Just 15 miles south of Tulum lies Boca Paila. You know you’ve arrived in Boca Paila when the lush tropical Yucatan jungle gives way to stunning water views on both sides. This narrow peninsula on the southern coastline is bordered by the Boca Paila lagoon on one side and the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea on the other. The foot of the Boca Paila Bridge spanning the inlet between the lagoon and the ocean is a favorite spot for locals who fish and crab from bridge.
The Boca Paila lagoon is reached by traversing a maze of mangrove channels. The mangrove channels were built over 1,000 years ago by the native Mayans as a trade route. In the area you can also see spectacular ruins of a Mayan temple, which is one among the 23 archeological sites in this area offering insights into Mayan culture.
Out on the flats, the sky seems to meet the land. The Sian Ka’an biosphere, a 1.3 million acre UNESCO World Heritage site, is an ecological treasure in the Mayan Riviera of Mexico. Boca Paila is filled with a vast variety of exciting salt water fishing opportunities. In addition to world class fly fishing on the flats, you will be amazed by the innumerable species of birds and sea life in this stunning natural paradise. The combination of world class flats fishing and oceanside surf fishing options makes Boca Paila a destination every angler should add to his / her bucket list. Some of the fish you have the opportunity to catch are:
Bonefish: Bonefish are the most abundant game fish, averaging two to three pounds.
Permit: Boca Paila is one of the best places in the world for permit fishing. They are often seen hunting for crabs. But given their keen sense of smell and excellent eyesight, luring them in with your offerings can be tricky.
Tarpon: Tarpon are big and strong; you’ll need some skilled angling and tackling to get the better of them. Migratory tarpon flood the waters between May and June.
Snook: Snook are found all through the year but spring/summer brings them close to the beach for sightcasting.
Barracuda: Barracuda are one of the most underrated species to fish on a fly rod. They are fun to catch and are abundant.
Jacks: Fishing for Jack’s with poppers in the surf is also a ton of fun.
Boca Paila is one of the best saltwater flat fisheries in the world. If you’d like to experience the thrill of an exotic fishing excursion, make sure to visit this spectacular region of the Yucatan peninsula.