Permit Paradise | 2026
Overview
Permit Paradise: Women’s Fly Fishing Retreat in Xcalak
As a Women’s Fly Fishing host and owner of Explore Kenai, I’ve been fortunate to host some incredible trips over the years — but this April’s adventure to Xcalak on the Fly in Mexico may have been my favorite group yet. I hosted nine amazing women for the trip, making 10 of us in total, and from day one the chemistry, positivity, and camaraderie of the group made the week truly special.
In April, I hosted an unforgettable week of sun, saltwater, laughter, and fly fishing at Xcalak on the Fly with an incredible group of women from across the country. Four of the ladies — Amber, Laura, Angie, and Cindy P. — had traveled on previous trips with me before, while Edna had previously fished with me on the Kenai River. The remaining four ladies, Cindy T., Elaine, Andrea, and CJ, were new to me but immediately fit right in with the group.
One thing that stood out all week long was how effortlessly everyone connected. It was truly a drama-free group full of encouragement, laughter, support, and positive energy from start to finish. Watching friendships form so naturally and seeing everyone celebrate each other’s successes on and off the water made the experience incredibly rewarding to host. What started as a fishing trip quickly turned into something much bigger — a week of connection, adventure, learning, and lifelong memories in one of the most beautiful and remote fisheries in the world.
From the moment everyone arrived in Tulum and joined for the van ride south, the energy was electric. Early mornings were spent rigging rods over coffee and sunrise views, while afternoons were filled with stories of happy permit, missed shots, first hookups, and unforgettable moments shared on the bow. Whether it was someone landing their first permit, learning to make their first double-haul cast, or simply stepping outside their comfort zone, every woman on the trip had something to celebrate.
The fishing conditions gave us plenty of opportunities throughout the week with just a little wind. We had local guides who took us to two primary areas — the reef side flats of Quintana Roo or deeper back into Chetumal Bay. A handful of ladies also had the opportunity to head inland in search of juvenile tarpon and snook in the lagoons, adding even more variety and adventure to the week. One of the biggest highlights of the trip was Laura catching and landing her very first permit on a floating crab pattern — an unforgettable accomplishment and a moment the entire group celebrated together. As if that wasn’t enough excitement for one day, she also landed a triggerfish the very same day. Angie also had an exciting opportunity early in the trip, hooking a permit on the very first day and giving everyone a taste of the adrenaline these fish are known for.
The action didn’t stop with permit. Multiple tarpon were landed throughout the week, including beautiful fish caught by both CJ and Amber, adding even more excitement and variety to the trip. Bonefish were seemingly everywhere, with more caught than anyone could count — including fish landed right off the dock in front of the lodge. Between experienced saltwater anglers and women completely new to flats fishing, the trip created an encouraging and supportive atmosphere where everyone learned from one another. Guides and guests alike celebrated every opportunity, every eat, and every fish brought to hand.
One feature that many of the ladies had never experienced before was the incredible boat lunches provided by the lodge. Instead of the typical sack lunch and sandwiches often expected on fishing trips, each day featured fresh local Mexican meals served right on the boats. The food quickly became one of the highlights of the experience, giving everyone something to look forward to in the middle of each fishing day.
But as always, the trip became about much more than fishing alone.
Evenings were spent enjoying incredible meals, sharing laughs over cocktails, reliving the day’s best moments, and building friendships that will last well beyond this trip. The slower pace and laid-back culture of Xcalak gave everyone the chance to unplug, recharge, and fully embrace the experience.
One of the most memorable moments of the week came on the final night at the lodge. Hosts Chase and Morgan, along with other lodge staff, helped the ladies collect hermit crabs from around the property for an impromptu round of crab races. While there was a little hesitation — and only slight fear — when it came time to pick them up, the laughter and excitement quickly took over. The races turned into one of those unexpected moments that perfectly captured the fun, laid-back spirit of the trip and left everyone laughing long into the evening.
One of the most rewarding parts of hosting this women’s retreat was watching confidence grow throughout the week. By the final days, anglers who arrived nervous about double - or even single - hauls, spotting fish, or making long casts were stepping onto the bow with confidence and excitement. The encouragement and camaraderie among the group made the experience truly special.
This trip was a reminder of why women’s fly-fishing trips matter. They create space for learning, empowerment, adventure, and connection in a welcoming environment where everyone can simply enjoy the process and celebrate each other’s successes.
To the 9 amazing women who joined me — thank you for bringing such positive energy, adventurous spirits, and unforgettable memories to this trip. It was an absolute privilege to host you all in Xcalak, and I already cannot wait to do it again.
Until next time… tight lines.
Dallas
Hosted by Dallas Voss | May 19-26, 2026