Tarpon Cay Lodge 

Mexico

Not far from the bustling madness of Cancun on the northern shore of the Yucatan Peninsula is the charming town of San Felipe and an unparalleled opportunity to fly fish for juvenile tarpon in the 5 to 25+ pound class. Recognized by the government for its biological wealth, this incredible fishery has been designated a marine preserve, thus protecting this tarpon “nursery” from commercial netting and fishing.

Accommodations at Tarpon Cay are airy and bright with rooms featuring ocean views, ceiling fans, air conditioning and private baths. Delicious, hearty meals are served in the main lodge with most anglers taking full advantage of the rooftop decks in the evening hours.

Location:
Tarpon Cay Lodge is located on the north shore of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

Fishing Program:
Tarpon Cay Lodge utilizes spacious 18 foot pangas with an extensive level casting deck. All fly fishing is conducted out of these stealthy, stable, and comfortable fishing platforms. The nearest boundary of the fishery is very close to the lodge and, therefore, only requires a 15 - 25 minute boat ride to arrive at most of your Yucatan fly fishing areas.
The wonderful part of fly fishing at Tarpon Cay Lodge is that most of the fishing is done with floating lines. The Tarpon hold or cruise in areas as shallow as one foot deep! This shallow water pursuit demands lightweight (slow sinking) Tarpon flies or top-water offerings such as floating Puglisis, sliders, or crease flies. When conditions are prime, this shallow water fly fishing makes for an exciting visual display - Tarpon waking behind your fly and a top-water "blow-up" finale ... it does not get any better than this!

Fisheries:
Tarpon Cay Lodge is truly the new frontier in world-class fly fishing for "baby" Tarpon. Ranging in size from 5 to 35 pounds, these Tarpon reside in environs of turtle grass flats and mangrove lined lagoons, creeks, and bays. This habitat is also home to Snook and Barracuda. Most significantly, this incredible fishery has been designated a marine preserve, thus protecting this Tarpon "nursery" from commercial netting and fishing. The hallmark of the fishery at Tarpon Cay Lodge is the sheer numbers of baby Tarpon that inhabit the region. On a calm day, it is not uncommon to observe pods of Tarpon rolling and slashing bait on the flats - an awe-inspiring moment to say the least ... don't forget to cast. Another highlight is during the months of June thru August, migratory Tarpon (40 to 100+ pounds) inhabit the waters near Tarpon Cay Lodge. If weather conditions allow (low wind), anglers can pursue these “Silver Kings.” Whether you are sight-casting to rolling Tarpon on the flats or working the mangroves with your top-water pattern, fly fishing for Tarpon is a pure adrenaline rush.

Accommodations and Meals:
The accommodations at Tarpon Cay Lodge are comfortable, bright, and enriched with traditional Mexican decor. With the ocean at its doorstep, the sea breeze and beautiful scenery refreshes the spirit after a long day of fighting Tarpon. A spacious lounge provides dining areas, comfortable seating for relaxing, and a nice workspace for fly tying or working on tackle at the day's end. As you venture upstairs, you will find spacious guest rooms equipped with air-conditioning, fans, and a full private bath with shower. Rooms are bright with a nice ocean view. There is a housekeeping service that cleans the room and replaces linens, towels, bottled drinking water, cups, and bar soap each day. A unique feature of the lodge is a nice rooftop balcony. It provides a splendid 360 degree view of the charming area surrounding the lodge - perfect for after-dinner relaxation.

The meals are another highlight of your stay at Tarpon Cay Lodge. Hearty portions with a local flavor are an absolute culinary delight for the big appetite. Breakfast is ordered the night prior from a full menu (American and Mexican dishes). Your breakfast will be promptly served in the morning to assure you an on-time start of your daily fishing adventure. Lunches consist of made-to-order sandwiches, snacks, and assorted beverages.

Upon your return from an exciting day of tarpon-mania, dinner is served. Entrees may include chicken, pork, or the catch-of-the-day - fish, shrimp, or even lobster! The meals at Tarpon Cay Lodge are truly unique and delicious. Additionally, the lodge can accommodate most dietary restrictions. Let the staff know and they will prepare an appetizing alternative that is often looked over with envy by your fellow dinner guests.

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive Cancun and transfer to lodge.
Days 2-7: Full days of guided fishing
Day 8: Depart lodge.

Typical Daily Schedule:
Your fishing program will be based on tides and weather conditions. On some weeks, you will fish from morning through the afternoon. On other weeks, the program may consist of fishing the AM hours, a break mid-day (lunch/”siesta”!), and then an evening session of fishing. Your guides will determine the program based on the optimum timing of tides and weather.

“We had darn good fishing at Tarpon Cay Lodge. It was superb – the staff was gracious and the food was simple yet delicious. This is clearly undiscovered tarpon fishing. I hope to return soon.” D.V., WA

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