Belize Bliss | 2024
Overview
This past March, eight ladies set out in the hopes of landing the most sought-after saltwater species on a fly rod: the trachinotus falcatus - otherwise known as Permit. To do so, they headed to the crystal-clear waters of Belize, staying at the remote fish camp of Cayo Frances Farm & Fly on the back side of Ambergris Caye. The camp's location allows anglers the options of fishing with a Belizean guide or challenging themselves with a ‘Do-It-Yourself’ walk on the flats or on a paddleboard.
Day-to-Day Report
Before getting to camp, the ladies arrived in Belize City and then took a scenic flight over the Caribbean waters to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. The first night served as a meet-up where their host, Dallas Voss, provided an overview of upcoming fishing adventures, while enjoying the local cuisine at the ‘Ol Tackle Box Restaurant and Bar overlooking the water. This initial gathering set the tone for the camaraderie and excitement that would define the fly-fishing expedition.
The following morning the ladies checked out of their San Pedro lodging and boarded the ‘Nice Nice,’ the lodge’s new transportation skiff, and embarked on the 30-minute trip to the off-the-grid camp. Once at camp, the lodge’s owner, Jeff, went through his camp introduction spiel and then quickly got us out on the water for an extra half-day of fishing. The half-day was immensely helpful, letting the ladies shake off the rust on their casting skills and gather knowledge from Jeff that would aid them in the coming days.
Each morning, after indulging in a hearty breakfast from the camp’s chef Mario, the ladies were divided into twos and sent out in skiffs or paddleboards to explore the diverse marine ecosystems surrounding Ambergris Caye. With the guidance of the knowledgeable guides, they honed casting techniques, learned to spot elusive fish and targeted Permit, Bonefish, and Tarpon. Throughout the week, countless bonefish were brought to hand, in addition to one permit that finally gave in.
At the end of each day, the ladies would return to camp to share their catches and stories, laugh around the dinner table and campfire before heading off to their cabanas for a much-needed night of sleep. Some found it easy to fall fast-to-sleep, while others lay in bed awake, haunted by their missed-fish opportunities or a Permit’s refusal to take a fly.
Overall, the week fell nothing short of extraordinary. From the exhilarating fishing expeditions to the bonds forged with fellow anglers, every moment of the trip was filled with adventure, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the lodge staff and to the guides at Cayo Frances Farm & Fly Lodge for their expertise and dedication to providing an unparalleled fly-fishing experience.