Isla del Sabalo

The quaint and appealing accommodations at Isla del Sabalo. Photo: Dylan Rose

A rustic base from which to fish the Yucatan’s most remote tarpon fisheries I sla del Sabalo or “Island of Tarpon” is the most remote and exclusive tarpon destination on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It is truly the world’s frontier fishery when it comes to fly fishing for juvenile tarpon. This small, off-the-beaten-path operation focuses exclusively on the expansive flats, estuaries and creeks surrounding the small commercial fishing village of Isla Arena. This incredibly large ecosystem provides access to a thriving baby tarpon nursery which arguably offers some of the most prolific tarpon fishing opportunities found anywhere in the world. The sheer number of tarpon that inhabit the turtle grass flats, mangrove-lined lagoons, creeks, and channels is enormous and the fish typically range from 5 to 30 pounds. Fly anglers armed with eight- or nine-weight rods, floating lines, and stout shock tippet will delight in the abundant opportunities to send these tarpon skyward.

The accommodations at Isla del Sabalo are simple, comfortable, and rustic in nature. Guests stay in one of several oceanfront cabanas that are equipped with air conditioning, hot water, fans, and private bathrooms. Meals consist of traditional Mexican fare and are served in the lodge’s outdoor “palapa.” Furthermore, this operation takes a highly unique approach to its booking calendar by only offering dates during the very best months and tides. Ultimately this means IDS is only available for extremely limited windows from May through September. This policy ensures anglers making the journey to IDS have the very best chance at finding happy tarpon with tides that make them accessible. Rate: $3,965 per person for a 7 night/6 day package