Playa Blanca, Mexico
One of the best permit fisheries in the world with a lodge to keep everyone happy.
Playa Blanca accesses some of best bonefish and permit flats in the world as well as a very productive tarpon lagoon but its unique attraction is the standard of accommodation which draws fishers and non fishers in equal measures.
Centred around the Espiritu Santa Bay and the lagoons within the Sian Ka'an Biosphere the fishing here is as productive as it is varied. Endless flats attract hoards of bonefish which you can cast to from the brand new 16ft Dolphin Skiffs with your excellent guide poling you or wading beside you.
Permit fishing can never be described as very productive but here you will have endless chances of decent shots at these maddening fish whilst the back waters of the bay provide superb tarpon and snook fishing.
From April to the middle of the summer the large tarpon arrive in Mexico on their annual migration and the channels and cuts that are available to them mean that the fishing can be superb. Year round you can catch the resident tarpon which grow to 25lbs which make a wonderful fishing target in their own right.
Accommodation
The essence of relaxation, Playa Blanca is a rejuvenating balm for a world weary traveller. The white-washed cabañas and their spacious bathrooms overlook the beach or tropical gardens and are splashed with murals of bright colours and all are fitted with ceiling fans and private verandas. There are no neighbours other than the birds and fish, just a tranquil paradise for those seeking seclusion.
The speciality from the chef is, unsurprisingly, seafood, freshly harvested from the Caribbean and brought to your table, simply yet skilfully prepared. Even fishermen need the occasional diversion and Playa Blanca has such an abundance as to leave its rivals wallowing in the shade of its tropical palms.
