Saturday, February 8, 2025

Reel Belize and Reel Women encourage women’s involvement in fly fishing

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Reel Belize is a premier fishing and adventure company based in San Pedro, Belize, catering to experienced anglers and novices. Founded by Lori-Ann Murphy, a well-known figure in the fly-fishing community, the company offers customized fishing experiences tailored to individual preferences. Since her arrival in 2009, Murphy has emphasized creating unique packages that allow clients to target various fish species while enjoying the stunning surroundings of Belize’s waters.
Focusing on a personalized approach, the company allows groups to customize their fishing trips based on the number of days available and the specific types of fish they want to pursue. Murphy stated, “Our aim is to promote education within our community.” She added, “Our goal for 2025 is to offer free fly-tying and fly-casting lessons to the community at no cost.”
Reel Women is an initiative under Reel Belize that specifically promotes female participation in fly fishing. This program has gained popularity as more women join the sport, seeking empowerment and adventure through fishing. Lori-Ann’s leadership in this area has been pivotal; she shares her passion for fly fishing and aims to inspire women to embrace the sport, whether as hobbyists or aspiring guides.
Lori-Ann shared, “Lynn Decker is on this trip; she first fished with me in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, thirty years ago. On her sixtieth birthday, she wanted me to guide her to catch a permit, which is particularly challenging to catch on a fly rod, and we succeeded. We have shared many significant moments, and the experiences keep getting better. This group is familiar with Belize and has visited many times, so they know the ins and outs of the area, including Tropic Air and local restaurants like Delce and Norma. They have become like family, and I believe this strong sense of community played a role in the Belize Tourism Board granting me my tour operator’s license, as I have successfully brought many visitors to the area.”
The Reel Women Permit Quest is one of the key events organized as part of this initiative. It allows women to learn fly fishing techniques while exploring the diverse marine life in Belize. Participants often share transformative experiences, discovering their passion for fishing and a sense of community and support among fellow anglers.
“This specific trip is called the Real Women Fly Fishing Adventure SLAM (S-L-A-M). A SLAM is when you catch a bonefish, permit, and tarpon in one day. If you include a snook in that catch, it is referred to as a Super Grand SLAM. Last year, Linda, who is 82, quietly announced at the dinner table that she achieved a SLAM, which was a remarkable accomplishment. She was humble about it, and the achievement gained media coverage back home in Berkeley, [California, USA] highlighting the significance of her accomplishment at that age”.

During the interview for this story, San Pedro Sun staff reporter Matthew Lansfiesta caught his first-ever bonefish on the fly!

Reel Belize and its affiliated initiative, Reel Women, are key players in promoting fly fishing in San Pedro Town. They offer outstanding fishing experiences and create an inclusive atmosphere that encourages women to connect with nature and pursue their interests. These efforts contribute to the increasing recognition of women in outdoor sports and highlight the significance of sustainable fishing practices for preserving Belize’s rich marine ecosystems.

 

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