Cortez Yacht Charters Weekly Mexico Fishing Report

Week ended 07/17/19

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

Cabo has settled in to its summer pattern which isn’t all bad – nice catches of Yellowfin Tuna and increased catches of Dorado to go with the Marlin. The Striped Marlin bite was solid this past week with an average of 2 fish per boat. The Yellowfin Tuna action picked up considerably with an average of 3:1 Tuna vs. Marlin tallied by the fleets along with increased counts of Dorado as the water warms. The 1150 Spot was the prime location along with a nice bite just a few miles off the Lighthouse.  The Yellowfin Tuna bite picked up this past week with quality fish being reported in the 25-30 range mostly 20-25 miles to south and southwest. The 210 Spot also saw some nice tuna action. The Dorado were running in the 15-20 lb range this past week with some doubles and triples reported close in from the Lighthouse to off Palmilla. Many boats were returning after releasing a marlin or two along with a mix of several tuna and Dorado to provide some table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, Sierras and Yellowtail into the 15-25 lb range as well as some nice Roosterfish particularly from Solmar west to around the Lighthouse.

The prime Striped Marlin activity was reported at the 1150 Spot on the inside and also a few miles off the Lighthouse and also around the San Jamie bank. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest but if you found the pods of dolphins you probably found the tuna. The Dorado were scattered from Migrino around the point and to the east off Palmilla. The overall action was slow around the Gordos to the far east for both the Marlin and the Tuna. Some Blue Marlin in the 200-250 lb range are showing in the warmer water and we also had reports of the Sailfish showing up with the warmer waters.

Inshore fishing was really solid with some really nice catches of large Sierras along Migrino. Roosters showed up again in the surf from Solmar to the Lighthouse and off Palmilla. Yellowtails in the 15-30lb range were hitting on live baits off Migrino on the Pacific side.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco.

Cabo Climate:  July has featured a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and a bit higher winds than normal.  The future outlook toward the end of July is for continued warming with mostly sunny skies and partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the middle 80’s and evenings in the mid to upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny skies with a zero chance of any rain forecast over the next 2 weeks. Winds are expected to be a bit higher than normal in the 10-20 mph range into end of July mostly out of the West and NW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid to upper 60’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the afternoon winds in the teens the seas have been a bit higher than normal with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, been in the 2’-3’ range. Forecast through the end of July is for more of the same with winds higher than normal in the 10-20 mph range from the West and SW. The Pacific side sea temps are now running in the 75-81 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside has warmed with temps in the 80-81 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos with upper 70’ south in the Herradura and out near the 1150.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 Spot was a hotspot for Marlin action this past week along with the area southwest of the Lighthouse. The Yellowfin were most often found 20-25 miles out to the south and southwest with the 210 Spot and the San Jamie Bank also being reported as hot spots.  Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino along with some quality Yellowtail in the 20-25 lb range. Rooster action was solid in the surf off Palmilla west past Solmar to the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Slow trolling live mackerel or Cabilitos was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures and throwing live bait to surface fish.  Cedar plugs were the favorite for the Yellowfin. The Dorado were hitting trolled lures and feathers.  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. Live Caballitos were the best for the Yellowtail.

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 in Mazatlan dealt with some thunderstorms this past week and only fished 2 full days.  The When the boats got out they found plentiful summer Dorado close in even for the super pangas.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up again this past week to add to the daily tally and plentiful Dorado added to some great fun and table fare for their anglers. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin, Dorado and Yellowfin Tuna.  The inshore boats had another solid week and reported good action on Snappers and Queen Triggers. With the Dorado close to shore the super pangas also scored nice catches for their anglers.

Over the past week The El Cid fleet only fished a total of 12 offshore days and 5 Super Panga inshore trips due to the thunderstorms in their area...  They reported 7 Striped Marlin, 1 Sailfish, 26 Dorados, and 15 Yellowfin Tuna. Inshore, they reported 50 Snappers and 54 Queen Triggerfish and 20 Corbinas.

Mazatlan Climate: June started with a warming summer weather pattern with scattered thunderstorms and a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for late July is similar with warming to the upper 80’s daytime and upper 70’s in the evenings. The forecast through end of July is for partly cloudy to partly sunny skies with some scattered thunderstorms moving in and breezes lowering to a modest 8-10 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW toward the end of July.  Humidity is predicted to be in the lower 70’s into the end of July for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for a 20%-50% chance of daily precipitation forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming and is now in the 87-88 degree range bringing in the Yellowfin and Dorado. 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 outlooks is for relatively calm seas in the mornings with some afternoon swells and chop with winds pick in the afternoons in the 8-10 mph range.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting about 12-15 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. Longer runs out to 25 miles and warmer water are finding the schools of Yellowfin. 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

With the start of the rainy season there are very few visitors to Zihuatanejo but the fishing conditions in Zihuatanejo are absolutely incredible right now with Striped and Blue Marlin to go along with always plentiful Sailfish but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish! They are doing maintenance on the municipal pier so parking around the pier area is limited and the normally easy loading has been inconvenienced some. The independent fleet reported sparse action but with most boats raising 2-5 billfish fish per day.  Some larger Blue Marlin showed up well offshore. The Yellowfin were again found way out at the 30-35 to 40 mile mark 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 November and large fish are showing up to go with strong catches. Overall fishermen activity was slow as few fishermen showed at the docks to take advantage of the plentiful billfish action.

The action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth started as close as the 8-10mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin were again found 30+ miles out well past the 1000 fathom mark with quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Blue Marlin and Striped Marlin were present along with the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore the Chulas (False Albacore) were very productive and the Roosters were plentiful with some very large fish reported.

IZ Climate: They are now into the start of their rainy season with a mix of mostly sunny and partly cloudy days with almost daily late afternoon and evening thunderstorms beginning to creep in. The 2 week outlook is for even warmer temps with partly sunny and partly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms on a regular basis. Daily temps are predicted in the high 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid 70’s through the end of July.  The winds are expected to be very mild in the 6-10 mph range primarily from the West and SW.  Keep in mind that when we talk about their rainy season, the thunderstorms tend to build in the afternoons coming off the Pacific with the prevailing breezes out of the west pushing the building clouds into the coastal mountains, rain dumping on the mountains in the evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature has stabilized and is now in the 90-91 degrees 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 beginning to bring in the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved as close as 5-6 miles out 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 a in the 89-90 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, Bonito and Chulas. 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 Resort & Marina reported a very successful and busy week. They enjoyed some of the best weather they have had this summer season with no lost time due to thunderstorms and the offshore fishing results continued to produce nice results. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients can 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.

The billfish was a bit slower but fishermen enjoyed a big showing of giant Atlantic Barracuda and quality Mahi-Mahi. Many of the trips were the 4-6 hour trips that tend to target the very productive shallow water reefs. The fleet reported 10 Sailfish, 5 White Marlin, 1 Wahoo, 71 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 39 Mahi-Mahi, 5 Blackfin Tuna and 6 Bonito from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 322 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 51 Mutton Snappers, 37 Black Groupers, and 86 Queen Triggerfish.  A total of 137 offshore fish and 456 inshore fish for a total of 595 fish for an average of almost 6 1/2 fish per trip on a total of 93 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan has settled into its summer weather pattern with very warm days with fewer thunderstorms coming out of their spring pattern.  The extended forecast into  late July calls for a mix of mostly partly cloudy to mostly sunny skies coupled with scattered occasional late afternoon showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend into the early 90’s with evenings in the upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the lower 70’s. Winds are expected lay down a bit in the 7-12 mph range shifting primarily to out of the East and ESE through the end of July. Expect some occasional showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day through the end July.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have warmed to 84-85 degree range.  Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds have shifted toward their summer pattern and are predicted to be out of the East and ESE at 9-14 MPH in the afternoons with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds.

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 07/10/19

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

As Cabo settles into its summer pattern the fleets reported a solid week of fishing. Early in the week they were dealing with some higher winds and strong currents created by hurricane Barbara which passed well to the south.  Things settled down nicely with reports of nice mixed catches reflecting the warmer waters and the summer pattern. The Striped Marlin bite was solid this past week with an average of 2 fish per boat. The 95 and 1150 Spots were the featured locations along with a nice bite just a few miles off the Lighthouse.  The Yellowfin Tuna bite was solid again this past week with quality fish being reported in the 25-30 range mostly 20-25 miles to south and southwest. The 1180 Spot saw a lot of tuna action. The Dorado were running in the 15-20 lb range this past week with some doubles and triples reported close in from the Lighthouse to off Palmilla. Many boats were returning after releasing a marlin or two along with a mix of several tuna and Dorado to provide some table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, Sierras and Yellowtail into the 15-30 lb range as well as some nice Roosterfish particularly from Solmar west to around the Lighthouse.

The prime Striped Marlin activity was reported at the 95 and 1150 Spots on the inside and also a few miles off the Lighthouse. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest but if you found the pods of dolphins you probably found the tuna. The Dorado were scattered from Migrino around the point and to the east off Palmilla. The overall action was slow around the Gordos to the far east for both the Marlin and the Tuna. Some Blue Marlin are showing in the warmer water and we had one report of estimated 300 lb Blue being released after an almost 4 hour fight!

Inshore fishing was really solid with some really nice catches of large Sierras along Migrino. Roosters showed up again in the surf from Solmar to the Lighthouse and off Palmilla. Yellowtails in the 15-30lb range were hitting on live baits off Migrino on the Pacific side.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco.

Cabo Climate:  June ended with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and a bit higher winds than normal.  The future outlook toward the end of July is for warming with mostly sunny skies and average daytime temps in the middle 80’s and evenings in the mid to upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny skies with around a 10% chance of any rain forecast over the next 2 weeks. Winds are expected to be a bit higher than normal in the 10-20 mph range into end of July mostly out of the West and NW.  Humidity is expected to run in the low 70’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the afternoon winds in the teens the seas have been a bit higher than normal with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, been in the 2’ range. Forecast through the end of July is for more of the same with winds higher than normal in the 10-20 mph range from the West and NW. The Pacific side sea temps are running in the 73-74 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside has warmed with temps in the 75-76 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos with upper 70’s south in the Herradura and out near the 1150.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 Spot and the 95 Spot were again hotspots for Marlin action this past week along with the area southwest of the Lighthouse. The Yellowfin were most often found 20-25 miles out to the south and southwest with the 1180 Spot also being reported as a hot spot.  Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino along with some quality Yellowtail in the 20-30 lb range. Rooster action picked up in the surf off Palmilla west past Solmar to the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Slow trolling live mackerel or Cabilitos was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures and throwing live bait to surface fish.  Cedar plugs were the favorite for the Yellowfin. The Dorado were hitting trolled lures and feathers.  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. Live Caballitos were the best for the Yellowtail.

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 in Mazatlan experienced much of the same weather and same seas as Cabo.  The Striped Marlin are now seasonally out numbering the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up again this past week to add to the daily tally and some scattered Dorado added to some great table fare for their anglers. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish Dorado and Yellowfin Tuna.  The inshore boats had another solid week and reported good action on Snappers and Queen Triggers.

Over the past 10 days The El Cid fleet fished a total of 35 offshore days and 12 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 11 Striped Marlin, 3 Sailfish, 18 Dorados, 8 Bonito and 20 Yellowfin Tuna. Inshore, they reported 109 Snappers and 12 Queen Triggerfish.

Mazatlan Climate: June ended with a warming summer weather pattern with a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for late July is favorable with warming to the upper 80’s daytime and mid to upper 70’s in the evenings. The forecast through end of July is for mostly sunny to mostly sunny skies and partly cloudy skies with some scattered thunderstorms moving in and breezes lowering to a modest 8-13 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW toward the end of July.  Humidity is predicted to be in the lower 70’s into late July for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for an almost 20% chance of precipitation forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming a bit and is now in the 84-85 degree range bringing in the Yellowfin and Dorado. 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 outlooks is for relatively calm seas in the mornings with some afternoon swells and chop with winds pick in the afternoons in the 8-13 mph range.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting about 12-15 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. Longer runs out to 25 miles and warmer water are finding the schools of Yellowfin. 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

Zihuatanejo is beginning to settle in to their rainy season but the fishing conditions in Zihuatanejo are absolutely incredible right now with Striped and Blue Marlin to go along with always plentiful Sailfish but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish! They are doing maintenance on the municipal pier so parking around the pier area is limited and the normally easy loading has been inconvenienced some. The independent fleet reported sparse action but with most boats raising 2-5 Marlin or Sailfish fish per day.  Some larger Blue Marlin showed up well offshore. The Yellowfin were again found way out at the 30-35 to 40 mile mark 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 November and large fish are showing up to go with strong catches. Overall fishermen activity was slow as few fishermen showed at the docks to take advantage of the plentiful billfish action.

The action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth started as close as the 8-10mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin were again found 30+ miles out well past the 1000 fathom mark with quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Blue Marlin and Striped Marlin were present along with the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore the Chulas (False Albacore) were very productive and the Roosters were not hard to find.  

IZ Climate: They are now into the start of their rainy season with a mix of mostly sunny and partly cloudy days with almost daily late afternoon and  evening thunderstorms beginning to creep in. The 2 week outlook is for even warmer temps with partly sunny and partly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms on a regular basis. Daily temps are predicted in the high 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid 70’s through the end of July.  The winds are expected to be very mild in the 6-9 mph range primarily from the West and SW.  Keep in mind that when we talk about their rainy season, the thunderstorms tend to build in the afternoons coming off the Pacific with the prevailing breezes out of the west, dump on the mountains in the evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature has stabilized and is now in the 90-91 degrees 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 beginning to bring in the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved as close as 5-6 miles out 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 a in the 89-90 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, Bonito and Chulas. 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 Resort & Marina reported a successful but slower week. They enjoyed some of the best weather they have had this summer season with no lost time due to thunderstorms and the offshore fishing results continued to produce nice results. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients can 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.

The billfish seemed to take the week off but fishermen enjoyed a solid showing of quality Mahi-Mahi. Many of the trips were the 4-6 hour trips that tend to target the very productive shallow water reefs. The fleet reported 2 Sailfish, 1 White Marlin, 1 Wahoo, 12 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 12 Mahi-Mahi, and 3 Blackfin Tuna from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 109 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 21 Mutton Snappers, 15 Black Groupers, and 20 Queen Triggerfish.  A total of 31 offshore fish and 109 inshore fish for a total of 195 fish for an average of almost 8 fish per trip on a total of 25 trips!! Not bad for a “slow” week!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan has settled into its summer weather pattern with very warm days with fewer thunderstorms coming out of their spring pattern.  The extended forecast into  late July calls for a mix of mostly partly cloudy to mostly sunny skies coupled with scattered occasional late afternoon showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend into the upper 80’s and low 90’s with evenings in the upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the lower 70’s. Winds are expected lay down a bit in the 9-14 mph range shifting primarily to out of the East and ESE through the end of July. Expect some occasional showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 20 range almost every day through the end July.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have warmed to 84-85 degree range.  Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds have shifted toward their summer pattern and are predicted to be out of the East and ESE at 9-14 MPH in the afternoons with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds.

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 05/16/19

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

Cabo reported modest week of fishing moving toward the full moon and with the winds lying down a bit.  The overall tourist activity still seems to be a bit slow this year with overall fishing activity a bit below normal. The Striped Marlin bite was solid this past week with a lot of fish clearly turning the corner toward the inside. The 1150 Spot was the featured location with continued good action at the Golden Gate to the NW on the Pacific side.  The Yellowfin Tuna bite was solid again this past week with quality fish being reported up to 100 lbs around the San Jamie bank and the 95 Spot and in the Herradura to the south. The Dorado were spotty this past week. The Wahoo action was positive mostly to the east and the south.  The inshore fishing was very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, Sierras and Yellowtail into the 15-30 lb range as well as some nice Roosterfish coming off the beaches.

The prime Striped Marlin activity was reported at the 1150 Spot on the inside southeast toward the Gordos. This past week the Striped Marlin fishing success on the Pacific side concentrated around the Golden Gate.   The Striped Marlin were a bit picky with most boats averaging only 1-2 fish per day with an occasional 3-4 fish count reported. The Yellowfin were found around the San Jamie banks to the west and in the Herradura to the south and the 95 Spot. The overall action was slow around the Gordos to the far east for both the Marlin and the Tuna.

Inshore fishing was really solid with some really nice catches of large Sierras along Migrino. Roosters showed up again in the surf from Solmar to the Lighthouse and off Palmilla. Yellowtails in the 15-30lb range were hitting on live baits off Migrino on the Pacific side.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco.

Cabo Climate:  May started with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and higher winds than normal.  The future outlook toward the end of May is for warming with mostly sunny skies and pleasant average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the mid to upper 60’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny skies with zero chance of rain forecast over the next 2 weeks. Winds are expected to be a bit higher than normal in the 14-16 mph range into late May mostly out of the West and NW.  Humidity is expected to run in the low 70’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the afternoon winds in the teens the seas have been a bit higher than normal with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, been in the 2’ range. Forecast through late May is for more of the same with winds higher than normal in the 14-16 mph range from the West and NW. The Pacific side sea temps cooled a bit this past week with some colder water plumes with temps running 69-75 with mostly clear water. The inside has warmed with temps in the 72-75 range around the Gordos and out near the 1150.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 Spot and the Golden Gate were the clear hotspots for Marlin action this past week. The Yellowfin were most often found around the San Jamie banks and to the south in the Herradura and around the 95 Spot.   Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino along with some quality Yellowtail in the 20-30 lb range. Rooster action picked up in the surf off Palmilla west past Solmar toward the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Slow trolling live mackerel or Cabilitos was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures and throwing live bait to surface fish.  Cedar plugs were the favorite 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 Roosters. Dead bait was the ticket for the Snappers and Groupers. Live Caballitos were the best for the Yellowtail.

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 in Mazatlan experienced much of the same weather and same seas as Cabo.. Tourist traffic was still down from historical levels but the fishing was solid for the fishermen.  The Striped Marlin are now seasonally out numbering the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up again this past week to add to the daily tally. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish and Yellowfin Tuna.  The inshore boats had another solid week and reported good action on Snappers, Sea Bass  Red Groupers and Queen Triggers.

The El Cid fleet fished a total of 23 offshore days and 12 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 12 Striped Marlin, 1 Sailfish and 22 Yellowfin Tuna. Inshore, they reported 146 Snappers, 90 Sea Bass, 18 Queen Triggerfish and 19 Red Groupers.

Mazatlan Climate: Early May started with pleasant spring weather with a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for late May is favorable with warming to the mid 80’s daytime and mid 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through the end of May is for mostly sunny to mostly sunny skies with breezes lowering to a modest 9-12 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW toward the end of May.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 60’s into late May for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for an almost 0% chance of precipitation forecast over the next couple of weeks with just a couple of days in the 10% probability range.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming a bit and is now in the 74-75 degree range resulting in a seasonal showing of the Striped Marlin. On longer runs out to 25 miles and beyond they are finding 76 degree water and the Yellowfin Tuna. 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 outlooks is for relatively calm seas in the mornings with some afternoon swells and chop with winds pick in the afternoons in the 9-12 mph range.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting about 12-15 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. Longer runs out to 25 miles and warmer water are finding schools of Yellowfin. 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

Following the big International Sailfish Tournament thing settled down quickly in Zihuatanejo with lots of Striped Marlin but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish! The seas turned a bit rough this past week with some strong currents and dispersed temperature conditions. The independent fleet reported sparse action on the plentiful small Striped Marlin with most boats raising 2-4 Marlin or Sailfish fish per day.  Some larger Blue Marlin showed up well offshore. The Yellowfin were again found way out at the 30-35 to 40 mile mark for those willing to go the extra distance in the larger boats.   Overall fishermen activity was slow as few fishermen showed at the docks to take advantage of the plentiful billfish action.

CONGRATULATIONS to Capt Temo Verboonen who guided his clients to a 1^st place finish in the Dorado division of the tournament!!

The action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth started as close as the 8-10mile mark.  Yellowfin were again found 30-40+ miles out well past the 1000 fathom mark with quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Striped Marlin were the prime target surpassing the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore the Chulas (False Albacore) were the most productive inshore bite.  

IZ Climate: They are now into their late spring climate with a mix of mostly sunny and partly cloudy days. The 2 week outlook is for even warmer temps and mostly sunny and partly cloudy skies. Daily temps are predicted in the mid to upper 80’s and night time temps in the low to mid 70’s with humidity expected to run in the upper 70’s through late May. They are now in their dry season and there is little chance of precipitation projected over the couple of weeks with only a few  evenings in the 10% probability range. The winds are expected to be mild in the 9-12 mph range primarily from the West and SW. 

Sea Conditions: The spring offshore water temperature has stabilized and is now warming in the 83-84 degrees 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 beginning to bring in the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved as close as 5-6 miles out 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 a in the 80-81 degree range and a bit green this past week.  

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 Resort & Marina reported a successful but slower week. They enjoyed some of the best weather they have had this spring with no lost time due to thunderstorms and the offshore fishing results continued to produce nice results. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients can opt for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with other 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.

The billfish seemed to take the week off but fishermen enjoyed a solid showing of quality Mahi-Mahi. Many of the trips were the 4-6 hour trips that tend to target the very productive shallow water reefs. The fleet reported 5 Sailfish, 1 White Marlin, 1 Wahoo, 10 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 24 Mahi-Mahi, 2 Bonito, 2 Blackfin Tuna and 1 released Hammerhead shark.  The close in reef fishing reported 61 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 30 Mutton Snappers, 8 Black Groupers, 5 Queen Triggerfish, 6 Banana fish and 3 large Amberjacks.  A total of 45 offshore fish and 1113 inshore fish for a total of 158 fish for an average of 3 1/2 fish per trip on a total of 49 trips!! Not bad for a “slow” week!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms are not unusual with the spring seasonal weather pattern.  The extended forecast into  late May calls for some improvement toward their summer weather with a mix of mostly partly cloudy to sunny skies coupled with scattered occasional showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend into the upper 80’s and evenings in the upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the upper 70’s. Winds are expected lay down a bit in the 10-14 mph range shifting primarily to out of the East and ESE through late May. Expect some occasional showers and scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is from 10-40% almost every day.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have begun warming from their seasonal coolest and are now running in the 82-84 degree range.  Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds have shifted toward their spring/summer pattern and are predicted to be out of the East and ESE at 10-14 MPH in the afternoons with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds.

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 05/09/19

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

Cabo reported an improved week of fishing moving toward the new moon and with the winds lying down a bit.  The overall tourist activity still seems to be a bit slow this year with overall fishing activity a bit below normal. The Striped Marlin picked up this past week with a lot of fish clearly turning the corner toward the inside. The fish seemed to have Following the past full moon action has really picked up at the 1150 Spot in addition to continued good action at the Golden Gate.  The Yellowfin Tuna bite was solid again this past week with quality fish being reported up to 100 lbs around the San Jamie bank and the 95 Spot and in the Herradura to the south. The Dorado were spotty but overall Dorado counts were up slightly – mostly from the Lighthouse east to Palmilla. Some nice Wahoo were reported mostly to the south toward the Herradura.   The inshore fishing was very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, Sierras and Yellowtail into the 15-30 lb range as well as some nice Roosterfish coming off the beaches.

The prime Striped Marlin activity was reported at the 1150 Spot on the inside southeast toward the Gordos. This past week the Striped Marlin fishing success on the Pacific side concentrated around the Golden Gate.   As the week progressed, the fleets reported consistent Striped Marlin results with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day with an occasional 4-5 fish count reported. The Yellowfin were found around the San Jamie banks to the west and in the Herradura to the south and the 95 Spot. The overall action was slow around the Gordos to the far east for both the Marlin and the Tuna.

The 43’ Hatteras the FISH CABO reported 8 Striped Marlin at the 1150 Spot on 4 days of offshore fishing.

Inshore fishing was really solid with some really nice catches of large Sierras along Migrino. Roosters showed up again in the surf from Solmar to the Lighthouse and off Palmilla. Yellowtails in the 15-30lb range were hitting on live baits off Migrino.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco.

Cabo Climate:  May started with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and higher winds than normal.  The future outlook toward middle May is for warming and pleasant average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the mid to upper 60’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with zero chance of rain forecast over the next 2 weeks. Winds are expected to be a bit higher than normal in the 12-17 mph range into late May mostly out of the West and NW.  Humidity is expected to run in the low 70’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the afternoon winds in the teens the seas have been a bit higher than normal with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, been in the 2’ range. Forecast through middle May is for more of the same with winds in the 12-17 mph range from the West and NW. The Pacific side sea temps have stabilized and begun warming with average temperature range running 72-75 with mostly clear water and the inside has also warmed with temps in the 72-74 range around the Gordos with the water clearing substantially in early May.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 Spot and the Golden Gate were the clear hotspots for Marlin action this past week. The Yellowfin were most often found around the San Jamie banks and to the south in the Herradura and around the 95 Spot.   Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino along with some quality Yellowtail in the 20-30 lb range. Rooster action picked up in the surf off Palmilla west past Solmar toward the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Slow trolling live mackerel or Cabilitos was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures. Success is also being found throwing live bait to tailing Marlin on the surface. Cedar plugs were the favorite 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 Roosters. Dead bait was the ticket for the Snappers and Groupers. Live Caballitos were the best for the Yellowtail.

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

Much like in Cabo things improved for our friends at the El Cid Marina in Mazatlan. Tourist traffic was still down from historical levels but the fishing improved with the weather.  The Striped Marlin are now seasonally out numbering the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up again this past week but way offshore. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish and Yellowfin Tuna.  The inshore boats had another solid week and reported good action on Snappers, Sea Bass and Queen Triggers.

The El Cid fleet fished a total of 12 offshore days and 9 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 8 Striped Marlin, 4 Sailfish and 9 Yellowfin Tuna. Inshore, they reported 103 Snappers, 32 Sea Bass and 26 Queen Triggerfish.

Mazatlan Climate: May started with pleasant spring weather with a bit higher winds than normal. The middle of May outlook is favorable with warming to the mid 80’s daytime and mid 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through middle of May is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with breezes lowering to a modest 7-12 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW toward mid May.  Humidity is predicted to be in the low 60’s into mid May for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for an almost 0% chance of precipitation forecast over the next couple of weeks with just a couple of days in the 10% probability range.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming a bit and is now in the 73-75 degree range resulting in a seasonal showing of the Striped Marlin. On longer runs out to 25 miles and beyond they are finding 76 degree water and the Yellowfin Tuna. 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 outlooks is for relatively calm seas in the mornings with some afternoon swells and chop with winds pick in the afternoons in the 7-12 mph range.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting about 12-15 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. Longer runs out to 25 miles and warmer water are finding schools of Yellowfin. 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

Following the big International Sailfish Tournament thing settled down early in the week for a good week in Zihuatanejo with lots of Striped Marlin but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish! The independent fleet reported good action on the plentiful small Striped Marlin with most boats raising 3-6 Marlin or Sailfish fish per day and ideal conditions for fly fishermen being able to tease up the Marlin with hook less lures and then throw streamers to them. Some larger Blue Marlin showed up in the reports. The Yellowfin were again found way out at the 30-35 to 40 mile mark for those willing to go the extra distance.  The Dorado improved this past week with a couple of big bulls being reported. Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks, Chulas (False Albacore) and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week was slow and again mostly to the south.   Capt Temo reports the inshore fishing for Jacks slowed but the action for Chulas (False Albacore) was very productive. Overall fishermen activity was slow as few fishermen showed at the docks to take advantage of the plentiful billfish action.

The REALLY GOOD NEWS from Zihuatanejo is that this year the tournament instituted a 10,000 peso 1^st place prize for Catch & Release so we hope that is the start of a strong movement toward increased release of non-trophy fish in this tournament.

CONGRATULATIONS to Capt Temo Verboonen who guided his clients to a 1^st place finish in the Dorado division of the tournament!!

The action this past week started as close as the 8-10mile mark. The Striped Marlin were very aggressive this past week with ideal conditions for the tease and cast fly fishermen. Yellowfin were again found 30-40+ miles out well past the 1000 fathom mark with quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Striped Marlin were the prime target surpassing the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore the Chulas (False Albacore) were very aggressive for some fantastic fly fishing opportunities.  

IZ Climate: They are now into their late spring climate with a mix of mostly sunny and partly cloudy days. The 2 week outlook is for even warmer temps and mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies. Daily temps are predicted in the mid to upper 80’s and night time temps in the low to mid 70’s with humidity expected to run in the upper 70’s through late May. They are now in their dry season and there is little chance of precipitation projected over the couple of weeks. The winds are expected to be very mild in the 6-10 mph range primarily from the West and SW. 

Sea Conditions: The spring offshore water temperature has stabilized and is now warming in the 83 degrees 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 beginning to bring in the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved as close as 5-6 miles out 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 a in the 80-81 degree range and a bit green this past week.  With breezes in the 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 Resort & Marina reported a very successful week and busy week. They enjoyed some of the best weather they have had this spring with no lost time due to thunderstorms and the offshore fishing results were the best of the spring season. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients can opt for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with other 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. Due to changes in personnel we are reporting on a 4 day week this time.

The billfish seemed to take the week off but fishermen feasted on a really strong showing of quality Mahi-Mahi. With the big schools of Mahi, the majority of the boats targeted the Mahi – even the 4 hour trips that normally hit the very productive shallow water reefs. The fleet reported 1 Sailfish, 1 White Marlin, 2 Wahoo, 5 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 2 King Mackerel, 85 Mahi-Mahi, 7 Bonito, and 5 Blackfin Tuna.  The close in reef fishing reported 39 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 10 Mutton Snappers, 4 Black Groupers, 13 Queen Triggerfish and 2 large Amberjacks.  A total of 108 offshore fish and 68 inshore fish for a 4 day total of 176 fish for an average of over 5 fish per trip on a total of 33 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms are not unusual with the spring seasonal weather pattern.  The extended forecast into mid to late May calls for some improvement toward their summer weather with a mix of mostly partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend into the upper 80’s and evenings in the upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid 70’s. Winds are expected lay down a bit in the 10-15 mph range shifting primarily to out of the East and ESE through mid to late May. Expect some occasional showers and scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is from 10-60% almost every day.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have begun warming from their seasonal coolest and are now running in the 82-83 degree range.  Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds have shifted toward their spring/summer pattern and are predicted to be out of the East and ESE at 10-15 MPH with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds.

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 05/02/19

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

Cabo reported a mixed week of fishing which is not unusual for this season.  The overall tourist activity seems to be a bit slow this year with many of the boats having several days between trips. The Striped Marlin were finicky late last week but things warmed up going into mid week. The fish seemed to have turned the corner after the full moon and good counts are now being reported from the 1150 Spot in addition to continued good action at the Golden Gate and San Jamie Banks. The Yellowfin Tuna bite was solid again last week with mid size fish being reported around the San Jamie bank and in the Herradura to the south. The Dorado were again a bit scarce but Dorado counts were up – mostly from the Lighthouse east to Palmilla. Some nice Wahoo were reported mostly to the south toward the Herradura.   The inshore fishing was very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, Sierras and Yellowtail into the 15-30 lb range.

This past week the Striped Marlin fishing success on the Pacific side concentrated around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks.   Solid counts were also reported at the 1150 Spot on the inside toward the Gordos with some decent action also being reported as close as 12-14 miles to the south.  As the week progressed, the fleets reported consistent Striped Marlin results with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin were also found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks to the west and in the Herradura to the south and also to the southwest a little closer than last week with mostly mid-sized fish in the 15-30 lb range. The overall action was slow around the Gordos to the east for both the Marlin and the Tuna.

The 43’ Hatteras the FISH CABO reported back to back days of success at the 1150 with releases of 3 Marlin the first day and 2 the second day.

Inshore fishing was really solid with some really nice catches of large Sierras along Migrino. Roosters were spotty this past week with some success from Solmar to the Lighthouse and off Palmilla. Yellowtails in the 15-30lb range were hitting on live baits off Migrino.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco.

Cabo Climate:  April produced some nice spring weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies but higher winds than normal.  The future outlook toward mid May is for warming and pleasant average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the mid to upper 60’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly partly cloudy to sunny skies with zero chance of rain forecast into mid May. Winds are expected to be a bit higher than normal in the 12-1 mph range into mid May mostly out of the West and NW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 60’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the winds in the teens the seas have been a bit higher than normal with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Forecast through mid May is for more of the same with winds in the 10-16 mph range from the West and NW. The Pacific side sea temps have stabilized considerably with average temperature range running 72-75 with mostly clear water and the inside has also warmed with temps in the 72-74 range around the Gordos with the water clearing this past week.

Best Fishing Areas:  The Golden Gate and San Jamie banks and the 1150 Spot were the clear hotspot for Marlin action this past week. The Yellowfin were most often found around the San Jamie banks and to the south to the Herradura and to the Southwest as close as 15 miles.   Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino along with some quality Yellowtail in the 20-30 lb range.

Favorite Baits: Slow trolling live mackerel was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures. Success is also being found throwing live bait to tailing Marlin on the surface. Cedar plugs were the favorite 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 Roosters. Dead bait was the ticket for the Snappers and Groupers. Live Caballitos were the best for the Yellowtail.

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

It was a bit of a tough week for our friends at the El Cid Marina in Mazatlan. Tourist traffic was down considerably and coupled with some high winds and rougher seas things were quite slow at the marina. The Striped Marlin are now seasonally out numbering the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for.  The Yellowfin Tuna that had made a good showing the past 2 weeks disappeared a bit this past week and were way offshore. Their inshore fishing produced solid results in spite of the winds.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish and Yellowfin Tuna.  The inshore boats had another solid week and reported good action on Snappers and Queen Triggers whether on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet only fished a total of 7 offshore days and 5 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 3 Striped Marlin, 2 Sailfish and 3 Yellowfin Tuna. Inshore, they reported 93 Snappers and 16 Queen Triggerfish.

Mazatlan Climate: April produced pleasant spring weather with a bit higher winds than normal. The early May outlook is favorable with warming to the mid 80’s daytime and mid 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through mid May is for mostly sunny and partly cloudy skies with breezes in a modest 9-12 mph range primarily out of the WNW trending toward the West toward mid May.  Humidity is predicted to be in the low 60’s going into mid May for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for a 0% chance of precipitation forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming a bit and is now in the 73-75 degree range resulting in a seasonal showing of the Striped Marlin. On longer runs out to 25 miles and beyond they are finding 76 degree water and the Yellowfin Tuna. The past week Mazatlan had a mix mostly calm to somewhat rough seas mixed with some strong afternoon swells and chop with winds in the early to mid 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 in the 9-12 mph range.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting about 12-15 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. Longer runs out to 25 miles and warmer water are finding schools of Yellowfin. 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

Another good week in Zihuatanejo with lots of Striped Marlin but very few fishermen around in their off season to take advantage of the abundance of billfish! The independent fleet reported good action on the plentiful Striped Marlin with most boats raising 5-8 fish per day and ideal conditions for fly fishermen being able to tease up the Marlin with hook less lures and then throw streamers to them. As always, there was the normal Sailfish mix and a few smaller Blue Marlin reported. The Yellowfin were again found way out at the 30-35 to 40 mile mark for those willing to go the extra distance.  The Dorado improved this past week with a couple of big bulls being reported. Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks, Chulas (False Albacore) and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week was spotty to slow and again mostly to the south.   Capt Temo reports the inshore fishing for Jacks remained very productive. Fishing activity was slow as few fishermen showed at the docks to take advantage of the plentiful billfish action.

This will all change this week as the 36^th Annual International Sailfish Tournament comes to town and kicks off on Friday. It will likely take several weeks for things to settle down after 300 boats pound the water for 3 days.

The action this past week started as close as the 10-12 mile mark. The Striped Marlin were very aggressive this past week with ideal conditions for the tease and cast fly fishermen. Yellowfin were again found 30-40+ miles out well past the 1000 fathom mark with quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Striped Marlin were the prime target surpassing the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore the Bonito, False Albacore and the Jacks were very aggressive for some fantastic fly fishing opportunities.  The White Rocks was again a hot spot this past week for the big Jacks with big schools of fish reported. The best Rooster counts when found were again to the south toward Vicente Guerrero.

IZ Climate: They are now into their late spring climate with a mix of mostly sunny and partly cloudy days. The 2 week outlook is for even warmer temps and mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies. Daily temps are predicted in the mid to upper 80’s and night time temps in the low to mid 70’s with humidity expected to run in the 80’s through mid May. They are now in their dry season and there is little chance of precipitation projected over the couple of weeks. The winds are expected to be relatively mild in the 8-11 mph range primarily from the West and SW. 

Sea Conditions: The spring offshore water temperature stabilized and is now in the 83 degrees range from the 5-6 mile mark at the 100 fathom line all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles and beyond.  These temps are beginning to bring in the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved as close as 5-6 miles out 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 a in the 80-81 degree range and clearing this past week.  With breezes in the upper 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 Resort & Marina reported a very successful week and busy week. They enjoyed some of the best weather they have had this spring with no lost time due to thunderstorms and the offshore fishing results were the best of the spring season. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients can opt for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with other 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.

The billfish had another strong showing this past week with their spring migration along with a really strong showing of quality Mahi-Mahi. The fleet reported 10 Sailfish, 8 White Marlin, 7 Wahoo, 24 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 2 King Mackerel, 57 Mahi-Mahi, 11 Bonito, 11 Blackfin Tuna and 1 released Hammerhead shark.  The close in reef fishing reported 121 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 19 Mutton Snappers, 33 Black Groupers, 45 Queen Triggerfish and 11 Jacks.  A total of 130 offshore fish and 229 inshore fish for a weekly total of 359 fish for an average of over 4 1/2 fish per trip on a total of 79 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms are not unusual with the spring seasonal weather pattern.  The extended forecast into mid May calls for some improvement toward their summer weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend into the upper 80’s and evenings in the upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the low to mid 70’s. Winds are expected to be a bit stronger than normal in the 12-17 mph range shifting primarily to out of the East and ESE through mid May. Expect some occasional showers and scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is from 10-60% almost every day.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have begun warming from their seasonal coolest and are now running in the 82-83 degree range.  Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds have shifted toward their spring/summer pattern and are predicted to be out of the East and ESE at 12-17 MPH with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds.

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 04/26/19

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

Cabo reported a solid although not spectacular week of fishing following the full moon.  Many believe the pelagic species move on their normal migration pattern on the full moon and then settle in to the local schools of baitfish. The Striped Marlin fishing was mostly on the Pacific side with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin Tuna bite was solid again last week and was also mostly on the Pacific side. The Dorado were again a bit scarce with few Wahoo on the board this past week.   The inside fishing was very productive with some great counts of Snappers, Groupers, Sierras and Yellowtail into the 20-30 lb range.

This past week the Striped Marlin fishing success on the Pacific side concentrated around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks.   Overall, the fleets reported consistent Striped Marlin results with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin were also found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks to the west and in the Herradura to the south and also to the southwest a little closer than last week with most fish in the 15-30 lb range. The overall action was slow around the Gordos to the east for both the Marlin and the Tuna.

Inshore fishing was really solid with some really nice catches of large Sierras along Migrino. Roosters were very spotty this past week.  Quality sized Yellowtail to 20-30 lbs were hitting on live baits off Migrino.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco.

Cabo Climate:  April has produced nice spring weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies but higher winds than normal.  The future outlook toward late April into early May is for warming and pleasant average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the mid to upper 60’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy sunny skies with zero chance of rain forecast into early May. Winds are expected to lower a bit into high single digits to mid teens in 9-15 mph range into early May mostly out of the West and NW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 60’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the winds in the teens the seas have been a bit higher than normal with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Forecast is for a little more stable water with winds in the 9-15 mph range from the West and NW. The Pacific side sea temps have stabilized considerably with average temperature range running 71-74 with mostly clear water and the inside has also warmed with temps in the 72-74 range around the Gordos with a mix of clear to greener water.

Best Fishing Areas:  The Golden Gate and the San Jamie banks were the clear hotspot for Marlin action this past week. Action on the inside around toward the Gordos was slow and spotty this past week. The Yellowfin were most often found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks and to the south at the Herradura and to the Southwest as close as 15 miles.   Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino along with some quality Yellowtail in the 20-30 lb range.

Favorite Baits: Slow trolling live mackerel was the favorite for the Marlin. Cedar plugs were the favorite 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. Dead bait was the ticket for the Snappers and Groupers. Live Caballitos were the best for the Yellowtail.

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

Spring weather and warmer water temperatures balanced against higher winds brought some solid fishing although the Yellowfin seemed to disappear for the offshore fishing. The Striped Marlin are seasonally out numbering the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing produced exceptional results. Tourist activity was very modest this past week but the El Cid fleet rewarded many first time anglers with good action.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin and Sailfish.  The inshore boats had another solid week and reported excellent action on Snappers, Sea Bass, Queen Triggers and Corbinas whether on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total of 20 offshore days and 13 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 9 Striped Marlin and 5 Sailfish. Inshore, they reported 180 Snappers, 20 Sea Bass, 21 Queen Triggerfish, 15 Corbinas and 10 Jacks.

Mazatlan Climate: April produced pleasant spring weather and the early May outlook is favorable with warming to the mid 80’s daytime and mid 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through early May is for mostly sunny and partly cloudy skies with breezes in a modest 8-13 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW toward mid May.  Humidity is predicted to be in the low 60’s going into early May for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for a 0% chance of precipitation forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming a bit and is now in the 74-75 degree range resulting in a seasonal showing of the Striped Marlin. On longer runs out to 25 miles and beyond they are finding 76 degree water. The past week Mazatlan had mostly calm seas mixed with some afternoon swells and chop with winds in the early 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 12-15 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. 

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

A great week in Zihuatanejo with lots of Striped Marlin but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish! The independent fleet reported a strong bite on the plentiful Striped Marlin with most boats raising 6-8 fish per day and ideal conditions for fly fishermen being able to tease up the Marlin with hook less lures and then throw streamers to them. As always, there was the normal Sailfish mix and a few smaller Blue Marlin reported. The Yellowfin were again found way out at the 30-35 to 40 mile mark for those willing to go the extra distance.  The Dorado were very spotty this past week. Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks, Chulas (False Albacore) and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week was spotty to slow but and mostly to the south.   Capt Temo reports the inshore fishing for Jacks remained very productive. Fishing activity was slow as few fishermen showed at the docks to take advantage of the plentiful billfish action. Next weekend they will have their annual International Billfish Tournament.

The action this past week started at the 10-12 mile mark. The Striped Marlin were very aggressive this past week ideal conditions for the tease and cast fly fishermen. Yellowfin were again found 30-40+ miles out well past the 1000 fathom mark with quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Striped Marlin were the prime target surpassing the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore the Bonito, False Albacore and the Jacks were very aggressive for some fantastic fly fishing opportunities.  The White Rocks was again a hot spot this past week for the big Jacks with big schools of fish reported. The best Rooster counts when found were again to the south toward Vicente Guerrero.

IZ Climate: They are now into their spring climate with a mix of mostly sunny and partly cloudy days. The 2 week outlook is for even warmer temps and mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the low to mid 70’s with humidity expected to run in the 70’s through early May. They are now in their dry season and there is no precipitation projected over the couple of weeks. The winds are expected to be relatively mild in the 8-11 mph range primarily from the West and WSW. 

Sea Conditions: The spring offshore water temperature stabilized and is now in the 83 degrees range from the 5-6 mile mark at the 100 fathom line all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles and beyond.  These temps are beginning to bring in the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. Inshore temperatures have warmed a bit and are now at 80-81. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved as close as 5-6 miles out 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 a in the 80-81 degree range and a bit off color this past week which was actually very good for the top water action. With breezes in the upper 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 Resort & Marina reported a successful week even with less tourist activity as spring break tourism winds down. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with other opting for the 6 hour or 8 hour offshore trips mixed with a few hours on the close in reefs for some table fare.

The Atlantic Sailfish had another strong showing this past week with their spring migration along with a nice showing of quality Mahi-Mahi. The fleet reported 18 Sailfish, 2 White Marlin, 4 Wahoo, 12 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 2 King Mackerel, 14 Mahi-Mahi, 21 Bonito, and 4 Blackfin Tuna.  The close in reef fishing reported 122 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 24 Mutton Snappers, 19 Black Groupers, 28 Queen Triggerfish and 8 Jacks.  A total of 278 fish for an average of almost 7 fish per trip!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms continued with the spring seasonal weather pattern.  The extended forecast into early May calls for some improvement toward their summer weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend into the mid to upper 80’s and evenings in the mid to upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the low 70’s. Winds are expected to continue in the 10-14 mph range shifting primarily to out of the East and ESE through early May. Expect some occasional showers and scattered thunderstorms.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have been at their seasonal coolest and are now starting to warm again and are running in the 82-83 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 10-14 MPH with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds.

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 04/18/19

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

Cabo reported a solid although not spectacular week of fishing heading into the full moon. The Striped Marlin fishing was mostly on the Pacific side with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin Tuna bite picked up a bit and also mostly on the Pacific side. The Dorado were again a bit scarce and a few more Wahoo appeared this past week.  A few bonus acrobatic Makos were reported off the San Jamie and Golden Gate banks. The inside fishing was very productive with some great counts of Snappers, Groupers, Sierras and Yellowtail into the 30 lb range.

This past week the Striped Marlin fishing success on the Pacific side again concentrated around the Golden Gate.   Overall, the fleets reported consistent Striped Marlin results with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin were also found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks to the west and in the Herradura to the south with most fish in the 15-30 lb range. The overall action was slow around the Gordos to the east for both the Marlin and the Tuna.

Inshore fishing was really solid with some really nice catches of large Sierras along Migrino. Roosters were again spotty this past week.  Quality sized Yellowtail to 30 lbs were hitting on live baits off Migrino.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco.

Cabo Climate:  April started with nice spring weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies but higher winds than normal.  The future outlook toward late April is for warming and pleasant average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the mid 60’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy sunny skies with zero chance of rain forecast through late April. Winds are expected to continue a bit higher than normal in the low teens in the 11-17 mph range into late April mostly out of the West and SW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 60’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the winds in the teens the seas have been a bit higher than normal with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Forecast is for more of the same with winds in the 11-17 mph range from the West and SW. The Pacific side sea temps have stabilized considerably with average temperature range running 72-74 with mostly clear water and the inside has also warmed with temps in the 72-74 range around the Gordos with a mix of clear to greener water.

Best Fishing Areas:  The Golden Gate was the clear hotspot for Marlin action this past week. Action on the inside around toward the Gordos was slow and spotty this past week. The Yellowfin were most often found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks and to the south at the Herradura.   Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino along with some quality Yellowtail in the 30 lb range.

Favorite Baits: Slow trolling live mackerel was the favorite for the Marlin. Cedar plugs were the favorite 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. Dead bait was the ticket for the Snappers and Groupers. Live Caballitos were the best for the Yellowtail.

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

Spring weather and warmer water temperatures balanced against higher winds brought some solid fishing with the Yellowfin again adding to the success of their offshore fishing. The Striped Marlin are seasonally out numbering the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing produced exceptional results. Tourist activity was modest this past week but the El Cid fleet was busy with many first time anglers they rewarded with good action.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, and Yellowfin Tuna. The Yellowfin Tuna were found a bit further out than the prime Marlin billfish bite. The inshore boats had another big week and reported excellent action on Snappers, Sea Bass, Queen Triggers and Corbinas whether on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total of 20 offshore days and 10 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 11 Striped Marlin, 3 Sailfish, and 20 Yellowfin from offshore. Inshore, they reported 135 Snappers, 110 Sea Bass, 16 Queen Triggerfish, 50 Corbinas and 6 Jacks.

Mazatlan Climate: April started with pleasant spring weather and the late April outlook is favorable with warming to the mid 80’s daytime and mid 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through late April is for mostly sunny and partly cloudy skies with breezes in a modest 9-12 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW later in April.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 60’s going into late April for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for a 0% chance of precipitation forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming a bit and is now in the 74-75 degree range resulting in a seasonal showing of the Striped Marlin and more Yellowfin Tuna. On longer runs out to 25 miles and beyond they are finding 76 degree water. The past week Mazatlan had mostly calm seas mixed with some afternoon swells and chop with winds in the early 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 12-15 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. The Yellowfin are being found a bit further out toward the 20-25 mile mark. 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

A mixed week in Zihuatanejo with very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish! The independent fleet reported a spotty and picky bite on the plentiful Striped Marlin with most boats raising 6-8 fish per day but only hooking 2-3. As always, there was the normal Sailfish mix and a few smaller Blue Marlin reported. The Yellowfin were again found way out at the 30-35 to 40 mile mark for those willing to go the extra distance.  The Dorado were very spotty this past week. Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks, Chulas (False Albacore) and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week was spotty to slow but and mostly to the south.   Capt Temo reports the inshore fishing for Jacks remained very positive. Fishing activity was slow as few fishermen showed at the docks to take advantage of the plentiful billfish.

The action this past week started at the 10-12 mile mark. The Striped Marlin were picky this past week with far more fish seen and raised than hit the lure spread.  The Yellowfin were again found 30-35+ miles out well past the 1000 fathom mark with quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Striped Marlin were the prime target surpassing the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore the Bonito and the Jacks were very aggressive for some fantastic fly fishing opportunities.  The White Rocks was again a hot spot this past week for the big Jacks with big schools of fish reported. The best Rooster counts when found were again to the south toward Vicente Guerrero.

IZ Climate: They are now into their spring climate with a mix of mostly sunny and partly cloudy days. The 2 week outlook is for even warmer temps and mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the low to mid 70’s with humidity expected to run in the 70’s through late April. They are now in their dry season and there is no precipitation projected over the couple of weeks. The winds are expected to be relatively mild in the 8-10 mph range primarily from the West and WSW. 

Sea Conditions: The spring offshore water temperature stabilized and is now in the 83 degrees range from the 5-6 mile mark at the 100 fathom line all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles and beyond.  These temps are beginning to bring in the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. Inshore temperatures have warmed a bit and are now at 80-81. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved as close as 5-6 miles out 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 a in the 80 degree range and a bit off color this past week which was actually very good for the top water action. With breezes in the upper 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 Resort & Marina reported a busy and successful week even with losing 2 days to port closure due to spring thunderstorms. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with other opting for the 6 hour or 8 hour offshore trips mixed with a few hours on the close in reefs for some table fare.

The Atlantic Sailfish had a strong showing this past week with their spring migration along with a nice showing of quality Mahi-Mahi. The fleet reported 19 Sailfish, 1 White Marlin, 3 Wahoo, 10 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 1 King Mackerel, 15 Mahi-Mahi, 20 Bonito, and 6 Blackfin Tuna.  The close in reef fishing reported 148 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 21 Mutton Snappers, 24 Black Groupers, 38 Queen Triggerfish and 6 Jacks.  A total of 311 fish for an average of 6 fish per trip!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms continued with the spring seasonal weather pattern.  They experienced 2 days of port closure due to thunderstorms. The extended forecast into late April calls for some improvement toward their spring/summer weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend into the mid to upper 80’s and evenings in the mid 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the low 70’s. Winds are expected to up a bit in the 10-14 mph range shifting primarily to out of the ESE through late April. Expect some occasional showers and scattered thunderstorms.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have been at their seasonal coolest and are now starting to warm again and are running in the 81-82 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 10-14 MPH with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds.

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 04/11/19

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

Cabo reported another solid week of fishing coming off the new moon with more consistently warmer water temperatures and clearer water. The Striped Marlin fishing was mostly on the Pacific side with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day but some reporting 6 or more hookups. The Yellowfin Tuna bite down a bit and also mostly on the Pacific side. The Dorado were again a bit scarce but with the outlook much improved as the water warms up both outside and inside. The Wahoo were spotty with minimal success reported. A few bonus acrobatic Makos were reported off the San Jamie and Golden Gate banks. The inside fishing was very productive with some great counts of quality Jacks, Snappers, Groupers, Sierras and Yellowtail into the 30 lb range.

This past week the Striped Marlin fishing success on the Pacific side concentrated around the Golden Gate.   Overall, the fleets reported consistent Striped Marlin results with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin were also found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks to the west but the action was slow around the Gordos to the east with some quality fish there but very finicky.

Inshore fishing was really solid with nice catches of schools of Skipjacks with the Sierras and Jacks showing in good numbers from Solmar to El Arco and around toward Migrino. Roosters were again spotty this past week.  Quality sized Yellowtail to 30 lbs were hitting on live baits. Some nice catches of Sierras were reported off Migrino. Some very nice catches of Red Snappers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco.

Cabo Climate:  April started with nice spring weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies.. The future outlook toward late April is for warming and pleasant average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the mid 60’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy sunny skies with zero chance of rain forecast through late April. Winds are expected to continue in the low teens in the 9-14 mph range late April mostly out of the West and SW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 60’s.

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 9-14 mph range from the West and SW. The Pacific side sea temps stabilized considerably with average temperature range running 72-74 and the inside also warmed with temps in the 72-74 range around the Gordos.

Best Fishing Areas:  The Golden Gate was the clear hotspot for Marlin and Tuna action this past week. Action on the inside around toward the Gordos was slow and spotty this past week.  The Golden Gate was the prime Striper destination this past week with some success reported around the San Jamie bank.  The Yellowfin were most often found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks with some success reported at the 1150 Sport.  There were quality Yellowfin reported around the Gordos but they were very picky and mostly succumbed to live bait. Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing.

Favorite Baits: Slow trolling live mackerel was the favorite for the Marlin. Cedar plugs were the favorite for the Yellowfin along with feathers. 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. Dead bait was the ticket for the Snappers and Groupers. Live Caballitos were the best for the Yellowtail.

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

Spring weather and warmer water temperatures brought solid fishing with the Yellowfin again adding to the success of their offshore fishing and the Striped Marlin are seasonally out numbering the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing produced exceptional results. Tourist activity was modest this past week but the El Cid fleet was busy with many first time anglers they rewarded with good action.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, and Yellowfin Tuna. The Yellowfin Tuna were found a bit further out than the prime Marlin billfish bite. The inshore boats had another big week and reported excellent action on Snappers, Sea Bass, Queen Triggers and Corbinas whether on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total of 22 offshore days and 10 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 12 Striped Marlin, 2 Sailfish, and 22 Yellowfin from offshore. Inshore, they reported 153 Snappers, 130 Sea Bass, 21 Queen Triggerfish, 70 Corbinas and 4 Jacks.

Mazatlan Climate: April started with pleasant spring weather and the late April outlook is favorable with warming to the mid 80’s daytime and mid 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through late April is for mostly sunny with a few partly cloudy skies with breezes in a modest 10-12 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW later in April.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 60’s going into late April for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for a 0% chance of precipitation forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has warming a bit and is now in the 74-75 degree range resulting in a seasonal showing of the Striped Marlin and more Yellowfin Tuna. On longer runs out to 25 miles and beyond they are finding 76 degree water. The past week Mazatlan had mostly calm seas with some afternoon swells and chop with winds in the early 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 12-15 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. The Yellowfin are being found a bit further out toward the 20-25 mile mark. 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

A fantastic week in Zihuatanejo with very few fishermen around to take advantage of it! The independent fleet reported a great bite on the Striped Marlin with most boats raising 6-8 fish per day. As always, there was the normal Sailfish mix and a few smaller Blue Marlin reported. The Yellowfin were again found way out at the 30-35 to 40 mile mark for those willing to go the extra distance.  The Dorado were spotty this past week. Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks, Chulas (False Albacore) and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week was spotty but still successful.   Capt Temo reports the inshore fishing for Jacks remained HOT! Large schools of quality Jacks were reported off the white rocks. Fishing activity was slow as few fishermen showed at the docks to take advantage of the fabulous billfish action. Hopefully the Striped Marlin holds up for the coming 2 week Semana Santa holiday.

The action this past week started at the 10-12 mile mark and the overall action was fast and furious this past week with most of the boats reporting at least 4-6 Striped Marlin hits along with 1-2 Sailfish for their clients. The Yellowfin were found 30-35+ miles out well past the 1000 fathom mark with quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Striped Marlin became very active this past week and were the prime target surpassing the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore the Bonito the Jacks were very aggressive for some fantastic fly fishing opportunities.  The White Rocks was again a hot spot this past week for the big Jacks with large schools of fish reported. The best Rooster counts when found were again to the south toward Vicente Guerrero.

IZ Climate: They are headed into their spring climate with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy days. The 2 week outlook is for even warmer temps and mostly sunny skies. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the low to mid 70’s with humidity expected to run in the 70’s through late April. They are now in their dry season and there is no precipitation projected over the couple of weeks. The winds are expected to be relatively mild in the 8-11 mph range primarily from the West and WSW. 

Sea Conditions: The spring offshore water temperature stabilized and is now in the 83 degrees range from the 5-6 mile mark at the 100 fathom line all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles.  These temps are beginning to bring in the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. Inshore temperatures have warmed a bit and are now at 80-81. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved as close as 5-6 miles out with some very deep blue water now out beyond the 1000 fathom mark at 32-35 miles out. Inshore, the water was a bit off color this past week which was actually very good for the top water action. With breezes in the upper 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 Resort & Marina reported a busy and successful week with family spring break activity. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with other opting for the 6 hour or 8 hour offshore trips mixed with a few hours on the close in reefs for some table fare.

The Wahoo and Atlantic White Marlin provided a bonus showing this past week to spice up the offshore action along with continued strong showing of quality Mahi-Mahi. The fleet reported 10 Sailfish, 4 White Marlin, 18 Wahoo, 17 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 16 King Mackerel, 26 Mahi-Mahi, 40 Bonito, and 7 Blackfin Tuna.  The close in reef fishing reported 191 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 50 Mutton Snappers, 13 Black Groupers, 34 Queen Triggerfish and 4 Jacks.  A total of 431 fish for an average of over 6 ½ fish per trip!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms continued with the spring seasonal weather pattern.  They experienced 1 day of port closure due to thunderstorms. The extended forecast into late April calls for an improvement toward their spring/summer weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend into the mid to upper 80’s and evenings in the mid 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the low 70’s. Winds are expected to be modest in the 9-15 mph range shifting primarily out of the ESE through late April. Expect some occasional showers and scattered thunderstorms.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have been at their seasonal coolest and are now starting to warm again and are running in the 81-82 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 some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds.

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 04/04/19

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

Another week of improved fishing heading into the new moon and with more consistently warmer water temperatures and clearer water. The Striped Marlin fishing was mostly on the Pacific side with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin Tuna success was also on the Pacific side and counts were up with many limits of “football” tuna in 15-30 lb range reported.  The Dorado were again a bit scarce but with the outlook much improved as the water warms up both outside and inside. The Wahoo seemed to turn off with only spotty success reported. A few bonus acrobatic Makos were reported off the San Jamie and Golden Gate banks. The inside fishing was very productive with some great counts of quality Snappers, Groupers, and Yellowtail into the 30 lb range.

The Striped Marlin fishing success on the Pacific side concentrated around the Golden Gate and San Jamie Banks. Overall, the fleets reported consistent Striped Marlin results with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin were readily found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks to the west but the action was slow around the Gordos to the east.

Inshore fishing was really solid with nice catches of schools of Skipjacks with the Sierras and Jacks showing in good numbers from Solmar to El Arco and around toward Migrino. Roosters were spotty this past week.  Quality sized Yellowtail to 30 lbs are hitting on live baits. Some nice catches of Sierras were reported off Migrino. Some very nice catches of Red Snappers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco.

Cabo Climate:  March was a bit cooler and windier than normal with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with late March and early April warming a bit with mostly overcast skies. The future outlook toward mid April is for warming and pleasant average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the mid 60’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy sunny skies with zero chance of rain forecast through mid to late April. Winds are expected to continue in the low teens in the 11-14 mph range late April mostly out of the West and SW.  Humidity is expected to run in the upper 60’s.

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 11-14 mph range from the West and SW. The Pacific side sea temps stabilized considerably with average temperature range running 72-74 and the inside also warmed with temps in the 72-73 range around the Gordos.

Best Fishing Areas:  The Marlin hot spots this past week were on the Pacific side and shifted offshore a bit. Action on the inside around toward the Gordos was slow and spotty this past week.  The Golden Gate and the San Jamie banks were the prime Striper destination this past week.  The Yellowfin were most often found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks while action around the Gordos slowed significantly.  The best catches of Dorado seemed to be on the inside off Palmilla and Punta Gorda.  

Favorite Baits: Slow trolling live mackerel was the favorite for the Marlin. Cedar plugs were the favorite for the Yellowfin along with feathers. 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. Dead bait was the ticket for the Snappers and Groupers. Live Caballitos were the best for the Yellowtail.

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 once again added to the success of their offshore fishing and the Striped Marlin are seasonally out numbering the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing continued to produce solid results. Tourist activity was down just a bit this past week but the El Cid fleet was busy with many first time anglers that rewarded with good action.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, and Yellowfin Tuna. The Yellowfin Tuna had a solid showing later in the week. The inshore boats had another big week and reported good action on Snappers, Sea Bass and Queen Triggers whether on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total of 24 offshore days and 10 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 9 Striped Marlin, 6 Sailfish, and 24 Yellowfin from offshore. Inshore, they reported 168 Snappers, 98 Sea Bass, and 12 Queen Triggerfish and 8 Jacks.

Mazatlan Climate: March was cooler than normal but the April outlook is favorable with low 80’s daytime and low 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through mid to late April is for mostly sunny with a few partly cloudy skies with breezes in a modest  9-11 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW later in April.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 60’s going into early April for very pleasant fishing conditions. There is only a 10% chance of precipitation forecast over the next couple of weeks and that concentrated in a 2 day period.

Sea Conditions: The water has warming a bit and is now in the 72-74 degree range resulting in a seasonal showing of the Striped Marlin but fewer Sailfish sightings until the water warms again a bit. On longer runs out to 25 miles they are finding 75 degree water. The past week Mazatlan had mostly calm seas 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. The Yellowfin are being found a bit further out toward the 15-25 mile mark. 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

This was an exceptional week for Zihuatanejo! The independent fleet reported a great week of mixed bite on the Striped Marlin along with some smaller Blue Marlin combined with solid Sailfish action. The Yellowfin were again found way out at the 30-35 mile mark for those willing to go the extra distance.  The Dorado were spotty this past week. Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks, Chulas (False Albacore) and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week was spotty but still successful.   Capt Temo reports the inshore fishing for Jacks remained HOT! Large schools of quality Jacks were reported off the white rocks. Fishing activity was up a bit as more fishermen showed at the docks to take advantage of the fabulous billfish action. They are getting ready for a large influx of local Mexican tourists for their 2 week Semana Santa holiday.

The action this past week started at the 10 mile mark and the overall action was solid this past week with most of the boats reporting at least 1-2 Sailfish for their clients along with many Striped Marlin and smaller Blue Marlin.  The Yellowfin were found 30-35 miles out well past the 1000 fathom mark with fish in the 50--75 lb range. The Blue Marlin and Striped Marlin moved in as close as 12 miles out just past the prime Sailfish bite and were very active this past week likely equaling the Sailfish bite. Inshore the Bonito the Jacks were very aggressive for some fantastic fly fishing opportunities.  The White Rocks was again a hot spot this past week for the big Jacks with large schools of fish reported. The best Rooster counts when found were again to the south toward Vicente Guerrero.

IZ Climate: They are headed into their early spring climate with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy days. The 2 week outlook is for even warmer temps and mostly sunny skies. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the low to mid 70’s with humidity expected to run in the 70’s through mid to late April. They are now in their dry season and there is no precipitation projected over the couple of weeks. The winds are expected to be relatively mild in the 8-11 mph range primarily from the West and WSW. 

Sea Conditions: The spring offshore water temperature stabilized and is now in the 83 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.  These temps are beginning to bring in the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. Inshore temperatures have warmed a bit and are now at 81-82. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved as close as 5-6 miles out with some very deep blue water now at the 1000 fathom mark at 32-35 miles out. Inshore, the water is a bit cooler and clearing each week. With breezes in the upper 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 Resort & Marina reported a busy and successful week with family spring break activity. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with other opting for the 6 hour or 8 hour offshore trips.

We did not get the detailed spreadsheet report this past week but our friends at the El Cid Marina reported overall great results for the tourists on Spring Break. Due to the seasonal weather with occasional showers and thunderstorms, many 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 offshore bit was highlighted by another solid showing the spring Sailfish migration and solid counts of Mahi-Mahi on almost every trip along with a mix of King Mackerel and Giant Atlantic Barracuda, along with some Blackfin Tuna. The close in reef fishing continued to produce strong catches of Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), Mutton Snappers, Black Groupers, Queen Triggerfish and a few Amberjacks. The marina reported an average catch of 5-10 fish per trip depending on the length of the trip.

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms continued with the early spring seasonal weather pattern.  The extended forecast into mid April calls for an improvement toward their spring/summer weather with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend into the mid to upper 80’s and evenings in the mid 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid 70’s. Winds are expected to be modest in the 8-15 mph range shifting primarily out of the ESE through mid to late April.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel have been at their seasonal coolest and are now starting to warm again and are running in the 81-82 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 8-15 MPH with some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds.

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 03/29/19

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

The passage of the full moon and some warmer water produced a much improved week for the Cabo fleets. The Striped Marlin fishing picked up with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin Tuna counts were up with many schools of “football” tuna in 15-30 lb range reported.  The Dorado were again a bit scarce but with the outlook much improved as the water warms up both outside and inside. The Wahoo showed up nicely in the counts with some fish into the 50lb range. Bonus acrobatic Makos were reported off the Golden Gate bank. The inside fishing continued to improve with some great counts of quality Snappers, Groupers, and Yellowtail into the 30 lb range.

The Striped Marlin fishing on the Pacific side continues to concentrate from the Lighthouse out to the Golden Gate and San Jamie Banks.  More and more Stripers are being reported on the inside with catches reported off Palmilla and Punta Gorda and around the Gordos. Overall, the fleets reported consistent Striped Marlin results with most boats averaging 1-2 fish per day. The Yellowfin were readily found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks to the west and the Gordos to the east.

Inshore fishing was really solid with nice catches of schools of Skipjacks with the Sierras and Jacks showing in good numbers from Solmar to El Arco and around toward Migrino. Roosters were again reported this past week in the surf off Palmilla and from Solmar around the point at the Lighthouse and up toward Migrino. Quality sized Yellowtail to 30 lbs are hitting on live baits. Some nice catches of Sierras were reported off Migrino. Nice catches of Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks.

Cabo Climate:  Early March was a bit cooler and windier than normal with a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with late March warming a bit with mostly overcast skies. The future outlook toward early April is for a warming and pleasant average daytime temps in the upper 70’s and evenings in the mid 60’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny to partly cloudy sunny skies with zero chance of rain forecast through early April. Winds are expected to continue in the low teens in the 11-14 mph range into early April mostly out of the West and WSW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 60’s.

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 11-14 mph range from the West and WSW. The Pacific side sea temps stabilized considerably with the predominate temperature range 70-74 and the inside also warmed with temps in the 71-73 range around the Gordos.

Best Fishing Areas:  The Marlin hot spots have remained primarily to the west and northwest but decent action was again reported on the inside this past week.  The Golden Gate and the San Jamie banks were the prime Striper destination this past week. The Lighthouse area was again a major hot spot again this past week with most of the fish being found from 10 miles to 15 miles off shore toward the canyon.  Occasional success was also reported soaking live baits off Palmilla, the 95 spot and the Gordos. The Yellowfin were found around the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks or around the Gordos with some quality fish up to 75 lbs reported around the Gordos.  The best catches of Dorado seemed to be on the inside off Palmilla and Punta Gorda.  

Favorite Baits: Slow trolling live mackerel was the favorite for the Marlin. Cedar plugs were the clear 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. Dead bait was the ticket for the Groupers. Live Caballitos were the best for the Yellowtail.

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 again this past week to spice up the offshore fishing and the Striped Marlin are clearly out numbering the Sailfish that Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing continued to produce solid results. Tourist activity picked up a bit this past week and the El Cid fleet was busy with many first time anglers that rewarded with good action.

The offshore boats reported a mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, and Yellowfin Tuna. The Yellowfin Tuna had a solid showing in the middle of the week. The inshore boats had another big week and reported good action on Snappers, Sea Bass and Queen Triggers whether on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The El Cid fleet fished a total of 29 offshore days and 11 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 10 Striped Marlin, 6 Sailfish, and 22 Yellowfin from offshore. Inshore, they reported 182 Snappers, 78 Sea Bass, and 2 Queen Triggerfish and 10 Jacks.

Mazatlan Climate: Early March was cooler than normal with some warming into late March and early April is favorable with low 80’s daytime and low 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through early April is for mostly sunny with a few partly cloudy skies with breezes lowering a bit into the 9-11 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the WSW into early April.  Humidity is predicted to be in the low 60’s going into early April for very pleasant fishing conditions. There is no precipitation forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been seasonally cooling and now warming a bit in the 72-73 degree range resulting in a seasonal showing of the Striped Marlin but fewer Sailfish sightings until the water warms again a bit. On longer runs out to 25 miles they are finding 75 degree water. The past week Mazatlan had mostly calm seas 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. The Yellowfin are being found a bit further out toward the 15-25 mile mark. 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 a great week of mixed bite on the Striped Marlin along with solid Sailfish action. The Yellowfin were again found way out at the 30-35 mile mark for those willing to go the extra distance.  Fly-fishing and spinning rigs for Jacks, Chulas (False Albacore) and Bonitos inshore has continued to be steady. Rooster action this past week slowed a bit as the water cooled.  Capt Temo reports the inshore fishing for Jacks remained HOT! Large schools of quality Jacks were reported off the white rocks. Ironically, there were more quality fish than fishermen this past week as Zihuatanejo begins to go into their off season as far as tourist activity.

The late March sailfish action was very solid with the fish moving out a bit to the 15 mile mark as the green water continued to move offshore.   The overall action was solid this past week with most of the boats reporting at least 1-2 Sailfish for their clients along with many Striped Marlin and smaller Blue Marlin.  The Yellowfin were found 30-35 miles out well past the 1000 fathom mark with fish in the 50--75 lb range. The Blue Marlin and Striped Marlin are being found as close as 18-20 miles out just past the prime Sailfish bite and were very active this past week likely equaling the Sailfish bite. Inshore the Bonito the Jacks were very aggressive for some fantastic fly fishing opportunities.  The White Rocks was again a hot spot this past week for the big Jacks with large schools of fish reported. The best Rooster counts when found were again to the south toward Vicente Guerrero.

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

Sea Conditions: The spring offshore water temperature has begun cooling a bit and is now in the 82-83 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.  These temps should begin to bring in the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. Inshore temperatures are running a bit cooler at 79-81 with the cooler water from north of Zihuatanejo bay warming to the south toward Puerto Vicente Guerrero.  The offshore clear blue water has recently moved out to the 15-18 mile mark on out to the 1000 fathom mark. Inshore, the water is cooler and greener which has actually been very good for the top water bite. 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 Resort & Marina reported a busy and successful week with family spring break activity. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted for the 4 hour or 6 hour shallow reef trips with other opting for the 6 hour or 8 hour offshore trips.

The offshore bit was highlighted with an improved showing of Sailfish on almost every trip along with a mix of Giant Atlantic Barracuda, Mahi-Mahi along with some King Mackerel. The close in reef fishing continued to produce strong catches of Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), Mutton Snappers, Black Groupers, Queen Triggerfish and a few Amberjacks.

The El Cid fleet fished a total of 69 trips reporting 8 Sailfish, 15 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 2 Kingfish, 3 Mahi-Mahi, 22 Bonito, 1 Blackfin Tuna and one Blue Marlin.  The closer in shallow reef fishing trips reported 150 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 42 Mutton Snappers, 6 Black Groupers, 30 Yellowtail Snappers, 52 Queen Triggerfish, 15 Banana Fish, 18 Jacks, and 3 very large Amberjacks. A very nice average of 6 ¾ fish per trip – many of those shorter 4 hour trips.

PM/Cancun Climate:  Occasional brief scattered early morning or late afternoon thunderstorms continued with the late winter early spring seasonal weather pattern.  The extended forecast into early April calls for an improvement toward their spring/summer weather for a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with a few days of occasional showers or isolated thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted on a warming trend into the mid 80’s and evenings in the low to mid 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid 60’s to low 70’s. Winds are expected to be modest in the 8-12 mph range shifting primarily out of the ENE to the ESE in early April.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel have been at their seasonal coolest and are now starting to warm again and are running in the 81-82 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 some late afternoon swells and chop expected with the higher winds.

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