It depicts a good summary. Appetizers and drinks awaited us at the main lodge restaurant after we settled in. The closest town to Xcalak is Mahahual, home to a cruise ship port, restaurants, shops, hotels, and a Mayan-themed water park. Stay in a cabaa or a small casa, and spend the rest of your time on land in the palapa-topped lodge preparing for the next day and boasting about your triumphs. It comes with the package. Many had a mix of experience guiding out of Xcalak along with guiding at Ascension Bay. When I wrote my first article on bonefish fishing in Xcalak, Mexico, I mentioned that I was currently planning another trip back to pursue bonefish once again. Manage your subscription or add a digital edition to your print subscription. float: none; Shop White's Tackle The XTC Fly Fishing Experience. BEACH FRONT lote For Sale 9150 ft2 at Mahahual- Xcalak road P3413, Costa Maya, Quintana Roo. The scenic, 250-mile drive from Cancn to Xcalak takes about five hours. of Jose, myself, and a nice permit. Fresh Xcalak Fishing Reports . Bring your wading gear for hopping out of the boat onto the flats, or for wading out right from your hotel (if you didnt get enough fishing during your 8-hour tour, that is). 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. Upon our arrival to Costa De Cocos, we were greeted by Zach, the fly fishing manager of the lodge who directed us to our rooms. This fly fishing service can book your tour and accommodations, and has access to a network of Xcalak guides. When to Visit Xcalak - Xcalak Mexico Options include diverse lodging packages, camping trips, wilderness horse pack expeditions, day trips and world wide travel. Montana is home to some of the most productive wild trout rivers on the planet. For pricing on lodging packages visit each individual package for rates, inclusions and exclusions. Im not able to watch the video for some reason. 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. On the boats at 8am and back at the dock 4-430pm. Plan for your Montana fishing trip. CFF April 2022 Fishing Reports. .fullwidth-signup{ 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! If you liked the story above, check out these stories below. Looking at the case now10 years removedis like trying to investigate a crime that was never actually a crime. In a protected area, this little fishermen's village highlights many activities and advantages : scuba diving, fly fishing and fishing, snorkelling, bird watching and wildlife trips on land and water. Destination Reports Xcalak Bonefish Round 2. Local skipper Victor has lived in the area for 35 years and has been guiding fishermen in the area . What's the #1 Thing Every Expat Says They Wish They'd Done Before Going to Latin America? Top Fishing Charters in Xcalak. and permit with Captain Jose. Read about average temperatures and weather patterns month by month. We have the safest, fastest, and driest boats in the . 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. You might have heard of Xcalak, but because of its remote location its a relatively unknown, uncrowded fly fishing destination. Both of us had traveled to Xcalak before, and we really enjoy the remote, off the grid feel as well as the excellent fishing for various species including Bonefish, Tarpon, and Permit. Outdoorsman, writer and media producer Trey Reid shows us why he has been returning year after year for the excellent saltwater fishing near the Mexican-Beli. Its less developed (and less crowded) than its popular northern neighbor Ascension Bay, near Tulum. These are the fish we seek when the deeper questions of life are on the table. 1 INSTITUTIONAL AMNESIA. Dolphin and Sailfish have been caught to the south in the 150 to 200 range, and the surf is finally fishable, though Jack Crevalle have been the most likely catch. Palometaalla, he whispers, pointing into the glare. 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. Some days were better than others for finding rolling tarpon, but when they were up, they were up! overflow: hidden; Shots at permit are what brought my fishing buddy Patrick and me to Xcalaka small pit stop on the Yucatn Peninsula at the southern end of Costa Maya, perfectly situated on one of the last undeveloped stretches along the Mexican Caribbean. 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. This special guide covers real estate, retirement and more in Mexico and is yours free when you sign up for our postcards below. Traveler favorites. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Here is where you'll acquire a wealth of knowledge about Xcalak, in just . Although more populous than Xcalak, the crowds here are nothing compared to the Riviera Maya. The area surrounding Xcalak on the Chetumal bay side is a wild and relatively untouched place. I looked back at Alberto, and the look on his face said it all. Xcalak is a quiet fishing town on the southern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Xcalak - American AnglerAmerican Angler Will dredging the Zaragoza Canal hurt Xcalak. Great report Kev,and IMHO you did everything right re your rod choice mate.As this was your first experience of this kind you didn't take knives to a gun fight. North Central Oregon/Mid-Columbia Waters: This week's report from Gorge Outfitters Supply (541-739-2222) in Rufus. Im not far behind. Not only is he an excellent My first two casts were off, but fortunately the fish were still in range. We pick you up each day at the hotel and in the evenings you can enjoy fun western towns like Bozeman and Livingston, Browse our large network of vacation homes and cabins that are either on the water or centrally located to great fishing. Night time temps were pretty cool, so having an AC was a non-issue and the showers were hot! February 8, 2023. 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). Headwear to keep you dry, cool, sun free, warm, or whatever you need! 923 Main Ave | DURANGO, CO 81301 Some guides have over 25+ years of experience guiding fly fishers in the area. Xcalak. David Randall moved to Xcalak in the early '90s, after selling his catfish hatchery south of Kansas City. Simply enter your email address below and well send you a free special report Mexico: The Perfect Close-to-Home Retirement Haven. South Florida Inshore and Offshore Fishing Reports - White's Tackle Need a fishing charter? Strangely enough, comfort should loose to joy, almost always. Its a After a quick scramble through mosquito hell, we would find ourselves in secret lagoons full of baby tarpon, snook, and bonefish pushing 6 to 8 pounds. Maybe you are very serious about We emerge from the jungle after a couple hours, and when I spot a stand of mangroves sprouting in a pool of water along the road, I know were almost there. 318 were here. Water temperatures are still cold. These pickup trucks carry fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, and snacks. Farmington, ill. -Stop by for a cold beer on your, Byron Bayeasternmost point of Australia. Costa De Cocos Lodge - Xcalak Fly Fishing | Yellow Dog Xcalak is a refreshingly undisturbed fishing village nestled along Mexicos southernmost Caribbean coastline. Two units have generated flow nonstop, day and night. Xcalak is one of the towns that has been maintained over time in its most natural state. Freshly caught lobster, coconut breaded fish topped with mango salsa, huevos rancheros in the mornings, tropical drinks waiting for us at the dock upon return from fishing, octopus ceviche, and even pizza (the restaurant is known for it)we were well fed. We flew into Cancun on a Friday the 6th of December, overnighted at the Cancun Airport Marriott, and then were picked up the following morning for a 5-hour drive south into the Mayan jungle. Very well done Kev, glad you had a great trip. To the north, we have the the Rio Huach lagoon system, boasting consisitent baby Tarpon and Snook fishing year round. I toss the Rag Head Crab into the air, load my 9-weight, and aim a couple feet in front of the lead fish. It also happens to be one of the best places to DIY saltwater fly fish. With XOTF at Casa Paraiso, youre sure to have a rewarding and relaxing time. Adventurous travelers will be curious to explore beyond Xcalaks tranquil beaches. Options include unique fishing lodges, exclusive ranch stays, riverside vacation rentals, and affordable hotel packages. There's a boat ramp in the southwest corner of the lake. Deep sea, light tackle, fly fishing - you name it! Walk out from the private beach to fish for barracuda, permit, and bonefish. Associated with Xflats fly fishing. Other times, our guides found hundreds (maybe thousands) of small bones mudding in on a deeper flat (also a good place to look for permit). Hey Bjorn, So I will simply say that there is a broad range of acceptable tactics but with the permit I caught, in the weather I caught it and with cast I made I was happy to have the 10wt. If you book a fly fishing package with one of Xcalaks accommodations, they can hook you up with a guide, or you book an accommodation and a guide separately. I'd like to hear about the permit on the 10 weight. .signup-row:after { Institutional amnesia pushes fish spawning aggregations towards For the majority of anglers traveling from the United States, the most direct route is to fly into the spring-break mecca of Cancn and drive the rest of the way, which takes about five hours. Its uncommonly easy to find a stretch of the Caribbean all to yourself in Xcalak. He was never seen or heard from again. On the way to Xcalak, you can stop for tacos and a cold beer in Tulum. Choose your accommodation, pack your gear, and head to what might be the last undiscovered fly fishing paradise in the Yucatan. Feel free to send me an email with any questions you Find out when to come, what equipment to bring, browse blog articles, and more. The place is far nicer and mainstream than led to believe in the pictures. The permit are still there, about 20 yards out. color: white; Perfect for the adventurous - Review of Acocote Eco Inn, Xcalak, Mexico It's been at least 20 years, but did stay in Xcalak and fished 5 days, DIY with rented panga. Electricity comes from solar panels, except for on cloudy days when a diesel generator kicks in, and the rooftops capture rainwater and channel it into underground cisterns to use for showers and cleaning. Diosa Del Mar Mahahual 25 ft 4 persons . Its cheaper to stay at one of the non fishing lodges down there and book guides on your own and DIY. My name is Jose, I live in Xcalak, and I am here to help 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. Rain has improved fishing conditions. The upside is the permit fishing is consistently good through June and July (Julio notes that May is typically the best month), and June is also when big migratory tarpon begin to show up along the reef. Since our trip was in December, we had the youngsters of the species to target. foraging in the turtle grass, perfect cover for crabs and shrimps. Mexico gets a reputation as a small bonefish destination, but when you are willing to put in a little time, and think of it as hunting (like we do with permit), you might be surprised. Cleanr theme by WPShoppe. /* Create three equal columns that floats next to each other */ With food and drinks included in the cost of the lodge, our gear was sorted rather quickly into our rooms. We have been offering one week fly fishing . (3 spots remain.) Fishing pressure has been very light, even with a lot of steelhead in the river. Work now, play later as they say. What more could you ask for? Chetumal Bay, an expansive wonderland for the intrepid flats fisherman! The restaurant at Cocos is a popular place to cool off with one of their microbrews and trade stories with other fishers. Ruin explorers can easily visit the Chacchoben archaeological site, about a two-hour drive from the village. 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. And with a white-sand seabed, the coastal water displays a stunning aquamarine tint. Choose from Montana's largest selection of fishing and lodging packages. [emailprotected], HOURS: This is a video I made for some friends that were thinking of going on a trip with us. A six hour drive south of Cancun, Xcalak resists mega-tourism and retains its natural beauty. Xcalak Bonefish Round 2 - Islander Precision Reels clear: both; The reef is a physical barrier that breaks up big ocean surge and turns it to gentle waves. 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. Then we visited again. Julio and I stealthily close in on the fish, their black spikes silhouetted in the fading light. Fly Fishing @ XTC For unknown reasons, Scheepstra broke away from his fishing partner and headed back toward the rental car. Learn about getting to Xcalak. Duranglers 2018 Xcalak, Mexico Trip Report - Duranglers Fly Fishing Okay so I thought about this a lot today and let me restate my earlier comment. Boats and Equipment All boats used by the lodge are 23-foot pangas that accommodate two fishermen and a guide. Thanks for the great report! We fished for Permit, tarpon and Snook here also but I considered . March 2, 2023 Fishing Report - Lilleys' Landing Your email address will not be published. Poor fisheries data, many fishers, and increasing tourism development: Interdisciplinary views on past and current small-scale fisheries exploitation on Holbox Island The town is remote, and so far south, it's only six miles to the Belize /Mexico border. Not to mention the list of 'other' species, such as Barracuda, Snapper, Jacks, Snook and Cobia that are all a real possibility on every trip. More from their website : "Tucked along the world-famous Chetumal Bay, the Xflats at Tierra Maya's 7 beachfront suites are elegantly . This keeps the populations healthy and means theres always plenty to catch. Your email address will not be published. } American Angler magazine covers fly-fishing tactics, tackle, destinations, news, and fisheries conservation for a national readership of more than 40,000 fly fishers of all levels. XTC local guides maintain a high degree of knowledge on fly fishing and casting artificial lures for all species of saltwater fish found in the area. Again, I really enjoyed your report. Fly Fishing in Xcalak Mexico - Holy Waters This isnt to say Chetumal is any less of a fisheryit just gets less pressure. Site cast to trophy trout cruising the shallows of several productive lakes. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Subscribe to the Magazine Today and Save 65%, IL Magazine: Discover the World's Best Retirement Haven for 2023 + 15 more, about subscribing to International Living Magazine. 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. Xcalak Mexico - Xcalak Mexico Two suites complete with kitchens sleep 6 people each. The downside is the weather can be unpredictable this time of year. Mexico Depending on the weather conditions, we could find ourselves poling white sandbanks in search of Permit, wading ankle-deep grass flats for tailing Bonefish, or casting to strings of Tarpon passing remote cayes. It was amazing fishing in a fantastic place with bones and permit caught right off the dock. Xcalak Fly Fishing Basics - Xcalak Mexico Specifically, the joy found in our trip to the salt to fish the lesser known of the great Yucatan bays: Chetumal. In our group, we had two that were lucky enough to connect and land a permit on the first day. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Can't find the video you're looking for? Michael Graham was in Xcalak in the Spring of 2009 on a self-described walk-about. Xcalak Bonefishing | Bonefish on the Brain The cabanas fit 2 anglers, had ceiling fans, plenty of windows, and a fine and functional bathroom. Xcalak, Mexico: The Yucatan Peninsula's Most Secluded Beach Town Both Victor and Nick are great guys to fish with. 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. Map. Casa Cangrejo Xcalak - Your best fly fishing trip ever 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. Xcalak padding: 1.25rem 1.25rem 1rem; Imagine floating into a deluxe camp on one of our private ranches or permitted islands where cold beverages and tasty appetizers await. Xcalak Front Side Flats. you. Returning to Costa was a no brainer for me, as I quickly became addicted to saltwater fishing after my first trip. We will help you hand pick the perfect lodge, design a great fishing program and help coordinate all logistics from airport transfers to meeting, Explore the world's most amazing fisheries with our destination travel program. Filters 1. Xcalak is home to a quintessential view of the Caribbean, with translucent turquoise waters and mostly undeveloped beaches, backed by swaying palms. 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His fly fishing writings have been published on blogs such as the Daily Drake and Simms Wading Room. Victor's location in Xcalak means easy access to the flats of Chetumal Bay. On Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, far from the over-developed beaches of the Riviera Maya, you'll find a small, beachside fishing village called Xcalak. The fish are happy, the cooler is full and our skiffs are loaded, the only thing we are waiting for is you! The line went tight instantly and the drag began screaming. Fishing Charters & Tours in Xcalak. From there, the best way to get to Xcalak is to rent a car and drive south on Highway 307. I may have framed my question a bit different than I wanted. The walleye fishing has been good on the days anglers can get out on the water. This package includes transportation from Cancun International Airport, accommodation and all meals. Luggage options for the traveling angler. Shorelines action is heating up with a few speckled trout, redfish, and decent numbers of black drum, and sheepshead, all on live shrimp. You must log in or register to reply here. Traveling a few hours further south youll discover Xcalak has bigger flats and more diverse sea life. Talk about hero to zero. These lagoons are mangrove-lined and accessible on all tidal phases. Before you head off to Xcalak, here is some advice for making the most of your trip: .jason-signup { "It's all about the beaches": Sargassum algae, tourism, and coastal And he can also keep up 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. Even after the opening of the Parque Nacional de Arrecifes (Xcalak Reefs Natonal Park) many of the inhabitants still feed their families from the sea but now often in the form of guiding fishermen or . The Parks daily entrance fee is payable to Park officials and it includes a wristband to show that youve paid to use the park. The rivers, streams and lakes of Yellowstone National Park hold a special place in the hearts of many anglers. Double occupancy (boat and room) -$4,495.00 USD. This entry was posted on Monday, March 22nd, 2010 at 3:04 am and is filed . It was like a rustic cabin right on the . Outdoor Activities. Dr. Mike Larkin on Bonefish The Tom Roland Podcast. Barracuda patrol is also in order in Chetumal: while one angler is on the bow with the bonefish rod, the second is on deck with a 10 weight and wire rig tied to a needlefish fly. Xcalak Mexico - Where is Xcalak? Find Out Here! - Tulum.com xcalak, Mexico A World Class Fly Fishing Destination Xcalak and Chetumal Bay are rated among the top fishing destinations in the worldwe leave nothing out All-Inclusive Fly Fishing Packages As any experienced angler knows, it's not just about the fishing, it's the location too. Our bay fishery is a vast area made up of hundreds of cayes, rivers, ponds, lagoons, cuts and banks. width: 100%; The added bonus of these lagoons is that they offer excellent shelter during windy days or inclement weather, allowing our anglers to have great fishing, whatever the conditions, just like you can see in the video. 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. Nathan Bolerjack. We didnt see a lot of snook on our trip, but the ones we did see were pushing 40. So, head to the ADO bus terminal in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Bacalar or Chetumal . Julios younger brother and apprentice, Eduardo, spots the fish right away. Xcalak has been a favorite for over ten years. Pesca Y Paseos (Chetumal) - Updated 2022 Prices - FishingBooker At a whopping six-hour drive from Cancun, not many tourists make it to Xcalak, and that's too bad for them. @media only screen and (max-width: 600px) { The fishing routine was simple and timely. border: 0.2rem solid #ffb500; The flats of Chetumal Bay are home to an incredible amount of bones, and I had a few days of specifically targeting them. Bonefish and all that relates (maybe a bit about tarpon too). Xcalak on the Fly is the Yucatan Peninsula's newest fly fishing lodge based out of Casa Paraiso. In 20 Minutes You Can Start Speaking Spanish. We had two slams in our group (tarpon, permit, and bonefish in a single day) and lots of action throughout. If you just have a day or two to spare, day trips are a great way to experience Montana's legendary fisheries. I landed the fish, a bit disappointed, but happy nevertheless at putting a good fish in the boat. Did I mention all you can drink too? Use tab to navigate through the menu items. It would be my second trip chasing saltwater fish on the flats, while Tony is a fairly experienced saltwater angler and licensed Captain. @Glenn, I dont know why the video isnt playing for you it played for me straight off. Powered by white sand flats, throwing at cruising Bones and scouting the deep water for Permit. Were pleasantly surprised to learn from the bartender, Jos, that Costa de Cocos not only brews and bottles it own beer but also distills its own bourbon and corn liquor, which could double as fuel for the pangas anchored out back. Xcalak Bonefish (1.000) Xcalak on a Monday (1.000) Bones of Costa de Cocos (1.000) Tags: Bahia Blanca, bonefishing, Mexico, Xcalak. [Story by Nick Roberts / Photos by Patrick Williams]. At XOTF, our goal is to provide you with the most personalized and all-inclusive fly fishing experience.Our packages and trips were designed by fishing-obsessed father and son duo Jim and Chase Looney with anglers in mind. Its a secluded region perfect for travelers looking to experience a genuine beach-life. Chetumal Bay is at the far southern tip of the Yucatan, near the border with Belize. Go now, he whispers excitedly. Beyond Tulum, the communities become more rural and become fewer and farther between. Weather in the Northern Rockies can be fickle and it is always a good idea to come prepared regardless of the season. 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. Oh, Mexico. Fly Fishing the Coastal Maya Flats at Xcalak, Mexico. We have miles and miles of wade-able flats with large numbers of bonefish and permit, and if you want to get on a kayak or SUP, you can access lagoons with lots of baby . That isnt to say they arent out there, the truth is often wilder than fiction. Its early June, the official start of hurricane season, and the only other guests of the resort are pairs of anglers from Argentina and Texas. 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.