Belize’s offshore environment is a game-fishing mecca, and guests of Villa Verano in Hopkins, Belize have no shortage of world-class fishing options year-round. Fishing tours cater to experienced, intermediate or novice anglers of all ages, and Villa Verano is the perfect base for groups, families, couples or individuals wishing to go fishing.

Local guides know exactly where to go to catch “the one that got away”. River-mouths are known spots for tarpon, snook and jacks, while lagoons and grass flats are known for bonefish and permit.

Deeper waters nearer to the coral reef are known for grouper, snapper, jacks and barracuda, while areas beyond the reef are known for the larger deep-sea fish such as sailfish, marlin, bonito and pompano.

In 2009, new catch and release legislation was enacted to ensure the protection of Belize’s fisheries. In Belize, bonefish, permit and tarpon may not be possessed by any person or establishment except in the act of catch and release, and a fishing license is required for all fishers. Other species of fish, however, can either be released, or brought back to shore for a feast.

Visitors always enjoy a beach barbeque of whole fish or a gourmet preparation of fillet with the catch of the day. Also of note is that the catching of lobster and conch is strictly seasonal.

All tours at Villa Verano cater to the specific needs of individual guests, and can be customized depending on guest preferences. Most tours can be arranged as either full day or half day trips, and upon request you can experience traditional drop-line fishing (without a pole) and even try free-dive spearfishing (illegal with SCUBA gear).

The River and Lagoon Fishing Tour departs from the Sittee River Marina, and includes a boat ride up the river with scenic views of mangroves, marine ecosystems, and wildlife, en route to Anderson Lagoon. This area is ideal for tarpon, snook, and jack fish. The Reef Fishing Tour departs either from the marina, or from the beach in front of the villa. With the close proximity to the reef, fishing grounds are only a half-hour away. Travelers will enjoy some of the best permit fly fishing in the world on the Fly Fishing Tour. The fishing spot is known as “Permit Alley”, with five to twelve quality shots at permit per day as the norm. Tarpon, bonefish, jack, tuna, mackerel and barracuda can also be found at this spot.

For any type of group stays, weddings or family events, Villa Verano is located within close proximity to reef and river adventures, as well as inland excursions. After a long day of excitement and fun, travelers can return to the luxurious Villa Verano for a delicious home-cooked meal, and enjoy comforts and full-service amenities unmatched in Hopkins.

Villa Verano, www.villaveranobelize.com