Rio Chico
While some fishermen search the world's waters for giant Tarpon - those that weigh well over 100 pounds - perhaps even more anglers look for areas where schools of small Tarpon are found. Their reason is sound. First of all, it is not as tiring to land a small Tarpon as it is to land a giant one. Secondly, the sporting challenge is preserved by using light tackle. Finally, these anglers prefer to jump many fish.
The Tacarigua Lagoon, called Rio Chico , harbours a remarkable Tarpon fishery and houses thousands of scarlet ibis and other bird species; so, each day begins and ends in an unforgettable rookery. This breathtaking nesting area is near the exit of the lagoon and the small harbour where native guides launch their skiffs. Protected from commercial fishing since the turn of the XX century, and separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a strip-shaped beach and larger lakes. Because of its richness in forage fish and other foods, it is an ideal habitat for small Tarpon and Snook. Most of the Tarpon range from five to ten pounds, so bass-type tackle works well. There are also bigger tarpons, from ten to thirty pounds. Occasionally a person hooks a trophy of over fifty pounds on light tackle, which turns the challenge from exciting into spectacular.

Our sixteen-feet boats are powered by outboard motors, are equipped with casting platforms, and skippered by native guides who will take you to the Tarpon grounds. You typically begin casting the mangrove pockets with a fly or plug. Surface lures will often work, and a strike on top water is a great thrill.

We are pleased to introduce a new option for lodging our clients at Rio Chico : Tortuga Lodge, which is the only lodge allowed within "Laguna de Tacarigua National Park", is advantageously close to the best spots for tarpon fishing (just five minutes away).

Tortuga Lodge offers 9 comfortable new villas right in front of the sea, each one divided in two atmospheres with private baths and a total capacity of 18 anglers.
Tortuga also has a great churuata (Indian pavilion) that works as restaurant-bar and offers our guests delicious meals with local fish. The lodge also offers awnings and chairs of extension.
Our facilities are integrated perfectly to the natural surroundings.
 

 

2008 Rates

RIO CHICO - TORTUGA LODGE
per person, double occupancy
Sharing Guide, Boat and Room
4 nights/3 fishing days: $1,785.00
5 nights/4 fishing days: $2,126.00
6 nights/5 fishing days: $2,467.00
7 nights/6 fishing days: $2,808.00
Additional Day of Fishing: $341.00

The fishing package includes:
• All ground transfers in Caracas, and Caracas - Rio Chico - Caracas
• First and last overnights at Paseo las Mercedes Hotel ( Caracas )
• Boat and fishing guide (two anglers per boat)
• Lodging at Tortuga Lodge
• All three meals at Tortuga Lodge
• Open bar at the Lodge 11.00 am. To 7.00 pm. (domestic beer, sodas and rum )
• Fishing licenses

The fishing packages do not include:
• International flights
• Fishing gear
• Meals and drinks at Paseo las Mercedes Hotel
• Airport taxes
• Laguna de Tacarigua National Park entrance fee
• Tips

 

• Chapi • Sport • Fishing •
Phone: + 58 212 985 76 15 / + 58 414 255 7390 (Att. Eduardo Pantoja) / + 58 414 301 9698 (Att. Eduardo Ayala) / Fax: 58 212 985 76 15

----- chapi@net-uno.net ----- eduardoayala@cantv.net -----