If you wish to bring your own equipment, or if you need to purchase equipment River's Edge can also help, with a special Fly Fishing for Life discount. We strongly urge you to contact River's Edge Outfitters at 1-888-510-8074. Tell them you are a member of the Fly Fishing for Life Belize Journey and that you want them to confirm that you've got the proper equipment and give you the FFL Belize discount on any equipment purchased through River's Edge.
Tackle
Rods: A 9', 8-weight rod is a good bonefish selection. Permit, Barracuda and Tarpon require heavier gear. We will bring some 9, 10 and 12 weight outfits for you to play with or if you want to buy or bring your own, please call River's Edge and have a conversation with Reece, the owner and our Belize certified instructor, or one of their staff. Some great fun can be had in the evenings spin fishing for snapper and grouper, so you may want to bring a medium 10 to 15 lb. outfit. Once again the staff at River's Edge will coach you.
Reels: Reels should carry a minimum of 150 yds. of Dacron backing in addition to the appropriately weighted fly line. It is also very important that your reel be equipped with a smooth and functional drag system.
Note: We prefer direct drive reels, but anyone who makes their living with their fingers and hands may want to consider an anti-reverse reel, which will eliminate the possibility of a "knuckle buster" if you forget to take your winding hand off the handle when the fish runs.
Fly lines:
The first criteria should be the proper balancing of fly rod and fly line. Once this is established, we recommend a weight forward floating line that is designed to delicately turn over a fly in the sometimes-windy conditions found in saltwater fishing.
Leaders and tippet material:
Whether you tie your own leaders or purchase one-piece extruded leaders, you should remember that this will most likely be your "weakest link." We strongly suggest that you purchase good quality abrasion resistant leader material intended and designed for saltwater use. In terms of length and strength, we recommend as a rule of thumb, 9' - 12' in length and 8lb. - 12 lb. test tippet. Consult your fly shop.
Fly-fishing outfits:
There are many options when it comes to fly fishing rods and reels. Prices for a good quality rod and reel range from $500 up to $1,500. FFL will offer you the opportunity to be outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment prior to your arrival, upon your arrival, or post-Journey, delivered to your home or office through River's Edge.
Fly Fishing for Life™ has made a special arrangement with River's Edge Outfitters www.riversedgeokc.com in Oklahoma City. Owner Reece Lansberg (who will be our certified master instructor on this trip) or his staff, will be available to consult on your outfitting needs. Reece has the Exuma Trip list of all needed items and is ready to help recommend the proper gear.
The saying in the industry is, "Buy the best and only cry once."
Clothing
Coupled with a good sun block (SPF 15+), clothing represents your best protection from the tropical sun. Polarized sunglasses are a must… not only as protection from the sun, but for their ability to cut through the glare when looking for fish. For the fly fishing day we recommend light cotton. While not as quick to dry as some of the synthetics, it is much cooler and more comfortable. Talk to your fly shop. Although rain is not common and rarely lasts for any length of time in February, we do recommend that you bring some lightweight rain gear. February weather is typically 65-85 degrees average temperature with a mean temperature of 77.
Hats with a large brim (darkened underside) will not only provide more shade, but also allow for better vision by providing protection from the sun's glare. An FFL baseball style cap will be provided upon arrival.
While most of Belize's tidal flats are clean white sand, there are areas where it is necessary to wear wading boots. In these situations, we recommend the "above ankle", as opposed to the lower boot.
Although rain is not common and rarely lasts for any length of time, we do recommend that you bring lightweight rain gear. November weather is typically 77° avg. temp., 1.2" rainfall and an average wind of 8.1 knots.
Travel Documents
U.S. Citizens entering Belize must present a valid passport and there is a $15.00 exit fee. Please consult your travel agent.
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