Mexico/Belize Lodges... Opinions please...

[pschwart00]

All...
We are planning a trip to either Mexico or Belize around end of February '08.
We've narrowed it down to the following 3 (based on variety and price):
Pesca Maya Lodge - Mexico
El Pescador - Belize
Costa de Cocos - Mexico

The two lodges in Mexico are south eastern Mexico and not far from the Belizean border so technically the fishing should be pretty similar between them.

We are looking for:
-variety, good English speaking guides, good fishing (obviously) - of lesser consideration is the level of "fanciness"

Any personal experiences/recs would be greatly appreciated...THANKS!!

[SpexnReds]

I went to El Pescador in the summer of 2006. I had a great time, but if you are really after good sized bones/permit, I would aim for Mexico. There are plenty of bonefish around ambergris, but they are quite small (1-3 lb). There are also some permit, but once again they aren't of spectacular size. Belize has excellent variety; you can basically catch any number of species any day out. If you are looking to just catch fish and have a great time, it is a fine option. If it is tarpon you are after, El Pescador offers way more than Mexico, but that is more or less a summer time endeavor. Also, pending your experience level El Pescador may not be the place for you. At the time I went, I was not that terribly seasoned when it came to seeing bonefish; this was a problem. Most of the flats you will be fishing at El Pescador are turtle grass and coral, both of which necessitate a trained pair of eyes. If I could have done it over, I would have gone to Mexico or Andros for my first trip because white sand bottoms and patient guides (which are in short supply in Belize) create a great learning opportunity.

[Quicksilver]

I realize this is not one of your picks but I had a great time at the Belize River Lodge. Great guides and food. The bonefish could be bigger (:. I found myself going into a relaxed vacation mode as the length of my trip progressed.

[bonefishdick]

Cincy

I forgot your name but not were your from. Anyway the important thing is were should you go.....

I have looked at the other places on line and will probably go to both the places you mention if I get the chance, have the health and the money someday.

I have only been to Turneffe Flats Lodge, I went two years ago and had a great time, as a matter of fact I am going back again this November. The food was great the place is very comfortable and the guides all seen very nice and speak English very well. As a matter of fact my guide was awesome and I have him again for this trip. The fishing is great and you get the white sandy bottoms or turtle grass, what ever you want to do, wade or fish from the flats boat.

I know in the fall they offer a two for one special, which is a great deal.

I had such a great time I even changed my name as a joke with my friends and have been using it ever since.

Good luck on what ever you decide, the important thing is, is that you go and enjoy it wherever it is, life is to short.

[ANeary]

I stayed at El Pescador in fall of 05, had a great time. Fish ing was great as well. fished for Bones 1 full day , landed 8 but they were small, then chased Tarpon most of ther days, except one other 1/2 day chased bones in morning (landed 12) and Tarpon the rest. We fished the National Park up on teh Mexico border . Found a number of Tarpon, I almost landed a small one but hook popped out at boat before the guide could grab it and blind casting in an area where we saw quite a few fish, hooked about 6 fish, they all came unbuttoned. Also saw a nice pod of Permit 2 days and had a couple brief chances but no takes.

The lodge was geat, the food was good and the people that run the lodge were very nice. I had the wife and she loved it there as well.

[houdini]

You may recall that two hurricanes made landfall in the area this year - one was a Category 5.
As I see it, bets are off for the moment until it shakes out.

[TimOBrien]

Ive been to all three. Each is different in its own way. I would recommen Costa de Cocos, especially in Feb. Lots of snook. Xcalak is a last Yucatan adventure. Pesac Maya has less than par service. CDC is very affordable and during that time of year all there guides are from Casa and Playa Blanca. I'll add some pics from the fish I caught in Chetumal.

[Lineas Tenso]

From the photo either the rod came apart or it had help from Senor sabalo!!