According to Earth Trends, Belize is home to 63 different species of freshwater fish; among these, tarpon, snook, mountain mullet and cichlids are frequent catches. Tarpon have blue-gray backs and shiny silver sides. They are known to travel in schools and they often leap when hooked; anchovies, sardines and crabs are central to their diets. Snook have yellowish brown backs. They are migratory and prefer fresh or low salinity waters with soft bottoms. They feed mainly on crustaceans and small fish. Mountain mullet prefer freshwater rivers and streams, though young fish can sometimes be found in brackish waters. Cichlids are flat fish that are brownish-orange in color; they can frequently be found in lower and middle sections of rivers in slower-moving waters.
Freshwater fishing in Belize can be done with light fly tackle or casting gear. A fly rod rigged with floating line and flies tied on hook numbers 4 or 2 are appropriate; crab patterns in natural, brown and green can be effective. Alternatively, a 7½- to 8½-foot medium-action casting rod will be versatile enough to catch you fish in a variety of sizes; bring a variety of spoons, spinners and crankbaits and try and match lures with the local baitfish. Many of the country's fresh water fish feed on shad, so lures that resemble these fish can be effective.
Most freshwater fishing sites in Belize are located in the northern parts of the country. Major sites in this region include the New River, the Rio Hondo River, the Belize River, the Siburn River, Mantee River and Black Creek. Power boats are allowed at each of these locations; however, fishing from the shore is usually an option as well.
Direct flights to Belize are available from Miami, Dallas and Houston; on land you can enter Belize from Guatemala or Mexico. Driving to Belize from the United States if fairly straightforward, and it can save you money as car rentals in the country are fairly expensive; however, you will have to buy a one month importation permit at the border. Fishing guides are available at or around most major freshwater fishing destinations in the country, and many offer charter services which will save you time in locating fish.
No fishing license or permit is needed to fish in Belize's freshwaters; however, foreign anglers would be wise to inquire about local fishing methods and best practices out of respect for the local environment and peoples. Many of the rivers with boat access are shallow, and murky waters can make it difficult to navigate them safely; boat slowly in areas you do not know well.
