Belize
The country of Belize comprises one of the most complex ecosystems in the hemisphere--mountain, tropical rainforest, mangrove/grass flats, and barrier reef. Nutrients flow from the mountains downhill to the flats and the reefs. The rich ecosystem creates one of the best places in the world to catch a saltwater grand slam: bonefish, tarpon, and permit, with snook and jacks thrown in. Fishing for these species requires 8- to 10-weight rods, high quality light saltwater reels with up to 200 yards of 20-pound backing (30-pound for tarpon), and bonefish, permit, and tarpon leaders.

The most dramatic changes in the country's fishing have come in southern Belize, near Punta Gorda, where commercial fishing nets have been bought out, with financial help from the Orvis Company. The entire near-shore fisheries have begun a revival; poaching has been curtailed and baitfish populations have surged; snook, tarpon, permit, and bonefish are on the rebound; and a new generation of professional fly-fishing guides is being created.