Permit Fly Fishing in Xcalak, Mexico – May 2026
Permit Fly Fishing in Xcalak & Chetumal Bay, Mexico
When the Caribbean sun rises over the southern Yucatán, the waters of Chetumal Bay light up in every shade of blue and green. Bonefish tail across turtle grass flats, tarpon roll in sheltered lagoons, and, if you’re lucky, a silver sickle fin will cut the surface: permit, the most elusive fish in saltwater fly fishing.
For traveling anglers, Xcalak and the greater Costa Maya remain one of the last truly wild corners of the Caribbean. It’s a destination where fly fishers still find space, solitude, and the thrill of untouched water.
WHY XCALAK BELONGS ON THE LIST OF EVERY SALTWATER ANGLER
Xcalak sits at the far southern tip of Mexico’s Costa Maya, just north of the Belizean border. This small, quiet village faces the Caribbean on one side and opens into the vast expanse of Chetumal Bay on the other — a fishery that stretches for miles with mangrove islands, sandy lagoons, and endless flats.
The diversity here is remarkable. Permit are the headline species, but bonefish, tarpon, and snook are all in play, making it one of the best chances anywhere to pursue a saltwater “Grand Slam.” Add in jacks, barracuda, and snapper, and you’ll quickly see why Xcalak is considered a saltwater angler’s dream.
THE CHALLENGE AND REWARD OF PERMIT FISHING
Permit have a reputation: moody, unpredictable, and maddeningly difficult to fool. Yet that’s exactly what makes them so addictive. Sight-fishing for permit in Chetumal Bay is a study in patience and precision. Every stalk, every cast, every refusal only heightens the reward when one finally eats.
This is not just fishing — it’s a test of nerve, skill, and composure. For many, landing their first permit here ranks among the pinnacles of their angling life.
A HOSTED WEEK WITH ISOLATION OUTFITTERS
In late May 2026, Isolation Outfitters will host a small-group fly fishing adventure in Xcalak. Guests will stay at Costa de Cocos Lodge, the region’s iconic base for serious saltwater anglers. Days will be spent on the water with experienced guides; evenings filled with fresh seafood, cold drinks, and the camaraderie of like-minded fly fishers.
This is a hosted trip designed for both seasoned saltwater anglers and those new to the flats. If you’ve dreamed of permit fishing in Mexico, this week offers prime conditions, trusted guides, and full support from our team. See the full hosted trip details here.
TIMING YOUR TRIP
The spring months are excellent in this part of the Yucatán. May sits in the heart of permit season, with consistent weather and stable water conditions. It’s an ideal time to chase all four species — bonefish, permit, tarpon, and snook — under the guidance of experienced local captains.
BEYOND XCALAK: MORE YUCATAN ADVENTURES
The Costa Maya is just one part of Mexico’s vast saltwater offering. Anglers looking to extend their time can also explore Punta Herrero and Espiritu Santo Bay further north, both legendary for permit and tarpon.
READY TO JOIN THE ADVENTURE?
Spaces are limited for this hosted week. If you’d like to secure your place or learn more, you can register your interest directly with Isolation Outfitters. Full trip details and registration here.
DON’T MISS OUT – ESPIRITU SANTO BAY THE FOLLOWING WEEK!
If you can’t make the Xcalak trip on our May dates, we’ve got another hosted option just one week later. Join us in Punta Herrero, another legendary fishery further up the Yucatán Peninsula, known for vast flats and equally strong permit fishing.
Both trips complement each other perfectly, offering a chance to experience two very different but world-class Mexico fisheries. So, like our trip host, Southflyfisher – come on both weeks to avoid the FOMO!
