Xcalak

Mexico's Grand Slam Paradise

If you’re looking to catch the trio of Permit, Tarpon and Bonefish, consider Xcalak south of the Mexican ‘Riviera Maya’ for a reasonably priced destination.

Situated only six miles above the Belize/Mexico border, this seaside village is an out-of-the-way, relatively unsophisticated haven for passionate saltwater anglers.

Xcalak (pronounced ‘ish-kalak’) is located in the Quintana Roo province at the base of the Yucatan Peninsula. For years, anglers have driven some 400 miles (650km) driving south from Cancun on an ever-deteriorating road surface for 6-7 hours. But there’s now an easier way to Xcalak, as covered in my ‘Getting There’ section.

This article outlines four accommodation/guiding options, some chat about embracing the barracuda (not literally please), and a bunch of fishing tips to get you started on your planning.

Don’t forget to arrange your Mexican fishing licence online before you depart. It will only set up back around UD$26 for a week.

Make sure to wear your Xcalak National Reef Park Pass access wristband each day. Your accommodation provider or outfitter can help sort this for you, or head down to the Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Xcalak (between the beach and the football field) to buy one. This fee helps support the reef’s preservation.

Welcome to Xcalak. Bienvenido!