Xcalak Paradise Fly-Fishing Lodge

At Xcalak you will see a lot of Permit.  They are unquestionably one of the most prized species that you can catch on a fly-rod, notable for their ability to disregard a perfectly cast fly, but at the same time deliver the sort of individual reward, when they oblige you with a solid take, that drives anglers to insane levels of dedication in their pursuit.

Never forget then humble Bonefish!  It is the starting block for most saltwater anglers but at the same time, when pursuing the larger fish of 5lbs or more that never cease to thrill with their astonishingly powerful runs.  From may to July you will have good chances at some of the very large migratory Tarpon and the smaller juvenile Tarpon can be caught all year round. Jacks and Barracuda bring up the ‘Big 4’ in this part of the world.

Although plenty of anglers come to Xcalak to solely focus on Permit, and once you have the 'disease' it can be hard to shake it, a great days fishing can and should encompass a bit of everything.  Jumping the juvenile Tarpon on lighter rods and gear is enormously enjoyable, whilst the chance of a large migratory Tarpon is easily enough to focus your mind for a whole weeks fishing.

Jacks, Barracuda, sharks.   You will fish in a wide variety of locations, from the 'inner ocean lagoon' to the ocean side flats running North to South along tne coastline.

Sargasso weed has become part of the eco-system.  It is a free-floating weed that drifts in rafts with the wind and the current the length of the Caribbean sea, piling up along almost any roughly eastern facing shoreline.  This has not benefitted any beachfront properties, with it being worse over the warmer summer months, however Xcalak Paradise Lodge benefits in that it is set back from the beachfront and the invariable smell when it decomposes.   This is a significant plus!!!

Where its presence has had an unexpected positive impact is that it undeniably creates its own eco-system and in particular this has given rise to the chance to fish for Permit with floating crabs.   Anyone who has fished for Permit may scoff at the idea of a finding a new ‘harder’ way to catch Permit, but the opposite is true and watching a Permit chase down a floating crab fished on the surface is nothing short of exceptional!

Located at the very southern tip of Mexico’s eastern coastline, just North of the border with Belize and the well reknown Ambergis Caye.  It is unquestionably one of the more remote locations to fish in Mexico but with remoteness comes the opportunities that hard to reach locations offer. Xcalak is one of the least developed coastal towns in Mexico with a population of under 500 people.  The town consists of sandy streets, simple houses and friendly locals.  It has a distinctly local feel to it, typical of a small backwater town, remote from the more touristy beach resorts.  Although there are a few bars an restauraunts to explore, most choose to enjoy the comfortable surropundings of the lodge and the open bar.

The lodge has been newly built, with 4 sleek and stylish individual chalets, accommodating up to 8 anglers.   Rooms have ensuite bathrooms with high-speed internet throughout the property via a starlink connection.   Swimming pool, open bar, dining area and an excellent café provide all the basic comforts to ensure guests can suitably relax after a full day on the water.  The lodge itself is set back from the waterfront, and whilst no more than a couple of minutes’ walk,, the location means that any distinguishing smells from the sargasso weed are all but avoided.

Expect delicious freshly cooked food throughout your stay.  A three course meal each evening, with appetizers and cocktails prior to a main meal.  Bfreakfasts consist of fresh fruit, a continental style breakfast and strong coffee, with lunch typically taken on the boat at midday consiting of fresh sandwiches and snacks.

Wine, cocktails and beer are inclusive.   The house specilaity is a passion fruit Margharita.

No saltwater destination works without expert friendly and experienced guides.  The team at Xcalak are dedicated to the lodge, experienced and focused on ensuring that you get the very best out of your trip, and are as keen to instruct as they are to learn from the wider pool of experience that visiting angers can provide. Anglers typically fish 2 per guide and panga.   Single guide and boat options are available for a surcharge.