CASA VIEJA LODGE. Fishing Guatemala s Pacific Coast

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1 CASA VIEJA LODGE Fishing Guatemala s Pacific Coast Fly and light-tackle fishing for sailfish, marlin, tuna, and dolphin Family friendly, upscale lodge, with gourmet cuisine Easy & safe travel Open year round with peak season October through June Comfortable fleet of boats ranging from Hard working English speaking captains and crews Guatemala s only Orvis Endorsed Destination. The Pacific Coast of Guatemala is arguably the best place in the world to catch sailfish on a fly. The relatively large numbers of fish, and the unique geography of the area, combine to make this area a prime billfishing destination. Casa Vieja Lodge is perfectly situated in the small farming town of Puerto San Jose, less than one mile from the country s only Pacific Coast port. The lodge s location, comfortable and safe accommodations, and flavorful cuisine make it the perfect choice for discriminating anglers. The Fishing Catching a sailfish on a fly rod is one of the most exciting things an angler can do. Although the tactics are different than traditional saltwater fly fishing, the thrill of landing a pound sailfish on a fly rod presents an interesting challenge, that isn t soon forgotten for those lucky enough to experience it. Unlike flats fishing, where anglers use visual cues to locate fish, and stealth to make a presentation, billfishing with a fly rod is about getting the fish close to the boat, and taking advantage of their aggressive nature. The boat captain and crew work together to get the fish excited, with the goal of getting them to bite a fly that is often only a few feet from the boat. Billfishing with a fly rod, or light tackle, is more about hooking and fighting fish, and less about casting and natural fly presentation. In fact, there is little casting involved, and anglers only need to cast a 14 or 15 weight rod about feet to make a suitable presentation. Billfishing with a fly rod involves teasing the fish with hookless lures and baits trolled far behind the boat. When a fish is spotted chasing the teasers the captain and mates will work together as a team to draw the fish close to the boat, where the

2 angler can make a cast just as the teaser is pulled from the water. The aggressive billfish will often start a frantic search pattern looking for the escaped bait, hopefully finding the angler s fly directly in its path. Once the fish has spotted the fly there is very little an angler can do to keep it from attacking. The fun begins once the fish is hooked and rockets out of the water in impressive aerial displays and adrenaline inducing charges, oftentimes only feet from the boat. Hold on because you are about to experience the ride of your life. Fighting and landing the fish is what this experience is all about, and now that you have hooked a sailfish, it is time to listen closely to the advice of your mates as they coach you to your first fly caught sailfish. Although not a traditional saltwater fly fishing experience, if landing a sailfish is on your list, this is probably the best place in the world to make it happen. All sailfish and marlin fishing is catch and release. Although there is good fishing year-round in Guatemala, November through May is generally considered prime season, with the the larger fish being caught in the Fall. Mid-December through March is usually the best bet for numbers of pound fish. Anglers fishing during this time can legitimatly expect to raise an average of fish per day, and it is not unheard of to see more than 100 fish in a single day. Of course, you will not catch every fish raised, and fly anglers shouldn t expect to hook more than a few fish each day. As with most fly fishing situations, the key is to have as many shots as possible, increasing the chances of success. Fortunately, the waters of Guatemala have a lot more sailfish than other well-known off-shore fishing destinations. Marlin are not as prevalent as sailfish, and are therefore more challenging to catch on a fly rod. Additionally, marlin in Guatemala are generally larger than the sailfish, so most of the marlin landed by Casa Vieja anglers are caught on conventional gear. Marlin appear in good numbers several times a year, and guests can expect to see one every few days while pursuing sailfish. Anglers specifically interested in marlin can increase their odds by running further off-shore where blue marlin averaging 400 pounds are seen on a more regular basis, along with yellowfin tuna. Still, because marlin are not as numerous as sailfish, we generally recommend using conventional gear if you want to have a reasonable chance of catching one. Casa Vieja s captains are very knowledgeable about all of the opportunities available, and can often cater to your specific interests. Football sized tuna, pound dolphin and feisty bonito can be caught throughout the year, both on conventional gear and fly rods.

3 Although each boat in the fleet can easily accommodate up to four anglers, we recommend those guests interested in fly fishing consider no more than 2 or 3 anglers per boat. Fly fishing generally offers fewer shots, and a slightly reduced likelyhood of hooking up. Fewer anglers on the boat means each angler will get more shots, and an increased chance for success. Conservation The lodge and guides take conservation very seriously. All billfishing is 100% catch and release and every effort is taken to ensure that every fish is released unharmed. Casa Vieja s captains were some of the first in the world to incorporate the use of circle hooks as part of their standard operating procedures, drastically reducing the chances of serious injury to the fish, while actually increasing hook-up ratios. Guests are encouraged to support this conservation philosophy by reducing the amount of time fish are out of the water for photographs. Guatemala s conservation policies make it illegal to keep or possess sailfish in their national waters. The country s strict laws have justifiably earned it the reputation as the region s leader in billfish protection. The Fleet and Equipment Casa Vieja Lodge owns the largest and most sophisticated fleet of off-shore boats in Guatemala. The boats range in size from and are all meticulously maintained and well equipped for a multitude of fishing situations. The captains and crews are all long-term employees of the lodge, and are intimately familiar with their assigned boat and the waters they fish. The lodge s ownership of the boats and relationship with the crews ensures a consistently high quality experience for their guests. Even though each boat, and each captain, has a unique personality, every guest gets to fish on the owner s boat, with a crew that is dedicated to providing a memorable experience. There are no second string boats, or crews, at Casa Vieja Lodge. All fishing equipment is included in Orvis Travel packages at Casa Vieja. Equipment is always the best available, and expertly maintained by the individual crews. Each boat has a complete inventory of conventional, light tackle and fly fishing equipment on hand for guests to use. Crews are well versed in every aspect of the gear, and have mastered the most effective techniques. Many of the captains themselves are avid fly anglers. In fact, one of the lodge s boats holds the IGFA record for the most sailfish landed on a fly rod in a single day (57).

4 The Lodge Casa Vieja Lodge is a quiet gated sanctuary located near the center of Puerto San Jose, a small farming and port town. The lodge is a classically styled sportsman s retreat, surrounded by landscaped gardens and tropical foliage. The family friendly atmosphere is welcoming to anglers and non-anglers alike. The lodge s incredibly attentive staff has mastered guest relations, and will happily respond to even the smallest request. On the first floor is the lodge s own open air restaurant featuring some of the finest cuisine on Guatemala s Pacific coast. The lodge was built over 20 years ago as the private retreat of one of Guatemala s most prominent sporting families. The newly renovated Casa Vieja Lodge was designed by lifelong sportsmen who believe that world class fishing deserves world class accommodations regardless of how far you are away from home. All of the lodge s air conditioned rooms are well appointed, clean and comfortable. Although not luxurious, they provide a comfortable retreat at the end of an exciting day on the water. All rooms are located only a few feet from the lodge s dining room and poolside bar. Each double room features two queen-size beds, individually controlled air conditioning and a private bath with hot and cold running water. The poolside bar is the perfect place to enjoy a martini, Mojito or a glass of fine Ron Zacapa 25 year old Guatemalan rum served on the rocks with a Cuban cigar. The bar also boasts satellite television so you won t have to worry about missing the game while on vacation. Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet is available throughout the lodge, just in case you want to stay in touch with the world back home. Although individuals, small groups and families are always welcome, Casa Vieja is also well suited to handle larger groups, with the ability to accommodate up to 35 guests. The lodge even boasts a seminar facility capable of hosting meetings or presentations for up to 50 participants. This makes Casa Vieja the perfect setting for a unique corporate retreat, incentive trip or fishing club adventure. The staff at Orvis Travel can make planning a group trip to Casa Vieja easy, providing expert advice, and handling all of the details.

5 Climate The rainy season on the Pacific Coast of Guatemala is June through September. During this time of year guests can expect some cloudy weather and possible rain with average temperatures in the lower 80 s. Although the rainy weather tends to coincide with a slower tourism season in Guatemala, the rain doesn t typically impact the fishing. By early October the weather is becoming more stable and anglers enjoy more bright sunny days with average temperatures in the mid 70 s lower 80 s. The nicest weather is generally found between December and May, although great weather is a possibility during every month of the year. The waters off the coast of Guatemala are generally very calm, consisting of light swells, making for a smooth ride to the fishing grounds. Each boat has a closed cabin to protect anglers from the elements, when necessary, so there is little need to bring specialized clothing other than a hat and pair of polarized sunglasses. Getting There Guests fly into Guatemala City (GUA) where they are met by the lodge s driver and immediately escorted to the lodge, a scenic drive of about 90 minutes. There are direct flights to Guatemala City from several US Cities, so getting there is very easy. Sample Itinerary 4 night, 3 day fishing program Arrival in Guatemala City: Arrive at Guatemala City s modern La Aurora International Airport (GUA) where you will be met by an English speaking representative of Casa Vieja Lodge and escorted by private van to the lodge. You can arrive at anytime, but we recommend arriving by early evening so you can get to the lodge, settle in and eat dinner with the other guests. If you are unable to arrive until later in the day, the lodge will have dinner waiting for you. Days 1, 2 & 3: You will enjoy a nice breakfast in the lodge s restaurant before leaving with your group in a private van at about 6:45 AM. The drive to the marina only takes a few minutes, where you will meet your captain and crew. After a quick orientation, all boats will be heading out no later than 7:00 AM. Depending on your fishing preferences and weather, the run to the fishing grounds will take approximately one hour. The fleet will work together to find the largest concentrations of fish, so once a boat finds fish some of the other boats will likely move into the same area. Although fishing in close proximity to the

6 other boats might seem unusual to the uninitiated, this strategy is very effective and benefits all of the anglers. By fishing close to each other, the boat captains are able to watch each other for visual cues while openly sharing information on their radios. Your captain may have you on fish right away, or it may be necessary for him to change position a few times to find the fish. Once you are on the fish you will likely stay and fish the same general area all day, unless you choose to change tactics and pursue another species. Lunch will be prepared for you by one of the mates, and usually consists of fresh fish, chicken or beef and can easily be eaten in shifts, so you don t miss any action. All boats will return to the marina at about 5:00 PM. You will be met at the marina by the lodge s driver and transferred back to the lodge in time to enjoy a dip in the pool, have a hot shower, freshen up and have a cocktail or two before dinner. Dinner is served in the lodge s main dining room at around 7:00 PM each evening. Departure Day. You will be transferred back to Guatemala City in time to catch your international flight. You are free to fly out any time you choose, but we recommend a late morning or early afternoon flight if possible, since you are required to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours prior to departure. With the 90 minute drive to the airport early morning flights will necessitate a very early departure from the lodge. If you wish to add an Orvis Travel extension to your trip we will arrange for transportation to your next destination. This trip combines nicely with a flats fishing or ecoadventure to one of our destinations in nearby Belize. Non-fishing Activities Although comfortable, safe and modern, Casa Vieja is primarily a fishing lodge. The atmosphere is family friendly and very welcoming to non-anglers. However, we do not recommend taking non-angling companions on this trip unless they are happy entertaining themselves around the lodge, or arranging a tour. The historic and picturesque city of Antigua is only an hour from the lodge, and is worth a visit with a local guide. Please contact Orvis Travel for more information regarding a visit to Casa Vieja Lodge with non-angling companions.

7 Rates effective: 15 October, 2011 thru 31 May, 2012 Rates are per person, based on the number of anglers sharing each boat* Deluxe Package: Gameboats Number of Anglers 4 Nights / 3 Days 5 Nights / 4 Days 6 Nights / 5 Days 7 Nights / 6 Days 1 Angler $7,815 $10,150 $14,485 $14,820 2 Anglers $4,140 $5,340 $6,540 $7,740 3 Anglers $3,350 $4,270 $5,190 $6,110 4 Anglers $2,680 $3,390 $4,100 $4,810 *You will not be paired up with other anglers outside of your group. If a group of 3 anglers is traveling together you will have one double room and one private room. ~ Rates may change without notice and fuel surcharges may apply ~ Non-angling companion, and other custom package rates are available by calling Orvis Travel at Rates are set by Casa Vieja Lodge, you will never pay more booking this trip with Orvis Travel. Guests that book through Orvis Travel qualify for all unadvertised lodge specials and promotions available at the time of booking. Casa Vieja Lodge Fishing Packages Include: Round trip ground transfers between Guatemala City and the Lodge; Deluxe double occupancy accommodations for the number of nights booked with breakfast and dinner daily at the Casa Vieja Lodge; Billfishing on choice of boats with captain and mates for the number of days booked; All flies, equipment, tackle, lures and baits; soda and lunches on the boat; Return airport transfers. Not Included: Intl. Airfare to Guatemala City; Airport departure tax of $3.00 ea; Room tax of $27 per night (must be collected in Guatemala); laundry or bar tab at lodge; meals, touring and alcohol outside of the lodge; Gratuities to lodge staff, captains and crew. Orvis Travel Special Dates at Casa Vieja, January 27-31, 2012: Book a 4 night, 3 day package and each angler will receive a $500 Orvis Gift Card.

8 Reserving your space is easy. Call Orvis Travel and place your deposit by credit card The deposit is 25% of the trip cost unless otherwise stated in the itinerary. Sign up online at If we are unable to confirm space, your card will not be charged. 15% discount on Orvis merchandise when you arrange your trip through Orvis Travel. You will received a VIP customer card for booking a trip through Orvis Travel and it entitles you to a 15% discount on Orvis merchandise from the time you book until long after your trip is over. Orvis has been outfitting travelers since 1856 and you can find all the specialty clothing, luggage and gear you need in our catalogs, stores and website. When you book though Orvis Travel you will never pay a booking fee and will save on every purchase. We also supply you with a detailed packing list so you know exactly what to take.

9 TERMS AND CONDITIONS Reservations, Deposits & Payments The deposit is 25% of the trip price unless stated differently in the itinerary. Deposits may be made by check or credit card: Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover Card. The balance of the trip cost is due 90 days before departure, except where specified differently on individual itineraries. A signed reservation form and release are required prior to departure. All prices must be paid in U.S. dollars. Deposits are not transferable from one trip to another. Prices quoted are based on foreign exchange values and tariffs currently in effect and prices are subject to change. Orvis Travel reserves the right to adjust prices accordingly until the time of departure. Planning information When your reservation is confirmed, you will receive planning information to guide you through trip preparations. Details about arrival and departure, clothing and equipment, trip cancellation insurance, preand post- trip extensions, visas and documents and activities are included in the planning information. Cancellation and Refund Policy If you must cancel your reservation, the following fees apply: days prior to trip fee + 90 days $300 per person days 80% of land cost 59 days or less 100% of land cost Cancellation fees cannot be waived for any reason, including health, business or personal emergencies, or weather. We strongly urge you to purchase trip cancellation insurance. No refunds will be made for unused portions of a trip, including late arrival or early departure. Guide fees and hotel costs are not refundable if unused as outlined in the itinerary. Orvis reserves the right to modify an itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control. In the unlikely event that Orvis must cancel a tour, all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes a full settlement. Orvis is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation of any canceled trip, including airline tickets and visas fees. Cancellation Insurance Your planning information includes an application for travel insurance covering cancellation for medical reasons, trip delay, medical expenses, lost baggage and medical evacuation. We urge you to obtain this coverage. Share policies Trip prices are based on double occupancy. Single rooms & cabins are limited. If you request a single room, a single supplement will apply as noted in the itinerary. We will confirm the single room as early as possible, but in some cases it may not be earlier than 30 days prior to the trip. If you request a roommate, we can usually pair you with another guest of the same gender, and no single supplement will apply. If you request a roommate, and one is not available, we will only charge you the single supplement if required by the lodge or facility used in the trip. Children under 18 must share a room with a parent or other family member. In some cases this may be waived. Passports and documents International trips require a passport. Check your passport early and make sure it has six months validity at the time of travel. A visa is needed in some countries and we will send you complete details and instructions. Arrival and Departure Group transfers from a central location such as an airport are described in the itinerary, and are included in the land cost.. Transfers are not included in the land cost if you arrive early or leave after the scheduled departure day. Equipment & clothing You will receive a detailed list of appropriate gear with your trip planning information. Airline reservations The land cost of your trip does not include airfare. Limitation of liability This section defines Orvis Travel s responsibility with regard to all travel arrangements made by Orvis Travel, including individual travel and pre- and post- trip extensions. Please read it carefully. Upon sending your deposit to Orvis Travel, you acknowledge that you have read and understand all the terms and conditions outlined here, and agree to be bound by them. All trips that involve outdoor sporting activities such as shooting or fishing, or travel through remote places by vehicle, boat, small plane or on foot, put you at risk for accidents and serious injuries in the normal course of the activity. That is the nature of travel to such destinations and you acknowledge that you accept these hazards as a condition of participation. 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