Ambassador · Bonefish · conservation · Explore · Fishing · Fishing Gear · Fly Fishing · Guide · Packing List · Permit · Saltwater fishing · travel · Travel Guide · Jan 22, 2024

Off the Grid: You Better Belize It

Image shows Chums ambassador, Eeland Stribling, wearing a retainer looking at the sky.

FISHING THE SECRET SPOTS IN BELIZE WITH EELAND STRIBLING

EELAND STRIBLING (@blacksteveirwin) IS A WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST, EXPERT ANGLER, AND EDUCATOR LIVING IN COLORADO. BY DAY YOU CAN FIND HIM CASTING HIS LINE IN HIS HOME WATERS OUTSIDE OF DENVER, AND BY NIGHT YOU’LL FIND HIM PERFORMING STAND-UP COMEDY AT CLUBS NATIONWIDE.

The Place - San Pedro, Belize

A last-minute wild hare led me to Belize – a tropical paradise where the sun kisses the crystal-clear waters and the fish play hide-and-seek amongst the turtle grass and coral edge. The trip was an impulse trip, the goal of which was to catch a permit in the closing month of 2023. Why do I love going to Belize? It's not just about the fish; it's the perfect blend of tranquility and excitement that keeps me coming back. And let's not forget the local fish tacos that are arguably the breakfast of champions for anglers!

Image 1 shows a plane wing, Image 2 shows Eeland wearing an eyewear retainer, Image 3 shows fish tacos, Image 4 shows Chums dry bag on dock with fishing rod

The Play - Zip up your rain jacket, board a boat with a local guide, and head to the secret spots to chase the permit fish payoff

Fishing for permit this time of year takes precision casting, feeding fish, and LUCK. As my friend Will and I meandered down the beach through scattered rain showers, we stopped at “secret” spots where we had seen schools of tailing permit in past trips. Then we set up shop, and fixated on the waves and movement of the water. The air felt charged as we quietly waited for a fin or a flash or nervous water. I passed the time pacing with a rod in one hand and a camera in the other. Though the permit were yet to make an appearance, a bonefish came as an excellent consolation prize. From the jungle, birds and iguanas were watching and heckling us in the rain as we begged for the weather to give us a break. A glimpse of sunshine would give us another few hours for a possible catch. The permit ultimately eluded us and we had to call it a day, but I'm already excited to head back to these special waters and cast my line again.

Image 1 shows Eeland wearing neoprene retainer, Image 2 shows two fishing flies on dock, Image 3 shows permit fish, Image 4 shows Chums accessories on dock

The Take - grab an adventure buddy, and don't lose your shades or your patience!

1. Downriver Rolltop Backpack

The dry bag I reach for whether I'm out exploring my local waters, or heading out on a fishing trip. Multiple attachment points so I can clip my water bottle and tie a bandana, outer pockets so small things don't get buried, and a spacious main compartment for bigger gear.

2. Neoprene Retainer

Because losing your sunglasses in the sea is a classic move – I made that mistake once — let's make it a one-time thing.

3. Chums Japan Bucket Hat

Keep the sun off your face and catch the eyes of the local birds.

4. Surfshorts Wallet

I put my go-to flies in this wallet and I keep it in my pocket. When the time comes to run the beach after a fish of a lifetime, you'll be glad you've got this lightweight and quick-drying wallet with you.

5. Rain Jacket

You know what’s worse than not catching a permit? Being wet and cold and STILL not catching a permit.

6. Shade Shelter

You’ll need to switch shades for different light - keep your shades clean and safe in this portable, durable shelter.