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Turneffe Flats Lodge Belize Fly Fishing Turneffe Atoll

Customer Rating 77%
Tour Code BEL006  

Best Lodge In Belize

The stunning Turneffe Flats Fishing Lodge is a little piece of paradise like no other and is known worldwide to provide some of the best sight fishing s while experiencing some of the finest services. Immerse yourself in this tropical paradise while wading crystal clear flats looking for those tailing fish. Or carefully wind yourself through the shallow reefs being poled by one of the superb guides in search of that dream chance of a Grand Slam of Bonefish, Permit and a Tarpon all in a single day.

Turneffe is also one of a select group of saltwater destinations offering anglers the excitement of casting to tailing permit every month of the year. Additionally, Turneffe is home to sizeable migratory Tarpon between May and October, with resident Tarpon caught throughout the year. Snook, barracuda, snapper, jacks, triggerfish, and several other species, round out an exceptionally diverse fishery.

For over 30 years, Turneffe Flats Fishing Lodge is recognised as one of the world’s finest saltwater fly fishing destinations with many Trip advisor awards that the staff and guides have worked so hard to achieve. You will undoubtedly feel all of their passion as soon as you step foot in this dream saltwater fly fishing location.

Where is Turneffe Atoll

At approximately 17 degrees north, Belize is the northernmost country in Central America. Belize is bordered south and west by Guatemala and the north by Mexico, and out to the east, you will find the stunning shimmering Caribbean Sea. The country of Belize is relatively small, with it only being 200 miles from north to south and only 100 miles across. 

Belize, in comparison, is relatively small but very diverse. Much of the coastline is mangrove forests which is home to a vast, diverse fish ecosystem and protects Belize from storms and erosion and more inland; you will find dense rainforests home to some stunning wildlife. Also along the coast are nearly a thousand islands locally known as ‘Cayes’ and three of only four coral atolls in the hemisphere.

The Turneffe Flats Fishing Lodge built its first guest cabins in 1985; the first guests at the Lodge had such a fantastic experience that one group member soon became a shareholder. The resort continued with extra houses and upgrades throughout the late 80s and 90s and was even the first Lodge to use the custom-built Dolphin flats skiff boats. 

In 1998 and 2000, respectively, the Atoll was hit by two major Hurricanes resulting in significant damage. In 2001 the major remodelling of the Lodge was completed. After the devastation of the hurricane, Turneffe Flats remodelled the resort, expanding the dining room and added air-conditioning, which leads us to the present day. 

What is the fishing like in Belize

For more than 30 years, the Turneffe Flats Fishing Lodge has built a considerable reputation within the saltwater fly community due to sight-fish for Permit, Bonefish and Tarpon on any given day, making Turneffe Flats Fishing Lodge one of the few places where a Grand Slam is always possible. Turneffe Atoll is the largest Atoll of only four coral atolls in the Western Hemisphere and is best known for its wide array of saltwater fishing.

Bonefish – Bonefish have been a primary target of anglers here for over 30 years. While wading the expansive flats, you will regularly see large schools of Bonefish, providing an excellent opportunity for new saltwater anglers to learn the basics of the sport while still offering more professional, unique and sometimes challenging opportunities. 

With Bonefish approaching double figures, it gives ideal situations for anglers to experience skinny water fishing at its best, and you will get to witness some of the world’s most picturesque flats known to man-kind. Most of the fishing for Bonefish in Turneffes Central and Northern Lagoons done from your skiff’s bow. The Bonefish in these lagoons take on a beautiful brownish-green colouration. The reason for this is due to them blending into their surroundings, and it’s believed that the sort after golden coloured Bonefish often spotted can only be caught at Turneffe. 

Permit – Belize is recognised worldwide by saltwater fly anglers as the Permit capital of the world and with many very experienced fishers landing their first Permit at Turneffe Flats Fishing Lodge. With over 250 square miles of the fishing area, it is no wonder that many anglers have focused their attention on this beautiful fishery. Permit fishing is usually concentrated around shallow bars and flats inside Turneffes central lagoon from the bow of the Dolphin skiff; however, there are lots of wadable flats on the ocean side. The Permit flats average around 1 to 3 feet deep and are covered in turtle grass, hard coral, and sandy bottom, making for some challenging fishing.

Tarpon – Turneffe Flats has an excellent pedigree in producing some first-class Tarpon fishing and produces Tarpon all year round. Although there is always some resident Tarpon, the migratory Tarpon season extends from May until October, and this is generally when the larger fish turn up. 

Tarpon inhabits the creeks, channels and lagoons of the Atoll, and most Tarpon jumped are 60-90 pounds, with some fish in the 100-150 pound range and occasional monsters approaching 200 pounds.

Other species found around the Atoll include Triggers, Snook, Jacks, Snapper and Barracuda. These can be great fun to catch in between targeting the main slam species of the Atoll.

Fishing Boats in Belize

The skiffs you will be using each day are 16ft Dolphin Super Skiffs custom built in the states. These boats designed to cut through the chop and also pole well in skinny water. They all come equipped with large casting decks and rod holders capable of holding 6 rods. If you prefer to have a lean bar, please request one. All boats skippered by one of the Turneffe guides so that you couldn’t be in better hands for an excellent days fishing. Why not take a look  at other saltwater fly fishing destinations on our Youtube Channel

Turneffe Guiding Team

As mentioned previously, this is not just a fishing resort; they cater for all manner of guests from your family holidays with a couple of days fishing to your more seasoned anglers who want a full-on fishing experience. You will find many non-fishing activities, from eco-adventures to many different diving opportunities. If you would like a complete detailed list of all the activities, please ask a member of the Sportquest team who will be more than happy to assist.

Turneffe Lodge Activities

As mentioned previously, this is not just a fishing resort; they cater for all manner of guests from your family holidays with a couple of days fishing to your more seasoned anglers who want a full-on fishing experience. You will find many non-fishing activities, from eco-adventures to many different diving opportunities.  With so many beautiful things to experience at Turneffe, we have developed a unique marine ecotour holiday combining world-class snorkelling with other exciting and educational activities, including observing rare manatees, sea turtles, saltwater crocodiles, dolphins, and birds in their natural habitats. Learn the fascinating history of Belize and Turneffe Atoll from one of the highly experienced naturalist guides, enjoy a lively Belizean cooking class, or relax in a hammock under the coconut palms.

Accommodation

This stunning picturesque resort of Turneffe Flats Fishing Lodge founded in 1985, where they welcomed the first guests, and since then, the resort has grown into what people now see. In 1985, there were only two small cabins and only had power from a generator for a couple of hours per day; cold showers were the norm as hot water was to arrive a couple of years later. In 1988, they decided to extend the buildings to house more customers. Until today, they have been working tirelessly to get this resort to where it is now, which is world re-nouned for being a luxury eco and saltwater fishermen’s dream location.

Resort

The social centre of Turneffe Flats is the Main Lodge, which provides incredible views from the upper and lower decks. The view makes it a favourite spot for many customers to relax. The main Lodge also includes the dining room, bar and sitting area, and a fully stocked gift shop and fly shop. This Lodge also has a stunning oceanfront infinity pool with spectacular views over the reef. All accommodations at Turneffe Flats are fully air-conditioned, including the main Lodge.

At Turneffe Flats, you have a choice of accommodations:

Beach Cabanas

There are eight spacious, air-conditioned cabanas located on the beach with a panoramic view of Turneffe’s coral reef. Each Cabana has two queen-sized beds, a built-in dresser and a desk. There is also a large private bath with two sinks and a large walk-in shower. Each Cabana has a small oceanside deck ideal for taking morning coffee or watching the world go by. This accommodation is what our standard itinerary comes with.

Reef Villa

The Reef Villa is a three-bedroom villa with a common area and ideal units for small groups or families. The site includes a seating area with a satellite television and a small kitchenette. The largest bedroom has two queen beds, and the other two bedrooms each feature one queen bed and one twin bed. All bedrooms have private bathrooms. Each Reef villa has a screened veranda, satellite television and stunning views of the open ocean.

Garden Villa

The Garden Villa is also a three-bedroom villa with a larger common area ideal for larger groups and large families. This building is set slightly back from the beach but has beautiful views of the manicured grounds and the Caribbean. The spacious common area is a great gathering area for friends and family. Satellite television and a small kitchen area, without cooking facilities, compliment this room. The Villa has three nicely appointed guest rooms, each with a private bathroom.

Food & Drink

Meals are a tasty combination of Belizean and International dishes. Fresh seafood, local produce and home-baked pastries are standard fares. Depending upon your plans and your preference, you have the option to take a packed lunch or return for lunch each day. Following hors d’oeuvres and refreshments in the evening, dinner is soup, salad, entree, and a delicious dessert. Entrees vary among seafood, chicken, pork and beef, and we do our best to accommodate special dietary needs. The bar located in the Lodge just adjacent to the dining area with plenty of open space to gather after a day of fishing, diving and adventure.

On Location

Explore all of the wonders and the beauty of Turneffe Atoll, including the best reef snorkelling in the Caribbean. Enjoying the unique marine eco-adventures features world-class snorkelling, birding, wildlife sightseeing, and several other fun and informative activities. If you prefer, you also can stay at the resort and lounge at the pool or on the stunning beach. Every day offers both a great new adventure and a perfect opportunity to relax.

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Itinerary

TAILOR-MADE HOLIDAYS

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.

Travel Days

Please note that depending on what international airport you depart from, travel to this destination may involve an overnight flight and/or an overnight hotel.

Once flights are available, your itinerary will be finalised.

Day 1:

Depart Any international Airport (See Details)

Arrive Belize

On arrival at Belize City, a representative from Turneffe Flats will meet you and transport you to the Radisson Marina. At the Marina, you will be notified of the boat’s scheduled departure time, which varies according to the customer’s arrival. (Transfer approx 90mins)

Overnight accommodation: Turneffe Flats Beach Cabana (Twin Room) F/B

Days 2 To 4: Fishing Days

An average fishing day at Turneffe Flats is about 8 hours; however, this is quite flexible. Each day you will speak to your guide, who will ask what you would like to fish for.

Overnight Accommodation: Turneffe Flats Beach Cabana (Twin Room) F/B

Days 5 To 7: Fishing Day

During the Tarpon season, you can opt to start shortly after sunrise and rest during the day.

Overnight Accommodation: Turneffe Flats Beach Cabana (Twin Room) F/B

Day 8:

After a light breakfast, you will be transferred by boat to Belize City Marina and then onto the airport to start your journey back home. Once you have handed your luggage over in Belize, check with the flight staff to make sure your bag will go straight through to your connecting flight.

Depart Belize

Arrive Home

Travel Days

Please note that depending on what international airport you wish to return to, travel from this destination may involve an overnight flight and/or an overnight hotel. Once flights are available, your itinerary will be finalised.

Customer Reviews

Average Customer Satisfaction Score 77%

View all reviews

FISHING Seasons

The season runs from November to August.

Bonefish

Season: All Year
Peak: All Year
Weight: 2lb to 12lb
Average Weight: 3.5lb

Permit

Season: All Year
Peak: All Year
Weight: 2lb to 60lb
Average Weight: 11lb

Tarpon

Season: All Year
Peak: May to October
Weight: 5lb to 150lb
Average Weight: 90lb

Package Details

Included

  • All international flights
  • All internal flights
  • Airport Transfers
  • All accommodation as per itinerary
  • 6 days fishing
  • All meals at Lodge

Excluded

  • Personal holiday insurance
  • Park fees
  • Fishing tackle
  • Tips for guides and all camp staff
  • Departure tax
  • A la Carte Menu

Optional extras

  • Flight upgrades
  • Additional nights either at the lodge or any Belize hotel
  • Single room upgrades
  • Private Villa Upgrades available
  • Reef Villa Upgrades available
  • Fishing tackle can be rented including fly rods and reels

Price Supplements

N/A

View Latest Availability

Dates, Prices & Availability

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
06/09/2024 29/12/2024 8 Enquire for prices and availability Enquire Now
27/12/2024 26/07/2025 8 Enquire for prices and availability Enquire Now
25/07/2025 20/12/2025 8 Enquire for prices and availability Enquire Now

Price Notes

Prices are based on two adults sharing transfers, fishing and the Turneffe Flats Beach Cabana 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 surcharge.

Make an Enquiry

To speak to an expert or receive more information about when is the best time to travel? What can you expect from your holiday? Who are the tour guides? Will someone be there to meet me? Plus, many more questions. Either call our offices, e-mail us or fill in the form, and we will get back to you asap.
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Reviews

John

Everyone goes out of their way to insure that every detail is taken care of. This includes the kitchen staff bringing appetisers to our porch several times when we were having drinks after a day of activity. It also included wait staff bringing me extra deserts when they realised that I have a sweet tooth. The cleaning staff going beyond the norm to get our laundry finished or making our room perfect everyday. I cannot say enough about the attention to detail from top to bottom with the entire staff. We loved the experience even though I didn't catch the big one. Before we left we were planning our next visit to Turneffe Flats.

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Sorry to hear that you did not catch the big one, but glad that overall you could not fault the trip. At least if you left the big one behind it gives you all the excuse to return.

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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

Stewart

The accommodations were first class. Sitting in the room or the lodge you would never believe that you were 30 miles off the coast of Belize. I'm not sure they get much better than that! All the meals were fabulous and there was plenty to eat. I really enjoyed the variety. Dion did an excellent job putting us on fish. He was very patient with us and we wouldn't have done as well as we did without him. This trip was everything we could have asked for. The accommodations were first class, the food was excellent and the fishing was second to none.

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Stewart I will pass on all your kind remarks to the lodge and staff. These are the types of feedback we do like to receive.

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Leo

These accommodations are equal to the best I've experienced fishing in this part of the world. Congrats on a great job! Great Belizian cooking

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Thank you for your fabulous feedback I am happy that you also enjoyed the amazing cooking. Until next time Mel

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Would recommend Sportquest

John

A true asset to Turneffe and the reason why my overall experience at Turneffe was excellent. 10 out of 10! I had high expectations going in and they were exceeded."

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Thank you for your kind words and pictures. Glad to be of service again.

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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

Richard

We were a party of four friends all experienced fly fishers if not in salt water. We decided to have 2 nights in Miami and visited the Bass Pro Shop which is the most extraordinary fishing equipment emporium. Stuff was purchased at excellent prices.

The next day we moved on to Belize and Turneffe Flats. After a rather prolonged boat trip asone of the engines failed and we had to wait for a replacement boat to take us to the island we arrived.

A rum punch and friendly welcome greeted us. We had 3 bed rooms and large sitting room on the top floor of one of the cottages in the hotel grounds. We had A/C and fans to cool us and the rooms were comfortable. The food was at best described as adequate gastropub fare but the staff were excellent and friendly.

After a briefing session the next morning we went off to the flats to fish for bone fish. They wre there in large numbers in water 8-10 inches deep. They proved much more difficult to catch than last year in Cuba we caught a few but many more were lost.

We also tried to catch permit on other days but despite there being many fish present they seemed completely oblivious of our flies.

All in all the fishing was disappointing.

The guides were competent but rather reluctant to be proactive with suggestions for the days fishing. They tended to ask us what we would like to do.

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Mr Packard

Thank you for taking the time to complete our feedback form as both us and future customers I am sure will find your review interesting.

I noticed you found the Bones more difficult to bite than your previous trips with us to Cuba, was this because the fish were very shy and scared of anglers or just that you were fishing in very shallow water. I also noted your comments about the Permit. It was good that you got lots of chances at them but as they say its Permit fishing. I have lost count the sheer number of Permit i have had totally ignore my fly on occasions.

I was sorry to hear that the fishing did not live up to expectations as we always like to have customers come home with great fishy stories. I will be calling you to discuss.

Thank you for the high scores about the service you received from Sportquest as that is always appreciated. The staff in the office work hard to try and make sure everything lives up to expectations and runs smoothly.

Regards Peter

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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

MICHAEL

Turneffe Flats is extremely well organised, despite being in the middle of nowhere!

Very friendly and helpful staff and comfortable accommodation. The only negatives were the food, which was adequate but not as good as suggested on Trip Advisor, and the fishing.

It was only the second time we'd been bone fishing but it was much more challenging (ie far fewer fish!) than we'd had last year in Cuba.

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Mr Banton

Glad you liked the resort and I have noted your comments about the food that will be passed on to the management of the lodge.

I will call you personally to get a better understanding of the fishing, as normally the lodge does have great reports about fishing so interesting on the week you were present that the fishing was very tough.

Regards Peter

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Would recommend Sportquest

William John

Turneffe flats - a delightful destination.

Any holiday that begins with a 30 mile boat trip to a Caribbean island must be good.

Given the above the accommodation and facilities were excellent.

Turneffe may be the capital of the world for permit - but they are extremely difficult to catch. Bear this in mind and perhaps concentrate on the bonefish at the correct time of day - extreme tides created very low levels of water on the Flats in the afternoons.

Thousands of fish but very very skittish (2 fish for the week). We are experienced fly fishermen so know a lot more than the basics!

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Mr Wraight

Thank you for the feedback as it is very useful to everyone. Noted and totally understand about Permit as they are the holly grail for saltwater fly fishing. The more you have a go at the better your chances but having said that trying to get them to eat a fly is sometimes just impossible.

I am glad you liked the resort but sorry that the fishing was not better for you. You are correct about hunting the Bones when the tide is at its best.

Thank you for the good scores for Sportquest Holidays services it is much appreciated. I will be telephoning you all to discuss your holiday in more detail.

Regards Peter

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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

John

Flights and transfers went smoothly, the accommodation and food were good but the bottom line is the fishing and unfortunately this can only be described as poor.

Despite catching a Tarpon within ten minutes on our first day, we saw virtually no other fish roll and the migratory Tarpon were absent .

There were very few snappers, jacks or barracuda around to take our poppers and the guide was reluctant to take us out on the flats owing to the overcast conditions making fish-spotting difficult. When we eventually fished the flats, we were surprised by how few fish were evident and we went for long periods without a cast; I probably had two or three casts at a Permit all week and then it was on trust rather than by sight.

I eventually fished the reef by wading along the edge and managed to catch a couple of bonefish. Talking to the guides and other anglers who had fished this location before, I gained the impression that the fishing had been deteriorating over the past few years.

A " red" tide last year and low water temperatures were cited as reasons but it appears that there has been some unknown, adverse ecological change out on the reef.

A pity about the fishing as it is a comfortable and attractive place to stay.

Response from Sportquest Holidays

John

Thanks for calling me back.

It was a shame to hear that the fishing was tough due to the conditions.

As you mentioned sometimes this is fishing and annoying as in your own words Turneffe Flats is such a great place.

Lets hope next time the weather is kinder to everyone.

Just like to add my thanks for your continued support in booking with us and I look forward in dealing with you again soon.

Tight Lines Peter



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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

John

As per telephone call, unfortunately the fishing was poor during our visit as the weather was not great. Other regular anglers have said it has not been a good season.

It was hard to find and spot fish on the shallow flats as we believe more fish were in the deeper water.

It was such a shame as the lodge and staff are so nice and accommodating.

Another great service from Sportquest Holidays as usual

Response from Sportquest Holidays

John

Yes thank you for taking the time to call me.

I hate when the weather is set against a trip. It is so so annoying. It makes everyone question the fishing, start to put doubt in everyones mind. When after all its down to bad weather which as both me and you know from having fished the world over. The weather plays the biggest part in ANY fishing trip.

To hot, to cold, to much water, not enough water.... there are just so many variables that effect the fishing. But that is part of fishing that we have to accept. It is also what makes it all the more special when everything comes together....

Thanks for all the good feedback scores even tho the fishing was tough. It is very much appreciated.

Have to get you on one of my hosted fly fishing trips again soon

Regards Peter

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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

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Los Roques Venezuela

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