The Tarpon Cay Lodge runs its fishing program out of a tiny Mayan fishing village named Rio Lagartos on the northwest tip of the Yucatán.

At just under three hours from Cancún, you’ll feel like you’ve escaped to the middle of nowhere — quiet, not touristy, and totally authentic. If you want to get away and fish one of the best tarpon fisheries with almost no pressure, or crowds, this is the place.

With mangrove coastline, lagoons, creeks, points and drops stretching more than 120 km to the west, the 5–20 lb tarpon show up in huge numbers. Whether you’re a seasoned saltwater angler, or a first-timer wanting to cut your teeth on smaller “Silver Kings,” this trip is right up your alley.

Guests enjoy spacious condominium-style accommodations perched along the waterfront in the charming fishing village of Rio Lagartos. After a day spent chasing tarpon through the mangroves and lagoons, cool sea breezes and stunning coastal views provide the perfect setting to unwind.

Each bright and comfortable unit blends modern amenities with traditional Mexican charm and is designed to provide both privacy and relaxation. The first floor features an air-conditioned living area with a small kitchen and lounge space. Upstairs, the second floor offers an air-conditioned bedroom and private bathroom, with accommodations including one king bed and one queen bed. On the rooftop level, guests can take in panoramic views of the surrounding waters or cool off in a private plunge pool while enjoying the open-air atmosphere.

The main lodge features a welcoming kitchen and bar area where guests can gather to enjoy cold beverages, local cuisine, and stories from the day's fishing adventures. Conveniently located on the water's edge, the property's private dock allows guides to pick up and drop off guests directly at the lodge each day, maximizing time on the water and minimizing travel.

Tarpon Cay Lodge is truly the new frontier in world-class angling for “baby” Tarpon. Ranging in size from 5 to 35 pounds, these Tarpon reside in environs of turtle grass flats and mangrove lined lagoons, creeks, and bays. This habitat is also home to Snook and Barracuda. Most significantly, this incredible fishery has been designated a marine preserve, thus protecting this Tarpon “nursery” from commercial netting and fishing. The hallmark of the fishery at Tarpon Cay Lodge is the sheer numbers of baby Tarpon that inhabit the region

Tarpon Cay Lodge utilizes spacious 18 foot pangas with an extensive level casting deck. All fishing is conducted out of these stealthy, stable, and comfortable fishing platforms. The nearest boundary of the fishery is very close to the lodge and, therefore, only requires a 15 – 25 minute boat ride to arrive at most of your fishing areas. Most anglers prefer to fish 7 to 9 weight rods at Tarpon Cay with floating lines as it is not uncommon to get shots at fish in a foot of water.