Advice on Cozumel?

[JDR]

I'm going to be in Cozumel the first week of January and was wondering if anybody could offer me some advice on the fishing there at that time of year. I've been chasing trout and stripers for a long time but have no experience with that part of the world. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

Jeff

[Headsea]

I have fished Cozumel twice, both in March. Offshore was spotty(too early), but did manage a sailfish on the fly. In march, there are bonefish in the lagoons, and tarpon on the beaches(caught two 50-60 lbs.) Beware, however, there are also big saltwater crockodiles reported to be in the area.

There is only one marina in cozumel. That's where you can charter Mexican boats(both offshore and lagoons, flats) and U.S. boats for offshore, but I don't know of there will be any U.S. boats in Jan.The Mexican offshore boats were o.k., not great, the flats boats were "iffy". No fly tackle is provided. Good Luck.

[ikan besar]

Nacho Euan has guided on Cozumel longer than any other guide there (something like 21 years now). You can reach him via any of the fishing charter kiosks around town, or call him direct at ph. 2-60-22.

The fishing is primarily in the two large lagoons on the north end of the island (the south half is now a reserved and fishing is not allowed in the southern lagoons any longer).

There are a few croc's in the lagoon intrances but I would hope to see them rather than dreading their prescence, I don't recall anyone ever being hurt by them and the few I have come across couldn't seem to get away fast enough.

Plenty of bonefish and the occasional tarpon and permit. Tan puff flies seemed to work very well. I don't recall too many fish over 4#'s although they are probably there. I have fished it three times and find it to be a rather nice location.

Have fun.

[JDR]

Thanks very much for all of the advice. I'm looking forward to the trip and will be sure to post a report. Does anybody know if there is a flyshop or place to buy local flies in town or should I come fully stocked?


Thanks again for the help.