XFlats at Tierra Maya Lodge

Chetumal Bay Flats Fishing

The world-renowned flats of Xcalak provide exceptional saltwater fly fishing along the Mesoamerican Reef. Chetumal Bay and surrounding lagoons offer varied fishing environments from sandy flats to mangrove-lined channels, all protected and productive year-round.

The Water

Fish multiple flats, bays, and lagoons throughout Chetumal Bay. Guides continually search back bays and lagoons for optimal fishing conditions. The bay's diverse habitats support healthy populations of permit, bonefish, and tarpon.

The Fishing

Wade and pole pristine flats targeting permit, bonefish, and tarpon. Guides provide expert positioning and local knowledge to maximize your shots at all three species. This is authentic Yucatan flats fishing with Grand Slam opportunities.

Target Species

Permit (Trachinotus falcatus)

Considered by many as "the holy grail of fly fishing."

● Behavior: Feed on flats, cruise channels, provide multiple shot opportunities
● Season: Year-round with consistent action
● Techniques: Crab flies, sight fishing on flats
● Notes: Chetumal Bay offers numerous opportunities, increasing your odds greatly. If you enjoy the thrill of the hunt, you'll love chasing permit here.

Bonefish (Albula vulpes)

The icebreaker for many saltwater fly fishers.

● Size: Average 2-4 pounds, fish approaching 10 pounds present
● Population: Available on multiple flats, bays, and lagoons
● Season: Year-round
● Notes: "The fish that ruins many trout fishermen." Guides continually search back bays and lagoons for concentrations.

Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus)

Both resident and migratory fish available.

● Resident fish: Baby tarpon 5-20 pounds in Chetumal Bay and surrounding lagoons throughout the year
● Migratory fish: Large tarpon (100+ pounds) from early June through end of July
● Locations: Bay and ocean front spots regularly visited by migrating fish
● Season: Resident fish year-round; large migratory fish June-July
● Notes: Plan your trip for June-July if targeting large migratory tarpon

XFlats at Tierra Maya Lodge

Tucked along world-famous Chetumal Bay, XFlats features seven beachfront suites combining luxury resort amenities with casual beachfront living. Established in 1982, the lodge maintains a tradition of excellence while offering modern comfort.

Location

Nestled just north of the rustic village of Xcalak (pronounced ish-kalak), the lodge is immersed in lush Yucatan greenery with 150+ feet of remote beachfront on the Caribbean Sea.

Beachfront Suites

Seven elegantly furnished suites accommodate up to 14 guests:

● Stylish Mayan décor throughout
● Breezy exterior terraces
● Tropical hammocks overlooking the ocean
● Expansive patios
● Spacious bathrooms
● Newly added air conditioning
● Living areas with bay views
● Up to eight rod racks per room for fully rigged setups
● Comfortable space to relax after fishing

Dining

Located oceanside, the restaurant features fresh seafood and authentic local cuisine.

Breakfast: Traditional hot breakfast with local specialties, cereal, eggs, juices, coffee, and pastries

Lunch: Prepared by guides for the boats

Dinner: Family-style featuring local Caribbean and Mexican dishes crafted with local produce and spices, accompanied by oceanside sounds

Ambiance

Every meal is a delight in the open-air dining area where guests savor authentic seafood while enjoying the companionship of fellow anglers.

Common Areas

● Oceanfront patios
● Tropical gardens
● Beachfront with hammocks
● Gear prep areas

Travel to XFlats at Tierra Maya Lodge

Airports

Option 1 – Cancun International Airport (CUN) (Recommended)
● Direct flights from many US cities
● 4.5-hour drive to lodge
● Arrive no later than 3:00 PM (later arrivals may require additional fees or overnight in Cancun/Tulum)

Option 2 – Chetumal International Airport (CTM)
● Smaller airport, fewer direct flights
● 2-hour drive to lodge
● Closer to Xcalak

Ground Transportation

Round-trip ground transportation with professional chauffeur from Cancun Airport to Xcalak is included in fishing packages for Saturday arrivals and/or departures.

Options:
● Included shuttle service (air-conditioned, professional driver)
● Rental car (self-drive option available)

Route from Cancun:
● Cancun to Tulum: Highway 307 South
● Tulum to Felipe Carrillo Puerto: Continue on Highway 307
● Turn east toward Mahahual
● Continue south to Xcalak
● Total drive time: Approximately 4.5 hours

Departure

Recommend departing Cancun after 12:00 PM to allow comfortable morning transfer time.

Weekly Itinerary

Saturday – Arrival Day

● Arrive Cancun International Airport (no later than 3:00 PM)
● Meet lodge shuttle driver at airport
● 4.5-hour drive to XFlats at Tierra Maya in air-conditioned van
● Arrive at lodge, settle into beachfront suite
● Welcome dinner oceanside
● Trip orientation and fishing briefing

Sunday–Friday – Fishing Days

● Early breakfast with coffee and local specialties
● Depart with guide for full day on Chetumal Bay flats
● Fish for permit, bonefish, and tarpon on productive flats, bays, and lagoons
● Box lunch on the boat
● Return to lodge late afternoon
● Relax in hammocks, freshen up in air-conditioned suite
● Dinner oceanside featuring fresh seafood and local cuisine
● Evening at leisure (share stories, prep gear, enjoy the beachfront)

Saturday – Departure Day

● Breakfast at lodge
● Depart for Cancun Airport via shuttle (4.5 hours)
● Arrive Cancun for departing flights (after 12:00 PM recommended)

Package Rates

7 Nights / 6 Days: $4,695 per angler (based on double occupancy)

Contact Front Range Anglers for current availability and booking.

What's Included:

● Seven (7) nights lodging in beachfront suite
● Six (6) full days of guided fishing
● All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
● Snacks
● Bottled water
● Breakfast juices and coffee
● Round-trip ground transportation with chauffeur from Cancun Airport to Xcalak (Saturday arrivals/departures)
● Airport reception with air-conditioned, professional shuttle service

Not Included:

● Airfare to and from Cancun or Chetumal
● Fishing equipment (rods, reels, flies, tackle)
● Gratuities for guides, staff, and shuttle driver
● Alcoholic beverages and sodas
● Travel and medical evacuation insurance (highly recommended)

Cancellation Policy

All rates subject to additional service charges and taxes. Rates subject to change without notice.

● Deposit: 50% per person required to confirm reservation
● Final payment: Due 90 days before scheduled arrival
● Cancellations 120+ days before arrival: Deposit refund minus $150 per person handling fee
● Cancellations within 120 days: No refund
● No-shows or early departures: No refund
● Severe weather: Cancellation penalties waived for outdoor activities

Travel Insurance

Front Range Anglers strongly recommends Medical Evacuation Insurance (we recommend Global Rescue) and HIGHLY recommends Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance.

For insurance questions, contact: Kim D'Amico – kdamico@globalrescue.com – 617.459.4200

What to Bring to XFlats

Fishing Gear

Fishing equipment not included—bring your own or rent from lodge.

Rods & Reels:

● 8-9 weight rod for permit and bonefish
● 10-12 weight rod for tarpon (especially June-July for large migratory fish)
● Large arbor saltwater reels with strong drag
● Backing (200-300 yards)
● Weight-forward tropical floating line
● Intermediate sinking line (for tarpon)

Flies:

Permit:
● Crab patterns (Merkin, Avalon, Raghead Crab)
● Tan, olive, brown colors
● Sizes 2-6

Bonefish:
● Gotchas, Crazy Charlies
● Shrimp patterns
● Tan, pink, white colors
● Sizes 4-8

Tarpon:
● Tarpon toads, cockroaches (2/0-4/0)
● Black, purple, red/black
● Deceivers and baitfish patterns

Leaders & Tippet:

● Permit: 12-20 lb fluorocarbon
● Bonefish: 10-15 lb
● Tarpon: 60-80 lb

Wading Gear:

● Flats boots or wading shoes (hard soles)
● Gravel guards or flats booties

Clothing for Yucatan Climate

Sun Protection (Essential):

● Long-sleeve UPF fishing shirts
● Lightweight quick-dry pants or shorts
● Wide-brim hat or cap
● Neck gaiter or buff
● Lightweight rain jacket

Essential Accessories:

● Polarized sunglasses (multiple pairs—critical for sight fishing)
● Sunglasses retainer/strap
● Sunscreen SPF 50+ (reef safe)
● Lip balm with SPF
● Insulated water bottle

Personal Items

Documents:

● Valid passport (required for Mexico)
● Cash for gratuities, alcoholic beverages, and sodas
● Credit card

Other Essentials:

● Personal medications
● Basic first aid
● Insect repellent
● Toiletries
● Waterproof phone case/dry bag
● Camera

Optional:

● Binoculars for wildlife viewing
● Book or tablet
● Snorkeling gear (Mesoamerican Reef nearby)

Gear Consultation

Front Range Anglers can outfit you with everything you need for Yucatan saltwater flats fishing. Visit our Boulder shop or contact our team for personalized recommendations.