About Fly With Me Belize
Captain Darrel Smith
Licensed Belize Tour Guide and Boat Master
Darrel Smith has been guiding anglers on the flats of San Pedro, Belize (Ambergris Caye) since 2008. Over the years he has built a strong reputation among anglers for his ability to read the water and consistently put clients in position for quality shots at fish.
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Before launching Fly With Me Belize as an independent guiding operation in 2019, Darrel spent many years guiding for established fishing operations on the island. Those years helped develop the knowledge, patience, and instincts that flats fishing demands.
Known for his sharp eye and dedicated approach to flats fishing, Darrel has guided anglers from around the world targeting Belize’s famous species including bonefish, permit, and tarpon.
Building Fly With Me
In 2019 Fly With Me Belize officially began operating as an independent guiding business. The goal was simple: create a more personal fishing experience where anglers can easily plan their trips and spend their day on the water with a dedicated local guide.
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Behind the scenes, Darrel’s wife, Ariel McFadzean-Smith, manages the operations of the business, coordinating bookings, communicating with anglers, and helping organize each trip so everything runs smoothly before guests ever step onto the boat.
When Belize closed its borders during the COVID lockdown, the tourism industry faced one of its most difficult periods. Like many small businesses, guiding operations had to adapt and push forward through uncertain seasons.
Through dedication, persistence, and strong relationships with returning anglers, Fly With Me Belize continued to grow and successfully reopened when travel returned.
Today Fly With Me Belize operates as a Belize Tourism Board certified tour operator, meeting the country’s official safety and tourism standards.
Wedding of Darrel & Ariel Smith on Heavenly Flats
Experience on the Flats
The waters surrounding Ambergris Caye are known worldwide for flats fishing. Anglers travel here for the opportunity to pursue the legendary trio of bonefish, permit, and tarpon.
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Every day on the flats is different. Some days bring tailing bonefish in shallow water, while others present the challenge of spotting cruising permit or rolling tarpon.
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Darrel’s job is to read the conditions, position the boat, and help anglers make the most of every opportunity the flats provide.
A Team of Independent Local Guides
As Fly With Me Belize has grown, Darrel now works with a small team of experienced local guides who share the same passion for the flats and respect for the fishery.
Together they provide visiting anglers with authentic Belizean flats fishing experiences while maintaining the personal service that Fly With Me Belize was built on.
Whether it is your first time fly fishing or you are an experienced angler chasing a grand slam, the goal remains the same: create a memorable day on the water.
Every trip is different.
Every cast is a new opportunity.
LET US DO THE WORK
TESTIMONIALS
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“Darrel and his first mate gave me the best fishing experience I have had in quite some time. They picked me up at Coco Beach resort exactly on time and took me directly to where the Bonefish were.”
- Marty E. -
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“Went fishing for 2 days with Darrel for Permit. Landed 3 on the first day. The first 3 of my life! San Pedro is a great spot for Permit. Darrel was an excellent guide and I can't wait to come back for more."
- Jeff D. -
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“I am one of Darrel's recurring clients. Our aim is to catch at least 100 Permit annually! There's no reason to fish with anyone else.”
- Ken W. -