Detailed Trip Information
Fishing Summary
Isla del Sabalo is truly the new frontier in world-class angling for baby Tarpon. Ranging in size from 5 to 30+ pounds, these Tarpon reside in environs of turtle grass flats and mangrove lined lagoons, creeks, and channels. This habitat is also home to Snook, Snapper and Barracuda. The hallmark of this fishery is the gin-clear flats and the amazing network of backcountry lagoons and channels. These characteristics make this fishery an incredible rearing ground for these resident baby Tarpon. Whether you are sight-casting to rolling Tarpon on the flats or working the mangroves with your top-water pattern, fly fishing for Tarpon at Isla del Sabalo is a pure adrenaline rush.
Fishing Tackle and Techniques
Isla del Sabalo utilizes spacious 18 foot pangas with an extensive level casting deck. All fishing is conducted out of these stealthy, stable, and comfortable fishing platforms. The nearest boundary of the fishery is very close to the lodge and, therefore, only requires a 15 minute boat ride to arrive at some of your fishing areas. The fishery is vast and, therefore, longer runs with the boat are sometimes required.
Most anglers prefer to fish 8 to 9 weight rods at Isla del Sabalo. When weather conditions and/or size of fish dictate, a 9 weight rod is the order of the day. One aspect that makes this fishery a pure joy is the ability to pursue these fish with a floating line only. Often shallow water pursuits of Tarpon demand lightweight (slow sinking) Tarpon flies or top-water offerings. Even in the deeper mangrove-lined channels, a floating line is all that is needed.
The Accommodations
The accommodations at Isla del Sabalo are comfortable, bright, and enriched with traditional Mexican decor. The lodge is on the beach front facing the open ocean, allowing for refreshing cool ocean breezes while you relax at the lodge.
Guests stay in ocean front cottages and each spacious guest room is equipped with air-conditioning, fans, and a full private bath with shower. There is a housekeeping service that cleans the room and replaces, towels, bottled drinking water, cups, and bar soap each day.
A unique feature of the property is the beach front “palapa”. This wonderful area is perfect for relaxing after a long day of chasing Tarpon.
Meals & Beverages
Meals are prepared at the dining palapa and served in an open air setting. Breakfast includes items such as fresh fruit, eggs, toast, and coffee/juice. Lunches consist of sandwiches, fruit, snacks, and sodas/water.
Dinner meals are served at the palapa each evening. Entrees may include chicken, pork, or the catch-of-the-day - fish, shrimp, or even lobster! Enjoy the tasty food and the charming atmosphere of Isla Arena while you dine!
Additionally, the lodge can accommodate most dietary restrictions. Let the staff know and they will prepare an appetizing alternative that is often looked over with envy by your fellow dinner guests.
All drinking water and ice is bottled/made from purified water. All non-alcoholic beverages (soda, juice, water) are included in your lodge package. Alcoholic beverages are available, but not included (charged to the guest tab.
How To Get to Isla del Sabalo
From your location, you will need to fly to Merida International Airport (MID). Depending on flight arrival schedules, some travelers may have to fly in a day early and overnight in Merida. This destination is very remote and, therefore, has strict arrival and departure requirements.
From Merida, you will be driven 1.5 hours west in the lodge shuttle - a comfortable, air-conditioned extended van. The ride is very comfortable, as all roads traveled are paved and well maintained. During the drive, you will venture through the beautiful Yucatan countryside and some very unique traditional Mexican towns.
From Merida, you will be driven 1.5 hours west in the lodge shuttle - a comfortable, air-conditioned extended van. The ride is very comfortable, as all roads traveled are paved and well maintained. During the drive, you will venture through the beautiful Yucatan countryside and some very unique traditional Mexican towns.
Required Travel Documents
• As of January 1, 2007, a current U.S. passport will be required for all United States citizens entering Mexico. It is highly recommended that U.S. citizens present a passport that is valid for at least six months after the last day of the trip. If your passport expires before then, please renew it prior to departing on your trip.
• If you hold citizenship in a country other than the United States, please check with your national consulate / passport center for citizenship documents required for travel to Mexico.
Package Rates
Inclusions
Lodging, guided fly fishing, fishing license, meals, non-alcoholic beverages, guest taxes, and ground transfers to and from Merida Int’l Airport
Exclusions
Air travel to and from Merida, gratuities, phone service, laundry service, and alcoholic beverages
Isla del Sabalo Cancellation Policy
Deposits, less a $300.00 USD cancellation fee per person, will be refunded if the client cancels the trip in writing more than 180 days prior to the original trip date. If written cancellation notice is received between 90 to 180 days prior to arrival, no refunds will be issued but the deposit amount, less a $300.00 USD rebooking fee per person, may be applied to a future booking within one year of original trip date. For written cancellation notices received less than 90 days prior to arrival, all payments are forfeited unless the client has an immediate replacement at the time of cancellation.
Angling On The Fly Terms & Conditions
A 50% deposit is due within 14 days of booking to secure reservation. Final payment is due 60 days prior to scheduled arrival date.
Refunds: A $150.00 USD processing fee per person (in addition to any lodge cancellation fees) may be deducted from all refunds. All refunds will be paid by check. If written cancellation notice is received less than 180 days prior to the trip arrival date, no refunds will be issued.
Angling On The Fly acts only as agents for contractors or owners and outfitters, airlines, charter air, and ground transportation carriers or other services. Payment of funds for fishing and other Angling On The Fly trips shall be deemed acceptance and consent of the following conditions. Angling On The Fly or any of its affiliates or associated companies shall not be held liable for any loss or damages howsoever caused or arising from services provided by hotels or lodges, outfitters, guides, means of transportation or other services. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the traveling client at all times.
Welcome to Isla del Sabalo! This amazing destination is located in a very remote region of the Yucatan. The fishery in this region offers incredible opportunities for baby Tarpon and Snook. There is immense diversity in this environment - from vast gin-clear turtlegrass flats to mangrove lined channels and lagoons. Baby Tarpon range in size from 5 to 30+ pounds... an incredible sportfish on an 8/9 weight rod. The full service lodge provides comfortable accommodations, a friendly staff, and bountiful meals, all in a wonderful beach front atmosphere. Isla del Sabalo is a must-fish for anglers looking for a remote, unspoiled fishing experience. FISH ON!
The Newest Frontier for Yucatan Baby Tarpon
VIEW our sample video of Tarpon at Isla del Sabalo!
