Your saltwater gear depends on what you’re targeting. You’ll want a 9 or 10 wt. rod with tropical floating line for days in the lagoons and mangroves after baby tarpon or snook. You’ll go with an 11 or 12 wt. rod on the ocean side of the island with a 450 grain sink tip line if you’re after the medium or giant tarpon. For these, you’ll want 50 lb. gel spool backing, but don’t be shy with your backing in any situation. Be prepared with 16, 20, 30, 40 and 80 or 100 lb. fluorocarbon for your leaders. You can either bring your own rods, or you’re more than welcome to rent equipment from us if you prefer. We also have spinning gear if needed.

With your guides’ assistance you’ll always have the right fly on - they’ll quickly assess what’s going to be the juiciest bite for your fish and keep your fly and leader fresh. You can purchase flies from our boxes, but if you’re planning on bringing your own, you’ll want to have a variety for the different scenarios you’ll potentially be fishing in. Below are some general guidelines for your Holbox box.

Recommended equipment

Giant Tarpon

Hooks

Tiemco 600SP, 4/0, 5/0 or 6/0 but our preference is 6/0.
Owner Aki 4/0, 5/0 and 6/0.
Gamakatsu SC15 4/0, 5/0 and 6/0.

Patterns

Black Death, Purple Death, Sea Ducers, Deceivers, Whistlers, Backcountry Sweepers in white, bunnies.

Baby Tarpon & Snook

Hooks

Gamakatsu SC15, 1/0 or 2/0.

Patterns

Toads, Deceivers, Clouser minnows, Bunnies, Black death, Backcountry Sweepers in white, Craft Fur shrimp, Cockroach patterns in an assortment of chartreuse, pink, red and white and tan.

Permit

Hooks

Gamakatsu SL12S

Patterns

Rag heads, Merkin fly, Mantis Shrimp

Bonefish

Hooks

Gamakatsu SL12S or 113H.

Patterns

Gotcha, Crazy Charlie, Flats candy, Mantis shrimp