Ascension Bay is located on the southeastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and is host to some of the best flats fishing in the world; it’s here you’ll find the famous Fishermen’s Lodge. Situated in the small, beachfront village of Punta Allen, some 20 kilometres off the beaten track and 3 hours from the hustle and bustle of the city of Cancun, it’s ranked as one of the best saltwater fly fishing lodges that Ascension Bay has to offer.
Nestled in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, a vast international wildlife park that spans some 1,300,000 acres, Fishermens Lodge has been protected from commercial fishing and development; this has seen the local wildlife both above and below the water prosper. The bay has developed into one of the most prolific and diverse Bonefish, Permit, Snook and baby Tarpon fisheries in the Caribbean.
With miles of coastline, shallow flats, and lagoon systems, the fishing opportunities here are endless. Surrounded by pristine mangrove-lined shores with a backdrop of the lush green rainforest, it’s the perfect habitat for all the famous flats species, and grand slams and super slams are undoubtedly achievable. Ascension Bay, Mexico, is a destination where the fish are getting bigger, and the saltwater fly fishing is getting better with every passing season.
Without a doubt, Ascension Bay is one of the best destinations in the world for saltwater fly fishing anglers to try and achieve the famed grand slam and even super slam. A grand slam is achieved when catching a Bonefish, Tarpon and Permit in a single twenty-four hour period, while to complete a super slam, you can add a Snook to that list.
The Permit fishing at Fishermen’s Lodge is some of the best in the world, so much so that Ascension Bay is often referred to as ‘The Permit Capital’. This fantastic fish stands alone as one of the hardest to catch with a fly, but this is the ideal destination for those catching their 1st or 50th.
Snook are the ultimate ambush predator on the flats, typically holding up tight on the coastline under branches or mangroves waiting for unsuspecting prey to swim past. The population is protected and features some of the most significant specimens you’ll encounter anywhere in the world.
It’s a little known fact that Ascension Bay has the largest Bonefish population per square water acre than anywhere else in the world. Unlike some other species in the bay, Bonefish will readily eat a well-presented fly, making 20-30 fish days a regular occurrence. They are the most honest species on the flats, and if you do your part, they will usually do theirs.
Thanks to the protection from the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, Ascension Bay has a tremendous unmolested nursery of juvenile Tarpon. These fish are often referred to as ‘Baby Tarpon’, but they still average between 5kg and 15kg, with fish to over 25kg caught every year – there’s nothing baby about them.
While the big four flats species are usually top of every saltwater fly anglers wishlist, Ascension Bay is home to many other species that will eat a fly and put a bend in your rod. Jack Crevalle and Barracuda are fearsome predators and put up a fantastic account for themselves on light tackle. Snapper and Grouper are also abundant and usually mean fresh fish for dinner for either you or the guides at Fishermen’s lodge.
To find out more about Mexico and the fly fishing at Ascension Bay, visit our YouTube channel.
All the guides at Fishermens Lodge are highly skilled and excellent teachers, and whether you are an experienced saltwater fly fishing angler, or just testing your fly fishing skills in saltwater for the first time, a week with them will take your skills to a new level. All the guides have been fly fishing Ascension Bay for many years, and they intimately know the local waters, the fish’s movements, and the tides that make the difference between fishing and catching. They all speak excellent English, are patient, incredible boatmen and masters at finding fish on any tide.
One of the unusual things about Fisherman Lodge, but a real benefit to the anglers who fish there, is that the fishing is based on two guides per boat, allowing you and your boat partner the freedom to fish two different spots at once. Many anglers like to wade for Bonefish and Permit with one guide while the other angler and guide target Tarpon and Snook from the boat. Another massive benefit to this setup is that there’s always an extra set of eyes on the water helping to spot fish.
Fisherman Lodge uses traditional Mexican Panga boats with comfortable seats, poling platforms, secure rod storage, and an ample front casting deck. All Pangas use waterproof UHF radios and include life vests and a first aid kit.
If you are a travelling non-angler, then Fishermans Lodge still has a great deal to offer and is one of the Yucatan’s best family destinations, not just for anglers but also their families.
For those who like to explore, there are fantastic Ocean Eco-Tours, where nature lovers will get the chance to get up close and personal with Sea Turtles, many different Rays, Sharks, Crocodiles and even the occasional Whale Shark. There’s also the famous Robinson Crusoe Tour, which includes snorkelling, light tackle fishing, bird watching, shelling, and lunch on a deserted island inhabited by a population of friendly Iguanas. Kayak tours are another popular excursion, paddling with a certified kayaking guide from the Orchidas COOP around the local mangrove creeks and surrounding waters. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable in the local fauna, flora, and aquatic creatures.
If you prefer something more relaxing, then you can hang out at the beautiful freshwater pool, where there’s lots of space to spread out, enjoy the sun and a drink or snack served by your private valet. The beach is also only a stone’s throw from the Fishermen’s Lodge accommodation. Here you can relax on comfortable, padded loungers and take advantage of the daily beachside bar and grill, swim in the beautiful Caribbean Ocean and even try some snorkelling.
Fishermen’s Lodge has a unique blend of beautiful surroundings with the benefits of very modern luxury accommodation. The nine grand slam rooms can accommodate eighteen anglers and are spacious and fitted out for comfort. They feature air conditioning, two beds, a private full bathroom with hot water, satellite TV, internet service and even a fly tying table, rod racks and a small library of favourite fishing and nature books.
Although the township of Punta Allen tries to generate its electricity, it has limited service during the day and none at night, but the lodge generators provide electricity to guests twenty-four hours a day. Being situated deep in the heart of the jungle posed many problems with logistics and available services. Still, the team at Fishermens Lodge have worked very hard to make their accommodations top notch. The staff are very friendly and always happy to help.
The food and drink at the Lodge are second to none, and they employ three co-head chefs, all of which draw on their vast knowledge of regional favourites to cook for the guests. Everything is prepared with fresh fruits, herbs, vegetables, poultry, and local seafood, fish and Lobster. You will never leave the table hungry and will be in awe of their mastery in the kitchen and eye-appealing presentations.
Breakfast always includes fresh-squeezed juices, like orange, cantaloupe, and watermelon. Main courses of fresh crepes with a compote of pears, apple, and kiwi infused with fresh, native spices are always a huge hit.
Lunch is on the boat with a cooler filled with assorted sandwiches of Lobster or shrimp salad, smoked ham and cheese, Mexican tuna salad, spicy fried chicken, or client requests and matched with plenty of various sides and soft drinks or beer.
After cleaning up from a great days fishing, retire to the shade of the upper deck and sip some of the world’s best Margaritas or your choice of an ice-cold beverage. Treat yourself to Chef’s appetizers, which vary daily with options of ceviche, fresh guacamole, salbutes, panuchos, nachos de queso, frijoles rancheros, taquitos, or fresh sushi.
Dinners are served in the Lodges air-conditioned dining room and are always quite the experience. Fresh dishes like whole grilled snapper, Lobster when in season, Beef Arrachera, Tamales Rojo, Enchiladas Verde, or Mole de Pollo, all served with vegetables and homemade tortillas.
Don’t forget to save room for dessert, as the chefs love to make cakes, cobblers, pies, and homemade ice cream!
If you are looking for a once in a lifetime fly fishing experience with modern accommodations and lots of personal attention, look no further.
Although the fishing days are fixed, the below itinerary is still flexible should you require additional free days to explore at the beginning or end of your holiday; we can tailor this itinerary to suit you personally. Feel free to talk to our travel consultants who can explain all options available.
Depart UK (alternative routes available)
Arrive Cancun
On arrival, there will be a representative to meet you and transfer you to Tulum. (approx 1.5 hrs) On arrival at Tulum, you will take a private boat to the lodge (approx 40mins).
Overnight accommodation: Fishermans Lodge (Twin Room) F/B
Each fishing day is based on two guides per two rods and that is to give you that little bit more one on one help. Sometimes one boat partner will want to wade the flats with their guide whilst the other fishes the water from the boat with help from the other guide.
Overnight accommodation: Fishermans Lodge (Twin Room) F/B
Over the next three days, your guides will take you in the boat to really explore Ascension Bay and all its mangrove-lined nooks and crannies, the guides are also more than happy to help with any casting tips or fishing questions throughout your days on the water.
Overnight accommodation: Fishermans Lodge (Twin Room) F/B
You will depart the lodge by private boat for your return journey to Tulum.
Depart Tulum
Arrive Cancun
On arrival in Cancun, you will take a taxi to your overnight hotel.
Overnight accommodation: Cancun Hotel (Twin Room) R/O
Take a taxi back to the international airport in time for your international return flight
Depart Cancun
Arrive UK
The season runs from All Year.
Season: January to December
Peak: February
Weight: 5lb to 45lb
Average Weight: 12lb
Season: January to December
Peak: November
Weight: 2lb to 10lb
Average Weight: 2lb to 5lb
Season: January to December
Peak: May
Weight: 5lb to 100lb
Average Weight: 14lb
Season: January to December
Peak: January
Weight: 5lb to 40lb
Average Weight: 12lb
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.
| Departing | Returning | Days | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27/05/2023 | 04/06/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 03/06/2023 | 11/06/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 10/06/2023 | 18/06/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 17/06/2023 | 25/06/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 24/06/2023 | 02/07/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 01/07/2023 | 09/07/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 08/07/2023 | 16/07/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 15/07/2023 | 23/07/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 22/07/2023 | 30/07/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 29/07/2023 | 06/08/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 05/08/2023 | 13/08/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 12/08/2023 | 20/08/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 19/08/2023 | 27/08/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 26/08/2023 | 03/09/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 02/09/2023 | 10/09/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 09/09/2023 | 17/09/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 16/09/2023 | 24/09/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 23/09/2023 | 01/10/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 30/09/2023 | 08/10/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 07/10/2023 | 15/10/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 14/10/2023 | 22/10/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 21/10/2023 | 29/10/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 28/10/2023 | 05/11/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
| 04/11/2023 | 12/11/2023 | 9 | £4,399 | Enquire Now |
Prices are based on two adults sharing transfers, fishing and 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.
A truly beautiful place to spend a week and a destination I'd definitely recommend if you like your saltwater fly fishing. Each fishing day was action-packed with plenty of Bonefish, Permit and small Tarpon. I came agonisingly close to a grand slam on two occasions but just missed out. I guess now I'll have to return next year to try again!
I finally achieved one of my lifelong angling ambitions in the shape of a grand slam! So I'd just like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who made my trip possible, both at home and in Mexico. It's a fishing trip that I will remember forever and I'm eternally grateful. Now it's on to the next one and planning for next year!
If you want to sample some fantastic flats fishing then this has to be one of the best spots in the world. I've been lucky enough to fish a few destinations around the world and Ascension Bay is certainly top of my list. The Bonefish fishing was incredible, I think I averaged around 8 fish a day, with 90% of them between 4lb and 6lb. I even managed Permit and Tarpon too. I'll certainly be back!
I have thought about this review and even whether to give it or not – To be honest when you find a fishing trip this good you want to be selfish and keep it to yourself.
I look for a few things in a fishing trip. First and foremost is good fishing and this had that in abundance, the guides were so knowledgeable it was ridiculous but I have been with very knowledgeable guides before and on occasion they can look down their noses and be a little rude if you do not cast like lefty Kreh but these guys were calm, helpful, thoughtful natural coaches and most of all pragmatic. They skillfully got me into positions to not just find the fish but also where it suited my technique. The outcome was the week of all fishing weeks with lots of good quality Bonefish, probably averaged about 8-10 good fish a day from both the boat and wading which was just magical, four good sized Tarpon and I finally broke my Permit blank and even had Seven in one day which was just astonishing.
Second thing I look for is the warmth and hospitality of those running and working at the lodge. The lodge is very comfortable and everything is in pristine condition and the owner was warm, fun, generous and very organized indeed; all that you would want in the leader of a lodge. The staff in the lodge were incredibly friendly, trustworthy and efficient and I could not begin to describe how good the food was, the breakfasts made you rush to the table and the evening meals were all worthy of awards at a good restaurant – I may even have put on a few pounds whilst I was there.
Third thing is the habitat. Ascension bay is just stunning and at almost all points I felt like I was in the centre of a wildlife documentary with so many different species in pristine condition all around me. The area is awesome and despite that we hardly saw another boat once we left the shore or lagoon in the morning, hence not wanting to share the word on how great this place is…….
I will head back to fisherman lodge at every opportunity; it’s a very special place indeed."
Chris
Thank you so much for your detailed review, we totally understand that you wanted to keep such a place to yourself as its perfectly natural.
We will look at organising for you to return back next year with your own group.
Thanks for your support & custom until next time tight lines.
Regards Peter
My wife and I had the most fantastic stay at Fisherman Lodge just before Christmas this year. Looking for a last minute trip (one week before!) we got in touch with SportQuest to ask Peter for some recommendations. He suggested Ascension Bay as a location where both me and my wife would be well looked after and the fishing would be of sufficient variety and quality - he was not wrong!
We arrived late on the Friday night to a full three course meal and a warm welcome by Greg. He and his team were incredibly accommodating and flexible in terms of plans for our first day's fishing, so we ended up having a relaxed start the following day beginning with a delicious breakfast.
Although I was the only one fishing, my wife was welcomed on the boat to read and sunbathe, and the two guides (Ross and Rodo) for one rod was more than I was expecting. This being my first experience fishing outside the UK, Greg kindly lent me three of his rods for the different species we were likely to encounter, and it wasn't the usual rubbish hire gear that I'm told you get in some places.
The first day we caught countless bone fish (they really are as good as people say) and jacks, and had shots at tarpon and snook.
The second day, determined to land a snook we headed to the mangroves and were constantly chopping and changing tackle as we came across different species - an epic experience
The third and final day we went after tarpon specifically, but also had shots at permit and caught a couple of snook too. Deep in the mangrove channels it was a completely different experience from the other two days - the variety of fishing was second to none - and one of the most exhilarating few hours I've ever had; it has to be seen to be understood.
Overall on the boat we were very well looked after by the guides who were patient and helpful, spotting fish and putting me in the best places to have a chance of catching. We caught 20+ fish each day and had shots at every species you could think of, the only one I didn’t land was permit – one for next time.
The accommodation was lovely; not luxurious, but definitely sufficient and in the most beautiful setting, literally 30s walk to the beach. The hospitality from Greg and team was spectacular. We were met each day on the beach after fishing by a cool towel and a margarita, and the food (breakfast lunch and dinner) were exceptional. Fresh seafood in Mexican style, the best food we had whilst we were there.
We are already planning when we might be able to return, and to anyone considering making the trip, it far exceeded our expectations in just about every way – highly recommended.
Thanks Greg and thanks SportQuest!
Digby
Thank you so much for the great feedback. I will make sure it gets to all the people involved in putting and making your trip worth while. Feel free to give me a call when you are free as it will be good to catch up plus to see if you have some great pictures you would like to share. Thanks a million for your customer and look forward in dealing with you both again soon. Regards Peter Collingsworth
The trip to Fisherman Lodge at Punta Allen in January worked out very well. This is a very quiet time for the Lodge and I did think this may be reflected in poor fishing however the bonefish were there in good numbers and particularly of good size compared to a previous visit some years ago. The snook were also around in good numbers as were the baby tarpon in the deeper mangrove channels. The lack of many boats made life a bit easier for the guides when finding suitable fishing areas on the very few windier days. The guides Rodd and Alex were excellent being both very knowledgeable and great fun at the same time. Their expertise helped me catch tarpon, snook and plenty of good quality bonefish over the six days of fishing. The Fishery manager Greg was a consummate host and spent countless hours with us providing sound advice and generally making sure everything was to our satisfaction as well as being very entertaining. We were met back onshore (at the beach) every day by Greg and his assistant Jorge with a cool face towel and a margarita both very welcome after a long day fishing which was a very nice touch. The sleeping accommodation was basic but had everything required with excellent beds, air conditioning and a good shower with hot water available whatever the time. The eating and drinking areas were nicely appointed and comfortable with the staff always attentive and willing to help. The food was always of high quality with the only criticism being it was always too much for me with 3 courses every night and big two-course breakfasts. Packed lunches were similarly large and one would never come back hungry. One note of caution for fellow travellers would be to put on your insect repellent as soon as you arrive as although not apparent, the tiny noseeums will surely get you and they were particularly bad on this week so be warned. The journey from Cancun to Punta Allen is long (around 3 hours by minivan) with the last part of the journey on a fairly basic track. Although the last part of the journey is advertised as a 1 1/2hour road trip to Tulum then a short boat ride, the boat, in reality, is not available particularly after dark and even then, during the day it is only available early morning. So a 3-hour road trip after a 10 1/2 hour flight is exhausting if not prepared for it. Overall the fishing in January was very good as long as you are not looking to see lots of permits or are after large tarpon both of which are not around in big numbers until later in the year, anyway the smaller tarpon in the mangrove channels and the snook are much more plentiful and lots of fun. Best flies were small size 6 patterns (Verveka's mantis shrimp and Peterson's spawning shrimp) with medium or small bead chain eyes) for the bonefish and smallish (1/0 - 2/0) tarpon toads in black and purple or black and red for both the tarpon and snook.
Neil, thank you for such a detailed and informative customer feedback. This is very much appreciated by us and also a great use to future travellers.
I look forward to catching up with you on the phone and also viewing some of your pictures.
Regards Peter
We spent 5 days at Fisherman Lodge in Mexico. The extensive flats and mangroves of Ascension Bay are absolutely pristine and perfect for sight fishing. Bonefish are prolific and ready takers and we were pleasantly surprised at the number of permit. Tarpon and snook are also available though both were less available while we were there in April. Our excellent guide, Capt Tony reckons that October to December are the best months for those species. The food and accommodation at the lodge is simple but very good and it's a very friendly and easy place to get to. All arrangements were faultless. Thoroughly recommended.
Overall, the holiday allowed me to do something that I wanted to do - namely catch a bonefish on the fly. Actually, I caught about 20 bonefish plus other species. However, it's a long way to come to catch small fish (biggest was about 3lb).
There are some useful details I can share about transfers that Sportquest should know about.
Hi Mark,
Glad you managed to catch your Bonefish. A shame about the size; you'll have to try again to up that PB!
Regards Peter
We both had a fabulous time and enjoyed Mexico enormously. The lodge was great, food and hospitality lovely. They do need a new shower in ‘Shark’ – A lovely rain head shower, but sadly only two or three drips of water came out of it – This made showering after a day out a tad difficult but we managed. I appreciate water supplies and so are difficult in such remote areas but even so….
The guides were extremely helpful and fabulous spotters of fish – Rup and myself not so good! But as you can see, we managed good numbers of bonefish and so were pleased with ourselves on our first saltwater foray.
The story of the week is, however, the 40lb Jack, which after a few 200-yard runs and a 45-minute fight, managed to get into the boat on the fly. A fish of a lifetime, which the guides reckoned was the largest Jack they had ever had to the boat – a fabulous memory.
Whilst everything was really great, there is a small point that I would like to bring to your attention, as it was a significant reason behind our booking, and so is worthy of comment. The guides rotated us fishing, rather than dropping one off on the flats and the other being on the boat, i.e. both fishing. This only happened once for about an hour on one day. It is difficult for us to comment on whether that was as a result of weather or another reason, but the guides did say that that was the way they did things (i.e. one fishing at any one time, not both) so I rather think not.
We did have one day, the 2nd day, where the conditions were not conducive to sight fishing, and we dotted around a lot and ended the day by having very, very few casts (maybe less than 10 each, which was frustrating) – we had taken spinning rods, but there was not a suggestion of changing tactics.
We did then speak to the Guides the following morning, saying that we did have spinning rods and we would bring them should conditions be poor again and maybe we should vary up the tactics – whilst conditions that day were much better and so conducive to sight fishing, the guides did also take us to some deeper water channels, and I am glad they did as this led to the Jack being caught on the fly. They did also allow Rup to be spinning at the same time.
There is also the issue of potential communication breakdowns, so I am also sure this can sometimes be an issue, although the lead guide appeared to speak and understand English very well indeed. As I say we are not unhappy at all, but I think it is worth saying as we did discuss the fact that both would be fishing as part of the Mexico option, as opposed to Cuba, and so that needs to be addressed for future guests or at least in your conversations needs to be qualified that in some circumstances both fishing may not happen – As saltwater newbies we had no experience and so had to be guided in our expectations by pre-trip conversations.
It is now just a question of getting over the jet lag and then putting thoughts to where next!
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