Moon phases, yes, no or maybe

The months of April and May were very typical of these months in past years except that May this year produced more rain and windy conditions than I can recall.  Again the fishing was still very good as is usually expected for these two months.

Yes, the BIG MIGRATORY TARPON are still here and so are the other resident game fish: Snook, Permit, Bonefish, Cubera Snappers, Jacks, Ladyfish and Barracudas.

For many years I have tried to relate fishing to the moon phases.  Sometimes I think I see a pattern but then the next month produces different results.

The unusual very windy conditions after May 19th made open water fly fishing tough and sometimes restricted Flats fishing for Permit and Bones, but our Belize, Sibun and Manatee Rivers with channels and lagoons in between were usually productive getaways from the open Flats.   The mouth of the nearby Belize River was very often a great and productive location for Big Tarpon where many were caught or lost including a few that tried to escape into the roots along the river’s edge.

Many anglers fishing salt water at BRL for the first time were thrilled by the rapid action of Small Tarpon, the drama of Big Tarpon when hooked, the challenge of landing a Snook on the fly and the elusive nature of the Permit.  Many of the anglers who hooked, jumped and fought Big Tarpon but did not actually boat any have vowed to return to get their first big one, next time.

There are now several new very convenient flights to Belize from some more US cities and Toronto, including some early arrivals and late departures that allow for full first and last day fishing times at Belize River Lodge.  So check out American, Delta, Southwest, United, Avianca, WestJet, Copa.
Tight lines,
Mike Heusner