The Blue Bayou Lodge is located in the heart of the Ancient Mayan World in Guatemala, nestled on the renowned Billfish coastline of Iztapa. The country, often referred to as the Billfish capital of the world, is famed for its insane averages and yearly release numbers of Sailfish and other hard fighting pelagics. Although many anglers travel to this beautiful region for big game fishing, it’s become increasingly popular amongst the saltwater fly fishing community, providing travelling rods with the opportunity to catch many of these fish on a fly.
Without a doubt, the waters off the country’s coastline are some of the most fertile in the world and are home to incredible numbers of aggressive Sailfish. Scientists have studied large groups of these fish and have concluded the region may be the most considerable breeding ground found anywhere globally. As well as Sailfish, there are also three species of Pacific Marlin (Blue, Black and Striped), quality Yellow Fin Tuna and vast quantities of Dorado, all willing to eat anglers flies.
Despite vast numbers of fish to go around, the sportfishing fleet in the region is relatively small, and the overall fishing pressure is pretty light – just another reason why the fishing is so good! As a result, it’s quite a rarity to see another boat whilst fly fishing for Sailfish in Guatemala, and on many occasions, you’ll have the ocean all to yourself.
In the decade or so it’s been operating, the Blue Bayou Lodge has proved to be one of the most consistent and prolific bluewater fishing charters in the entire world. With numbers like “124 Sailfish caught and released in a single day” and “57 Sailfish landed on the fly in one day”, it’s hard to argue.
But why is fly fishing for Sailfish in Guatemala, so good?
It must, in part, go down to the highly skilled captains and crew on the boats, all of which are equipped with university degrees from the US and have thousands of hours of experience fishing on the pacific coast of Guatemala. But a considerable part of it also comes down to the fact the fishery is blessed with a range of attributes essential for high-quality bluewater fishing – the winds of Tehuantepec from Mexico, vast volumes of baitfish, consistent year-round temperatures and favourable currents.
The Equatorial counter current, also known as the ‘Toilet Bowl’, is a defined west to east flow that creates a type of Billfish highway, grouping the fish up just off the coastline in an area known as ‘The Pocket’. This defined eddy, a massive lure for the baitfish, can sometimes be as far offshore as forty miles some days, but often it’s within twenty. Some of the best fishing, especially for the Marlin (Blue, Black, and Striped Marlin), can be enjoyed in the shallower water, only ten to fourteen miles offshore just before the drop-off.
Another vital factor, attributing to the highly productive fishing, is the physical location of Guatemala. Thanks in part to the Tehuantepec winds of Mexico, the ocean’s temperature remains consistent all year round.
To find out more about fly fishing for Sailfish in Guatemala at Blue Bayou Lodge, visit our YouTube channel.
Fly fishing for Sailfish in Guatemala is all about high volumes, and on average, it’s not unusual to see over 20 Sailfish in a day and over 80 on a ‘great day’. Add to this a handful of Dorado and a Marlin or two, and you will have had an untouchable day. Known as a terrific fighter on light tackle, they will offer some unbelievable sport on a balanced fly fishing set-up, with aerial acrobatic displays and backing stripping runs. Double and even treble hook-ups aren’t uncommon either, as they school the baitfish into tight balls around the boats.
Although Sailfish are the main draw, the rich waters off Guatemala’s coastline are also home to many other fish species. The Blue Marlin, Black Marlin and Striped Marlin in-habit the waters in numbers and are considered by many to be the pinnacle of sportfishing, famed for their colossal runs and aerial fighting displays. The Yellowfin Tuna is another prevalent bluewater species that can be caught and targeted daily by anglers looking for some variation. Add to this a massive population of beautifully coloured Dorado, and you have all the famous offshore big game species in one destination.
In-shore, the species list and fishing opportunities are equally impressive, with good numbers of Roosterfish, Wahoo, Spanish Mackerel and Jack Crevalle, all viable targets for the saltwater fly fishing angler. The varied fishing on offer in Guatemala is just one of the reasons why the country is becoming increasingly popular amongst travelling rods.
Many anglers tend to assume that the winter is the best time for fly fishing for Sailfish in Guatemala; however, thanks to the oceans currents and abundant numbers of baitfish found just off its coastline, the fishing is very productive all year round. In summer, the boats regularly land over 20 Sailfish per day and numbers of over 50 have been recorded in the height of summer in July and August – at this time of year, you can also expect short runs and calm sea.
Some of the other species in Guatemala can be a little more seasonal. The Marlin are almost a viable all-year-round target, however from late spring to around December tends to be best. The Striped Marlin show up in October and hang around until December and January, while the big Blue Marlin are most abundant in the summer months, with August being particularly popular – this coincides with the peak run of Dorado, which is one of the Marlins favourite food.
The Tuna fishing is best from August until December, and good numbers of fearless fish, between 30lb to 80lb, can often be found very close to the shore. Find some slightly cooler water temperatures and fish off the ledges, and you will more than likely find a school!
In-shore, when the water clarity is clear and the tide high, the Roosterfish fishing can be explosive. Dawn and dusk are also fantastic times for Snapper, Spanish Mackerel and Jack Crevalle.
When targeting the Sailfish on the fly, a tactic known as ‘bait and switch’ is used, which has to be one of the most exciting ways to catch billfish. First, a hookless teaser is fished behind the back of the boat to raise the fish from the depths and get them excited. Then, once the Sailfish or other pelagics are in the area, the teasers are replaced with an anglers bait or fly. One of the nice things about fishing in Guatemala with our captains is they will get you very involved with all the practices needed for a successful day of fishing. If you are happy with it, by your third day, the mates will only be instructed to assist you with the teasing of the fish. After that, you are on your own to hook and play a big hungry Sail.
When fly fishing for Sailfish in Guatemala, it’s essential you have the correct tackle to do so effectively. A good starting point is a 12-weight or 14-weight rod and reel set-up. The reel is more important than the rod, as it must have a smooth drag and a big arbour, with the ability to recover decent amounts of line at anyone time. The rod doesn’t need to be anything special, just fast actioned and heavy. It might feel strange at first, but after you’ve hooked your first fish, you’ll soon realise why the stiffness is needed. Your reel should be loaded with a good quality fly line and anywhere from 400 to 600 yards of 35 to 45lb gel spun backing. Fly wise, anything that sinks, pushes water and pops will work!
The Blue Bayou Lodge is located just five minutes from La Marina Pez Vela, in a secure residential complex built on a series of water channels leading out the Pacific.
The Lodge can hold groups as large as 15 guests, and all rooms feature air conditioning and private bathrooms. Amenities also include a beautiful pool, decks overlooking the water, and lots of shade from the property’s exotic plant life.
The Lodge’s bar, perfect for enjoying your meal and cocktails in the evening, is set up just a few paces from the temperature-controlled pool, which is excellent for post-fishing swims. Maid service, an entertainment room and Wi-Fi throughout mean there’s everything you need from a bluewater fishing lodge.
All meals at the Lodge are prepared by the staff and feature a hint of local influence.
Before fishing, breakfast is served Guatemalan family-style, with juice, coffee, eggs, fruit, and beans.
Lunch is taken on the boat in the form of a pack-up and consists of both hot and cold food – usually – fresh ceviche (depending on the Dorado bite). Ice-cold beers, rum and plenty of iced-down soft drinks and water will keep you lubricated and hydrated throughout the days.
The evenings consist of a cocktail hour, appetisers, and the main dinner course. Local seafood is typically on the menu, but a variety of quality meats are always available for those who want to mix it up.
For non-anglers, Guatemala is an exciting and diverse country. Day trips can be arranged to Antigua, Tikal, and the Lake Atitlan region. These areas offer national parks, ruins, biosphere reserves, incredible wildlife viewing, Mayan temples, shopping, horseback riding, and more.
The below itinerary is flexible should you require additional fishing days or additional free days to explore; we can tailor this itinerary to suit you personally. Feel free to talk to our travel consultants who can explain all options available.
Depart Any international Airport (See Details)
Arrive Houston Depart Houston
Arrive Guatemala
Once you have arrived and collected your luggage, you will make your way to the arrivals hall where there will be Blue Bayou representative waiting to transfer you to your hotel. The transfer takes approx. 1.5 hours but there will be drinks available. Once you have checked in to the resort the rest of the evening will be yours to relax around explore the resort.
Overnight accommodation: Blue Bayou Lodge (Twin room) F/B
Before fishing, breakfast is served Guatemalan family-style, with juice, coffee, eggs, fruit, and beans.
After breakfast, you’ll head out to rich blue waters off the Guatemalan coastline targeting Sailfish, Marlin, Tuna and Dorado.
Overnight accommodation: Blue Bayou Lodge (Twin room) F/B
Before fishing, breakfast is served Guatemalan family-style, with juice, coffee, eggs, fruit, and beans.
After breakfast, you’ll head out to rich blue waters off the Guatemalan coastline targeting Sailfish, Marlin, Tuna and Dorado OR if you wish you can choose to fish inshore for the Roosterfish, Wahoo, Snappers and Jacks.
Overnight accommodation: Blue Bayou Lodge (Twin room) F/B
At a prearranged time the Blue Bayou Lodge will transfer you back to Guatemala airport for your return flights.
Depart Guatemala
Arrive Houston Depart Houston
Arrive Home
The season runs from January to December.
Season: All Year
Peak: October to June
Weight: 40lb to 180lb
Average Weight: 80lb
Season: All Year
Peak: August to December
Weight: 5lb to 120lb
Average Weight: 20lb
Season: All Year
Peak: August
Weight: 200lb to 800lb
Average Weight: 350lb
Season: All Year
Peak: October to December
Weight: 200lb to 950lb
Average Weight: 400lb
Season: All Year
Peak: June to October
Weight: 5lb to 50lb
Average Weight: 15lb
Season: All Year
Peak: July to August
Weight: 10lb to 100lb
Average Weight: 30lb
Season: All Year
Peak: July to August
Weight: 5lb to 100lb
Average Weight: 20lb
N/A
Remember that Sportquest Holidays' services are completely FREE! When you book a trip with Sportquest Holidays, you never pay more than when you book directly with the lodge and flights independently.
| From | To | Duration | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01/04/2024 | 30/04/2024 | 8 | £5,025 | Enquire Now |
| 01/05/2024 | 31/05/2024 | 8 | £5,025 | Enquire Now |
| 01/06/2024 | 30/06/2024 | 8 | £5,175 | Enquire Now |
| 01/07/2024 | 31/07/2024 | 8 | £5,325 | Enquire Now |
| 01/08/2024 | 31/08/2024 | 8 | £5,325 | Enquire Now |
| 01/09/2024 | 30/09/2024 | 8 | £5,175 | Enquire Now |
| 01/10/2024 | 31/10/2024 | 8 | £5,175 | Enquire Now |
| 01/11/2024 | 30/11/2024 | 8 | £5,175 | Enquire Now |
| 01/12/2024 | 31/12/2024 | 8 | £5,175 | Enquire Now |
| 01/01/2025 | 31/01/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/02/2025 | 28/02/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/03/2025 | 31/03/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/04/2025 | 30/04/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/05/2025 | 31/05/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/06/2025 | 30/06/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/07/2025 | 31/07/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/08/2025 | 31/08/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/09/2025 | 30/09/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/10/2025 | 31/10/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/11/2025 | 30/11/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
| 01/12/2025 | 31/12/2025 | 8 | £5,355 | Enquire Now |
Prices are based on four adults sharing transfers, fishing and two adults in twin rooms for accommodation (unless otherwise stated) and are correct at the time of going to press. Subject to time of year or date and currency fluctuations, these prices may fluctuate slightly due to flight price increases or fuel surcharges.
What a trip!!! Everything from the moment I left home to the moment I returned was perfect. The fishing was first class too, I think in total I landed 40 Sailfish for the week as well as a range of other species like Dorado. I'd like to say a huge thank you to Capt Christopher as he was extremely knowledgeable and a great guy.
I'm just back from the Blue Bayou Sailfish trip and I must say what a trip it was. The fishing was first class, the accommodation and staff were exceptional and Capt Christopher was an absolute legend! A guy with a great sense of humour and someone who certainly knows his stuff!
Sorry this review/feedback is a little late, since my return from Guatemala, it's been pretty busy. How good was my trip? I've already booked to go again! It was a brilliant week spent with some brilliant people and one which will live long in the memory.
I've fished a few places around the world, but this was certainly one of my best trips and probably the best Sailfish fishing I've ever experienced. The highlight was definitely landing a big Sail estimated at other 100lb. I'd like to say a huge thank you to everyone involved in making my trip as enjoyable as it was.
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