Cortez Yacht Charters Weekly Mexico Fishing Report

Week ended 02/21/19

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

It seems as though the combination of the full moon and some cooling water temperatures slowed the recent hot marlin bite this past week.  The Striped Marlin were continuing to spread out from the Pacific side around the corner to the east as they follow the schools of bait. The Dorado counts were sparse again this past week.  The Yellowfin Tuna counts were also down a bit from the previous 2 weeks.

The Striped Marlin fishing continues to produce positive results overall on the Pacific side with fishing continuing to concentrate around the Lighthouse and out to the Golden Gate and San Jamie Banks.  The seasonal migration has begun to turn the corner following schools of bait into the Sea of Cortez. Stripers were again reported off Palmilla and around the Gordos although the inside fishing was also a bit slower than the previous week. The fleets reported solid counts of Striped Marlin with most boats averaging a fish per day with a few still reporting multiple fish for their anglers. The Yellowfin were again showing in the 25-30 mile range to the south and southwest and also off the Golden Gate and Gordo banks – the key is to find the pods of Porpoise and you will find the Tuna.  Average size this past week was averaging in the 15-30 lb range.

Inshore fishing has continued to produce nice catches of schools of Skipjacks with the Sierras and Jacks showing in good numbers from Solmar to El Arco. Roosters are showing occasionally in the surf from Solmar around the point at the Lighthouse and also in the Palmilla area.

Cabo Climate:  Mid February has been  a bit cooler with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with the future outlook for more of the same with average daytime temps in the mid 70’s and evenings in the low 60’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly partly cloudy to mostly sunny skies with zero chance of rain forecast through early March. Winds are expected to lower a bit into the 8-11 mph range through early March mostly out of the West and WSW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 60’s into early March.

Sea Conditions:  Seas have been relatively calm in the mornings throughout the area with some swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Forecast is for more of the same with winds in the 8-11 mph range from the West and WSW.  Sea temps have cooled and stabilized but there are some plumes of cooler water being pushed by the currents. Temps are running from 70-74 on the Pacific side and a bit cooler in the 70-73 range on the inside around the Gordos.

Best Fishing Areas:  The Marlin hot spots have remained primarily to the west and north but decent action was again reported on the inside this past week.  The Lighthouse area was a major hot spot again this past week.  Most of the fish were being found a bit further out from shore in the 6-15 mile range.  Good numbers of Stripers are also showing in the Golden gate and San Jamie areas. Success was also reported soaking live baits off Palmilla and the Gordos and the 1150 spot. The Yellowfin are being found 25-30 miles out to the South and SW near the Herradura, 110, 120, 140 and 160 Spots.  Catches of quality Yellowfin were also coming off the Golden Gate area and some larger Yellowfin were also reported around the Gordos.  We did not get any first hand reports of the Finger Bank this past week but assume there are still good numbers of Striped Marlin there for those willing to make the 50 mile run.

Favorite Baits: Trolled black/green or green/silver Mackerel looking lures along with live Mackerel or live Caballitos were the favorite for the Marlin. Trolled feathers and cedar plugs were the ticket for the Yellowfin. Hoochies were by far the preferred and most productive lures for the Sierras. Poppers near the surf were the most successful bait for the Jacks and Roosters.

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-Mirales. 

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

It seems the Yellowfin disappeared this past week after a strong showing the previous week. The Striped Marlin fishing continues to improve with the seasonal migration.  The Dorado showed up again in the counts this week. Their inshore fishing continued to produce exceptionally strong results. Tourist activity has been a bit down compared to historical averages but those anglers that went out were generally rewarded with good action.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish and Dorado.  More Striped Marlin were sighted than were hooked as the fish were a bit finicky perhaps due to the full moon. The Dorado showed up late in the week to add to the action.  The inshore boats reported great action on the Snappers and continued success on the Sea Bass whether on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total of 27 offshore days and 13 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 8 Striped Marlin, 2 Sailfish and 9 good quality Dorado from offshore. Inshore, they reported 254 snappers, 204 sea bass, and 9 Queen Triggerfish and 6 nice Jacks.

Mazatlan Climate: February was very pleasant but cooler and the outlook into early March is favorable with upper 70’s daytime and upper 50’s to low 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through early March is for mostly sunny skies with breezes calming into the 8-12 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the WSW toward early March.  Humidity is predicted to be in the low 60’s going into early March for very pleasant fishing conditions. There is no precipitation forecast through the middle of March.

Sea Conditions: The water is seasonally cooling and now in the 70-74 degree range resulting in a larger showing of the Striped Marlin but fewer Sailfish sightings.  They enjoyed mostly calm seas this past week with some afternoon swells and chop with winds in the teens. The future outlooks is for relatively calm seas in the mornings with some afternoon swells and chop as the winds pick up in the afternoons.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting about 10-12 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. 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 full moon and some cooler water slowed the over bite but the independent fleet reported solid Sailfish action again this past week.  The Dorado action was slow but there was a good bite on the Blue Marlin further out. The Yellowfin were again found out at the 30 mile mark. Great warm blue water extends almost all the way to the 100 fathom line at 5-6 miles out.  Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week was good as there was cooler green water very near the shore and the Roosters were cruising the breaklines. Good catches of Groupers and Jacks were again reported off the rocks. Nice Sierras were again being reported off 100-200 yds off the beach.

The February sailfish action has been very solid with fish this past week moving out a bit to the 8-10 mile mark.   Capt. Temo reports quality size Sailfish with many surpassing the 100 lb range. Although the overall action was a bit slower this past week most of the boats reported at least 1-2 Sailfish for their clients.  The Yellowfin were found 30-35 miles out at the 1000 fathom mark with some fish over the 100 lb mark. The Blue Marlin are being found near the 1000 fathom mark 25-35 miles out. Inshore the Bonito and Skipjacks were a bit harder to find this past week but the Jacks continued to be cooperative. The Roosters made a solid showing cruising the breaklines along a bit of off colored cooler green water very near the shoreline. Trocones was a hot spot this past week for the big Jacks. The best Rooster counts were to the south toward Vicente Guerrero.

IZ Climate:  February has reflected their typical late winter climate and a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy days. The 2 week outlook is for warmer temps and sunny skies. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the mid to low 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid 60’s to low 70’s through into early March. They are now in their dry season and there is no precipitation projected into early to mid March. Winds are expected to be mild in the 7-10 mph range from the West and WSW. 

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature has cooled a bit and is now in the 81-82 degrees range from the 5-6 mile mark at the 100 fathom line all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 25-30 miles.  Inshore temperatures are running a bit cooler at 77-80.  The offshore water at the 1000 fathom mark is now clear blue all the way into the 100 fathom mark. With breezes in mid single digits, the seas are very calm particularly in the mornings.

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, Bonito and Jacks. 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 have been struggling lately with the seasonal weather and port closures due to thunderstorms. They finally got in almost a full week of fishing with great results! This week with the port closed Wednesday due to thunderstorms. Due to the weather a lot of anglers were opting for ½ day fishing at the very productive shallow reefs.  Overall, the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos continues to produce great action both offshore and inshore for our clients, many fishing for the first time on half day or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total 54 trips this past week with many clients opting for 4 hour or 6 hour trips to work around the scattered thunderstorms.  The Sailfish are finally beginning to show up on their seasonal migration.  Offshore, in addition to 1 Sailfish and 1 Wahoo, they reported counts of 31 giant Atlantic Barracuda, 10 King Mackerel, 14 Mahi-Mahi, 1 Blackfin Tuna, 26 Bonito and 2 Hammerhead Sharks. Many first time fishermen opted for shorter ½ day or 6 hour trips mixed between offshore and inshore. The targeted inshore and shallow reef fishing boats tallied 11 Black Grouper, 59 Mutton Snappers, 310 Chack Chi, and 1 Queen Triggerfish.  A total of 534 fish boated for an average of 10 fish per trip– there were many happy first time fishermen on ½ day trips.

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms continue with the late winter seasonal weather pattern.  The extended forecast through early March calls for a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with scattered early morning showers and late afternoon thunderstorms with a 20% chance of scattered showers on almost daily basis into early to mid March.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend in the low to mid 80’s and evenings in the low to mid 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid 70’s. Winds are expected to flatten a bit into the 8-12 mph range primarily out of the ESE settling into single digits toward the end of the month.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area are at their seasonal coolest and are now running in the 79-80 degree range. Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds have shifted toward their spring pattern and are predicted to be out of the ESE at 8-12 MPH with single digit winds going into early March.

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:  Victoria Garcia at the Hotel El Cid Spa & Beach Resort and Marina

Cortez Yacht Charters Weekly Mexico Fishing Report

Week ended 02/14/19

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

Even with a bit of cooling weather and cooling water, the fleets reported another solid week for Striped Marlin fishing in the Cabo area.  Many boats were still reporting 1-2 fish per day and a few in the 4-6 range.  The Striped Marlin were continuing to spread out from the Pacific side around the corner to the east as they follow the schools of bait. The Dorado counts were down again this past week however.  The Yellowfin Tuna counts were solid although down a bit from the previous 2 weeks.

The Striped Marlin fishing continues to produce positive results overall on the Pacific side with fishing continuing to concentrate around the Lighthouse and out to the Golden Gate and San Jamie Banks.  It appears the seasonal migration has begun to turn the corner following schools of bait into the Sea of Cortez. Stripers were again reported off Palmilla and around the Gordos although the inside fishing was a bit slower than the previous week. The fleets reported solid counts of Striped Marlin with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin were again showing in the 25-30 mile range to the south and southwest and also off the Golden Gate and Gordo banks – the key is to find the pods of Porpoise and you will find the Tuna.  Average size this past week was down averaging in the 15-30 lb range.

Inshore fishing has continued to produce nice catches of schools of Skipjacks with the Sierras and Jacks showing in good numbers from Solmar to El Arco. Roosters are showing occasionally in the surf from Solmar around the point at the Lighthouse and also in the Palmilla area.

Cabo Climate:  Early February has been  a bit cooler with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with the future outlook for more of the same with average daytime temps in the low to mid 70’s and evenings in the upper 50’s to low  60’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly partly cloudy skies with zero chance of rain forecast through the end of February. Winds are expected to pick up in the 8-13 mph range through end of February mostly out of the West and WNW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 60’s into early March.

Sea Conditions:  Seas have been relatively calm in the mornings throughout the area with some swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Forecast is for more of the same with winds in the 8-13 mph range from the West and WNW.  Sea temps have cooled and stabilized but there are some plumes of cooler water being pushed by the currents. Temps are running from 70-74 on the Pacific side and a bit cooler in the 70-72 range on the inside around the Gordos.

Best Fishing Areas:  The Marlin hot spots have remained primarily to the west and north but decent action was again reported on the inside for the first time this year.  The Lighthouse area was the major hot spot again this past week.  Most of the fish are being found 2-8 miles out from shore.  Large numbers of Stripers are also showing in the Golden gate and San Jamie areas. Success was also reported soaking live baits off Palmilla and the Gordos. The Yellowfin are being found 25-30 miles out to the South and SW near the Herradura, 110, 120, 140 and 160 Spots.  Catches of quality Yellowfin were also coming off the Golden Gate area and some larger Yellowfin were reported around the Gordos.  For those willing to make the longer 50 mile run, the Finger Bank has continued producing up to double digit Striped Marlin counts. Traffic is lighter up there recently as the fish counts closer to home have increased. 

Favorite Baits: Trolled blue/green smoke trail lures along with live Mackerel or live Caballitos were the favorite for the Marlin. Soaking live baits around the Finger Bank and off the Lighthouse area produced successful multiple Striper counts. Trolled feathers and cedar plugs were the ticket for the Yellowfin. Hoochies were by far the preferred and most productive lures for the Sierras. Poppers near the surf were the most successful bait for the Jacks and Roosters.

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-Mirales. 

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

The Yellowfin showed up in good numbers this past week and the Striped Marlin fishing continues to improve with the seasonal migration.  Many of the boats targeted the Yellowfin with less attention paid to the Striped Marlin. Their inshore fishing continued to produce strong results. Tourist activity has been a bit down compared to historical averages but those anglers that went out were generally rewarded with good action.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin and Yellowfin.  As the water has cooled, the Sailfish have disappeared the past couple of weeks. The Dorado were also hard to come by this past week.  Quality Yellowfin in 25-50 lb range were a welcome addition this past week. The inshore boats reported great action on the Snappers and continued success on the Sea Bass and Queen Triggers whether on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total of 17 offshore days and 11 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 3 Striped Marlin and 34 good quality Yellowfin Tuna from offshore. Inshore, they reported 147 snappers, 40 sea bass, and 17 Queen Triggerfish and 54 Corvinas.

Mazatlan Climate: The start of February was very pleasant but cooler and the outlook into the end of February is also favorable with mid to upper 70’s daytime and upper 50’s to low 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through the end February is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with breezes picking up in the 11-14 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the WNW toward month end. Humidity is predicted to be in the low 60’s going into early March for very pleasant fishing conditions. There is no precipitation forecast through the end of the month.

Sea Conditions: The water is seasonally cooling and now in the 70-74 degree range resulting in a larger showing of the Striped Marlin but few Sailfish sightings.  They enjoyed mostly calm seas this past week with some afternoon swells. The future outlooks is for relatively calm seas in the mornings with some afternoon swells and chop as the winds pick up going into month end.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting about 10-12 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. The schools of Tuna are showing up in the 12-15 mile range. 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 independent fleet reported solid Sailfish action again this past week.  The Dorado action was slow but there was a good bite on the Blue Marlin further out. The Yellowfin showed up out at the 30 mile mark. Great warm blue water extends almost all the way to the 100 fathom line at 5-6 miles out.  Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week was good as there was cooler green water very near the shore and the Roosters were cruising the breaklines. Good catches of Groupers and Jacks were again reported off the rocks. Nice Sierras were being reported off 100-200 yds off the beach.

The February sailfish action has picked up nicely with fish this past week moving out a bit to the 8-10 mile mark.   Capt. Temo reports quality size Sailfish with many surpassing the 100 lb range. This time of year they see a lot of European tourist who like to challenge the Sailfish with fly fishing which lowers the overall catch rate but most of the boats were raising 4-6 fish per day and boating 2-3 or more on conventional tackle.  The Yellowfin made a showing late in the week 30-35 miles out at the 1000 fathom mark with quality fish up to 150 lbs. The Blue Marlin are being found near the 1000 fathom mark 25-35 miles out. Inshore the Bonito and Skipjacks were a bit harder to find this past week but the Jacks continued to be cooperative. The Roosters made a strong showing cruising the breaklines along a bit of off colored cooler green water very near the shoreline which is a change from the very clear water of January.  Recently there has been a big inflow from the Rio Balsas to the north and that has lead to the cooler greener water close to shore. The White Rocks were a hot spot this past week for the big Jacks. Rooster counts to the south toward Vicente Guerrero were very good although typically not large fish.

IZ Climate:  Early February has reflected their typical winter climate and a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy days. Daily temps are in the mid to upper 80’s and night time temps in the mid to low 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid 60’s to low 70’s through end of February. The outlook heading into the end of February is for more of the same. They are now in their dry season and there is no precipitation projected into late February. Winds are expected to be mild in the 6-9 mph range from the West and WSW. 

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature has cooled a bit and is stabilized in the 83-84 degrees range from the 5-6 mile mark at the 100 fathom line all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 25-30 miles.  Inshore temperatures are running a bit cooler at 81-82.  The offshore water at the 1000 fathom mark is now clear blue all the way into the 100 fathom mark. With breezes in mid single digits, the seas are very calm particularly in the mornings.

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, Bonito and Jacks. 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 changed staff this past week and we are only reporting for Monday and Tuesday of this week with the port closed Wednesday due to thunderstorms. Due to the weather most trips were opting for ½ day fishing at the very productive shallow reefs. The close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos continues to produce great action both offshore and inshore for our clients, many fishing for the first time on half day or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total 15 trips Monday and Tuesday with many clients opting for ½ day trips to work around the scattered thunderstorms.  The Sailfish are beginning to show up on their seasonal migration.  On only 2 offshore trips, in addition to 1 Sailfish and 1 Wahoo, they reported counts of 1 giant Atlantic Barracuda, 2 King Mackerel, 4 Mahi-Mahi and 26 Bonito. Many first time fishermen opted for shorter ½ day or 6 hour trips mixed between offshore and inshore. The targeted inshore and shallow reef fishing boats tallied 1 Black Grouper, 20 Mutton Snappers, 110 Chack Chi, and 1 Queen Triggerfish.  A total of 146 fish boated for an average of over 9 1/2 fish per trip– there were many happy first time fishermen on ½ day trips.

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms continue with the seasonal weather pattern.  The extended forecast through early March calls for a mix of sunny to partly cloudy skies to scattered early morning showers with a 20-30% chance of scattered showers on almost daily basis through the end of February.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend in the low to mid 80’s and evenings in the low to mid 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid 70’s. Winds are expected in the 9-15 mph range primarily out of the ESE settling into single digits toward the end of the month.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area are at their seasonal coolest and are now running in the 78-80 degree range. Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds have shifted toward their spring pattern and are predicted to be out of the ESE at 9-15 MPH with single digit winds the last week of February.

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:  Victoria Garcia at the Hotel El Cid Spa & Beach Resort and Marina

Cortez Yacht Charters Weekly Mexico Fishing Report

Week ended 02/07/19

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

The fleets reported another solid week for Striped Marlin fishing in the Cabo area.  Many boats were still reporting multiple fish days and the overall daily success was still exceptional for anglers chasing that dream fish. The Marlin were starting to spread out as they follow the schools of bait. The Dorado counts were down substantially this past week however.  The Yellowfin Tuna counts continued to be good for the third week in a row although the fish are now a bit more scattered.

The Striped Marlin fishing continues to produce positive results overall on the Pacific side with fishing continuing to concentrate around the Lighthouse and out to the Golden Gate and San Jamie Banks.  It appears the seasonal migration has begun to turn the corner following schools of bait into the Sea of Cortez. Stripers were reported off Palmilla and around the Gordos. The fleets reported solid counts of Striped Marlin with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin were again showing in the 25-30 mile range to the south and southwest and also off the Golden Gate and Gordo banks – the key is to find the pods of Porpoise and you will find the Tuna with most averaging in the 30-100 lb range this past week with some up to 150 lbs.  

Inshore fishing has continued to produce nice catches of schools of Skipjacks with the Sierras showing in good numbers from Solmar to El Arco. Roosters are showing occasionally in the surf from Solmar around the point at the Lighthouse and also in the Palmilla area.

Cabo Climate:  Early February has been  very pleasant weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with the future outlook for more of the same with average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the low to mid  60’s. More good news is in the forecast is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with zero chance of rain forecast through the 3^rd week of February. Winds are expected in the gentle 8-11 mph range through late February mostly out of the WSW and WNW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 60’s into late February.

Sea Conditions:  Seas have been relatively calm in the mornings throughout the area with some swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Forecast is for more of the same with winds in the 8-11 mph range from the WSW and WNW.  Sea temps have cooled but stabilized and are running from 73-76 on the Pacific side and a bit cooler in the 72-74 range on the inside around the Gordos.

Best Fishing Areas:  The Marlin hot spots have remained primarily to the west and north but good action was reported on the inside for the first time this year.  The Lighthouse area was a major hot spot again this past week.  Most of the fish are being found 1-8 miles out from shore.  Large numbers of Stripers are also showing in the Golden gate and San Jamie areas. Success was also reported soaking live baits off Palmilla and the Gordos. The Yellowfin are being found 25-30 miles out to the South and SW near the Herradura, 110, 120,180 and 200 Spots.  Good counts of quality Yellowfin were also coming off the Golden Gate area and some Yellowfin up to the 100 lb mark were reported around the Gordos.  For those willing to make the longer 50 mile run, the Finger Bank has continued producing double digit Striped Marlin counts. Traffic is lighter up there recently as the fish counts closer to home increase. 

Favorite Baits: Trolled blue/green smoke trail lures along with live Mackerel or live Cabillitos were the favorite for the Marlin. Soaking live baits around the Finger Bank and off the Lighthouse area produced successful multiple Striper counts. Trolled feathers and cedar plugs were the ticket for the Yellowfin. Hoochies were by far the preferred and most productive lures for the Sierras. Poppers near the surf were the most successful bait for the Roosters.

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-Mirales. 

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

The Yellowfin showed up offshore again this past week and the Striped Marlin fishing continues to improve with the seasonal migration. Their inshore fishing continued to produce strong results. Tourist activity has been a bit down compared to historical averages but those anglers that went out were generally rewarded with good action.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin and Yellowfin.  As the water has cooled, the Sailfish have become harder to find the past couple of weeks. The Dorado were also hard to come by this past week.  Quality Yellowfin in 25-50 lb range were a welcome addition this past week. The inshore boats reported great action on the Snappers and continued success on the Sea Bass and Queen Triggers whether on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet only fished a total of 14 offshore days and 11 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 9 Striped Marlin and 22 good quality Yellowfin Tuna from offshore. Inshore, they reported 161 snappers, 44 sea bass, and 53 Queen Triggerfish.

Mazatlan Climate: The start of February was very pleasant and the outlook into the end of February is also favorable with low 80’s daytime and low 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through the end February is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with breezes in the 6-9 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the WSW toward month end. Humidity is predicted to be in the upper 60’s going into late February for very pleasant fishing conditions. There is no precipitation forecast through the end of the month.

Sea Conditions: The water is seasonally cooling and now in the 72-74 degree range resulting in a larger showing of the Striped Marlin.  They enjoyed mostly calm seas this past week with some afternoon swells. The future outlook is for relatively calm seas with mild breezes predominately from the West and WSW in the 6-9 mph range. A bit of afternoon chop is expected with the slightly higher breezes.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting about 10-12 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. The schools of Tuna are showing up in the 12-15 mile range. 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 Dorado seem to be favoring feathers and smaller trolling lures like Doorknobs.

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 independent fleet reported improved Sailfish action this week on the new moon.  The Dorado action was slow but there was a good bite on the Blue Marlin further out. Great warm blue water extends almost all the way to the shore.  Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week was good as there was a bit of cooler green water very near the shore and the Roosters were cruising the breaklines. Good catches of Groupers were again reported off the rocks.

The sailfish action picked up nicely with fish showing as close as the 8 mile mark.   Capt. Temo reports quality size Sailfish with many surpassing the 100 lb range. This time of year they see a lot of European tourist who like to challenge the Sailfish with fly fishing which lowers the overall catch rate but most of the boats were raising 6-8 fish per day and boating 3- 4 or more on conventional tackle.  The Yellowfin have been a little harder to find lately and when found, are 30-35 miles out at the 1000 fathom mark but, when found, are quality fish up to 150 lbs. The Blue Marlin are being found near the 1000 fathom mark 25-30 miles out. Inshore the Bonito and Skipjacks were a bit harder to find this past week but the Jacks continued to be cooperative. The Roosters made a strong showing cruising the breaklines along a bit of off colored green water very near the shoreline which is a change from the very clear water of January.  There has been a big inflow from the Rio Balsas to the north and that has lead to the cooler greener water close to shore. The White Rocks were a hot spot this past week for the big Jacks. Rooster counts to the south toward Vicente Guerrero were very good although typically not large fish.

IZ Climate:  Early February has reflected their typical winter climate and a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy days. Daily temps are in the mid to upper 80’s and night time temps in the mid to low 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid 60’s to low 70’s through end of February. The outlook heading into the end of February is for more of the same. They are now in their dry season and there is no precipitation projected into late February. Winds are expected to be mild in the 6-9 mph range from the West and WSW. 

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature has cooled a bit and is stabilized in the 82 degrees range from the 5-6 mile mark at the 100 fathom line all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 25-30 miles.  Inshore temperatures are running in the same range to a bit cooler at 81.  The offshore water at the 1000 fathom mark is now clear blue almost all the way into shore. With breezes in mid single digits, the seas are very calm particularly in the mornings.

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, Bonito and Jacks. 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 reported a great week of fishing with overall good weather sandwiched in between a few scattered early morning and late afternoon thunder showers and solid tourist traffic. With tourist traffic still brisk, the boats were quite busy with many clients opting for ½ day fishing at the very productive shallow reefs. The close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos continues to produce great action both offshore and inshore for our clients, many fishing for the first time on half day or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total 63 trips the past week with many clients opting for ½ day trips to work around the scattered thunderstorms.  Although still a bit early of their seasonal migration, the Sailfish showed up this past week for the offshore boats.  In addition to 4 Sailfish and 5 Wahoo, they reported solid counts of 62 giant Atlantic Barracuda, 14 King Mackerel, 7 Mahi-Mahi and 57 Bonito. Many first time fishermen opted for shorter ½ day or 6 hour trips mixed between offshore and inshore. The targeted inshore and shallow reef fishing boats tallied 11 Black Grouper, 23 Mutton Snappers, 472 Chack Chi, 3 Jack Crevalle and 16 Queen Triggerfish.  A total of 673 fish boated for an average of over 10 1/2 fish per trip– there were many happy first time fishermen on ½ day trips.

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms continue with the seasonal weather pattern.  The extended forecast calls for a mix of sunny to mostly partly cloudy skies to scattered thunderstorms with a 20-30% chance of scattered thunderstorms on almost daily basis through the end of February.  Daytime temperatures are predicted in the low 80’s and evenings now in the low 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid to upper 70’s. Winds are expected in the 9-13 mph range primarily out of the ESE.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area are at their seasonal coolest and are now running in the 78-80 degree range. Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds have shifted toward their spring pattern and are predicted to be out of the ESE at 9-13 MPH through the end of February.

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:  Mayte Delgadillo at the Hotel El Cid Spa & Beach Resort and Marina

Cortez Yacht Charters Weekly Mexico Fishing Report

Week ended 01/31/19

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

Another exceptional week for Striped Marlin fishing on the down side of the full moon!  More multiple fish days reported throughout the fleet and the action was again mostly close in. The Dorado counts were down substantially this past week however.  The Yellowfin Tuna counts continued to be good for the second week in a row although the fish were a bit more scattered.

The Striped Marlin fishing continues to produce excellent results overall on the Pacific side with fishing continuing to concentrate around the Lighthouse out to the Golden Gate.  The fleets reported exceptional counts of Striped Marlin with most boats averaging 2-3 fish per day. The Yellowfin were again showing in the 25-30 mile range to the south and southwest and also off the Golden Gate – the key is to find the pods of Porpoise and you will find the Tuna with most averaging in the 30-100 lb range this past week with some up to 175 lbs.  

Inshore fishing has continued to produce nice catches of schools of Skipjacks with the Sierras showing in good numbers from Solmar to El Arco. Roosters are showing occasionally in the surf from Solmar around the point at the Lighthouse and also in the Palmilla area.

Cabo Climate:  January has been  very pleasant weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with the future outlook for average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the low to mid  60’s. More good news is in the forecast is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with zero chance of rain forecast through mid February. Winds are expected in the gentle 8-10 mph range through early February mostly out of the West and SW.  Humidity is expected to run in the low to upper 60’s into mid February.

Sea Conditions:  Seas have been relatively calm in the mornings throughout the area with some swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Forecast is for more of the same with winds in the 8-10 mph range from the West and SW.  Sea temps have cooled but stabilized and are running from 73-76 on the Pacific side and a bit cooler in the 72-74 range on the inside around the Gordos.

Best Fishing Areas:  The Marlin hot spots have remained to the west and north.  The Lighthouse area was a major hot spot again this past week.  Most of the fish are being found 1-8 miles out from shore.  Large numbers of Stripers are showing in the Golden gate area. The Yellowfin are being found 25-30 miles out to the South and SW near the Herradura, 110, 120,180 and 200 Spots.  Good counts of quality Yellowfin were also coming off the Golden Gate area and some Yellowfin up to the 100 lb mark were reported around the Gordos.  For those willing to make the longer 50 mile run, the Finger Bank has continued producing double digit Striped Marlin counts. Traffic is lighter up there recently as the fish counts closer to home increase. 

Favorite Baits: Trolled blue/green smoke trail lures along with live Mackerel or live Cabillitos were the favorite for the Marlin. Soaking live baits around the Finger Bank and off the Lighthouse area produced successful multiple Striper counts. Trolled feathers and cedar plugs were the ticket for the Yellowfin. Hoochies were by far the preferred and most productive lures for the Sierras. Poppers near the surf were the most successful bait for the Roosters.

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-Mirales. 

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

The Yellowfin showed up offshore this past week and the Striped Marlin fishing continues to improve with the seasonal migration. Their inshore fishing continued to produce strong results. Tourist activity was a bit down compared to historical averages but those anglers that went out were generally rewarded with good action.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin and Yellowfin.  As the water has cooled, the Sailfish have become harder to find the past 2 weeks. The Dorado were also hard to come by this past week.  Quality Yellowfin in 25-50 lb range were a welcome addition this past week. The inshore boats reported great action on the Snappers and continued success on the Sea Bass and Queen Triggers whether on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet only fished a total of 12 offshore days and 11 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 6 Striped Marlin and 15 quality Yellowfin from offshore. Inshore, they reported 181 snappers, 14sea bass, and 53 Triggers.

Mazatlan Climate: January was very pleasant and the outlook into the middle of February is also favorable with upper 70’s and low 80’s daytime and low 60’s in the evenings. The forecast into mid February is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with winds up slightly in the 10-14 mph range primarily out of the WSW trending toward the WNW toward mid February. Humidity will be in the low 60’s to mid 70’s going into mid February for very pleasant fishing conditions. There is no precipitation forecast into the middle of February.

Sea Conditions: The water is seasonally cooling and now in the 72-74 degree range resulting in a larger showing of the Striped Marlin.  They enjoyed mostly calm seas this past week with some afternoon swells. The future outlook is for relatively calm seas with mild breezes predominately from the WSW and WNW in the 10-14 mph range. A bit of afternoon chop is expected with the slightly higher breezes.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting about 10-12 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. 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 Dorado seem to be favoring feathers and smaller trolling lures like Doorknobs.

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 independent fleet reported a nice pickup in Sailfish action this week on the downside of the full moon.  Great warm blue water extends almost all the way to the shore.  Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week picked up as there was a bit of off colored water very near the shore and the Roosters were cruising the breaklines. Good catches of Groupers were again reported off the rocks.

The sailfish action picked up nicely with fish showing as close as the 5-7 mile mark.   Capt. Temo reports quality size Sailfish with many surpassing the 100 lb range. This time of year they see a lot of European tourist who like to challenge the Sailfish with fly fishing which lowers the overall catch rate but most of the boats were raising 6-8 fish per day and boating 4 or more on conventional tackle. Quality Dorado’s to the 20 kg range were still in the mix this past week. The Yellowfin have been a little harder to find lately and when found, are 30-35 miles out at the 1000 fathom mark but, when found, are quality fish up to 150 lbs. Inshore the Bonito and Skipjacks were a bit more plentiful  this past week and the Jacks continued to be cooperative. The Roosters made a strong showing cruising the breaklines along a bit of off colored water very near the shoreline which is a change from the very clear water of the past several weeks.  Ixtapa Island was again a hot spot this past week for the big Jacks. Nice counts of Groupers were reported of the rocks.

IZ Climate:  January has been their typical winter climate and a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy days. Daily temps are in the mid to upper 80’s and night time temps in the mid to low 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid 60’s to low 70’s through mid February. The outlook heading into the middle of February is for more of the same. They are now in their dry season and there is no precipitation projected into early February. Winds are expected to be mild in the 8-10 mph range from the West and WSW. 

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature has cooled a bit and is now in the 82-84 degrees range from the 5-6 mile mark at the 100 fathom line all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 25-30 miles.  Inshore temperatures are running in the same range to a bit cooler.  The offshore water at the 1000 fathom mark is now clear blue almost all the way into shore. With breezes in mid single digits, the seas are very calm particularly in the mornings.

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, Bonito and Jacks. 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 reported a great week of fishing with overall good weather sandwiched in between some scattered early morning and late afternoon thunder showers and solid tourist traffic. With post holiday tourist traffic still brisk, the boats were quite busy with many clients opting for ½ day fishing at the very productive shallow reefs. The close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos continues to produce great action both offshore and inshore for our clients, many fishing for the first time on half day or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total 57 trips the past week with many clients opting for ½ day trips to work around the scattered thunderstorms.  The offshore targeted boats reported no sailfish this week as we are still a bit ahead of their seasonal migration. They reported solid counts of 23 giant Atlantic Barracuda, 15 King Mackerel, 5 Mahi-Mahi, 8 Blackfin tuna, and 34 Bonito. Many first time fishermen opted for shorter ½ day or 6 hour trips mixed between offshore and inshore. The targeted inshore and shallow reef fishing boats tallied 51 Black Grouper, 73 Mutton Snappers, 343 Chack Chi, 23 Jack Crevalle and 6 Queen Triggerfish.  A total of 496 fish boated for an average of almost 8 3/4 fish per trip– many happy first time fishermen with many on ½ day trips.

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms continue with the seasonal weather pattern.  The extended forecast calls for a mix of sunny to mostly partly cloudy skies to scattered thunderstorms with a 20-40% chance of scattered thunderstorms on almost daily basis through mid February.  Daytime temperatures are predicted in the low 80’s and evenings now in the low 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid to upper 70’s. Winds are expected in the 7-11 mph range out of the ENE trending to the East by mid February.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area are at their seasonal coolest and are now running in the 78-80 degree range. Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds have lowered a bit and are out of the ENE at 7-11 MPH.

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:  Mayte Delgadillo at the Hotel El Cid Spa & Beach Resort and Marina