The main differences between the Placencia area and central and northern regions are essentially these: Placencia anglers stay at one of a few hotels there and contract with local guides. The "loop" is usually informal and anglers usually make guiding arrangements once they arrive.

The Placencia flats offer world-class permit fishing, with good bonefish and some tarpon available. It is all stalking and sight fishing to tailing, feeding fish. However, anglers who headquarter in Placencia must sometimes travel about one hour by skiff to reach the best flats. This can be rough and bumpy when the weather is bad.

I prefer to fish the southern and central Belizean flats from Blue Marlin Lodge or one of the other lodges whenever possible. This location allows easy access to the best flats ahead of any competition from the hotels in Placencia.

The northern and central flats, on the other hand, are usually fished from lodges that have fully developed fishing programs and full-time guides. These two regions are a little more balanced with excellent numbers of tarpon, bones, and permit.

Belize can be reached through Houston, New Orleans, or Miami. Major U.S. carriers have decent scheduling to Belize City and there are daily connecting flights from there to Dangriga, Placencia, and San Pedro. Travel is easy.

Most Belizean lodges would meet anyone's criteria for safety, comfort, and attractive ambiance. Food is usually excellent.

In addition, nonfishing guests would feel welcome at many of the lodges. A wide variety of programs, from wildlife viewing to visits to Mayan ruins, sight-seeing, and snorkeling are offered at many lodges.

Anglers traveling to Belize City have two or three good hotels to choose from. The city itself, however, can be dangerous for unescorted tourists, especially at night, and you should stay close to your hotel in the evenings. Daytime travel through the city is fine if you have a tour guide or Belizean escort.

Belizean tour operators can suggest hotels and guides (for example, Richard Young, David Westby, and Lincoln Westby), and most quality fishing lodges include these recommendations in their packages. In some cases your overnight in Belize City at one of these hotels is included in your fishing package.