OVERVIEW

“No cars, no commercialism, no cares”.  This pretty much sums up Isla Holbox (pronounced: hole-bosh).  This barrier island has been a fishing destination for over two centuries.  The local waters here are prolific with game fish.  This is a relatively new destination thanks in part to the “Silver King”.  Giant migratory tarpon rendezvous here to do their thing.  Baby tarpon grow up here and wait for their chance to head to the mysterious deep.  If you are looking for beachfront property with chances to jump tarpon that can weigh up to 190 pounds, this is your ticket to ride.  The area also has plenty of flats, creeks and mangroves that harbor snook, baby tarpon, bonefish and some permit.  While primarily a tarpon destination, these other species can keep you busy if you desire a chance to rest your arms a bit from the giant bruisers on the ocean side. 

FISHING

Baby tarpon (usually between 5 to 25 pounds) can be found here year round and certainly will keep any angler occupied and focused as they jump and cartwheel through the air.  They provide some entertaining visuals.

The giant migratory tarpon (usually between 75 to 100+ pounds) start showing up in April through September.  These are fish that are much less pressured than their brethren up in “The Keys”.  The very experienced guide staff will pick you up at the lodge in the morning to hit the shallow aqua-marine waters that hold the tarpon.  Panga rides out to the tarpon are usually between 20 to 45 minutes. This is usually a sight-casting game.  It is possible to see several schools of tarpon that can be in the hundreds.  The guides can put you in front of the rolling tarpon to get the best angle for hook-ups.  After that, it’s “game on!”

Snook, permit, barracuda, bonefish, jacks and snappers are always nearby to add to the variety of species available.  The Holbox area is certainly capable of producing “Grand Slams” each and every season. 

TARGET SPECIES

Big Tarpon, baby Tarpon, Snook, Bonefish, Permit, Barracuda, Jacks, Snappers

ACCOMmODATIONS

Everything in Mexico has a very relaxed pace and this location is no exception.  Holbox Fly Fishing Lodge is set directly on the beach.  All of the rooms are “simple-modern” Mexican style.  Very functional with air conditioning and plenty of local hardwood furniture to relax on and take in the tranquility and privacy offered here.  It’s easy to get swallowed up by a hammock and forget about the outside world.  Hang up your fly rods in the available rack, wash them down in fresh water and take a short, leisurely stroll down the beach to the town center for a refreshing cocktail or simply park yourself on the lodge deck and pull one from the cooler.  Then wait for hors d’ oeuvres prepared specifically for the lodge.

The lodge provides a continental breakfast for the angling crew and lunches aboard the boats while fishing.  Plenty of cold drinks are available.  Dinners are unique in that you get to sample the local restaurants and get exactly what your heart desires.  The island has a long Italian influence and this is reflected in the dining.  Plenty of fresh, fresh seafood from the surrounding water.  Lobster, shrimp, fish and terrific local vegetables. 

Holbox Fly Fishing Lodge is the single lodge on the island dedicated to fly fishers.

CAPACITY

Maximum of 10 anglers per week

LENGTH OF STAY AND RATES (2011)

The standard package is six days of fishing / seven nights lodging (Saturday to Saturday) although shorter packages can be arranged to get your fix in. Rates are per person

*Sporting Life Adventure Travel services are always FREE to our clients.  Our clients never pay more with us than booking directly with the destination lodge or outfitter.  We’ll help reduce your stress!

SEASON

Year round

BOATS AND EQUIPMENT OFFERED

The fishing guides utilize 18 to 20 foot pangas, perfect for some of the deeper water where the huge  tarpon are often found.  They are fully equipped for your comfort and safety. We highly recommend that you bring all of your own gear and fishing tackle to Holbox.

HOW TO GET THERE

You will need to fly (don’t walk) to Cancun, Mexico, and plan on arrival by 1:00 pm, Noon is perfect due to shuttles to Isla Holbox.  Cancun is serviced by numerous domestic carriers including American Airlines, Continental, and US Air. Direct flights are available from Miami, Dallas, Houston, Newark, Denver, LA and several other cities. Connections from many US cities permit arrivals before 12:00 PM which is advised for your shuttle service down to the lodge.  The shuttle to the lodge usually takes 2 1/2 hours. The lodge will pick you up at the Cancun Airport or any area hotel if you come in a day or two before.  After pick-up you will arrive at the quaint puebla of Chiquila for a private 30 minute boat ride across Yalahau lagoon to the island.  Your own Paradise awaits you.

NON-ANGLING ACTIVITIES

If nature, relaxing and blending in with the surroundings are your forte’, you will fit right in here.  Non-anglers can also enjoy horseback riding, kite surfing, golf carts for exploring the island, bicycle rentals, and much more.  The village has sandy streets, a somewhat unfamiliar site for uninitiated guests.  The beaches are fantastic for swimming, however, snorkeling is somewhat uninspiring here.  The lagoon itself has a vast array of wildlife, with over a hundred species of birds, dolphin and many species of fish.  This is a great couples retreat!

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR TRAVEL

All U.S. citizens are required to have a valid passport that does not expire within 6 months of trips dates. Please be sure that your passport has at least two blank, unstamped pages remaining in back, and that it is not torn, delaminated, or damaged in any way. No visas or inoculations are required for U.S. citizens. A Mexican departure tax is payable at the airport when leaving Mexico. Some airlines include this as a prepaid part of your ticket. Please check with your travel agent or carrier to verify this.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

The number of nights lodging and days fishing specified in your package, round trip land and boat transfer between Cancun and Lodge at Isla Holbox, a continental breakfast each morning, lunch on the boat each day, all beverages, local beer, afternoon hors d' oeuvres, and all taxes and service fees.  All the unbridled fun you can handle and strong fish.

WHAT’S NOT

Your International flight to Cancun, gratuities for guides and staff, dinners during your stay at the lodge. The local restaurants are reasonable and very well done.  Internet service, phone calls, and laundry.  Your purchase of a beachside bungalow to retire in. 

DEPOSITS, TERMS AND CONDITIONS

www.sportinglifetravel.com

1-877-611-SLAT (7528)