fickle and it is always a good idea to come prepared regardless of the season. Water has cleared up. The reef is a physical barrier that breaks up big ocean surge and turns it to gentle waves. A little variation in the flow but not much. There is often the fear of a translation issue or a communication breakdown that leads to missed fish. Fly Fishing for bonefish in Chetumal Bay. While comfortable, the accommodations are rusticwhich for all of us was just fine. As a lifelong trout angler and guide, flats fishing is a totally different experience and challenge, and I am hooked. Your email address will not be published. Our drive led us past the gringo tourists on rental bikes, past food carts unadvisable for visitors, and past the multi-million and mega gaudy resort entrances. It depicts a good summary. Xcalak is one of the towns that has been maintained over time in its most natural state. I'd like to hear about the permit on the 10 weight. Julios younger brother and apprentice, Eduardo, spots the fish right away. Lodge packages include all meals and guided fishing so you can sit back, relax and enjoy a great fly fishing vacation, Enjoy great fishing and keep your costs in check with one of our hotel packages. fly fishing maybe you are very excited about snorkeling or [Story by Nick Roberts / Photos by Patrick Williams]. I've heard anything from only an 8 weight to 8-10 weights needed for permit down there. Manage your subscription or add a digital edition to your print subscription. } Far too often we are working to build insulation of comfort around our existence to protect us from the uncomfortable realities of the modern worldbut sometimes the casualty to our padded lives becomes our joy. Ilana and David Randall founded Costa de Cocos over 25 years ago on an idyllic 350-foot stretch of oceanfront property a half mile north of town. Or, use the free kayaks and SUPs offered at most beachside hotels. The Fish Xcalak on the Fly Myself and fellow Montana Angler guide Tony Nahorny traveled south to our partners at Costa de Cocos Lodge in Xcalak, Mexico in late February for a week-long escape from the Montana winter. This is a video I made for some friends that were thinking of going on a trip with us. Home to jaguars, howler monkeys, and the deadly fer-de-lance pit viper, this land, along with the rest of the Yucatn Peninsula, was ruled by the Maya for centuries. This way of thinking might sell them far to short, however, because bonefish are extremely fun. width: 100%; If you delve into the history of Xcalak, you will be able to see its relevance in communications and supplies between large cities. The fish are happy, the cooler is full and our skiffs are loaded, the only thing we are waiting for is you! And, being set in the jungle, the Caribbean breeze doesnt disturb the calm lagoon waters, making them perfect for exploring by kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP). Captain Victor Castro, Xcalak | Yucatan Fishing Guides & Charters been more beautiful or better here than they are now. Lakes above and below us are all . BEACH FRONT lote For Sale 9150 ft2 at Mahahual- Xcalak road P3413, Costa Maya, Quintana Roo. The town is remote, and so far south, its only six miles to the Belize/Mexico border. It was amazing fishing in a fantastic place with bones and permit caught right off the dock. A pair of windmills power the resort, and like any good fishing lodge, it has its own restaurant and bar, which is where Patrick and I head after stashing our gear in our cabana, one of 16 spread along the waters edge. To get to Xcalak, you can either rent a car at the airport, or the Costa de Cocos Resort in Xcalak can arrange for a complimentary shuttle to pick you up. The fresh (but slightly salty) water in the lagoons hosts an entirely different species of wildlife than the saltwater flats. Two suites complete with kitchens sleep 6 people each. Chetumal Bay is at the far southern tip of the Yucatan, near the border with Belize. If you are interested, you can read more about our 2019 trip here OR shoot me an e-mail and we can talk Mayan adventure. Would love to see more pictures! Seven through ten weights were in order for the grand slam of species we would be chasing the upcoming week. Xcalak Bonefish (1.000) Xcalak on a Monday (1.000) Bones of Costa de Cocos (1.000) Tags: Bahia Blanca, bonefishing, Mexico, Xcalak. We know you'll love fishing with . Given Xcalaks limited development, youd be right to guess that the tourist hotels take sustainability seriously. There are new license requirements to fish for winter steelhead in 2023 on south coast rivers and anglers should check the new regulation book prior to fishing. David Randall moved to Xcalak in the early '90s, after selling his catfish hatchery south of Kansas City. There was some netting going on. Finally, heading south of Xcalak town, the water turns coloured and offers excellent opportunities to target rolling Tarpon, as well as Snook and Jacks as they feed on Sardines and glass minnows sheltering close to the mangroves. Your email address will not be published. For pricing on lodging packages visit each individual package for rates, inclusions and exclusions. Powered by I have fished with Captain A lovely place to stay: Reef House at Casa Paraiso Xcalak - See 315 traveller reviews, 292 photos, and cheap deals for Reef House at Casa Paraiso Xcalak at Tripadvisor. Please check the website to learn Bonefish and all that relates (maybe a bit about tarpon too). These fish are those we hold most dear. Very well done Kev, glad you had a great trip. width:max-content; .fullwidth-signup{ The flats all along Xcalaks coast are fair game for fly fishing, with some of the best found at Chetumal Bay, only 30 minutes away by boat. You also need to purchase a Mexican fishing license, which you can buy weekly, monthly, or yearly. The second-longest reef in the world, it stretches nearly 700 miles, from Isla Mujeres in Mexico to the Bay Islands in Honduras. Mixing bonefish, permit, and homemade bourbon on the Mexican Caribbean. clear: both; Talk your guide about what you want to try for snook, tarpon, barracuda, or jacks. Finally, when the tides were right, and the clients were willing, a few guides had sneaky spots where they would anchor the boat, put on the wading shoes and bomb through the mangroves into the Mayan jungle. Home - Casa Caracola Even if the wind is howling out of the east, there are plenty of sheltered places to fish in Chetumal Bay, which is as large as Espiritu Santo and Ascension Bays combined. If you can picture all that, you will have a good idea of what life is like out on the Xcalak and Chetumal Bay flats! We take care of all the gear and you just sit back and relax after arriving in camp. a bit about my services and your options for exploring the Xcalak Water temperatures are still cold. EN C Change your measurements clients down who are beginners. Institutional amnesia pushes fish spawning aggregations towards Xcalak on the Fly is the Yucatan Peninsula's newest fly fishing lodge based out of Casa Paraiso. "It's all about the beaches": Sargassum algae, tourism, and coastal Again, I really enjoyed your report. Andy manages Duranglers Flies and Supplies online store and web content. Thanks for sharing! Since our trip was in December, we had the youngsters of the species to target. Traveler favorites. Id love to make it down there. Tags: Bahia Blanca, bonefishing, Mexico, Xcalak. On the boats at 8am and back at the dock 4-430pm. Go now, he whispers excitedly. Rain has improved fishing conditions. If you wish, you can join a kayaking tour, which is usually paired with a snorkeling excursion. Email:xcalakotf@gmail.comPhone:+1.907.953.3992. Xcalak, Mexico - Duranglers Fly Fishing Shop & Guides Duranglers 2018 Xcalak, Mexico Trip Report - Duranglers Fly Fishing Acocote Eco Inn: Perfect for the adventurous - Read 144 reviews, view 87 photos, and find great deals for Acocote Eco Inn at Tripadvisor Chetumal Bay is located near the small fishing village of Xcalak, Quintana Roo, Mexico, about 8 miles north of Ambergris Cay, about 150 miles south of Ascension Bay, and eight miles north of the Belize Border. 1 While natural . If you have spent any time on a saltwater flat with a guide, then you are always amazed by how far an experienced guide can spot fish. Costa de Cocos, Only 2 kms from town, this accommodation is the closest thing to a resort youll find in Xcalak. The jetties are still holding trout and redfish. The small town of Bacalar is famous for its many-hued Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the lake of seven colors. A two-and-a-half-hour drive from the village of Xcalak, Bacalar is one of Mexicos enchanting, yet underrated, Pueblos Magicos, and exudes a laidback vibe that harkens to Tulum of 20 years ago. Re: DIY Fly Fishing. Hi everyone. It is located on the southernmost tip of the Mexican Riveria, on a peninsula about 1.5 hours boat ride north of San Pedro Belize. Experience some of the lower 48's most remote fisheries. Come wade the warm, tropical flats of Xcalak in search of Permit, Jacks, Bonefish and juvenile Tarpon from the quaint fly fishing village of Xcalak, Mexico. Acocote Eco Inn, Located right in town, Casa Cangrejo is a straight up fly fishing lodge. Walk out from the private beach to fish for barracuda, permit, and bonefish. From the city of Chetumal, just 30 miles across the bay, the village is a 2 1 /2-hour car ride up the coast and back down the peninsula. Our good friend, Captain Rob Perkin of Connect Outfitters, has over 30 years of experience off the beach at Pacific City and has been running guided Rockfish/Salmon fly fishing trips for several years now in an awesome boat crafted by his own hands. Get picked up right from the dock in front of the beach and enjoy supper at the on-site restaurant. Im not far behind. I'm sorry to say no permit for . The front side of Xcalak, or 'out front' as we like to say, is an expansive coastline fishery that offers a little bit of everything, regardless of the conditions. Mexico Fly Fishing Trip Report: Costa de Cocos Lodge, Xcalak Xcalak Caribe Lodge The tarpon opportunities were not an all day, everyday kind of thing, but when they were there, it could be a few hours of almost constant targets! March 2, 2023 Fishing Report - Lilleys' Landing Read about the seasonal patterns in our fisheries. Video: 9 more videos to help you discover Xcalak. That was a great trip report k_e_v. In the past we have fished all six days, but this year decided to take it easy a bit. preserve. It's been at least 20 years, but did stay in Xcalak and fished 5 days, DIY with rented panga. https://www.josexcalaktours.com/index.html. Here in Xcalak, Mexico, we have some of the most beautiful saltwater flats for fly fishing in the world. The lodge will supply you with non alcoholic beverages and lunch to take on your fly fishing quest. We see very little boat traffic and zero industry, aside from the few fishing guides that have the privilege of calling this place their office. After about 10 minutes of nothing, I looked to my right and a big school of Permit were heading our way. Spend your days fly fishing the saltwater flats, snorkeling the coral reefs (just steps from your door), or simply eating too much local food and napping in the dappled shade of a palm. Enter dates. Fishing changes by the week in Montana. These fish sneak to our minds without warning, upturn our mental tables, tip the shelves of reason, smash the windows of logic, set fire to the couch of stability, and leave without an explanation. Daily Xcalak Fishing Reports (January 2023) - FishingBooker It is an old borrow pit and features largemouth bass, panfish such as bluegill, and a few trout. Build lasting relationships with your best clients or reward your key employees with one of our custom built corporate fishing retreats. Hey Nate, certainly looks like a good time. float: left; At Miguels suggestion, we stop for a late lunch at a taco stand, where the four of us eat our fill of pollo and carnitas for only eight dollars. Both Victor and Nick are great guys to fish with. Located just a few miles north of the border with Belize on the southern end of the Yucatan Peninsula, Xcalak is a tiny fishing village that shows little influence from the outside world. Im not able to watch the video for some reason. Maximize your time on the water and make great memories on one of our deluxe overnight river camping trips. Back then there wasnt really a trustworthy tourist website and we just couldnt figure out if the trip was worth the effort. Depending on traffic and how many stops you make, the trip will take about 6 to 7 hours. We also had the option to search for large jacks when they were out on the deeper flats blitzing bait, and a few of us capitalized on this opportunity. Plan for overnights in Cancun on June 9 and June 18. Beyond Tulum, the communities become more rural and become fewer and farther between. The switch was flipped from fishing to hunting oftentimes when 18-20 inch fish could be found cruising in groups of 2s and 4s along the sandy mangroves, searching for food in 4 inches of water. Chetumal is no exception as it boasts resident baby and juvenile tarpon, along with large migrating adult tarpon in the summer months. Fun Facts: All about the manatees of Xcalak. There are no guarantees when permit fishing, but we found that if we really wanted to spend an entire day getting refusals, then there were plenty of permit to accommodate us. As with Xcalak, nothing special on the fly front here. Poor fisheries data, many fishers, and increasing tourism development: Interdisciplinary views on past and current small-scale fisheries exploitation on Holbox Island guide with great eyes, he is an enjoyable fishing companion Here are our recommendations for rods, lines, flies, tippet, waders and more. and nice guy. Local skipper Victor has lived in the area for 35 years and has been guiding fishermen in the area . Casa Cangrejo, One of the first accommodations to open in Xcalak, at Cocos your room is a palapa hut. Bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook, and barracuda await your fly. The Chetumal Bay flats in Xcalak are vastly larger than Ascension Bay further north, offering the fly. I recently returned from Southern Mexico after my first salt water trip. Capitn Jos More than once, it was remarked that the food was beyond our expectations. And stay open to opportunity, as you never know what you might come across while looking for something else. Spring 2023 trip dates: June 10-17 at the lodge. 318 were here. Partly because of its far-flung location and partly because its protected from development (its a National Reef Marine Park), Xcalak isnt overrun by tourists. Welcome to Xcalak, Mexico. Costa De Cocos finds it home in the small fishing village of Xcalak, situated within the southern realms of the Yucatan Peninsula, only a few miles north of the border of Belize. 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A six hour drive south of Cancun, Xcalak resists mega-tourism and retains its natural beauty. We have the safest, fastest, and driest boats in the . During nine days of fly fishing and travel in the Yucatan Peninsula, the novel coronavirus went from being a faint American concern to a full-blown national emergency. May 2, 2016. Choose your accommodation, pack your gear, and head to what might be the last undiscovered fly fishing paradise in the Yucatan. Adventurous travelers will be curious to explore beyond Xcalaks tranquil beaches. I often found that the best communication came early at the dock when discussing the plan for the day.