Ambergris Caye Belize - Flats Fishing ?

[Windridge]

I have been reading through the archives of this site and have gained a lot of insite, that said I still have a few questions regarding flats fishing with a fly rod on Ambergris. I am planning on hiring a guide early on then trying to fish on my own. This is my first time flats fishing so I belive I would like to focus on bonefish rather than suffer the apparent rejection that comes with permit. I do fish quite a bit on Idaho's and Montana's rivers so I am not new to fly fishing, just flats fishing.

Does moon phase have any great effect on catching fish? I will be on Ambergris Apr 2-9 which is waning half to new moon. Here in Idaho that is good news, full moon is bad. Also, is there times of the day when it is more productive than others (i.e., tides or sun position) and are there absolute dead times not to waste my time?

I will be staying at Captain Morgan's, has anyone fished with their guides or does anyone have recommendations and contact information for quality guides?

Thanks
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[Ox]

Windridge--

the first thing you ought to think about when you are down there is tarpon. yes, there are gobs of bonefish areound, and you should fish for them. But there are lots and lots of tarpon there, and you wont have to fight hundreds of other anglers like in the keys. first time salt water fishing, so you are right not to think about permit, unless you luck into some, and you might down there. aparently the north end of ambergris has a higher permit concentration.

As far as the reel goes, there is a good chance that your reel holds up, as the bones down there might only hit 3 lbs. that said, there's also a good chance that your battenkill freezes up. You might want to borrow a reel. make sure you have everything you need-- there's not mich down there.

I stayed at El Pescador. My guide was named NEsto, but other than that I have no idea how to get him. you could try through the lodge. HE was very good, and primarily a tarpon guide.

good luck

Ox