EL PESCADOR LODGE AMBERGRIS CAYE, BELIZE
DESTINATION BROCHURE ALL CONTENTS © TAILWATERS FLY FISHING 2014-2015
[ EL PESCADOR LODGE ]
CONTENTS 4 6 18 24 28 32
DESTINATION DESCRIPTION
THE FISHING
ACCOMMODATIONS
TRAVEL & ITINERARY
WHEN TO GO
RATES
OUR TRAVEL SERVICES ARE FREE OF CHARGE! You the client don’t pay a penny for our travel services! Our destination recommendations, organization, and pre-trip planning services are completely free of charge – and oftentimes less expensive than booking direct with a lodge or outfitter. We can assist with every question, concern, or special request related to your adventure at zero cost!
BOOKING INFORMATION TRAVEL DEPARTMENT
2416 MCKINNEY AVE
DAVID@TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
DALLAS, TX. 75201
WWW.TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
(888) 824-5420
EL PESCADOR LODGE QUICK HITS +
LOCATION & TRAVEL
TOWN OF SAN PEDRO ON THE ISLAND OF AMBERGRIS CAYE, BELIZE Guests travel to Belize City (BZE) on direct flights from Dallas, Houston, or Miami and then connect onward to Ambergris on board a 15-minute hop with local airline, Tropic Air.
From San Pedro, guests are transferred by
boat approximately five minutes north to the lodge.
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TYPE OF FISHING & SPECIES
Ambergris Caye has zillions of 1-4 pound bonefish, a vibrant permit fishery, and perhaps the most respected resident and summer migratory tarpon fishery outside of the Florida Keys. Most of the fishing is done from the boat as there is less wading opportunity on Ambergris when compared to other destinations in Belize. +
SEASONALITY & WHEN TO GO
Belize is a true year-round fishery for most species. Winter weather or cold fronts are seldom an issue this far south, the spring months are the most popular, and the summer tarpon migration attracts anglers from all over the world to enjoy light southeasterly breezes and a shot at the mighty silver king. Hurricane season is technically June – November, however most tropical weather occurs August-October. Fall fishing has a similar vibe to spring conditions and is also a very consistent time to visit. +
IS EL PESCADOR RIGHT FOR YOU?
El Pescador is a perfect lodge to consider if you need an easy travel itinerary for a shorter time commitment. It is also for those after a “mixed bag” angling experience with legitimate opportunities for multiple species. It is perfect for those entertaining active non-angling spouses or families with proper accommodations and a diving and eco-tourism program. Beginner fly anglers will have tremendous success with Ambergris Caye’s smaller bonefish. If you are interested in sight fishing to tarpon on white sand, there is no better venue outside of the Florida Keys. +
COST & EXPENSES
7 Night / 6 Day fishing packages (based on shared room/guide) - $3755 per person Shorter and Longer Packages available. Rates include guided activities as outlined, meals, domestic beverages, airfare from Belize City to San Pedro, and more. Additional expenses include but are not limited to international airfare to Belize City (BZE), gratuities, park entry fees, villa upgrades & non-domestic liquor. (See RATES for more detail) ***Make sure to inquire about special group rates year round as well as EP’s “2 for 1 Special” that runs July 1-December 15.
THE
DESTINATION
El Pescador Lodge is located on the island of Ambergris Caye, northeast of Belize City. There is perhaps no easier to reach bonefish, permit, and tarpon destination in the Caribbean than Ambergris Caye. A direct three-hour flight from Dallas / Ft. Worth, Houston, or Miami, and a short, and a short commuter flight to the island puts guests on the flats or on a world class dive site only a few hours from home. The lodge sits on the windward side of the island approximately ten minutes via water taxi from the energetic village if San Pedro. This family-run resort has enjoyed an international reputation as a world-
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class fishing destination for over thirty years. Today El Pescador resort is that and much, much more. They specialize in shallow water fishing as well as diving, and also offer the best combination of eco-adventure with luxury accommodations on Ambergris Caye. The Spanish name “El Pescador” means “the fisherman” and the lodge caters to all types of anglers, specializing in light tackle, salt water, and fly-fishing with all activities concentrated on the sea as well as on the flats. Weeklong trips are always encouraged, however, El Pescador is the best lodge for a quick, economical,
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and easy fish “fix”. If you are looking for some of the
gling companions to El Pescador.
best saltwater flats fishing or world class diving ex-
a fishing lodge, the operation’s atmosphere and fa-
perience but don’t have the time or think you have
cility, a myriad of organized non-angling activity, and
the budget to indulge, look no further than El Pesca-
proximity to the lively village of San Pedro make El
dor Lodge. We have been long time friends with the
Pescador an ideal destination to consider for a family
owners, management, and guides at “E.P”, and have
retreat or couples vacation as well.
sent hundreds of happy anglers, divers, and non-an-
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More than just
FISHING
THE Ambergris
Caye is one of the few places where
anglers can expect to have a good consistent shots at a dozen different species including bonefish, permit, tarpon, barracuda, jack crevalle, sharks, and much more. BONEFISH Bonefish in the 1-4 pound range everywhere on Ambergris. They are often found in large numbers and huge schools – the perfect classroom for beginners or novice anglers to enjoy success. The soft nature of the flats surrounding Ambergris Caye dictate the majority of the fishing be done from the boat, however there
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are a few areas that are classic hard, white, sandy bottomed that offer excellent wading opportunities. Fishermen also have the luxury of getting out of the wind by concentrating their efforts in mangrove-lined lagoons or inner flats in calmer water. All boats at El Pescador are standard Panga crafts with a broad V-hull capable of running in shallow water with plenty of casting room, comfortable seating, and storage. PERMIT Many anglers come to El Pescador just for the permit fishery. Because this species feels safer and more comfortable on flats within proximity to deeper water, Ambergris Caye offers a perfect habitat for
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the coveted of the flats species. Ambergris should
up for all species at guest’s disposal for those who
definitely not be overlooked as one of the world’s
don’t have all the equipment. Their fishing manager
best permit fisheries.
can recommend you and your group fish with the appropriate guide based upon your experience and what species you would like to target.
TARPON Tarpon are another species that is prevalent at El Pescador completely year-round. Although juvenile
BONEFISH ISLAND
or “baby” tarpon can be found twelve months a year
El
up to 50-60 pounds, perhaps the greatest draw to
expeditions for those anglers interested in a total
the island is the summertime adult tarpon fishing.
outdoor fishing experience.
During the summer months (May – September) the
sun-down and enjoy wading the exquisite turtle-
larger migratory tarpon often over 100 pounds show
grass and sand flats surrounding the island. The El
up in great numbers. Ambergris Caye is one of the
Pescador family has purchased Bonefish Island and
few places on earth outside of the Florida Keys were
three other nearby cayes to preserve our flats, which
anglers have consistent chances for sight casting in
are so essential to the health of their fishery. Their
shallow water on the flats to adult tarpon.
small camp will allow a maximum of 6 anglers with
Pescador
offers
overnight
island
camping
Fish from sun-up to
3 guides per night to wade fish these waters — now REEF FISHING & EXCELLENT RENTAL GEAR
protected from development and loss of habitat.
Sick of flats fishing or want to catch dinner? El
The private island overnight camping and fishing
Pescador guests can enjoy fishing the reef for
expedition is available as an add-on to your regular
snappers, grouper, wahoo, mackerel, jacks, cobia,
fishing package or as an optional activity for anglers
barracuda, king fish, rainbow runners, and triggerfish.
without a fishing package.
El Pescador also has several rod and reels for rent set
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THE
GUIDES
THE
ACCOMMODATIONS
El Pescador’s facility is as nice and comfortable as can be found in the world of bonefish lodges, and without question some of the nicest on Ambergris Caye. At El Pescador guests have a choice to stay in the lodge, or in one of the more modern luxury one, two, and three bedroom villas on the property. El Pescador lodge is an intimate hotel set in a colonial style mahogany building with a long verandah overlooking the beach and barrier reef. All rooms have private baths, overhead fans and air-conditioning and are just steps away from the swimming pool adjacent the beach. All rooms face the sea on the windward side of the island. Immediately behind the lodge, is
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an expansive lagoon with sea kayaks at your disposal to explore the miles and miles of mangrove lagoons on your own if you have not had enough fishing for the day. El Pescador Villas is a collection of luxury beachfront homes, set in tropical gardens, surrounding a private pool. You may enjoy the entire villa as a home-awayfrom-home, or request only the portions since each suite can lock-off into a private unit. Reserve one master suite, or a master suite and the Great Room— just tell us what configuration works best for your group. The majority of our guests elect to splurge
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for the villa option. Essentially, guests in the villas are given their own modern and private house on the beach with a kitchen, extra square footage, and a quieter environment to enjoy when not socializing. El Pescador lodge and villas are on the Bahia del Punta Arena, 2.6 miles north of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. The spot is remote and private, yet close enough to reach town on foot, bicycle, shuttle, water taxi or golf cart. The lodge offers complimentary usage of kayaks and bicycles as well as wireless email service throughout and a gift shop. As mentioned, El Pescador also has a very well stocked fly shop with a strong inventory of flies, leaders, sunglasses, and anything else you forgot. The El Pescador restaurant is intimate and meals served family-style. The kitchen serves an American breakfast, offer a lunch buffet of seafood and local Belizean cuisine, and a dinner buffet. You can join guests and staff for hors d’ouvres from 5:30 pm in the open air bar with billiards and darts, the perfect place for swapping stories after a day’s activities. The house specialty is tropical rum punch but they also offer a full selection of top shelf liquors, wine and beer. In addition to the all inclusive meal program at the lodge, we encourage all our clients to venture to one or more of the dozens of excellent restaurants in San Pedro or up the island. A short water taxi ride gives guests at “E.P.” the ability to experience a great meal as well as some of the local nightlife. We will provide you with several recommendations for restaurants on Ambergris Caye in our outfitting guide upon booking.
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TRAVEL & ITINERARY
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Only a three-hour, direct flight to Belize City, there is no easier destination in the saltwater world to reach. Guests of El Pescador fly into Belize City, which is serviced with direct flights by both American and Continental Airlines from DFW, Houston, Miami, New York City, and numerous other origins. Upon arrival into Belize City, guests hop on a short fifteen minute flight aboard local carrier Tropic Air to the city of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. Several flights a day depart Belize City for San Pedro, so connections are usually no more than a few minutes. A representative from the lodge will meet you at the airport and transport you ten minutes by water taxi to the lodge’s pier.
SAMPLE ITINERARY ARRIVAL DAY Travel to Belize City. Upon arrival in Belize City, check in with flight to San Pedro for the 15-minute flight to the island. Guests are picked up at airport and transferred to lodge via five-minute water taxi. Relax the rest of the afternoon. FISHING DAYS Fish, Scuba Dive, and enjoy the numerous activities available at El Pescador. Enjoy first class meals and beautiful Caribbean weather. DEPARTURE DAY No activities are typically planned for the day, however depending upon when your international flight is scheduled there may be time for a ½ day of fishing or diving. Guests are transported back to the San Pedro airport for the short commute back to Belize City and on to the United States.
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WHEN TO GO El Pescador is open year round, and Ambergris Caye enjoys excellent fishing conditions more or less all year. Belize has a subtropical climate that is uniformly hot and humid, although it is tempered by the trade winds. The dry season is from February to March with another brief spell during August, while the hurricane season is from late July to October. Temperatures during the summer months can become extremely warm, and anglers who are especially bothered by heat may want to consider avoiding the summer heat. However, do know that El Pescador has extremely comfortable fully air conditioned facilities to
breeze helps to keep things comfortable during the summer months as well. A comfortable southeasterly trade wind blows throughout most of the year, and tends to pick up in February and March. June is called the ‘rainy season’ in Belize but this relates primarily to the mainland rainforest and has little effect on the coastal regions. On rare occasion during the winter months, cooler temperatures and northerly breezes can be tougher on anglers, but for the most part Belize is a very consistent wintertime fishery.
get out of the heat on a hot summer day. A nice sea
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ARGENTINA EL PESCADOR DOVES LODGE UNLIMITED - AMBERGRIS - NORTHWESTERN CAYE, BELIZEARGENTINA
May – August are considered prime tarpon months for migratory fish exceeding one hundred pounds. For those snook anglers, the wintertime months are the best time to find this elusive species on the flats or in the mangroves.
NON-ANGLING ACTIVITIES El Pescador offers a unique mix of other non-angling activities from visiting the zoo, or having a BBQ picnic on a secluded beach. There are also two swimming pools at the lodge as well as complimentary use of bicycles and sea kayaks. Please view the other activities listed below and inquire for current rates. DIVING PROGRAM El Pescador is known as much for its SCUBA program as it is for the fishing program. Guests on a non-angling package may book a day or two diving, and complete dive packages are also available. Ambergris’ locality a quarter mile from the second largest barrier reef in the world makes for a wonderful and complete diving program with short boat runs and some of the best dive sites on earth. Guests can gain PADI certification at the lodge and all the equipment is provided excluding masks, snorkels, and regulators which are rented for a very nominal fee. OTHER ACTIVITIES Additional activities can often times be scheduled and paid for while at the lodge. However, if your group has a specific interest in a certain activity we advise you to book it in advance to ensure availability. Ask for details and know that we have only listed a handful of the dozens of options available!
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BELIZE ZIPLINE AND CANOPY TOUR
of crested birds, deer and wild peccaries, and 5 spe-
This zip line tour starts in the limestone foothills of
cies of cats including the elusive jaguar.
Belize. You’ll hike into the rainforest and begin your tour 80 feet above the forest floor. Secured by a body
ALTUN HA AND BABOON SANCTUARY
harness and protected with a helmet and gloves,
Visit the Mayan ceremonial and trading center, Al-
you’ll be attached to a steel cable and travel the zip
tun Ha, where the largest piece of carved jade in the
line between eight separate tree platforms. It’s an
Mayan World, the head of the Kinich Ahau, the Sun
exhilarating experience with spectacular views and a
God, was discovered. After a Belizean lunch contin-
perspective you won’t get anywhere else.
ue on to the Baboon Sanctuary to see black howler monkeys in the wild. Or do the Belize Zoo instead of
CAYE CHAPEL GOLF
the Baboon Sanctuary.
This par-72 golf course is the only full size golf course in Belize. Designed by Larry Addington, this long, flat
FLORA AND FAUNA THE BELIZE ZOO, ST. HERMAN’S CAVE
course has four par-5 holes and plays to over 7000
AND THE BLUE HOLE
yards. The developers utilized a special hybrid grass
Enjoy the animals at the Belize Zoo and then discov-
imported from the U.S. that requires less fertilizer, ir-
er Belize’s plant life en route to St. Herman’s Cave.
rigation and pesticides to maintain.
End the afternoon with a cool swim at the inland Blue Hole, a dazzling freshwater cenote. CROOKED TREE BIRD SANCTUARY A paradise for birders, Crooked Tree Bird Sanctuary is managed by the Belize Audubon Society. Local residents provide guide and boat services. You’ll see more birds by boat, but there are walking trails throughout the sanctuary as well. MOUNTAIN PINE RIDGE RESERVE Experience the stunning beauty of the Mountain Pine Ridge and its Hidden Valley Falls. Hike through Bol’s Caves and swim in the Rio On Pools. It’s an unforget-
CAVE TUBING AND THE BELIZE ZOO Float on an inner tube as the river winds its way through the rainforest and into caves containing spectacular crystal formations, the very entrances to the ancient Maya underworld. Then travel to the world famous Belize Zoo to see wilder residents, up close and in their natural settings. Meet a local celebrity, April the Tapir, Belize’s national animal, as well as howler and spider monkeys, scarlet macaws, a variety
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EL PESCADOR LODGE - AMBERGRIS CAYE, BELIZE
table experience. LAMANAI MAYAN RUINS One of the largest and oldest Mayan sites in Central America, the Lamanai Mayan Center consists of more than 800 structures. Archeologists believe this center of Mayan civilization was settled as early as 1500 B.C.
FISHING & BEACH PICNIC
Reserve. Swim with nurse sharks and stingrays and
Fish the reef for your “catch of the day� and have your
stop at coral gardens. Includes 3 snorkeling stops, rum
guide Barbeque it on a beautiful, secluded beach.
punch and sodas.
Snorkel, collect shells, or simply relax in the sun while on your picnic is prepared. Spend the afternoon on
MANATEE WATCH & SNORKELING
the beach or try more fishing!
Visit a secluded mangrove island outside of Belize City, a natural habitat for the West Indian Manatee.
SNORKELING & SCUBA DIVING
View the shy manatee as it comes up for air or just
Enjoy the underwater wonders of Belize. The second
long enough for you to snap its photo. Stop for a pic-
largest living coral reef in the world is host to a variety
nic lunch at a small island with snorkeling nearby. Visit
of species including sharks, rays, eels, grouper, parrot
the neighboring island of Caye Caulker and enjoy an-
fish, trigger fish, sea horses, turtles, shrimp, sea fans,
other snorkeling stop at Calabash Point.
coral and many other wondrous aquatic life forms. No personal gear such as BCs and regulators are included. Must be certified to dive. Certification Courses available. ROCKY POINT BEACH BBQ Snorkel on your way to Rocky Point, a beautiful part of the island where the reef and the island meet. This spot offers excellent opportunities to wade for bonefish, snorkeling or collecting shells. Enjoy a romantic beach picnic. Includes lunch, drinks and 2 snorkel stops. CATAMARAN TRIP TO CAYE CAULKER Visit the neighboring island of Caye Caulker, located 10 miles south of Ambergris Caye. Enjoy this quaint, fishing village or snorkel the famous Hol Chan Marine
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RATES STANDARD FISHING PACKAGES
Single Occupancy upgrades to a Villa accommodation Please add $100 per person/night
TWO ANGLERS PER BOAT/ROOM »» 3 Nights / 2 Days………………………$1775
Villa upgrades are done on a room-to-room
»» 4 Nights / 3 Days………………………$2270
equivalency
»» 5 Nights / 4 Days………………………$2765
1 standard room upgrades to a 1 bedroom
»» 6 Nights / 5 Days………………………$3260 »» 7 Nights / 6 Days………………………$3755
WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodations at El Pescador, Ambergris Caye;
ONE ANGLER PER BOAT / ROOM
Guided fishing w/ fishing packages; Two dives per
»» 3 Nights / 2 Days………………………$2480
day w/ diving packages; Round trip airfare from
»» 4 Nights / 3 Days………………………$3290
Belize City to Ambergris Cay; Water taxi service to
»» 5 Nights / 4 Days………………………$4100
the lodge; All meals, beer, and local drinks; Hotel and
»» 6 Nights / 5 Days………………………$4910
sales tax; 12.5% GST surcharge to all packages
»» 7 Nights / 6 Days………………………$5720 WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED DIVING PACKAGE/2 DIVES PER DAY / DIVER
Airfare to/from Belize City (BZE); Guide or staff
BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
gratuity; Specialty cocktails purchased at the bar; Gift
»» 3 Nights / 2 Days………………………$1445
Shop purchases; Rod and reel rental fees; Flies and
»» 4 Nights / 3 Days………………………$1775
other fishing equipment; Guided Non-angling / Eco-
»» 5 Nights / 4 Days………………………$2105
Tours; Entry fees to parks and sanctuaries on guides
»» 6 Nights / 5 Days………………………$2435
tours; $20 (US) or $40 (BZ) Belize Departure Tax
»» 7 Nights / 6 Days………………………$2765 TERMS & CONDITIONS NON-FISHING PACKAGE
Tailwaters Travel must adhere to the cancellation
BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
policies of the guides, outfitters and lodges which
»» 3 Nights / 2 Days………………………$1295
it represents. El Pescador Lodge’s policy follows: A
»» 4 Nights / 3 Days………………………$1550
non-refundable deposit of 50% per person is required
»» 5 Nights / 4 Days………………………$1805
to hold both space and guides on all packages.
»» 6 Nights / 5 Days………………………$2060
No space or guides will be held without receipt of
»» 7 Nights / 6 Days………………………$2315
deposit. Full pre-payment is due at El Pescador 90 days prior to arrival. Prior to 90 days 100% of deposit
VILLA UPGRADES
may be transferred to another date/angler. Between
Double occupancy upgrades to a Villa accommodation
45 - 90 days 50% of package may be transferred to
Please add $75 per person/night
another date or angler. Less than 45 days may not be transferred or refunded. All cancellations have a
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ARGENTINA EL PESCADOR DOVES LODGE UNLIMITED - AMBERGRIS - NORTHWESTERN CAYE, BELIZEARGENTINA
$100 processing fee per guest. Refunds of deposits/payments made on credit cards will be charged a 3.5% service charge to fully compensate Tailwaters Travel for all bank charges incurred. Receipt of deposit and/or final payment is acknowledgement that registrant has read and accepts the cancellation, refund and responsibility clauses.
TRAVEL INSURANCE! Given the inherent strict refund policies associated
We will provide you with more detailed information about
with nearly all fishing packages, we cannot stress the
travel insurance from our sponsored provider, Travel
importance of obtaining travel insurance to protect your
Guard, when you book a trip with Tailwaters Travel.
investment.
We can conveniently process a very comprehensive insurance policy for you in-house after asking a few simple
Travellers can obtain coverage for pre-existing health
questions.
problems (related to yourself, your family, business partners, or your travelling partners), emergency
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FIND US:
TAILWATERS FLY FISHING CO. | 47 | |4|
TRAVEL DEPARTMENT
2416 MCKINNEY AVE
DAVID@TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
DALLAS, TX. 75201
WWW.TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
(888) 824-5426
Palometa Club - Ascension Bay, Mexico ARGENTINA DOVES UNLIMITED - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA ALL CONTENTS © TAILWATERS FLY FISHING 2014