BELIZE RIVER LODGE IN DEPTH.

AREA

Unlike many of the island-based operations in Belize, the Belize River Lodge is located on the Belizean mainland. It’s a relatively quick boat run down the river (3.5 miles) to a vast system of river mouths, creeks, lagoons and flats. No fishing lodge in Belize has been in business longer than BRL. And it shows in their knowledge of this exceptional fishery.

GUIDES/BOATS

Like most Belize and Mexico operations, guides at Belize River Lodge run standard 23-foot Pangas with good outboards. They are very safe and capable in the variety of water conditions you’ll encounter.

As we said before, the guides at Belize River Lodge are superb. They are very knowledgeable and most speak good English. Because the head guide is an American, these guys have had training that more closely approximates what many of us have come to expect from guides. And that often translates into a much more enjoyable experience.

SPECIES

There are plenty of bonefish to target. Most fish in the waters around Belize River Lodge run between 2-4 pounds. But larger fish can be found in singles and pairs on a regular basis.

Permit fishing is excellent and shots are available year-round. Average fish is around 10 pounds, but will run up to 30 pounds.

Tarpon come in two types: Resident fish and migratory fish. The resident fish near Belize River Lodge can tend to run on the larger side (from 30- to 100 pounds) and are found year-round. Migratory tarpon, from 100 pounds+, show up in May/June and depart in September/October.

The snook fishing in the creeks, rivers and lagoons is excellent (and we really dig that).

SEASONS

Bonefish – Year-round.
Permit – Year-round. Peak Season is February-May.
Snook – Year-round.
Tarpon – Year-round for resident fish. May/June-September/October for migratory fish.

LODGING

Guest House:
Four rooms (two upstairs, two downstairs) with two twin beds in each room. Bathroom and private hot/cold shower. Air conditioning and ceiling fans. Rooms share a screened-in porch, which overlooks Belize Olde River.

Cottage:
2 Rooms, both with two twin beds. Bathroom and private hot/cold shower. Air conditioning and ceiling fans. Rooms share a porch overlooking the river.

Bungalow:
2 slightly larger rooms, each with a queen and double bed. Bathroom and private hot/cold shower. Air conditioning and ceiling fans. Rooms share a screened-in porch overlooking the river.

Main Lodge:
Home to the office, kitchen, dining room, living room and a screened-in porch with bar.

Note: Each room with two twin beds can be made into a King bed for couples.

FOOD AND DRINK

The big, mahogany dining tables of the main house are home to some fantastic meals. The cooks use fresh ingredients (even coconuts off the trees in the front yard) to make excellent Belizean, Creole and American dishes. The bar on the main porch is a simple, self-service “honor” situation. While it’s stocked well enough to keep most people happy, BYOB is probably a good idea (remember, alcohol is not included in the package). You can stock up at the airport before heading to the lodge.

AMENITIES

Aside from those amenities described above, Belize River Lodge also offers:

Wireless internet (main lodge porch)
Flat screen TV and DVD player (main lodge porch)
Computer with Internet at main lodge

Additional amenities are available for a fee:

Laundry and ironing
Fax
Inland eco-tours
Massages (24 hours notice)

AIRPORTS

Flights arrive/depart Philip Goldson International Aiport in Belize City (BZE). From there, it’s a quick vehicle transfer to the lodge.

ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE

Belize River Lodge is very close to the airport. So you can arrive at any time during the day without needing to plan for additional air transfers.

DOCUMENTS

A valid passport is required to enter Belize. Immigration and customs forms are given out on your flight prior to arrival.