Belize River Lodge
Nestled along the verdant banks of the Belize Olde River, the historic Belize River Lodge offers a serene retreat merely ten minutes from the Phillip S.W. Goldson International Airport and a short 3.5 miles from the river’s mouth, where it meets the Caribbean Sea. Since its inception in 1961, the lodge has borne witness to various names, including Barothy’s Caribbean Lodge Ltd. and Keller Caribbean Sports Ltd. In January of 1987, it assumed the name Belize River Lodge under the dedicated stewardship of Mike Heusner and Marguerite Miles, ensuring a uniquely personalized experience for guests.
Accommodations are provided in the cozy Mahogany Lodge, crafted from fine hardwoods and nestled amidst vibrant tropical foliage along the Belize Olde River. Fishing expeditions are carried out from a specially designed 23-foot panga, the only vessel perfectly suited for Belizean waters. Typically, two anglers share a skiff, guided by an experienced, licensed professional fly fishing guide fluent in English. The Lodge’s fishing territory spans an expansive area encompassing flats, cayes, reef, saltwater mangrove channels, and various rivers and lagoons, offering a diverse range of fishing conditions, species, and picturesque scenery, with the nearest flat a mere 20 minutes away.
Game fish enthusiasts can expect to encounter an array of species, including permit, bonefish, tarpon, snook, snapper, jacks, barracuda, grouper, and more. Remarkable visual Grand Slams and Back Country Grand Slams are a daily occurrence. Achieving a Landed Slam depends on a combination of skill, fish behavior, and a touch of luck. As you fish, you may also spot diverse wildlife such as manatees, howler monkeys, iguanas, turtles, and crocodiles. The Lodge provides comfortable skiffs equipped with guest-leaning/casting posts, chairs, and a guide platform, modern outboard engines, and expert English-speaking licensed guides, ensuring an unforgettable fishing adventure. Specializing in sight fishing the flats, the Lodge prides itself on offering a diverse fishing experience.
Beyond its fishing allure, the Lodge is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting an abundance of tropical birds, tree-dwelling iguanas and lizards, and river-dwelling crocodiles. Alongside exceptional fishing, Belize River Lodge is celebrated for its warm Belizean hospitality and delectable Belizean Creole cuisine.
Species
Targeted Species: Tarpon, Permit, Bonefish, Snook & Jack Crevalle
Season
Year-Round
Accommodations
Lodging Options: Guest House, Cottages & Bungalows
Maximum Capacity: 16 Anglers
Perfect For
Couples, Solo Anglers or Groups of Friends
Fly Fishing
Belize River Lodge provides anglers with access to an expansive and diverse fishing environment, encompassing a wide range of conditions, habitats, and fish species. Among the prized species are bonefish, tarpon, permit, snook, cubera snapper, jacks, barracuda, grouper, and more. This area of Belize is characterized by an intricate network of river mouths, creeks, lagoons, flats, small cayes, mangrove islands, and the distant Barrier Reef.
Within this ecosystem, bonefish typically weigh between two to four pounds, with larger specimens commonly encountered year-round. The tarpon fishing experience here is exceptional, with resident fish ranging from 10 to over 80 pounds. The peak season for larger tarpon is typically from March to June, although large fish are encountered throughout the year. In terms of permit fishing, the coastal area offers prime habitat and flats harboring fish year-round. For those keen on snook, the rivers, creeks, and mangrove lagoons accessible from the lodge present some of the finest opportunities in the region.
TRAVEL PLAN
Getting to Belize has become more convenient than ever. All flights now arrive at the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) in Ladyville, with the airport code BZE. Upon arrival, a Belize River Lodge representative will greet you and swiftly transfer you to the Lodge, located just a short distance away, ensuring a smooth check-in process.
LODGING
Belize River Lodge offers a range of comfortable accommodations, including the Main Lodge with colonial-style living spaces, a dining room, and a screened porch with a self-service bar. The Lodge exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
The Porch and Dining Room provide a stunning view of the Belize Olde River, accompanied by the soothing melodies of birdsong. It’s a space where guests can enjoy games and connect after meals. The overall vibe at Belize River Lodge is one of genuine hospitality, making guests feel right at home amidst the natural beauty of Belize.
Main Lodge: This historic building contains a colonial-style living room, dining area, screened porch with a self-service bar, kitchen, and the living quarters for the lodge owners.
Porch & Dining Room: Accessible at all times during your stay, this area provides a picturesque view of the Belize Olde River. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, games, and social gatherings.
The Cottage: Overlooking the Belize Olde River, it accommodates Room #5 and Room #6. The connecting door allows for family stays or bonding among anglers. Each room offers twin beds (convertible to a king), a private bath, and air-conditioning. Take in the jungle beauty from the screened porch.
The Bungalow: Rooms #7 and #8, located upstairs, provide captivating views of the Belize Olde River. Keep an eye out for blooming trees and tropical songbirds. Both rooms share a screened porch equipped with chairs and hammocks. Each room boasts a queen bed and a double bed, a private bath, and air-conditioning.
Guest House: Home to Room #1, Room #2, Room #3, and Room #4. Downstairs rooms (1 & 2) share a screened porch, while upstairs rooms (3 & 4) have their own. Each room features twin beds (convertible to a king), a private bath, and air-conditioning. Enjoy views of the Belize Olde River and the lush surroundings, surrounded by mango and other tropical fruit trees. During the right season, you may spot various jungle animals and birds feeding in the area.
