Fishing In Belize

A Belizean Way of Life

For generations, fishing has been woven into daily life in Belize, particularly within the country’s coastal and island communities. Knowledge of the reefs, mangroves, tides and seasons has been passed down through families, shaping traditions that continue today. From catching fish for the family table to harvesting lobster and conch for local markets, fishing remains an important source of food, livelihood and cultural identity—a living connection between Belizeans and the sea that surrounds them. Most of our trips offer the opportunity to take part in this tradition — not only is it a fun experience, it’s a tasty one too.

Belizean Hand-Line Fishing

Hand-line fishing is one of Belize’s simplest and most traditional fishing methods. Using only a line, hook, weight and bait, you feel every movement beneath the surface and the excitement of each bite. Many local Belizean’s learn how to fish this way and it continues to be an effective method for both commercial and recreational fishing throughout the country. For those who are interested, we organize fishing expeditions on our trips to allow our guests the opportunity to experience fishing like a true local. To find out if fishing is available on your trip, either reference your trip itinerary or reach out to one of our trip planners!

Lobster & Conch Harvesting

Harvesting Caribbean spiny lobster and Queen conch is a major fishery in Belize. Lobsters are caught by free-diving either with a hook stick, lobster traps/blinds, or wire snares. A single processed lobster tail must be at least 3 inches long and weigh 4 ounces to be legal. Harvesting Queen conch requires searching for them in shallow coral reefs and seagrass beds. Commercial fishers harvest conch one at a time by diving to the bottom on a single breath and bringing them to the surface by hand. A conch shell must measure at least 7 inches across to be legal and the minimum weight for a “market clean” filet is 3 ounces.

Lobster and conch are harvested occasionally on our trips. Sometimes our guests even join in the hunt!

Fly-Fishing On Your Trip

Glover’s Reef Atoll is one of Belize’s most spectacular fly-fishing destinations. The area offers clear water, expansive flats and relatively light fishing pressure in a remote setting. Its shallow lagoon, mangrove-lined cayes and reef edges provide excellent habitat for the BIG THREE as well as other saltwater fish species. With exceptional visibility and miles of productive water to explore, anglers can sight-cast to fish while surrounded by the open Caribbean Sea. Many of our Glover’s Reef guests bring their own fly-rods and catch bonefish only a few steps from where they sleep.

The BIG THREE

TARPON – Known for explosive strikes, powerful runs and spectacular leaps, tarpon offer one of Belize’s most thrilling fly-fishing challenges. Recommended flies include the Black Death and Cockroach.

PERMIT – Prized for their cautious nature and exceptional eyesight. Catching permit demands patience, accuracy and a delicate presentation. Recommended flies include the Bauer Crab and Avalon Shrimp.

BONEFISH – Often called the “grey ghosts of the flats,” bonefish are difficult to spot and famous for their speed. Small schools of bonefish frequent the shallows directly off our islands shore. Recommended flies include the Gotcha and Crazy Charlie.