There Will Be Bones - Yucatan DIY Flats 2014

Mexican mullet, a sergeant major and a damselfish cavorting among the rocks

I needed to get away.  Away from the last throes of winter, away from the cabin fever and, most of all, away from the constant 'pinging' of my godforsaken iPhone.

I needed to swim in the ocean.

It was that time of year again.  Time for our post-winter escape to the Mayan Riviera.

 

I got out again on my favorite DIY flats south of Tulum.  'Twas a good day with a lot of nice fish - many bones and a few jacks.  Unfortunately, no permit.

You've got to love a place that affords walk and wade access to great bonefish flats.  All you've got to do is endure Tulum's speed bumps, eco-chic tourists and a pretty lousy jungle road and you're there.

Mexican Bonefish vs. Merkin

Mexican Bonefish vs. Gotcha

The fishing was great and, although I did not get any shots at permit, I was determined to return for another chance.

Alas, I came back 48 hours later and was promptly escorted out of the water by a boatload of federales. 

"Senor, necesitas regresar ahora mismo.  No puedes pescar aqui sin una panga.  Este lugar es muy peligroso.  Hay gran crocodilios aqui."

"Damn," I thought. "The rules have changed and my DIY flats fishing option has gone down the tubes."  I knew there were crocs here, but I always avoid the green water and make it a point to be back on land long before dusk.  

Nonetheless, the man ain't having it here anymore.  Whether it's due to a legitimate safety concern or a desire to make sure gringos hire local guides, these flats are off limits without a boat.

That's it for the fishing report, but - if you're interested - you can read on to find out about the rest of the trip and my attempts to help instill a love for the ocean in my son and nephew.

Sam (4) and Hans (8) tried snorkeling, attended Xcaret's "Shark and Stingray Encounter," explored a cenote' and checked out a baby sea turtle nursery.  Here are some highlights: