Cortez Yacht Charters Weekly Mexico Fishing Report

Week ended 12/20/19

THE CABO SAN LUCAS FISHING REPORT FOR THE GAVIOTA SPORT FISHING FLEET AND FISH CABO FLEET

As the weather changes to the winter pattern, the Cabo fleet still reported an overall success rate at over 90%! The Striped Marlin seemed to spread out and although the overall success rate remained high, the number of multiple Marlin report were down but again offset by many limits of Dorado and some great targeted Yellowfin Tuna fishing. The boats targeting the Yellowfin had success with school fish in the 20-40 lb range. The larger Tuna again showed up with multiple reports of fish scaled in the 100 – 150 lb range. The Dorado counts were down a bit with overall size modest with lots of 10-20 lbs “schoolies but some larger fish into the 30-40 lb range. The Wahoo counts were up with most in the 20-30 lb range with a biggie of 70 lbs reported and again found primarily well offshore out on the Marlin grounds.   Many boats were returning after releasing billfish with the bonus of Dorado closer in to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some very nice Roosterfish in the surf.

The prime Marlin activity was on the Pacific side with favorable reports from the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks on the Pacific side with the waters offshore Cabo Falso and the Lighthouse on up to Cerritos also mentioned as hot spots.  The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest with very good action off the San Jamie and Golden Gate banks.  Action on the inside was limited other than some large Yellowfin to 75 lbs reported off the Gordos and some modest action off the 1150. Most of the Dorado were running in the 10-20 lb range with some larger fish in the 30-40 lb range and still plentiful enough many of the boats were able to cull and release smaller fish and still make their anglers’ limit with the larger 20 lb fish.  While overall Marlin fishing remained strong there were far fewer Blues and Sails reported this past week as the water begins to cool.

Inshore fishing was again solid with some really nice catches of Sierras along the west side of Migrino. Roosters were slower but showed up again in the surf from Solmar to the Lighthouse and off Palmilla with some reported in the 20-25 lb range.  Some very nice catches of Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Large Jacks were available off the rocks from Solmar west.

Cabo Climate:  Early December was mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and some occasional scatted late afternoon thunder storms. The future outlook into late December and first of the year is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the low 80’s and upper 70’s and evenings in the mid 60’s trending toward the lower 60’s by New Years. The 2 week forecast is mostly clear with no major weather conditions predicted into late December. There is a 10-20% chance of scattered T-storms in a 3 day period around Christmas. Winds are expected to be in the 7-11 mph range out of the WNW shifting to the NW in late December. Humidity is expected to run in the mid 50’s to lower 60’s.

Sea Conditions:  The seas are expected to be moderate with some larger swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, have been in the 2’-3’ range. The Pacific side sea temps have cooled a bit and are currently running in the 77-78 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside is warmer with temps in the 78-80 degree range off Palmilla to low 80’s around the Gordos and with upper 70’s south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  Most of this past week’s hot spots for Marlin action were on the Pacific side with lots of close in multiple fish action from the Lighthouse north to Cerritos and Pozo Cota. The San Jamie and Golden Gate banks produced some nice marlin catches along with some quality Yellowfin action.  The Yellowfin were primarily reported off to the SW or the South 25-30 miles out and also at the San Jamie and golden Gate Banks. The kite action off the San Jamie produced some large Yellowfin. Some nice Dorado action was reported 4-6 miles off the Lighthouse for the smaller craft and returning boats from the San Jamie. The interior corridor from Los Arcos to Palmilla produced plenty of schoolie Dorado. Also lots of Dorado action close in off the west coast.  Los Arcos to the Lighthouse and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, with some large fish and large Jacks in the surf from El Arco west past Solmar to the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Live Cabilitos or Mackerel was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures with green, blue & white and green & yellow the favorites. Cedar plugs and feathers were the favorite for the Yellowfin. The Dorado were hitting trolled lures and feathers or floating live Cabilitos once the schools were located.  Hoochies were by far the preferred and most productive lures for the Sierras. Trolled live baits near the surf and large poppers were the most successful bait for Roosters this past week. Dead bait was the ticket for the Snappers and Groupers.

Bait Supply: Live bait is available at the $3.00 per bait upon exit from the harbor. Mackerel, when available, are popular with the captains.

Or local reporters: Captain Roberto Marquez-Castro of the Fish Cabo Fleet and Gaviota Fleet Dock Manager Carlos Pena-Mireles. 

THE MAZATLAN REPORT FOR THE ARIES SPORT FISHING FLEET – MARINA EL CID AND El CID MEGA RESORT, PACIFIC

Our friends at the El Cid Marina in Mazatlan reported much the same weather as Cabo and reported some solid fishing results!  As the water cools a bit, the Striped Marlin are again showing up in larger numbers to mix with the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for.  The billfish counts were solid with a higher mix of Striped Marlin as the water cools. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna and Dorado.  The inshore boats had another solid week and reported good action on Snappers, Jacks and Triggers and Pompanos.  They reported 14 Sailfish, 12 Striped Marlin, and 12 Dorado and 8 Yellowfin Tuna on 30 offshore trips and 288 Snappers, 84 Queen Triggerfish and 36 Jacks and 18 Pompanos on 18 inshore trips. (Reporting on 10 days fishing)

Mazatlan Climate: Early December showed a normal late fall pattern with a couple of scattered thunderstorms with a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook into late December is improved with afternoons in the low to mid 80’s daytime and mid to upper 70’s in the evenings. The forecast into late December is for mostly partly sunny to partly cloudy skies with only a 10%-20% chance of morning showers or scattered thunderstorms moving in early or toward the end of the day around the Christmas holiday. Winds are forecast in the 4-10 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the NW into late December.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 60’s to low 70’s into New Years.  

Sea Conditions: The water is now in the 78 degree range to the north and 79-80 degrees to the south. The past week Mazatlan had a mix of mostly calm to choppy seas mixed with some strong afternoon swells and chop with winds in the early to mid teens in the afternoons. The future outlook is for relatively calm seas in the mornings with the winds in the 6-8 mph range and some afternoon swells with 8-10 mph winds.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting as close as 8- 10 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. The Dorado are being found closer to shore inside the prime bill fishing zone. In shore, the Super Pangas are finding success all along the coast especially around the rocks. The water is very clear from the shore out to the offshore breaks.

Best Bait & Lures:  Freshly caught rigged trolling baits and smoke trail lures produced best results for the billfish. The Tuna are being caught on feathers and cedar plugs.

Bait Supply: Freshly caught baits are readily available from the bait boats

Our Local Reporter: Ms. Kitcia Berenice Ceja-Diaz, the Aries Fleet and Marina El Cid Office Manager and fishing reporter

THE IXTAPA-ZIHUATANEJO FISHING REPORT FOR THE INDEPENDENT SPORT FISHING FLEET

The weather and the fishing in Zihuatanejo has been outstanding!  The independent fleet reported an average of 3 or more Sailfish hookups per day less than 10-12 miles out!  Some larger Blue Marlin showed up farther offshore in the blue water. The big Yellowfin are available but found farther out beyond the 1000 fathom mark 30-35 miles out for those willing to go the extra distance in the larger boats.   The inshore fishing for Roosters and Jacks continued to be very productive for the large number of fly fishermen and many large fish are showing up to go with strong catches.

Capt Temo reported great success this past week with many Roosters easily found to the south and aggressively hitting poppers especially if they could find some off colored water. Many of the fishermen are focused on fly fishing during the prime Rooster season.

The offshore action for Sailfish and Dorado this past week moved out to the 10-12 mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin are out 30+ miles out past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50—100+ lb range. Blue Marlin were present offshore along with the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite much closer. Inshore large Jacks and Chulas were very productive and the Roosters were plentiful with some very large fish reported.  

IZ Climate: They are now entering their dry season with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy days with very occasional late afternoon and evening thunderstorms followed by sunny to partly cloudy skies the following morning during the prime fishing time.  The 2 week outlook into late December is for warm temps with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with precipitation in the 10% or under range. Daily temps are predicted in the mid to upper 80’s and night time temps in the mid 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid to upper 60’s toward New Years. The winds are expected to be very mild in the 4-7 mph range primarily from the SW shifting to the WSW by New Years.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is now in the 84-85 degree range from the 100 fathom line at the 5-6 mile mark all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles and beyond.  These temps are ideal for the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved almost to the shoreline with some very deep blue water now out beyond the 1000 fathom mark at 32-35 miles out to 50 miles. Inshore, the water was in the 83-84 degree range and very clear. Finding some spots of off colored water near shore is perfect for the big Roosters.  

Best Baits & Lures:  Rigged trolling baits and smoke trail lures continue to produce for the Billfish and Dorado with most boats preferring a mix of rigged baits for the Billfish and smaller lures and feathers for the Dorado.   Inshore top water poppers are the favorite for the Roosterfish. Cedar plugs and feathers are working best on the Yellowfin when found.

Bait Supply: The bait supply remains good and freshly caught baits are provided gratis with most charters. Live baits are readily available at this time and are $5.00/dozen paid directly to the bait vendors.

Our Local Reporter: Captain Temo Verboonen – owner/operator of the Secuestro de Amor and Macho Banana.

CANCUN/PUERTO MORELOS FISHING REPORT FOR THE EL CID MARINA

 Our friends at the El Cid Marina in Puerto Morelos enjoyed decent weather and solid results even with the decreased tourist activity prior to their prime season. With the close-in shallow reef fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opt for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with others opting for the 6 hour or 8 hour offshore trips mixed with a few hours on the close in reefs at the end of the day for some fine table fare. Everyone is waiting for the seasonal appearance of the Sailfish in early January.

The billfish are not yet in their early year migration pattern but fishermen enjoyed overall great results on the off shore trips.  The fleet reported 1 Sailfish, 32 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 16 King Mackerel, 8 Mahi-Mahi, 2 Blackfin Tuna, 31 Bonito, and 1 Wahoo from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 53 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 19 Mutton Snappers,  6 Black Grouper,  23 Queen Triggerfish and 1 Jack.  A total of 90 offshore fish and 101 inshore fish for a total of 191 fish for an average of almost 6 fish per trip on a total of 32 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan fall and early winter weather pattern typically has very warm days with some early morning to late afternoon scattered thunderstorms as the clouds build coming off the warm water.  The extended forecast into late December is for a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies mid month coupled with scattered occasional early morning and late afternoon showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms later in the month (10-20%).  Daytime temperatures are predicted in the low to mid 80’s with evenings in the low 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the low to mid 70’s. Winds are expected to be very modest in the 4-12 mph range primarily out of the NW trending toward the ENE into New Years.  

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area are currently running in the 82-83 degree range.  Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy in the afternoons depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds are predicted to be out of the East trending toward the ENE at 4-12 MPH in the afternoons with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds in the afternoon.

Best Bait & Lures:  Rigged Ballyhoo, small smoke trail lures were working well for the billfish with feathers also working for the Mahi-Mahi, King Mackerel and Giant Barracuda.  Cut bait is the preferred fare for the reef fishing.

Bait Supply:  The bait supply of locally caught Ballyhoo remains good and are provided gratis with most charters.

Our Local Reporter:  Miss Victoria Garcia at the Hotel El Cid Spa & Beach Resort and Marina

Cortez Yacht Charters Weekly Mexico Fishing Report

Week ended 12/13/19

THE CABO SAN LUCAS FISHING REPORT FOR THE GAVIOTA SPORT FISHING FLEET AND FISH CABO FLEET

As the weather changes to the winter pattern, the Cabo fleet still featured an overall success rate at over 90%! The Striped Marlin seemed to spread out and although the overall success rate remained high, the number of multiple Marlin report were down but offset by many limits of Dorado and awesome targeted Yellowfin Tuna fishing. The boats targeting the Yellowfin had great success with school fish in the 20-40 lb range. The larger Tuna again showed up with multiple reports of fish scaled in the 100 – 200 lb range. The Dorado counts were high again with overall size modest with lots of 10-20 lbs “schoolies but larger fish into the 30-40 lb range. The Wahoo counts were up with most in the 20-30 lb range and again found primarily well offshore out on the Marlin grounds.   Many boats were returning after releasing billfish with the bonus of limits of Dorado closer in to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some very nice Roosterfish in the surf.

The prime Marlin activity was on the Pacific side with favorable reports from the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks on the Pacific side with the waters offshore Cabo Falso and the Lighthouse on up to Cerritos also mentioned as hot spots. Much of the action has moved very close to offshore the Lighthouse the past 2 weeks with many Striped Marlin reported there along with a few multiple hookup reports off Cerritos and Pozo Cota. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest with very good action off the San Jamie bank.  Action on inside was limited other than some large Yellowfin cows reported off the Gordos and some action off the 1150. Most of the Dorado were running in the 10-20 lb range with some larger fish in the 30-40 lb range and plentiful enough many of the boats were able to cull and release smaller fish and still make their anglers’ limit with the larger 20 lb fish.  While overall Marlin fishing remained strong there were fewer Blues and Sails reported this past week as the water begins to cool a bit.

Inshore fishing was again solid with some really nice catches of Sierras along the west side of Migrino. Roosters were slower but showed up again in the surf from Solmar to the Lighthouse and off Palmilla with some reported in the 20-25 lb range.  Some very nice catches of Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Large Jacks were available off the rocks from Solmar west.

Congratulations to 2 of our favorite boats – the 43’ Hatteras FISH CABO released 3 Marlin and boated 16 Dorado on 4 days of fishing and the 34’ Owens custom TUNA TIME released 5 Marlin and boated 44 Dorado and 23 Yellowfin Tuna on 6 days of fishing.

Cabo Climate:  Late November was mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and some occasional scatted late afternoon thunder storms. The future outlook into late December is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the mid 60’s. The 2 week forecast is mostly clear with no major weather conditions predicted into mid December. There is a 10-20% chance of scattered T-storms in a 3 day period around Christmas. Winds are expected to be in the 7-11 mph range out of the WSW shifting into the WNW in mid December. Humidity is expected to run in the lower to mid 60’s.

Sea Conditions:  The seas are expected to be moderate with some larger swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, have been in the 2’-3’ range. The Pacific side sea temps are currently running in the 80-81 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside is warmer with temps in the 81-83 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos and with low 80’south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  Most of this past week’s hot spots for Marlin action were on the Pacific side with lots of close in multiple fish action from the Lighthouse north to Cerritos and Pozo Cota. The San Jamie banks produced some nice marlin catches along with some quality Yellowfin action.  The Yellowfin were primarily reported off to the SW or the South 25-30 miles out and also at the San Jamie Bank. The kite action off the San Jamie produced some 100-200 lb Yellowfin. Some nice Dorado action reported 4-6 miles off the Lighthouse for the smaller craft and returning boats from the San Jamie. The interior corridor from Los Arcos to Palmilla produced plenty of schoolie Dorado. Also lots of Dorado action close in off the west coast. Los Arcos to the Lighthouse and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, with some large fish and large Jacks in the surf from El Arco west past Solmar to the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Live Cabilitos or Mackerel was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures with green, blue & white and green & yellow the favorites. Cedar plugs and feathers were the favorite for the Yellowfin. The Dorado were hitting trolled lures and feathers or floating live Cabilitos once the schools were located.  Hoochies were by far the preferred and most productive lures for the Sierras. Trolled live baits near the surf and large poppers were the most successful bait for Roosters this past week. Dead bait was the ticket for the Snappers and Groupers.

Bait Supply: Live bait is available at the $3.00 per bait upon exit from the harbor. Mackerel, when available, are popular with the captains.

Our local reporters: Captain Roberto Marquez-Castro of the Fish Cabo Fleet and Gaviota Fleet Dock Manager Carlos Pena-Mireles. 

THE MAZATLAN REPORT FOR THE ARIES SPORT FISHING FLEET – MARINA EL CID AND El CID MEGA RESORT, PACIFIC

Our friends at the El Cid Marina in Mazatlan reported much the same weather as Cabo and reported some solid fishing results!  The good news is the Sailfish that Mazatlan is historically known for showed up again in great numbers!  The billfish counts were up significantly over last month with a higher mix of the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna and Dorado.  The inshore boats had another solid week and reported good action on Snappers, Jacks and Triggers and Pompanos.  They reported 22 Sailfish, 9 Striped Marlin, and 10 Dorado and 8 Yellowfin Tuna on 36 offshore trips and 361 Snappers, 64 Queen Triggerfish and 48 Jacks and 33 Pompanos on 21 inshore trips. (Reporting on 10 days fishing)

Mazatlan Climate: Late November showed a normal fall pattern with a couple of scattered thunderstorms with a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook into mid December is improved with afternoons in the low to mid 80’s daytime and mid to upper 60’s in the evenings. The forecast into late December is for mostly partly sunny to partly cloudy skies with only a 10% -chance of scattered thunderstorms moving in early or toward the end of the day around the Christmas holiday. Winds are forecast in the 6-11 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the WNW into mid December.  Humidity is predicted to be in the low 60’s into mid December.  

Sea Conditions: The water is now in the 82-83 degree range to the north and 84 degrees to the south. The past week Mazatlan had a mix of mostly calm to choppy seas mixed with some strong afternoon swells and chop with winds in the early to mid teens in the afternoons. The future outlook is for relatively calm seas in the mornings with the winds in the 6-8 mph range and some afternoon swells with 9-11 mph winds.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting as close as 8- 10 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. The Dorado are being found closer to shore inside the prime bill fishing zone. In shore, the Super Pangas are finding success all along the coast especially around the rocks. The water is very clear from the shore out to the offshore breaks.

Best Bait & Lures:  Freshly caught rigged trolling baits and smoke trail lures produced best results for the billfish. The Tuna are being caught on feathers and cedar plugs.

Bait Supply: Freshly caught baits are readily available from the bait boats

Our Local Reporter: Ms. Kitcia Berenice Ceja-Diaz, the Aries Fleet and Marina El Cid Office Manager and fishing reporter

THE IXTAPA-ZIHUATANEJO FISHING REPORT FOR THE INDEPENDENT SPORT FISHING FLEET

The Sail fishing that Zihuatanejo is known for in the winter months has really turned on!  The independent fleet reported an average of 3 or more hookups per day less than 10-12 miles out!  Some larger Blue Marlin showed up farther offshore in the blue water. The big Yellowfin are available but found farther out beyond the 1000 fathom mark 30-35 miles out for those willing to go the extra distance in the larger boats.   The inshore fishing for Roosters and Jacks continued to be very productive for the large number of fly fishermen and many large fish are showing up to go with strong catches.

Capt Temo reported great success this past week with many Roosters easily found to the south and aggressively hitting poppers. Many of the fishermen are focused on fly fishing during the prime Rooster season.

The offshore action for Sailfish and Dorado this past week moved out to the 10-12 mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin are out 30+ miles out past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50—100+ lb range. Blue Marlin were present offshore along with the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite much closer. Inshore large Jacks were very productive and the Roosters were plentiful with some very large fish reported.  

IZ Climate: They are now at the end of their rainy season with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy days with very occasional late afternoon and evening thunderstorms followed by sunny to partly cloudy skies the following morning during the prime fishing time.  The 2 week outlook into late December is for warm temps with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies. Daily temps are predicted in the mid to upper 80’s and night time temps in the mid 70’s with humidity expected to run in the low to mid 60’s. The winds are expected to be very mild in the 5-9 mph range primarily from the West.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is now in the 84-85 degree range from the 100 fathom line at the 5-6 mile mark all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles and beyond.  These temps are ideal for the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved almost to the shoreline with some very deep blue water now out beyond the 1000 fathom mark at 32-35 miles out to 50 miles. Inshore, the water was in the 83-84 degree range and perfect for the big Roosters.  

Best Baits & Lures:  Rigged trolling baits and smoke trail lures continue to produce for the Billfish and Dorado with most boats preferring a mix of rigged baits for the Billfish and smaller lures and feathers for the Dorado.   Inshore top water poppers are the favorite for the Roosterfish. Cedar plugs and feathers are working best on the Yellowfin when found.

Bait Supply: The bait supply remains good and freshly caught baits are provided gratis with most charters. Live baits are readily available at this time and are $5.00/dozen paid directly to the bait vendors.

Our Local Reporter: Captain Temo Verboonen – owner/operator of the Secuestro de Amor and Macho Banana.

CANCUN/PUERTO MORELOS FISHING REPORT FOR THE EL CID MARINA

 Our friends at the El Cid Marina in Puerto Morelos enjoyed improved weather and solid results with increased tourist activity. With the close-in shallow reef fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opt for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with others opting for the 6 hour or 8 hour offshore trips mixed with a few hours on the close in reefs at the end of the day for some fine table fare. This past week the Mahi seemed to disappear but were replaced by lots of Giant Atlantic Barracuda and Bonito.

The billfish are not yet in their early year migration pattern but fishermen enjoyed overall great results on the off shore trips.  The fleet reported 7 Sailfish, 96 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 12 King Mackerel, 2 Blackfin Tuna, 93 Bonito, and 1 Wahoo from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 166 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 36 Mutton Snappers,  16 Black Grouper,  66 Queen Triggerfish and 1 Jack.  A total of 210 offshore fish and 285 inshore fish for a total of 495 fish for an average of 7 1/2 fish per trip on a total of 66 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan fall and early winter weather pattern typically has very warm days with some early morning to late afternoon scattered thunderstorms as the clouds build coming off the warm water.  The extended forecast into late December is for a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies mid month coupled with scattered occasional early morning and late afternoon showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms later in the month (10-40%).  Daytime temperatures are predicted in the low to mid 80’s with evenings in the low 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the low 70’s. Winds are expected to be very modest in the 4-12 mph range primarily out of the ESE trending toward the ENE and then the ESE into mid December.  

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area are currently running in the 82-83 degree range.  Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy in the afternoons depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds are predicted to be out of the East trending toward the ENE and then the ESE at 4-12 MPH in the afternoons with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds in the afternoon.

Best Bait & Lures:  Rigged Ballyhoo, small smoke trail lures were working well for the billfish with feathers also working for the Mahi-Mahi, King Mackerel and Giant Barracuda.  Cut bait is the preferred fare for the reef fishing.

Bait Supply:  The bait supply of locally caught Ballyhoo remains good and are provided gratis with most charters.

Our Local Reporter:  Miss Victoria Garcia at the Hotel El Cid Spa & Beach Resort and Marina

Cortez Yacht Charters Weekly Mexico Fishing Report

Week ended 11/21/19

THE CABO SAN LUCAS FISHING REPORT FOR THE GAVIOTA SPORT FISHING FLEET AND FISH CABO FLEET

Even with the 2 day port closure due to tropical storm Raymundo, this was another good November week in Cabo with the overall success rate at over 90%! The Striped Marlin seemed to spread out and although the overall success rate remained high, the number of multiple Marlin report were down but offset by many limits of Dorado. The boats targeting the Yellowfin had great success with school fish in the 20-40 lb range. The larger Tuna again showed up with multiple reports of fish scaled in the 100 – 200 lb range. The Dorado counts were high again with overall size down a bit with lots of 10-20 lbs “schoolies. The Wahoo counts were down with most in the 20-30 lb range and again found primarily well offshore out on the Marlin grounds.   Many boats were returning after releasing billfish with the bonus of several Dorado closer in to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some very nice Roosterfish in the surf.

The prime Marlin activity (including the Blues) was on the Pacific side with favorable reports from the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks on the Pacific side with the waters offshore Cabo Falso and the Lighthouse on up to Cerritos also mentioned as hot spots. Much of the action moved very close to offshore the Lighthouse this week with many Striped Marlin reported there along with a few multiple hookup reports off Cerritos. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest with good action off the San Jamie bank.  Action on inside was limited other than some large Yellowfin cows reported off the Gordos. Most of the Dorado were running in the 10-20 lb range and plentiful enough many of the boats were able to cull and release smaller fish and still make their anglers’ limit with the larger 20 lb fish.  While overall Marlin fishing remained strong there were fewer Blues and Sails reported this past week as the water begins to cool a bit.

Inshore fishing was again solid with some really nice catches of Sierras along the west side of Migrino. Roosters showed up again in the surf from Solmar to the Lighthouse and off Palmilla with some reported in the 25-30 lb range.  Some very nice catches of Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Large Jacks were available off the rocks from Solmar west.

The Los Cabos Charter Boat Classic was a great success with many first time anglers participating and over $40,000 in cash and other prizes awarded on this no entry fee tournament that continues to grow every year!

Congratulations to 2 of our favorite boats – the 43’ Hatteras FISH CABO released 7 Marlin and boated23 Dorado 4 days of fishing and the 34’ Owens custom TUNA TIME released 5 Marlin and boated 27 Dorado on 3 days of fishing.

Cabo Climate:  Early November was mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and some occasional scatted late afternoon thunder storms. The future outlook into late November is for mostly partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the mid 80’s and evenings in the mid 60’s. The 2 week forecast is for some scattered thunderstorms mid month then trending toward clear through early December. Winds are expected to be in the 8-10 mph range out of the West lowering and shifting into the single range out of the WNW in late November. Humidity is expected to run in the lower 60’s.

Sea Conditions:  The seas are expected to be moderate with some larger swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, have been in the 2’-3’ range. The Pacific side sea temps are currently running in the 80-82 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside is warmer with temps in the 81-84 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos and with low 80’south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  Most of this past week’s hot spots for Marlin action were on the Pacific side with lots of close in multiple fish action from the Lighthouse north to Cerritos and Pozo Cota. The San Jamie banks produced some nice marlin catches along with some quality Yellowfin action.  The Yellowfin were primarily reported off to the SW or the South 25-30 miles out and also at the San Jamie Bank. The kite action off the San Jamie produced some 100-200 lb Yellowfin. Some nice Dorado action reported 4-6 miles off the Lighthouse for the smaller craft and returning boats from the San Jamie. The interior corridor from Los Arcos to Palmilla produced plenty of schoolie Dorado. Also lots of Dorado action close in off the west coast. Los Arcos to the Lighthouse and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, with some large fish and large Jacks in the surf from El Arco west past Solmar to the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Live Cabilitos or Mackerel was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures with green, blue & white and green & yellow the favorites. Cedar plugs and feathers were the favorite for the Yellowfin. The Dorado were hitting trolled lures and feathers or floating live Cabilitos once the schools were located.  Hoochies were by far the preferred and most productive lures for the Sierras. Trolled live baits near the surf and large poppers were the most successful bait for Roosters this past week. Dead bait was the ticket for the Snappers and Groupers.

Bait Supply: Live bait is available at the $3.00 per bait upon exit from the harbor. Mackerel, when available, are popular with the captains.

Our local reporters: Captain Roberto Marquez-Castro of the Fish Cabo Fleet and Gaviota Fleet Dock Manager Carlos Pena-Mireles. 

THE MAZATLAN REPORT FOR THE ARIES SPORT FISHING FLEET – MARINA EL CID AND El CID MEGA RESORT, PACIFIC

Our friends at the El Cid Marina in Mazatlan encountered much the same weather as Cabo and reported some solid fishing results!  The good news is the Sailfish that Mazatlan is historically known for showed up again in great numbers!  The billfish counts were up significantly over last month with a higher mix of the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, and Dorado.  The inshore boats had another solid week and reported good action on Snappers, Jacks and Triggers.  They reported 28 Sailfish, 10 Striped Marlin, and 12 Dorado on 26 offshore trips and 112 Snappers, 26 Queen Triggerfish and 3 Jacks on 8 inshore trips.

Mazatlan Climate: Early November showed a normal fall pattern with a couple of scattered thunderstorms with a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook into late November is improved with afternoons in the mid to upper 80’s daytime and upper 60’s in the evenings. The forecast into early December is for mostly partly cloudy skies with 10% -40% chance of scattered thunderstorms moving in early or toward the end of the day mid month then clear into early December. Winds are forecast in the 8-13 mph range primarily out of the SW trending toward the WNW into early December.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 60’s into early December.  

Sea Conditions: The water is now in the 83 degree range to the north and 84 degrees to the south. The past week Mazatlan had a mix of mostly calm to choppy seas mixed with some strong afternoon swells and chop with winds in the early to mid teens in the afternoons. The future outlook is for relatively calm seas in the mornings with the winds in the 7-8 mph range and some afternoon swells with 9-10 mph winds.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting as close as 8- 10 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. The Dorado are being found closer to shore inside the prime bill fishing zone. In shore, the Super Pangas are finding success all along the coast especially around the rocks. The water is very clear from the shore out to the offshore breaks.

Best Bait & Lures:  Freshly caught rigged trolling baits and smoke trail lures produced best results for the billfish. The Tuna are being caught on feathers and cedar plugs.

Bait Supply: Freshly caught baits are readily available from the bait boats

Our Local Reporter: Ms. Kitcia Berenice Ceja-Diaz, the Aries Fleet and Marina El Cid Office Manager and fishing reporter

THE IXTAPA-ZIHUATANEJO FISHING REPORT FOR THE INDEPENDENT SPORT FISHING FLEET

The Rooster fishing in IZ is exceptional right now along with double digit catches of aggressive large Jacks!   The independent fleet reported sparse action due to off season tourist activity. but exceptional action on Roosters and Jacks.  Some larger Blue Marlin showed up offshore in the blue water. The big Yellowfin are available but found way out beyond the 1000 fathom mark 30-35 miles out for those very few willing to go the extra distance in the larger boats.   They are in the start of their prime Roosterfish season from now until the New Year and many large fish are showing up to go with strong catches.

Capt Temo reported great success this past week with many Roosters easily found to the south and aggressively hitting poppers. Many of the fishermen are focused on fly fishing during the prime Rooster season ahead of the peak tourist season starting for the holidays.

The offshore action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth moved out to the 10-12 mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin are out 30+ miles out past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50—100+ lb range. Blue Marlin were present offshore along with the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite much closer. Inshore large Jacks were very productive and the Roosters were plentiful with some very large fish reported.  Capt Temo is having no problem finding large Roosters inshore for the few clients that are there.

IZ Climate: They are now at the end of their rainy season with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy days with occasional late afternoon and evening thunderstorms followed by cloudy but clear weather the following morning during the prime fishing time.  The 2 week outlook is for warm temps with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with occasional scattered very early morning and late afternoon and evening scattered thunderstorms but clearing into early December. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the mid 70’s with humidity expected to run in the low 70’s. The winds are expected to be very mild in the 5-7 mph range primarily from the West and shifting to the WSW by late November. 

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is now in the 84-85 degree range from the 100 fathom line at the 5-6 mile mark all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles and beyond.  These temps are ideal for the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved almost to the shoreline with some very deep blue water now out beyond the 1000 fathom mark at 32-35 miles out to 50 miles. Inshore, the water was in the 84 degree range and perfect for the big Roosters.  There are pockets of green water along the shoreline off the mouths of the rivers.

Best Baits & Lures:  Rigged trolling baits and smoke trail lures continue to produce for the Billfish and Dorado with most boats preferring a mix of rigged baits for the Billfish and smaller lures and feathers for the Dorado.   Inshore top water poppers are the favorite for the Roosterfish. Cedar plugs and feathers are working best on the Yellowfin when found.

Bait Supply: The bait supply remains good and freshly caught baits are provided gratis with most charters. Live baits are readily available at this time and are $5.00/dozen paid directly to the bait vendors.

Our Local Reporter: Captain Temo Verboonen – owner/operator of the Secuestro de Amor and Macho Banana.

CANCUN/PUERTO MORELOS FISHING REPORT FOR THE EL CID MARINA

 Our friends at the El Cid Marina in Puerto Morelos enjoyed improved weather and strong results with modest tourist activity ahead of the start of the prime season beginning around Thanksgiving. With the close-in shallow reef fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opt for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with others opting for the 6 hour or 8 hour offshore trips mixed with a few hours on the close in reefs at the end of the day for some fine table fare. This past week the Mahi seemed to disappear but were replaced by lots of Giant Atlantic Barracuda and Bonito.

The billfish are not yet in their early year migration pattern but fishermen enjoyed overall great results on the off shore trips.  The fleet reported 5 Sailfish, 71 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 11 King Mackerel, 6 Blackfin Tuna, 1 Mahi-Mahi, 108 Bonito, and 1 Wahoo from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 105 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 27 Mutton Snappers,  3 Black Grouper,  and 36 Queen Triggerfish.  A total of 192 offshore fish and 171 inshore fish for a total of 363 fish for an average of 8 fish per trip on a total of 45 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan fall weather pattern typically has very warm days with some early morning to late afternoon scattered thunderstorms as the clouds build coming off the warm water.  The extended forecast into early December is for a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies mid month coupled with scattered occasional early morning and late afternoon showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms late in the month.  Daytime temperatures are predicted in the low to mid 80’s with evenings in the mid 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid 70’s. Winds are expected to be very modest in the 5-11 mph range primarily out of the East trending toward the ENE into early December.  

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area are running in the 83-84 degree range.  Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy in the afternoons depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds are predicted to be out of the East trending toward the ENE at 8-10 MPH in the afternoons with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds in the afternoon.

Best Bait & Lures:  Rigged Ballyhoo, small smoke trail lures were working well for the billfish with feathers also working for the Mahi-Mahi, King Mackerel and Giant Barracuda.  Cut bait is the preferred fare for the reef fishing.

Bait Supply:  The bait supply of locally caught Ballyhoo remains good and are provided gratis with most charters.

Our Local Reporter:  Miss Victoria Garcia at the Hotel El Cid Spa & Beach Resort and Marina