It started off as a side adventure while working in Lamanai, Belize and became an obsession. I was in the small Central American country on the Caribbean sea for work, and I had little time for adventure. Sunlight was a precious commodity. We worked until dark every day.
That’s why I went in search of the nightlife at Lamanai. Tarantula walks, howler monkey sightings and other wild eco-tours were offered, but the listing of “Native Fishing” caught my attention. What could we expect? I didn’t ask. I wanted it to be a surprise. Belize was a complete mystery to me, and I was enjoying all of the twists this environment offered.
Tip: Check your phobias at the door if you come to Belize. I saw too many tarantulas, and everything seemed to move at night.
My companion for the fishing trip was Sarah, an archeologist from Arizona. Coming from a family of fishermen, she needed some bragging rights from Belize. So that night we boarded a pontoon with our guide, George Vasquez. He informed us the lagoon we would be fishing is tidally influenced by the Caribbean. We encountered many fresh and saltwater species, from snook and tarpon to peacock bass and tilapia.
With some serious headlights affixed, we began our adventure in “native fishing,” which is akin to what Southerners in the U.S. call gigging. Stateside, they gig flounder and frogs. In Belize, they spear whatever looks good to eat, and the fish are typically pretty quick.
We moved at a crawl along the reed bank with spears in hand. I was surprised how calm the fish were after being spotlighted. After a few minutes of watching, it was easy to differentiate the desired fish from the “trash” species. As we crept along, I realized how unique this experience would be.
We used 9-foot poles with a trident spearhead. The technique involved lining up the fish with the spearhead underwater and then, with the spearhead as close as possible without spooking the fish, quickly thrusting the spear at the target. Time and time again, Sarah and I missed. The competitive side of me was feeling the sting. While we were striking out, George was filling the bucket; lunch would be spectacular tomorrow.
It was a great night in Lamanai, one that I’ll remember for life. As far as my poor performance, I immediately purchased a spear upon my return home to Nashville, Tenn. A local dive shop was able to supply all of my needs. After hours of practice, Belize will have another “native” fisherman hunting for dinner next year.
Eki Isobar is a past environmental group president, rock climbing instructor and outdoor enthusiast. He is a member of TN Moving Waters Guide Service/Hook 1 Crew, and as a technical artist for an archeological team, he will return to Belize for more adventure. He can be reached on Facebook or on the water.
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