ISLA del SABALO
Destination Overview
It hasn’t been that long ago that the fabulous Baby Tarpon fishing along the northern Yucatan coast was completely unknown. Today, the area which is located on a remote section of the northwestern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula facing the Gulf of Mexico, is world famous for its Baby Tarpon fishing and Isla del Sabalo which means “Island of Tarpon” is the destination for the most exciting fishing experience you will ever have. The Isla del Sabalo Lodge is one of the new Tarpon lodges on the northwestern coast and the facilities have been designed specifically to accommodate the needs of the Tarpon fishermen.
Located within the Mexican state of Compeche, the coastline is a combination of mangrove rimed flats, lagoons, and inlets which are a nursery for Tarpon that eventually reach 100 lbs after they become migratory. Don’t be fooled by the use of the word “baby” in the name of these fish as they range in size from 5 lbs to 30 lbs and are trophy’s by any sense of the word.
Watching one slash at a top water fly and tail walk on the glass smooth water at sunrise, is an adrenaline rush that you will never forget. Also present will be Snook, Snapper and Barracuda. Kiene's Fly Fishing Travel is proud to be able to offer such a first class opportunity for you to experience some of the most exciting fishing in the world.
At a Glance
Target Fish: Baby Tarpon, Snook, Snapper and Barracuda
Location: State of Campeche, Yucatan MX
Seasons: April through November
Lodge Capacity: 6 anglers
Nearest Airport: Merida, MX
Electricity: 110 volts
Documents needed: Passport
Fishing Program
The location of Isla del Sabalo Lodge was selected due to its remoteness and an attempt to provide a relatively untouched Tarpon fishing experience, compared to the more heavily fished waters close to the town of Campeche. The prolific forests of mangroves provide a safe nursery for Baby Tarpon, Snook and other tropical fish and Isla del Sabalo guides know which inlets, flats and lagoons to explore depending on the day’s particular tide.
Tides and wind are the most deciding factors that your guide will consider when planning the day’s itinerary. On some days you will stay on the water from morning until late afternoon and on others you will return to the lodge for a siesta and then return to the water as conditions become more favorable. Your lunch will be provided by the cook and taken with you in a cooler. Lunches consist of made-to-order sandwiches, snacks, and assorted beverages.
June through August is the peak season for Tarpon but since the fish are not migratory there are always fish around. Your guides always know where the fish are during any time of the year. If the fish are not rolling in the flats your guide will poke your panga into the lagoons among the mangroves so you can have your chance at what they call “Jungle Tarpon”. There are always fish to b e caught at Isla del Sabalo.
On an average day you will begin before sunrise with a delicious breakfast after which you will load your gear into a custom built skiff and take off with your companion and the guide to your fishing destination. The skiff's are 18 ft stable flat bottom boats that comfortably accommodate up to two fishermen and the guide. Your boat ride to your first fishing destination can be as short as fifteen minutes though some destinations may take longer to reach as the available water covers a huge area.
Best Fly Fishing Seasons
April through November
Accommodations
The Isla del Sabalo lodge accommodations are simple but include every feature you will need. The cottages which sit on a white sand beach, all have air conditioning and ceiling fans and have lots of room for two guests who share the room. Situated at the ocean’s edge, cool breezes bathe the cottages with refreshing ocean air. The rooms also have private bathrooms with shower, hot and cold running water. The housekeeping service provides fresh bedding and clean towels each day.
On Site Amenities and Activities Include
Satellite TV
Wi-Fi/internet access
Laundry
Bar
Gourmet Food
You will dine at the Palapa which is an open air lounge area near the water. Breakfast includes items such as fresh fruit, eggs, toast, coffee and juice. Lunches consist of sandwiches, snacks, sodas and water.
All drinking water and ice is bottled and made from purified water. The dinner entrée’s will vary day to day and alternate between pork, chicken, fish, shrimp or sometimes lobster. No matter what your luck is during the day, you will end it happily with an amazing meal. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated by the cook if notified in advance. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
Getting There
The closest airport to the lodge is Merida International Airport. It is important that you schedule your arrival carefully as you will need to arrive early enough to go through customs and meet the lodge’s representative at the appointed time so he can transport you for the 1 ½ hr drive to the lodge. It may be necessary to schedule your arrival to Merida the day before. The lodge’s shuttle is a comfortable air conditioned van.
Rates
Rates based on double occupancy
7 night/6 day fishing package: $3,965.00 per person
Inclusions: Accommodations, meals, guide, non alcoholic beverages, taxes, fishing license, wi-fi access, and ground transfers.
Exclusions: Alcoholic beverages, gratuities, phone service, laundry service, gear, and meals prior to your arrival at the lodge.