Grand Slam Lodge

Grand Slam Fishing Lodge is located minutes from the small fishing town of Punta Allen and offers anglers direct access to the legendary waters of Ascension Bay. This vast, 1.3 million-acre catch-and-release fishery is within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, a UNESCO heritage site protected from commercial fishing. Here, anglers will find unrivaled access to some of the world's finest fishing for Permit, Bonefish, Tarpon, and Snook. Avid anglers, novices, and non-angling companions will all enjoy the lodge’s luxurious amenities and unparalleled service. 

Who It’s For

•  Permit Junkies
• Novice to advanced anglers
• Groups/families

When To Go

Ascension Bay can provide phenomenal flats fishing year-round. Typically the most consistent Permit fishing falls in the spring and summer months, from March through September. Bonefish and resident Tarpon can be found around Punta Allen at any time. 

Weather in this subtropical climate is relatively stable throughout the year, with average highs in the 80s. The warmer months, June through August, often bring more frequent rains as well as the occasional hurricane. The cooler season falls from December through February and tends to have less rain, but cold fronts become a risk.

Permit

The expansive shallow flats in Ascension Bay are the perfect habitat for crabs, which results in plentiful food for the area's dense population of Permit. Anglers here will generally have many shots in a week at feeding permit averaging 10-15 pounds. Larger fish up to 30 pounds can be found any time of year. The Permit here behave like they do anywhere else: elusive, discerning, and difficult to fool. That being said, this is arguably one of the best places in Mexico to target these amazing fish.

Bonefish

Bonefish are found abundantly in the numerous flats of Punta Allen. Many flats offer a hard sand bottom, making for easy sighting and excellent footing. There are also many flats ideally suited for fishing from the panga, for anglers who prefer not to wade fish. Due to their prolific numbers and obliging feeding habits, the Bonefish of Ascension Bay make an excellent fly rod target for beginners and experts alike.

Tarpon

In the Boca Paila lagoon system north of Ascension Bay, Juvenile Tarpon averaging 10-30 pounds can be found year-round. Larger Tarpon can also be found in the spring and summer seasons.

Other Species

In addition to the big three flats species, the Ascension Bay and Boca Paila area offers a highly underrated Snook fishery. These strong ambush predators love to crush baitfish patterns in the mangroves, and they round out the ‘super slam’ potential of the region. While exploring the expansive flats, anglers can also encounter other targets such as Barracuda, Jacks, and Sharks.

Boats

At Grand Slam, you’ll be fishing out of the standard Mexican Panga. These are fantastic and very seaworthy vessels that have become the standard throughout the Caribbean. Each boat features rod storage and spacious casting decks.

Equipment

A range of rod sizes with matched reels will be necessary for a week at Grand Slam Lodge. We recommend bringing 4 rods: a 6/7wt for Bonefish, an 8wt all-purpose, a 9wt for Permit, and a 10-12wt for Tarpon. Your guides will help you rig appropriately for the day’s fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.

Day 1: From Home to Grand Slam Lodge

A weeklong trip at Grand Slam Lodge typically runs from Saturday to Saturday. Getting to the lodge begins with a Saturday flight to Cancun, Mexico (CUN). Once you’ve arrived in Cancun, a GSL representative will drive you approximately 2 hours to Boca Paila, from where you will board a 90-minute boat transfer to the lodge.

Days 2 - 7: The Fishing Days

Fishing days start with a full breakfast before heading out with your guide for the day. Lunch is typically served on the water, allowing you to rejuvenate and rehydrate. Following an afternoon fishing session, you’ll return to the lodge to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal at the Kai Restaurant. After dinner, enjoy cocktails and stories at the bar, relax on the beach, or retire early.

Day 8: From Grand Slam Lodge to Home

After your week of fishing, you’ll enjoy breakfast on Saturday morning before beginning your 90-minute boat transfer back to Boca Paila, where a Grand Slam representative will drive you 2 hours back to Cancun. Once you’ve arrived in Cancun, you’ll board your flight to your home destination.

Accommodations

Grand Slam Lodge features six, two-story beachfront villas, each with two separate air-conditioned rooms. The ground floor rooms each have two king-sized beds, an ocean-view Jacuzzi, a wrap-around deck with lounge chairs and a hammock, and a private bath. The second-level bedrooms have one king-sized bed, a living area, an ocean-view Jacuzzi, a balcony with a hammock, and a private bath.

The main lodge Palapa overlooks the Caribbean, and features the bar and restaurant, a fly-tying area, and an outdoor pool with lounge chairs under palm shade trees.

Food

Meals at Grand Slam Fishing Lodge are a flavorsome mix of Mexican and international favorites, typically including fresh seafood, local produce, and home-baked goods. Breakfast and Dinner are generally served family-style in the dining room, allowing for plenty of fishing stories and camaraderie. Hearty lunches are packed each day by your guide, allowing you to eat on the water. The bar at the lodge is well-stocked for apres-fishing libations.

Connectivity

Complimentary WiFi is available in the main lodge building. Although it is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions. Cell service may be available at the lodge depending on your service plan.

2024 - 2025 Fishing Packages

Trident Travel’s expert planning service is free of charge. The rates below are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge. 

Rates and inclusions are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing. 

Peak Season - October 1st, 2024 to June 30th, 2025

Double Occupancy (Per Person)

3 Nights / 2 Days = $2,545

4 Nights / 3 Days = $3,320

5 Nights / 4 Days = $4,095

6 Nights / 5 Days = $4,870

7 Nights / 6 Days = $5,645

Single Occupancy (per person) 

3 Nights / 2 Days = $4,325

4 Nights / 3 Days = $5,620

5 Nights / 4 Days = $6,915

6 Nights / 5 Days = $8,210

7 Nights / 6 Days = $9,505

Low Season - July 1st, 2025 to September 30th, 2025

Double Occupancy (Per Person)

3 Nights / 2 Days = $2,230

4 Nights / 3 Days = $2,900

5 Nights / 4 Days = $3,570

6 Nights / 5 Days = $4,240

7 Nights / 6 Days = $4,910

Single Occupancy (per person) 

3 Nights / 2 Days = $4,070

4 Nights / 3 Days = $5,280

5 Nights / 4 Days = $6,490

6 Nights / 5 Days = $7,700

7 Nights / 6 Days = $8,910

What's Included:

• Lodging
• All meals
• Guided fishing
• Round-trip airport transfers (CUN)
• Fishing License
• Government taxes
   

What's Not Included:

• Airfare to and from Cancun (CUN)
• Gratuities for the guides
• Gratuities for the lodge staff
• All fishing equipment
• Alcoholic beverages
• Phone calls & laundry service

What skill level is required for this trip?

Grand Slam offers something for everyone, from beginners to advanced anglers. No previous experience is required for this trip, although we always recommend practicing your casting before a flats trip to get the most out of your experience.

What should I do to prepare for a week of fly fishing in Mexico?

Most importantly, you should practice casting in windy conditions. As with any saltwater trip, wind can be a major factor in Mexico. Also, purchasing the right gear, tackle, and clothing is important - use our recommended packing lists. You should think about your goals for the trip so that you can relay them to your guides. And lastly, figure out your travel logistics well in advance.

Is Grand Slam Lodge Family Friendly?

The staff at Grand Slam is very accommodating of families, and the lodge staff can arrange other activities such as snorkeling, Scuba diving, and eco-tours. 

How many other anglers will be there?

Grand Slam Fishing Lodge has a capacity of 16 anglers.

Is the water safe to drink?

Yes, purified drinking water is always available at the lodge.

How does money work in Mexico?

Mexico’s currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). US Dollars are accepted readily in Mexico, but change will be given in Pesos. Please bring enough cash to cover gratuities, departure tax, & incidentals.

Do the guides speak English?

Yes, all the guides at Grand Slam are fluent in English and Spanish.

Do I need travel insurance?

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. We recommend Travel Guard, a well-established insurance company that offers excellent, affordable policies designed for angling travel.

What happens if I'm injured or have an emergency requiring evacuation?

Every situation is different when medical and security emergencies happen. To ensure you’re protected when things don’t go as planned, we highly recommend our clients enroll with Global Rescue.

Is traveling to Mexico safe?

Mexico is generally considered a safe destination for international tourists. As with any international travel, use common sense and keep your wits about you. Once at the lodge, crime is of little concern.

What kind of electrical outlets are there?

Electrical outlets are the same as in the U.S. - 110 Volt AC power.

What is the weather like?

The climate of Ascension Bay is subtropical with temperatures averaging around 80 degrees F throughout the year.  Lows during winter months rarely drop below 70 and highs during the warmest months are only occasionally above 100.  April and May tend to be the warmest months and cold fronts in the late fall or early winter generally bring the coolest temperatures.

Is there a pool?

Yes, there is a swimming pool overlooking the Sea with comfortable lounge chairs and palm trees for shade.

Is tipping customary in Mexico?

Yes, tipping is customary although it is at your discretion. Tipping 15-20 % of your trip total per person is recommended. Please plan on tipping in cash.