BEST TIME TO FISH BELIZE
For Tarpon, Permit, Bonefish
Many fly fishermen and transitioning fly fishermen (from spinfishing) thinking about coming to Belize to get their tippet wet, are always asking us what are the best time to visit Belize to target the hot three: tarpon, permit, bonefish. Below, you will find a guide we have created to help you chose the best time to visit Belize, depending on which specie(s) you want to target.
BEST TIME TO VISIT BELIZE FOR TARPON
March to August: The tarpons begin migrating North in March. The migration goes on thru to August. They slow down in September and October and start migration back south around the first week in November. They naturally migrate thru the Victoria Channel and Tarpon Caye is located in the center of the Victoria Channel; this is a major stopping point for them migrating north and migrating back south; due to the fact that they feed on the minnows that live in the lagoon. The minnows feed on the marine algae that line the bottom of the lagoon; therefore they are here almost all year round.
January and February: Migratory tarpons continue migrating south, however we do have resident tarpon around. These are smaller tarpons than migratory ones, and are good for fishermen looking to target smaller tarpons.
BEST TIME TO VISIT BELIZE FOR PERMIT
March to August: these are the best months to fishing for Permit in Southern Belize. Our tides are more or less stable during these months. The first and last quarter moons are the best periods. These two moon phases give you two rising tide in a day and increases your options of catching a permit.
September to November: we experience much higher tides; therefore first quarter and last quarter moons are still the most favourable period. Your fishing tactics changes from fishing on a half-full to full tide to a low to half-full tide to compensate for the extra high tide we get in these months. Flats that are out of water duringthe rest of the year are now below water, making it a quite a unique fishing experience.
December to February: The new moon or full moon is the best time during these months. These three months normally have extra low tides; and you will want to fish the Spring tides so you could get the highest tides.
BEST TIME TO VISIT BELIZE FOR BONEFISH
March to August: these are the best months to target bonefish in southern Belize. In this area there are approximately 15 + spots for your fishing pleasure.
September to February: During these months you will target bonefish in deeper waters. There are plenty to keep you happy all day long.
BEST TIME TO VISIT BELIZE FOR OTHER TYPES OF FISHING:
Southern Belize is excellent for bait casters, spin casters, conventional fishing in general. Throughout the year you can target species such as:
- Barracuda
- Four to five species of Jacks
- Yellow Tail Snapper
- Mutton Snapper
- King Mackerel
- Spanish Mackerel
Outside the reef you can target:
o Black Fin Tuna
o Yellow Jacks
o Wahoo
o Etc…