Cortez Yacht Charters Weekly Mexico Fishing Report

Week ended 09/26/19

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

This was an interesting reporting period with 3 days of port closure due to weather and rough seas with the passing of hurricane Lorena, but excellent fishing on both sides of that. We had several reports of “Grand Slams” – Blue, Striped & Sails.  The Blue Marlin and Sailfish bite was up along with the appearance of some Spearfish while the Striper bite was off a bit.  It appears the Stripers action has moved around to the Pacific side while the Blues, Blacks and Sailfish remain primarily on the Cortez inside. The Yellowfin Tuna counts were up with most fish in the 20-30 lb range. The Dorado counts were again high with 15-30 lbs “schoolies “showing up and some 40-50 lb Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds. The Wahoo counts were steady and again found primarily out on the Marlin grounds. We had more reports of Black Marlin increasingly showing up on the inside where the warmer water is.  Many boats were returning after releasing several marlin or sailfish with the bonus of several Dorado closer in to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some very large Roosterfish in the surf.

The prime Marlin activity was really spread out this past week with positive reports continuing to come from the 1150 Spot and 95 spots on the inside with some very favorable reports from the Golden Gate and San Jamie banks on the Pacific side with Pozo Cota and Cerritos also mentioned as hot spots. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest with increased action off the San Jamie bank. The Gordos reports were very spotty with some larger Yellowfin found off toward the Cabrillo Seamount in warmer waters.  Most of the Tuna are “schoolies” in the 20-30 lb range but some larger fish in the 50-100 lb range were reported. The Dorado were running in the 10-30 lb range with a few larger Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds.  Blue Marlin in the 200-250 lb range are showing in the warmer water and there was increased release of Pacific Sailfish showing up in the warmer waters. The Dorado showed up in good numbers from El Arco to off the Lighthouse and on out the San Jamie and also to the east toward Palmilla.

Inshore fishing was again 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 with some reported in the 30-40 lb range.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Jacks were available off the rocks from Solmar west.

Cabo Climate:  Mid September was a mix of hot muggy days with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and occasional scatted late afternoon thunder storms. The future outlook into early October is for more of the same with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the upper 80’s and evenings in the upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny to partly skies with some occasional scattered thunderstorms showing up early mornings and late afternoons. Winds are expected to be in the 10-18 mph range into early to mid October mostly out of the West trending toward the WNW by mid October.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 60’s. We have to keep an eye on some tropical depression activity firing up off west coast of Guerrero.

Sea Conditions:  With the afternoon winds in the teen to 10-18 mph the seas are expected to be moderate with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, have been in the 2’-5’ range. The Pacific side sea temps are currently running in the 81-84 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside is warmer with temps in the 83-85 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos with low 80’s to mid 80’s south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 and 95 Spots were the again hotspot for Marlin action on the inside this past week with Punta Gorda, Pozo Cota, Cerritos and the Golden Gate and the San Jamie banks also producing some nice marlin catches.  The Striped Marlin bite is shifting toward the Pacific side. The Yellowfin were primarily reported off to the SW or the South 24-30 miles out and in the Herradura and also at the San Jamie Bank. Some nice Dorado action reported 4-6 miles off the Lighthouse for the smaller craft and returning boats. The interior corridor from Los Arcos to Palmilla produced lots of schoolie Dorado and also off the Lighthouse out toward to the canyon. Palmilla, Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, with some very large fish although a bit slower, in the surf off Palmilla west past Solmar to the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Throwing live Cabilitos was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures (especially for the Blues and Sails). Cedar plugs and feathers 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.

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

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

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

Our friends at the El Cid Marina had to deal with 2 days of port closure due to thunderstorms and rough water with the passing of Lorena.  When the boats were able to get out the action was pretty decent.  The Yellowfin Tuna schools were large and found to the Southwest when the boats could get out the longer distance between the thunderstorms.  The billfish counts were down a bit with a higher mix of Striped Marlin than the Sailfish Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

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

The El Cid reported a total of 31 trips including the 4-6 hour inshore Super Pangas trips for a total of 2 Sailfish, 7 Striped Marlin, 39 Yellowfin Tuna, 110 Snappers, 101 Triggerfish and 7 Corbinas.

Mazatlan Climate: Mid to late September showed a normal late summer pattern with scattered thunderstorms with a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook into early October is similar with afternoons in the upper 80’s daytime and mid 70’s in the evenings. The forecast into early October is for partly cloudy to partly sunny skies with 10-40% chance of scattered thunderstorms moving in early or toward the end of the day and breezes in a modest 9-14 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the NW toward mid October.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 70’s into mid October.  The forecast calls for a 10-40% chance of scattered early or late afternoon thunderstorms forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming and is now in the 85-87 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 the winds in the 6-8 mph range and some afternoon swells with 9-14 mph winds.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting as close as 8- 10 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. 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

The rainy season has passed the halfway point at Zihuatanejo and there are very few visitors but the fishing conditions are very good right now and the fishing competition almost non-existent. With the unusually warm water there are Blue Marlin to go along with always plentiful Sailfish but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish!  The Striped Marlin have mostly moved out with the arrival of the warmer water. The independent fleet reported sparse action but some really good results raising 3-5 billfish fish per day as close as 8-10 miles.  Some larger Blue Marlin showed up well offshore. The big Yellowfin were again found way out beyond the 1000 fathom mark 30-35 to 40 miles out for those very few willing to go the extra distance in the larger boats.   They are in the start of their prime Roosterfish season from now until late November into early December and large fish are showing up to go with strong catches. Capt Temo reported good success with large Roosters and Jacks with many of the fishermen focused on fly fishing during the prime Rooster season.

The action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth started as close as the 8-10 mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin were again found 30+ miles out past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50--100 lb range. Blue Marlin were present offshore along with the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite much closer. Inshore large Jacks were very productive and the Roosters were plentiful with some very large fish reported. The Dorado were a bit spotty but available for feathers and small lures on the troll. Capt Temo is having no problem finding large Roosters inshore for the few clients that are there.

IZ Climate: They are now past the halfway mark into their rainy season with a mix of partly cloudy days with almost daily late afternoon and early evening thunderstorms.  The 2 week outlook is for warm temps with mostly partly cloudy skies with scattered late afternoon thunderstorms on a regular basis. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the upper 70’s through into mid October.  The winds are expected to be mild in the 6-12 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 late afternoon and evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is unusually warm and is now in the 88-90degrees range from the 100 fathom line at the 5-6 mile mark all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles and beyond.  These temps are ideal for the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved 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 85 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 week with many of the 4 hour and 6 hour charters loading up on the close in fishing on the shallow water reefs!  They had to duck multiple late summer thunderstorms so the overall trip counts were down a bit. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted 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 are winding down for the season but fishermen enjoyed a good showing Giant Atlantic Barracuda.  The fleet reported no Sailfish, 23 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 13 Mahi-Mahi, 9 King Mackerel 18 Bonito and 1 Wahoo from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 212 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 34 Mutton Snappers,  22 Black Grouper,  2 Queen Triggerfish, and 8 Jack Crevalle..  A total of 80 offshore fish and 278 inshore fish for a total of 358 fish for an average of over 7 fish per trip on a total of 51 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan has settled into its late summer weather pattern with very warm days with early morning to late afternoon scattered thunderstorms as the clouds build coming off the warm water.  The extended forecast into early to mid October is for a mix of mostly partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional early morning and late afternoon showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted in high 80’s with evenings in the mid to upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid 70’s. Winds are expected to be very modest in the 5-10 mph range primarily out of the East and ENE into early October.  Expect some occasional early morning showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day into early October.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have warmed to the 84-85 degree range.  Seas are running from calm to a bit choppy depending on the weather conditions.   The prevailing winds are still in their summer pattern and are predicted to be out of the East and ENE at 5-10 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 09/19/19

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

The late summer fishing in Cabo continues to reward those anglers favoring the Cabo charter fleet!  Most boats were reporting 2-3 billfish per day and we had one report of a double digit Striper day at the Golden Gate Bank. We had several reports of “Grand Slams” – Blue, Striped & Sails.  As is typical of the late summer, the fleets were reporting a mixed bag of Striped & Blue Marlin and increasing numbers of Black Marlin to go with large Pacific Sailfish along with Dorado and Yellowfin Tuna with a few Wahoo mixed in.  It appears the Stripers action has moved around to the Pacific side while the Blues, Blacks and Sailfish remain primarily on the Cortez inside. The Yellowfin Tuna action was really solid for the boats that made the longer runs out to the Tuna grounds. The Dorado counts were again high with 15-30 lbs “schoolies “showing up and some 40-50 lb Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds. The Wahoo counts were up and again found primarily out on the primary Marlin grounds. We had more  reports of Black Marlin increasingly showing up as the water warms.  Many boats were returning after releasing several marlin or sailfish with the bonus of several Dorado closer in to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some very large Roosterfish.

The prime Marlin activity was spread out a bit this past week with positive reports from the 1150 Spot and the 95 spots with some favorable reports off of Punta Gorda but some indications the actions is shifting toward the Pacific action on the Golden Gate late in the week. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest with some increased action off the San Jamie bank. The Gordos reports were very spotty with some larger Yellowfin found off toward the Cabrillo Seamount in warmer waters.  Most of the Tuna are “schoolies” in the 10-35 lb range but some larger fish in the 50-100 lb range were reported. The Dorado were running in the 10-20 lb range with a few larger Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds.  Blue Marlin in the 200-250 lb range are showing in the warmer water and there was increased release of Pacific Sailfish showing up with the warmer waters. The Dorado showed up in good numbers off the Lighthouse to El Al Arco and to the east toward Palmilla.

Inshore fishing was again 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 with some reported in the 40-50 lb range.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Jacks were plentiful off the rocks from Solmar west.

Cabo Climate:  Mid September was a mix of hot muggy days with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and occasional scatted late afternoon thunder storms. . The future outlook into late September and early October  is for more of the same with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the upper 80’s and evenings in the upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny to partly skies with some occasional scattered thunderstorms showing up early mornings and late afternoons. Winds are expected to be in the 11-15 mph range into early October mostly out of the WSW trending toward the WNW by early October.  Humidity is expected to run in the early mid 70’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the afternoon winds in the teen to 11-15 mph the seas are expected to be moderate with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, have been in the 2’-5’ range. The Pacific side sea temps are currently running in the 80-82 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside is warmer with temps in the 83-85 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos with low 80’s to mid 80’s south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 and 95 Spots were the again hotspot for Marlin action this past week with Punta Gorda and Golden Gate and the San Jamie also producing some nice marlin catches.  There are some indications that the Striped Marlin bite is shifting toward the Pacific side. The Yellowfin were primarily reported off to the SW or the South 24-30 miles out and in the Herradura and also at the San Jamie Bank. Some nice action reported 4-6 miles off the Lighthouse for the smaller craft and returning boats. The interior corridor from Los Arcos to Palmilla produced lots of schoolie Dorado and also off the Lighthouse out toward to the canyon. Palmilla, Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, with some very large fish although a bit slower, in the surf off Palmilla west past Solmar to the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Throwing live Cabilitos was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures (especially for the Blues and Sails). Cedar plugs and feathers 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.

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

Again this past week, our friends at the El Cid Marina had to deal with multiple port closings due to thunderstorms and rough water.  When the boats were able to get out the summer time Dorado were close in and within reach for the super pangas.  The Yellowfin Tuna schools were large and found to the Southwest when the boats could get out the longer distance between the thunderstorms.  The billfish counts were down a bit with a higher mix of Striped Marlin than the Sailfish Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, 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.

Although we didn’t’ get a detailed fish count again this week due to the weather  this week, they did report good Yellowfin action out at the25-30 mile mark and a good mix of Marlin and Sailfish a bit closer when the boats were able to get out. The inshore pangas reported a good mix of Snapper, Sea Bass and Triggerfish along with some nice Jacks.

Mazatlan Climate: Mid September showed a normal late summer pattern with scattered thunderstorms with a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for late September into early October is similar with afternoons in the mid 70’s’s daytime and low to mid 60’s in the evenings. The forecast through late September into early October is for partly cloudy to partly sunny skies with normal scattered thunderstorms moving in early or toward the end of the day and breezes in a very low 6-7 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the E/NE toward early October.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 70’s into early October.  The forecast calls for a 50-60% chance of scattered early or late afternoon thunderstorms forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming and is now in the 86-87 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 the winds in the 6-7 mph range.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting as close as 8- 10 miles out with best results to the west and southwest of the Marina El Cid. 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

The rainy season has settled in and is nearly half over at Zihuatanejo and there are very few visitors but the fishing conditions are very good right now and the fishing competition almost non-existent. With the unusually warm water there are Blue Marlin to go along with always plentiful Sailfish but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish!  The Striped Marlin have moved out with the arrival of the warmer water. The independent fleet reported sparse action but some really good results raising 3-5 billfish fish per day as close as 8-10 miles.  Some larger Blue Marlin showed up well offshore. The big 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 late November into early December and large fish are showing up to go with strong catches. Capt Temo reported good success with large Roosters and Jacks with many of the fishermen focused on fly fishing during the prime Rooster season.

The action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth started as close as the 8-10 mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin were again found 30+ miles out past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50--100 lb range. Blue Marlin were present along offshore along with the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite much closer. Inshore large Jacks were very productive and the Roosters were plentiful with some very large fish reported. The Dorado were a bit spotty but available for feathers and small lures on the troll. Capt Temo is having no problem finding large Roosters inshore for the few clients that are there.

IZ Climate: They are now midway into their rainy season with a mix of partly cloudy days with almost daily late afternoon and early evening thunderstorms.  The 2 week outlook is for warm temps with mostly partly cloudy skies with scattered late afternoon thunderstorms on a regular basis. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the low to mid 70’s through early October.  The winds are expected to be mild in the 6-12 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 late afternoon and evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is unusually warm and is now in the 88-90degrees range from the 100 fathom line at the 5-6 mile mark all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles and beyond.  These temps are ideal for the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved 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 85 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 week with many of the 4 hour and 6 hour charters loading up on the close in fishing on the shallow water reefs!  They had to duck multiple late summer thunderstorms so the overall trip counts were down a bit. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted 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 are winding down for the season but fishermen enjoyed a good showing Giant Atlantic Barracuda.  The fleet reported no Sailfish, 23 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 13 Mahi-Mahi, 9 King Mackerel 18 Bonito and 1 Wahoo from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 212 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 34 Mutton Snappers,  22 Black Grouper,  2 Queen Triggerfish, and 8 Jack Crevalle..  A total of 80 offshore fish and 278inshore fish for a total of 358 fish for an average of over 7 fish per trip on a total of 51 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan has settled into its late summer weather pattern with very warm days with early morning to late afternoon scattered thunderstorms as the clouds build coming off the warm water.  The extended forecast into late September and early October  is for a mix of mostly partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional early morning and late afternoon showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted in high 80’swith evenings in the mid to upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid 70’s. Winds are expected to be very modest in the 5-10 mph range primarily out of the East and ENE into early October.  Expect some occasional early morning showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day into early October.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have warmed to the 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 ENE at 5-10 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 09/12/19

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

Another great week for the Cabo fleet! The billfish were plentiful and happy to engage. The fleet was averaging 2-3 billfish per boat making a lot of anglers happy! We had several reports of “Grand Slams” – Blue, Striped & Sails. The highlight was the report of a 600 lb Blue Marlin. As is typical of the late summer, the fleets were reporting a mixed bag of Striped & Blue Marlin and increasing numbers of Black Marlin to go with large Pacific Sailfish along with Dorado and Yellowfin Tuna with a few Wahoo mixed in. The Yellowfin Tuna action was really solid for the boats that made the longer runs out to the Tuna grounds. The Dorado counts were again high with 15-30 lbs “schoolies “showing up and some 40-50 lb Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds. The Wahoo were spotty and again found primarily out on the primary Marlin grounds. We had more  reports of Black Marlin increasingly showing up as the water warms.  Many boats were returning after releasing several marlin or sailfish with the bonus of several Dorado to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some very large Roosterfish although the Roosterfish have slowed a bit headed into the off season.

The prime Marlin activity was again reported on the inside at the 1150 Spot and the 95 spots with some favorable reports off of Punta Gorda but some indications the actions is shifting toward the Pacific action on the Golden Gate late in the week. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest with some increased action off the San Jamie bank. There were a few reports of large Tuna off the Gordos but very spotty.  Most of the Tuna are “schoolies” in the 10-35 lb range but some larger fish in the 50-100 lb range were reported. The Dorado were running in the 10-20 lb range with a few larger Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds.  Blue Marlin in the 200-250 lb range are showing in the warmer water and there was increased release of Pacific Sailfish showing up with the warmer waters. The Dorado showed up in good numbers off the Lighthouse to El Al Arco and to the east toward Palmilla.

Inshore fishing was again 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 with some reported in the 40-50 lb range.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Jacks were plentiful off the rocks from Solmar west.

Cabo Climate:  September started with a mix of hot muggy days with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and occasional scatted late afternoon thunder storms. . The future outlook into mid to late September is for more of the same with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the upper and evenings in the upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny to partly skies with some occasional scattered thunderstorms showing up late afternoons. Winds are expected to be a bit lower in the 5-11 mph range into mid September mostly out of the WSW trending toward the West by mid month.  Humidity is expected to run in the early mid 70’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the afternoon winds in the teen to 5-11 mph s the seas are expected to be moderate with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, have been in the 2’-4’ range. Forecast through mid September is for flatter seas with winds in the 5-11 mph range from the WSW and West. The Pacific side sea temps are currently a bit warmer running in the 81-84 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside has warmed with temps in the 83-85 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos with low 80’s to mid 80’s south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 and 95 Spots were the again hotspot for Marlin action this past week with Punta Gorda and Golden Gate also producing some nice marlin catches.  There is some indi8cations that the Marlin bite is shifting toward the he Pacific side. The Yellowfin were primarily reported off to the SW or the South 24-30 miles out and in the Herradura and also the San Jamie Bank. The interior corridor from Los Arcos to Palmilla produced lots of schoolie Dorado and also off the Lighthouse out toward to the canyon. Palmilla, Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, with some very large fish although a bit slower, in the surf off Palmilla west past Solmar to the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Throwing live Cabilitos was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures (especially for the Blues and Sails). Cedar plugs and feathers 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.

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

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

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

Our friends at the El Cid Marina had to deal with multiple port closings due to thunderstorms and rough water.  When the boats were able to get out the summer time Dorado were close in and within reach for the super pangas.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up in increasing numbers to the Southwest to add to the daily tally. The billfish counts were down a bit with a higher mix of Striped Marlin than the Sailfish Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, 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.

Although we didn’t’ get a detailed fish count report this week, they did report good Yellowfin action out at the25-30 mile mark and a good mix of Marlin and Sailfish a bit closer when the boats were able to get out. The inshore pangas reported a good mix of Snapper, Sea Bass and Triggerfish along with some nice Jacks.

Mazatlan Climate: Early September showed a normal late summer pattern with scattered thunderstorms with a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for mid to late September is similar with afternoons in the upper 80’s to low 90’s daytime and upper 70’s in the evenings. The forecast through mid to late September is for partly cloudy to partly sunny skies with normal scattered thunderstorms moving in toward the end of the day and breezes in a very low 5-10 mph range primarily out of the SSW trending toward the WNW toward mid to late September.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 70’s into mid September.  The forecast calls for a 20-80% chance of scattered late afternoon thunderstorms forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming and is now in the 88-897 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 the winds in the 5-10 mph range.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting as close as 10 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

The summer rainy season has settled in at Zihuatanejo and there are very few visitors but the fishing conditions are very good right now and the fishing competition almost non-existent. With the unusually warm water there are Blue Marlin to go along with always plentiful Sailfish but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish!  The Striped Marlin have moved out with the arrival of the warmer water. The independent fleet reported sparse action but some really good results raising 3-5 billfish fish per day as close as 8-10 miles.  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 late November into early December and large fish are showing up to go with strong catches. Capt Temo reported good success with large Roosters and Jacks with many of the fishermen focused on fly fishing during the prime Rooster season.

The action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth started as close as the 8-10 mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin were again found 30+ miles out past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50--100 lb range. Blue Marlin were present along with the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore large Jacks were very productive and the Roosters were plentiful with some very large fish reported. The Dorado were a bit spotty but available for feathers and small lures on the troll. Capt Temo is having no problem finding large Roosters inshore for the few clients that are there.

IZ Climate: They are now into their rainy season with a mix of partly cloudy days with almost daily late afternoon and early evening thunderstorms beginning to creep in. The 2 week outlook is for warm temps with mostly partly cloudy skies with scattered late afternoon thunderstorms on a regular basis. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the low to mid 70’s through mid to late September.  The winds are expected to be very mild in the 4-8 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 late afternoon and evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is unusually warm and is now in the 90degrees range from the 100 fathom line at the 5-6 mile mark all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles and beyond.  These temps are ideal for the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved 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 85 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

Lots of Mahi-Mahi in Puerto Morelos this past week!  Our friends at the El Cid Resort & Marina reported a very successful week with many of the 4 hour and 6 hour charters loading up on the large close in schools of Mahi-Mahi. They did have to duck a few  thunderstorms so the overall trip counts were down a bit. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted 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 are winding down for the season but fishermen enjoyed a great  showing Mahi-Mahi.  The fleet reported 1 Sailfish, 1 White Marlin, 17 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 141 Mahi-Mahi, 1 King Mackerel and 1 Blackfin Tuna from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 27 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 6 Mutton Snappers,  1 Black Grouper,  12 Queen Triggerfish, 2 Jack Crevalle and 1 big Amberjack.  A total of 162 offshore fish and 49 inshore fish for a total of 211 fish for an average of over 5 fish per trip on a total of 43 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan has settled into its late summer weather pattern with very warm days with late afternoon scattered thunderstorms as the clouds build coming off the warm water.  The extended forecast into mid September is for a mix of mostly partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional late afternoon showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted in high 80’swith evenings in the mid to upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid 70’s. Winds are expected to be very modest in the 5-10 mph range primarily out of the East and ENE into mid September. Expect some occasional showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day into mid September.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have warmed to the 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 ENE at 5-10 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 09/05/19

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

Interesting end to August and the start of September. The Cabo fleet lost 2 days to port closure due to the passing of a tropical disturbance to the south but when they got out, they cleaned up! The billfish were plentiful and happy to engage. The fleet was averaging 2-3 billfish per boat making a lot of anglers happy! We had several reports of “Grand Slams” – Blue, Striped & Sails. As is typical of the late summer, the fleets were reporting a mixed bag of Striped & Blue Marlin and increasing numbers of Black Marlin to go with large Pacific Sailfish along with Dorado and Yellowfin Tuna with a few Wahoo mixed in. The Yellowfin Tuna action was really solid for the boats that made the longer runs out to the Tuna grounds. The Dorado counts were again high with 15-20 lbs “schoolies “showing up and some 40-50 lb Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds. The Wahoo were spotty and again found primarily out on the primary Marlin grounds. We had more  reports of Black Marlin increasingly showing up as the water warms.  Many boats were returning after releasing several marlin or sailfish along with a mix of several Dorado to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. We had a report of a 600 lb + Black coming off the Iman Bank to the East. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some nice Roosterfish although the Roosterfish have slowed a bit headed into the off season.

The prime Marlin activity was again reported on the inside at the 1150 Spot and the 95 Spot with some favorable reports off of Punta Gorda and also some good action on the Golden Gate late in the week. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest with some increased action off the San Jamie bank and some large (although not numerous) cows found off the Outer Gordos.  Most of the Tuna are “schoolies” in the 10-35 lb range but some larger fish in the 50-100 lb range were reported. The Dorado were running in the 10-20 lb range with a few larger Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds.  Blue Marlin in the 200-250 lb range are showing in the warmer water and there was increased release of Pacific Sailfish showing up with the warmer waters. The Dorado showed up in good numbers off the Lighthouse and to the east toward Palmilla.

Inshore fishing was again 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 although a bit slower than back in July.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Jacks were plentiful off the rocks from Solmar west.

The 43’ Hatteras FISH CABO had a good week with 10 Marlin and 4 Dorado on 3 days of fishing and also the TUNA TIME with 8 Marlin and 10 Dorado on 4 days of fishing.

Cabo Climate:  September started with a mix of hot muggy days with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies. The future outlook into mid September is for more of the same with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the upper 80’s and low 90’s and evenings in the upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny to partly skies with some occasional scattered thunderstorms showing up late afternoons. Winds are expected to be a bit lower in the 9-11 mph range into mid September mostly out of the WSW trending toward the West by mid month.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 60’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the afternoon winds in the teen to 9-11 mph s the seas are expected to be moderate with some large swells and chop showing up in the afternoons as breezes increase.  Morning seas have, however, have been in the 2’-4’ range. Forecast through mid September is for flatter seas with winds in the 9-11 mph range from the WSW and West. The Pacific side sea temps are currently a bit cooler running in the 79-82 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside has warmed with temps in the 83-85 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos with low 80’s to mid 80’s south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 and 95 Spots were the again hotspot for Marlin action this past week with Punta Gorda the Golden Gate also producing  some nice marlin catches.  The Yellowfin were most often found 20-25 miles out to the south and southwest with the San Jamie also producing some nice catches. The interior corridor from Los Arcos to Palmilla produced lots of schoolie Dorado and also off the Lighthouse out toward to the canyon. Palmilla, Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, although a bit slower, in the surf off Palmilla west past Solmar to the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Throwing live Cabilitos was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures (especially for the Blues and Sails). Cedar plugs and feathers 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.

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

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

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

Our friends at the El Cid Marina had to deal with multiple port closings due to thunderstorms and rough water.  When the boats were able to get out the summer time Dorado were close in and within reach for the super pangas.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up in increasing numbers to the Southwest to add to the daily tally. The billfish counts were down a bit with a higher mix of Striped Marlin than the Sailfish Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, 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.

Due to the weather over the past week and lower tourist activity The El Cid fleet fished a total of 14 offshore days and 6 Super Panga inshore and near shore trips.  They reported 4 Striped Marlin, 3 Sailfish, 13 Dorados, and 28 Yellowfin Tuna.  Inshore, they reported 50 Snappers, 15 Queen Triggerfish and 10 Corbinas.

Mazatlan Climate: Early September showed a normal late summer pattern with scattered thunderstorms with a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for mid September is similar with afternoons in the upper 80’s to low 90’s daytime and upper 70’s to low 80’s in the evenings. The forecast through mid September is for partly cloudy to partly sunny skies with normal scattered thunderstorms moving in toward the end of the day and breezes in a very low 5-9 mph range primarily out of the SSW trending toward the WNW toward mid September.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 70’s into mid September.  The forecast calls for a 10-40% chance of scattered late afternoon thunderstorms forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming and is now in the 88-897 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 the winds in the 5-9 mph range.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting as close as 10 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

The summer rainy season has settled in at Zihuatanejo and there are very few visitors but the fishing conditions are very good right now and the fishing competition almost non-existent. With the unusually warm water there are Blue Marlin to go along with always plentiful Sailfish but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish!  The Striped Marlin have moved out with the arrival of the warmer water. The independent fleet reported sparse action but some really good results raising 3-5 billfish fish per day as close as 8-10 miles.  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 late November into early December and large fish are showing up to go with strong catches. Capt Temo reported good success with large Roosters and Jacks with many of the fishermen focused on fly fishing during the prime Rooster season.

The action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth started as close as the 8-10 mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin were again found 30+ miles out past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50--100 lb range. Blue Marlin were present along with the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore large Jacks were very productive and the Roosters were plentiful with some very large fish reported. The Dorado were a bit spotty but available for feathers and small lures on the troll.

IZ Climate: They are now into their rainy season with a mix of partly cloudy days with almost daily late afternoon and early evening thunderstorms beginning to creep in. The 2 week outlook is for warm temps with mostly partly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms on a regular basis. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the low to mid 70’s through mid September.  The winds are expected to be very mild in the 3-9 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 pushing the building clouds into the coastal mountains, rain dumping on the mountains in the late afternoon and evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is unusually warm and is now in the 90degrees range from the 100 fathom line at the 5-6 mile mark all the way out to the 1,000 fathom line at 30-32 miles and beyond.  These temps are ideal for the Blue Marlin and Yellowfin in larger numbers. The offshore clear blue water has recently moved 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 85 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

Lots of Mahi-Mahi in Puerto Morelos this past week!  Our friends at the El Cid Resort & Marina reported a very successful week with many of the 4 hour and 6 hour charters loading up on the large close in schools of Mahi-Mahi. They did have to duck a few  thunderstorms so the overall trip counts were down a bit. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted 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 are winding down for the season but fishermen enjoyed a great  showing Mahi-Mahi.  The fleet reported 1 Sailfish, 1 White Marlin, 17 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 141 Mahi-Mahi, 1 King Mackerel and 1 Blackfin Tuna from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 27 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 6 Mutton Snappers,  1 Black Grouper,  12 Queen Triggerfish, 2 Jack Crevalle and 1 big Amberjack.  A total of 162 offshore fish and 49 inshore fish for a total of 211 fish for an average of over 5 fish per trip on a total of 43 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan has settled into its late summer weather pattern with very warm days with late afternoon scattered thunderstorms as the clouds build coming off the warm water.  The extended forecast into mid September is for a mix of mostly partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional late afternoon showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted in high 80’swith evenings in the mid to upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the mid 70’s. Winds are expected to be very modest in the 5-10 mph range primarily out of the East and ENE into mid September. Expect some occasional showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day into mid September.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have warmed to the 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 ENE at 5-10 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 08/28/19

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

Heading into the new moon, Cabo enjoyed an outstanding week of mixed bite and lots of clear blue water. The fleet was averaging 2-3 billfish per boat making a lot of anglers happy! We had several reports of “Grand Slams” – Blue, Striped & Sails. As is typical of the late summer, the fleets were reporting a mixed bag of Striped & Blue Marlin and increasing numbers of Black Marlin  to go with large Pacific Sailfish along with Dorado and Yellowfin Tuna with a few Wahoo mixed in. The Yellowfin Tuna action was really solid for the boats that made the longer runs out to the Tuna grounds. The Dorado counts were again high with 15-20 lbs “schoolies “  showing up and some 40-50 lb Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds . The Wahoo were spotty and again found primarily out on the primary Marlin grounds. We had more  reports of Black Marlin increasingly showing up as the water warms.  Many boats were returning after releasing several marlin or sailfish along with a mix of several Yellowfin and Dorado to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some nice Roosterfish although the Roosterfish have slowed a bit headed into the off season.

The prime Marlin activity was again reported on the inside at the 1150 Spot and the 95 Spot with some very favorable  reports off of Punta Gorda. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest with some increased action off the San Jamie bank and some large (although not numerous) cows found off the Outer Gordos.  Most of the Tuna are “schoolies” in the 10-35 lb range but some larger fish in the 50-100 lb range were reported. The Dorado were running in the 10-20 lb range with a few larger Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds.  Blue Marlin in the 200-250 lb range are showing in the warmer water and there was increased release of Pacific Sailfish showing up with the warmer waters.

Inshore fishing was again 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 although a bit slower than back in July.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Jacks were plentiful off the rocks from Solmar west.

Cabo Climate:  August started with a mix of hot muggy days with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and is ending with a bit higher probability of scattered late afternoon thunderstorms.  The future outlook into early September is for more of the same with mostly partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the upper 80’s and evenings in the upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly partly skies with some scattered thunderstorms showing up late afternoons. Winds are expected to be a bit lower in the 10-12 mph range into early September mostly out of the WSW and WNW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 70’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the afternoon winds in the teen to 11-20 mph s 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, have been in the 2’-4’ range. Forecast through early September is for flatter seas with winds in the 10-125 mph range from the WSW and WNW. The Pacific side sea temps are currently a bit cooler running in the 79-82 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside has warmed with temps in the 83-85 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos with low 80’s to mid 80’s south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 and 95 Spots were the again hotspot for Marlin action this past week with the Punta Gorda area producing  some nice marlin catches.  The Yellowfin were most often found 20-25 miles out to the south and southwest with the San Jamie also producing some nice catches. The interior corridor from Los Arcos to Palmilla produced lots of schoolie Dorado. Palmilla, Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, although a bit slower, in the surf off Palmilla west past Solmar to the Lighthouse.

Favorite Baits: Throwing live Cabilitos was the favorite for the Marlin with increased success from trolled lures (especially for the Blues and Sails). Cedar plugs and feathers 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.

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

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

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

Our friends at the El Cid Marina had to deal with 3 port closings due to thunderstorms and rough water.  The summer time Dorado were close in and within reach for the super pangas.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up in increasing numbers to add to the daily tally. The billfish counts were down a bit with a higher mix of Striped Marlin than the Sailfish Mazatlan is known for. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, 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.

Due to the weather over the past week and lower tourist activity The El Cid fleet fished a total of 14 offshore days and 6 Super Panga inshore and near shore trips.  They reported 4 Striped Marlin, 3 Sailfish, 13 Dorados, and 28 Yellowfin Tuna.  Inshore, they reported 50 Snappers, 15 Queen Triggerfish and 10 Corbinas.

Mazatlan Climate: August showed a warming summer weather pattern with scattered thunderstorms and a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for early September is similar with afternoons in the upper 80’s to low 90’s daytime and mid to low 80’s to upper 80’s in the evenings. The forecast through early September  is for partly cloudy to partly sunny skies with normal scattered thunderstorms moving in toward the end of the day and breezes in a  very low 5-9 mph range primarily out of the SW trending toward the West toward mid September.  Humidity is predicted to be in the upper 70’s into early September.  The forecast calls for a 40% chance of scattered late afternoon thunderstorms forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming and is now in the 88-897 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 the winds in the 5-9 mph range.

Best Fishing Area: The offshore bite for the billfish is starting as close as 10 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

The rainy season has settled in and there are very few visitors to Zihuatanejo but the fishing conditions in Zihuatanejo are very good right now and the fishing competition almost non-existent. With the unusually warm water there are Blue Marlin to go along with always plentiful Sailfish but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish!  The Striped Marlin have moved out with the arrival of the warmer water. The independent fleet reported sparse action but some really good results with 3-5 billfish fish per day raised as close as 8-10 miles.  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. Capt Temo reported good success with large Roosters and Jacks with many of the fishermen focused on fly fishing during the prime Rooster season.

The action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth started as close as the 8-10 mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin were again found 30+ miles out past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Blue Marlin were present along with the historic Zihuatanejo Sailfish bite. Inshore large Jacks were very productive and the Roosters were plentiful with some very large fish reported. The Dorado were a bit spotty but available for feathers and small lures on the troll.

IZ Climate: They are now into their rainy season with a mix of partly cloudy days with almost daily late afternoon and early evening thunderstorms beginning to creep in. The 2 week outlook is for warm temps with mostly partly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms on a regular basis. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the low to mid 70’s through early September.  The winds are expected to be very mild in the 6-8 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 late afternoon and evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is unusually warm 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 ideal for 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 85 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

Lots of Mahi-Mahi in Puerto Morelos this past week!  Our friends at the El Cid Resort & Marina reported a very successful week with many of the 4 hour and 6 hour charters loading up on the large close in schools of Mahi-Mahi. They did have to duck a few  thunderstorms so the overall trip counts were down a bit. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted 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 are winding down for the season but fishermen enjoyed a great  showing Mahi-Mahi.  The fleet reported 1 Sailfish, 1 White Marlin, 12 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 137 Mahi-Mahi, 1 King Mackerel and 7 Blackfin Tuna from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 40 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 6 Mutton Snappers,  Black Groupers,  14 Queen Triggerfish, 2 Jack Crevalle and 1 big Amberjack.  A total of 159 offshore fish and 64 inshore fish for a total of 223 fish for an average of 5 ½ fish per trip on a total of 43 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan has settled into its late summer weather pattern with very warm days with late afternoon thunderstorms as the clouds build coming off the warm water.  The extended forecast into early September s for a mix of mostly partly cloudy skies coupled with scattered occasional late afternoon showers or isolated afternoon thunderstorms.  Daytime temperatures are predicted in high 80’s and early 90’s with evenings in the mid to upper 70’s.  Humidity is expected to be in the lower 70’s. Winds are expected to be very modest in the 8-10 mph range primarily out of the East and ESE into early September. Expect some occasional showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day into mid September.

Sea Conditions:  Water temperatures in the Cancun-Puerto Morelos-Cozumel area have warmed to the 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 8-10 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 08/21/19

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

Cabo enjoyed an outstanding week of mixed bite and lots of clear blue water. As is typical of the late summer, the fleets were reporting a mixed bag of Striped & Blue Marlin to go with large Pacific Sailfish along with Dorado and Yellowfin Tuna with a few Wahoo mixed in. The Yellowfin Tuna action was really solid for the boats that made the longer runs out to the Tuna grounds. The Dorado counts were again high with 15-20 lbs “schoolies “  showing up and some 40-50 lb Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds . The Wahoo were spotted and again found primarily out on the primary Marlin grounds. We had more  reports of Black Marlin increasingly showing up as the water warms.  Many boats were returning after releasing a marlin or two along with a mix of several Yellowfin and Dorado to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some nice Roosterfish although the Roosterfish have slowed a bit headed into the off season.

The prime Marlin activity was reported at the 1150 Spot and the 95 Spot with some very favorable  reports off of Punta Gorda. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest with some action off the San Jamie bank and some large (although not numerous) cows found off the Outer Gordos.  Most of the Tuna are “schoolies” in the 10-35 lb range but some larger fish in the 70-90 lb range were reported. The Dorado were running in the 10-15 lb range with a few larger Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds.  Blue Marlin in the 200-250 lb range are showing in the warmer water and there was increased release of Pacific Sailfish showing up with the warmer waters.

Inshore fishing was again 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 although a bit slower than back in July.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Jacks were plentiful off the rocks from Solmar west.

Our top boats for the week were the Fish Cabo with 4 Blue Marlin and 19 Striped Marlin released on 5 days of fishing along with 2 Dorado and 2 Wahoo brought into dock. Also the Tuna Time with  2 Blue Marlin and 9 Stripped Marlin on 3 days of fishing!

Cabo Climate:  August started with a mix of hot muggy days with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and a bit higher probability of scattered late afternoon thunderstorms.  The future outlook into late August is for more of the same with mostly sunny skies and partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the upper 80’s and evenings in the upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny skies with some scattered thunderstorms showing up later in August. Winds are expected to increase in the 11-20 mph range into end of August mostly out of the West and NW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid 70’s.

Sea Conditions:  With the afternoon winds in the teen to 11-20 mph s 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, have been in the 2’-4’ range. Forecast through end of August is for more of the same with winds in the 11-15 mph range from the West and NW. The Pacific side sea temps have warmed into the 81-85 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside has warmed with temps in the 83-88 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos with low 80’s to mid 80’s south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 and 95 Spots were the again hotspot for Marlin action this past week with the Punta Gorda area producing  some nice marlin catches.  The Yellowfin were most often found 20-25 miles out to the south and southwest with the San Jamie also producing some nice catches. The interior corridor from Los Arcos to Palmilla produced lots of schoolie Dorado. Palmilla, Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, although a bit slower, 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 (especially for the Blues) and throwing live bait to surface fish.  Cedar plugs and feathers 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.

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

Tourist activity in Mazatlan was again a bit slow but our friends at the El Cid Marina had to deal with some thunderstorms that interrupted normal fishing were able to report solid results for the anglers that went out.  The summer time Dorado were close in and within reach for the super pangas.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up in increasing numbers to add to the daily tally. The billfish counts were down a bit with an even mix of Sailfish and Striped Marlin. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, 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.

Due to the weather over the past week and lower tourist activity The El Cid fleet only fished a total of 8 offshore days and 6 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 2 Striped Marlin, 2 Sailfish, 9 Dorados, and 445Yellowfin Tuna and a Wahoo. Inshore, they reported 47 Snappers, and 30 Queen Triggerfish.

Mazatlan Climate: August started with a warming summer weather pattern with scattered thunderstorms and a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for late August is similar with afternoons in the low 90’s daytime and upper 70’s into low 80’s in the evenings. The forecast through late August into early September is for partly cloudy to partly sunny skies with normal scattered thunderstorms moving in toward the end of the month and breezes lowering to a very low 4-6 mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW toward later in August.  Humidity is predicted to be in the upper 70’s into late August.  The forecast calls for a 40%-70% chance of scattered thunderstorms forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming and is now in the 85-87 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 picking up 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

The rainy season has settled in and there are very few visitors to Zihuatanejo but the fishing conditions in Zihuatanejo are very good right now and the fishing competition almost non-existent. With the unusually warm water there are Blue Marlin to go along with always plentiful Sailfish but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish!  The Striped Marlin have moved out with the arrival of the warmer water. The independent fleet reported sparse action but some really good results with 2-5 billfish fish per day for the few boats that were chartered.  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 and the Rooster season. Capt Temo is having no problem finding large Roosters for the few clients who are making the rainy season trek.

The action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth started as close as the 8-10 mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin were again found 30+ miles out past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Blue 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. With “crud” being washed down the rivers and inlets from the summer rains, the Dorado are present around flotsam lines.

IZ Climate: They are now into their rainy season with a mix of partly cloudy days with almost daily late afternoon and early evening thunderstorms beginning to creep in. The 2 week outlook is for warm temps with mostly partly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms on a regular basis. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid 70’s through late August.  The winds are expected to be very mild in the 7-9 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 pushing the building clouds into the coastal mountains, rain dumping on the mountains in the late afternoon and evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is unusually warm 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 ideal for 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 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

The Mahi-Mahi  were present in large numbers this past week. 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 continued to produce nice results. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted 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 are winding down for the season but fishermen enjoyed a nice showing of giant Atlantic Barracuda and 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, 1 White Marlin, 1 Bull Shark, 22 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 164 Mahi-Mahi, and 1 Bonito from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 67 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 20 Mutton Snappers, 4 Black Groupers,  and 7 Queen Triggerfish.  A total of 198 offshore fish and 98 inshore fish for a total of 296 fish for an average of over 4 ½ fish per trip on a total of 65 trips!!

PM/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan has settled into its late summer weather pattern with very warm days with fewer thunderstorms coming out of their spring pattern.  The extended forecast into late August and early September calls for a mix of mostly partly cloudy 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 to be modest in the 8-12 mph range primarily out of the East and ESE into early September. Expect some occasional showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day into mid to late August.

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 8-12 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 08/14/19

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

Even with the full moon approaching, Cabo enjoyed an outstanding week of mixed bite and lots of clear blue water. As is typical of the late summer, the fleets were reporting a mixed bag of Striped & Blue Marlin to go with large Pacific Sailfish with several “Triple Crowns” reported. The Yellowfin Tuna action was really solid for the boats that made the longer runs out to the Tuna grounds. The Dorado counts increased particularly on the inside with smaller schoolie fish running in the 10-15 lb range but numerous bulls up to 40 lbs showing up out on the Marlin grounds. We had our first confirmed reports of Black Marlin – one coming off the Gordos and the other at the 1150 Spot.  Many boats were returning after releasing a marlin or two along with a mix of several Yellowfin and Dorado to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some nice Roosterfish although the Roosterfish have slowed a bit headed into the off season.

The prime Marlin activity was reported at the 1150 Spot and the 95 Spot. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest with some action off the San Jamie bank. Most of the Tuna are “schoolies” in the 10-35 lb range but some larger fish in the 70-90 lb range were reported. The Dorado were running in the 10-15 lb range with a few larger Bulls reported out on the Marlin grounds.  Blue Marlin in the 200-250 lb range are showing in the warmer water and there was increased release of Sailfish showing up with the warmer waters.

Inshore fishing was again 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 although a bit slower than back in July.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Jacks were plentiful off the rocks from Solmar west.

Cabo Climate:  August started with a mix of hot muggy days with mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and a bit higher winds than normal.  The future outlook into late August is for more of the same with mostly sunny skies and partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the upper 80’s and evenings in the upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny skies with some scattered thunderstorms showing up later in August. Winds are expected to run in the 11-15 mph range into late August 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, have been in the 2’-4’ range. Forecast through late August is for more of the same with winds in the 11-15 mph range from the West and NW. The Pacific side sea temps are running in the 71-74 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside has warmed with temps in the 80-85 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos with upper 70’s to low 80’s south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 and 95 Spots were the hotspot for Marlin action this past week. The Yellowfin were most often found 20-25 miles out to the south and southwest with the San Jamie also producing some nice catches. The interior corridor from Los Arcos to Palmilla produced lots of schoolie Dorado. Palmilla, Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, although a bit slower, 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 (especially for the Blues) and throwing live bait to surface fish.  Cedar plugs and feathers 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.

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

Tourist activity in Mazatlan was a bit slow but our friends at the El Cid Marina were able to report solid results for the anglers that went out.  The summer time Dorado were close in and within reach for the super pangas.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up in increasing numbers this past week to add to the daily tally. The billfish counts were down a bit with an even mix of Sailfish and Striped Marlin. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, Sailfish, 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.

Due to the weather over the past week and lower tourist activity The El Cid fleet only fished a total of 7 offshore days and 6 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 1 Striped Marlin, 2 Sailfish, 8 Dorados, and 43 Yellowfin Tuna and a Wahoo. Inshore, they reported 27 Snappers, and 20 Queen Triggerfish.

Mazatlan Climate: August started with a warming summer weather pattern with scattered thunderstorms and a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for mid to late August is similar with warming to the low 90’s daytime and upper 70’s into low 80’s in the evenings. The forecast through mid to late August is for partly cloudy to partly sunny skies with some scattered thunderstorms moving in toward the end of the month and breezes lowering to a modest 8-10mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW toward later in August.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 70’s into late August for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for a 10%-30% chance of scattered thunderstorms forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming and is now in the 85-87 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 picking up 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

The rainy season has settled in and there are very few visitors to Zihuatanejo but the fishing conditions in Zihuatanejo are very good right now and the fishing competition almost non-existent. With the warm water there are Blue Marlin to go along with always plentiful Sailfish but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish!  The independent fleet reported sparse action but some really good results with 2-5 billfish fish per day for the few boats that were chartered.  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 and the Rooster season. Capt Temo is having no problem finding large Roosters for the few clients who are making the rainy season trek.

The action this past week for the few fishermen that went forth started as close as the 8-10 mile mark.  Large schools of Yellowfin were again found 30+ miles out past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Blue 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. With “crud” being washed down the rivers and inlets from the summer rains, the Dorado are present around flotsam lines.

IZ Climate: They are now into their rainy season with a mix of partly cloudy days with almost daily late afternoon and early evening thunderstorms beginning to creep in. The 2 week outlook is for warm temps with mostly partly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms on a regular basis. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid 70’s through late August.  The winds are expected to be very mild in the 7-9 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 pushing the building clouds into the coastal mountains, rain dumping on the mountains in the late afternoon and evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is unusually warm 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 ideal for 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 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

The Mahi-Mahi  were present in large numbers this past week. 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 continued to produce nice results. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted 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 are winding down for the season but fishermen enjoyed a nice showing of giant Atlantic Barracuda and 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, 1 White Marlin, 1 Bull Shark, 22 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 164 Mahi-Mahi, and 1 Bonito from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 67 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 20 Mutton Snappers, 4 Black Groupers,  and 7 Queen Triggerfish.  A total of 198 offshore fish and 98 inshore fish for a total of 296 fish for an average of over 4 ½ fish per trip on a total of 65 trips!!

Puerto Morelos/Cancun Climate:  The Yucatan has settled into its late summer weather pattern with very warm days with fewer thunderstorms coming out of their spring pattern.  The extended forecast into late August calls for a mix of mostly partly cloudy 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 to be modest in the 9-14 mph range primarily out of the East and ESE into late August. Expect some occasional showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day into mid to late August.

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 08/07/19

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

The expectation was that the overall bite might increase headed into the full moon but things just seemed to stay steady this past week. The Striped Marlin bite was solid this past week with an average of 1-2 fish per boat. More and more Blues and Sailfish are showing up in the reports with most of the Blues in the 200-250 lb range. Still no confirmed reports of Black Marlin although positive reports came of the East Cape this past month. The Yellowfin Tuna action was really solid for the boats that made the longer runs out to the Tuna grounds. The Dorado counts increased particularly on the inside with most fish running in the 15-20 lb range but numerous bulls up to 40 lbs. The 1150 Spot and the 95 Spot were the preferred fishing locations for most of the fleet. Many boats were returning after releasing a marlin or two along with a mix of several Yellowfin and Dorado to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some nice Roosterfish although the Roosterfish slowed a bit headed into the off season.

The prime Marlin activity was reported at the 1150 Spot and the 95 Spot. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest and reduced action around the Gordos and the Cabrillo Seamount to the southeast perhaps from the presence of several commercial Tuna boats. Most of the Tuna are “schoolies” in the 10-35 lb range. The Dorado were running in the 15-20 lb range with a few larger Bulls reported scattered from Migrino around the point and to the south toward the Herradura and east off Palmilla.  Some Blue Marlin in the 200-250 lb range are showing in the warmer water and we also had additional reports of the Sailfish showing up with the warmer waters.

Inshore fishing was again 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 although slower from the previous 2 weeks.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Jacks were plentiful off the rocks from Solmar west.

Cabo Climate:  August started with a mix of muggy mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and a bit higher winds than normal.  The future outlook into mid August is for more of the same with mostly sunny skies and partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the upper 80’s and evenings in the upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny skies with no precipitation forecast through mid to late August. Winds are expected to lie down a bit in the 8-15 mph range into mid to late August mostly out of the West and NW.  Humidity is expected to run in the mid to upper 80’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, have been in the 2’-3’ range. Forecast through mid to late August is for more of the same with winds in the 8-15 mph range from the West and NW. The Pacific side sea temps are running in the 71-74 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside has warmed with temps in the 81-85 degree range off Palmilla to lower 80’s around the Gordos with upper 70’s to low 80’s south in the Herradura and out near the 1150 and 95 Spots.

Best Fishing Areas:  The 1150 Spot was a hotspot for Marlin action this past week along with the 95 Spot. The Yellowfin were most often found 20-25 miles out to the south and southwest. Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. Rooster action was solid, although a bit slower, 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 (especially for the Blues) and throwing live bait to surface fish.  Cedar plugs and feathers 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.

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 struggled with some severe thunderstorms this past week but when the boats were able to get out they found solid fishing.  The summer time Dorado were close in and within reach for the super pangas.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up in increasing numbers this past week to add to the daily tally. The billfish counts were solid with an even mix of Sailfish and Striped Marlin. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, 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.

Due to the weather over the past week The El Cid fleet only fished a total of 8 offshore days and 6 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 2 Striped Marlin, 2 Sailfish, 8 Dorados, and 25 Yellowfin Tuna. Inshore, they reported 35 Snappers, and 60 Queen Triggerfish.

Mazatlan Climate: August started with a warming summer weather pattern with scattered thunderstorms and a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for mid to late August is similar with warming to the low 90’s daytime and upper 70’s into low 80’s in the evenings. The forecast through mid to late August is for partly cloudy to partly sunny skies with some scattered thunderstorms moving in and breezes lowering to a modest 8-12mph range primarily out of the West trending toward the SW toward later in August.  Humidity is predicted to be in the mid 70’s into late August for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for a 10%-30% chance of scattered thunderstorms forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming and is now in the 85-87 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 picking up 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

The rainy season has setled in and there are very few visitors to Zihuatanejo but the fishing conditions in Zihuatanejo are absolutely incredible right now with Blue Marlin to go along with always plentiful Sailfish but very few fishermen around to take advantage of the abundance of billfish!  The independent fleet reported sparse action but some really good results with 2-5 billfish fish per day for the few boats that were chartered.  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 and the Rooster season. Capt Temo reported some very large Roosters for the few days he had clients.

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 past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of quality fish in the 50--75 lb range. Blue 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. With “crud” being washed down the rivers and inlets, the Dorado are present around flotsam lines.

IZ Climate: They are now into their rainy season with a mix partly cloudy days with almost daily late afternoon and early evening thunderstorms beginning to creep in. The 2 week outlook is for warm temps with partly some sunny but mostly partly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms on a regular basis. Daily temps are predicted in the upper 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid 70’s through mid August.  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 pushing the building clouds into the coastal mountains, rain dumping on the mountains in the late afternoon and evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is unusually warm 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 ideal for 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 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 continued to produce nice results. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted 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 are winding down for the season but fishermen enjoyed a nice showing of giant Atlantic Barracuda and 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 3 Sailfish, 1 White Marlin, 1 Wahoo, 32 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 44 Mahi-Mahi, 1 King Mackerel , and 3 Blackfin Tuna from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 172 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 12 Mutton Snappers, 19 Black Groupers,  76 Queen Triggerfish, 3 Rubias and 2 large Amberjacks.  A total of 87 offshore fish and 284 inshore fish for a total of 370 fish for an average of over 5 ½ fish per trip on a total of 66 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  mid to late August 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 to be modest in the 9-11 mph range primarily out of the East and ESE into mid August. Expect some occasional showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day into mid to late August.

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 9-11 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 07/31/19

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

Cabo enjoyed a great week of fishing headed into the new moon. The Striped Marlin bite was solid this past week with an average of 2 fish per boat. More and more Blues and Sailfish are showing up in the reports with most of the Blues in the 200-250 lb range. The Yellowfin Tuna action picked up considerably with reports of larger fish showing up – one topped the scales at 250 lbs. The Dorado counts increased particularly on the inside with most fish running in the 15-20 lb range but numerous bulls up to 40 lbs. The 1150 Spot was again a prime location along with 1180 and 130 spots. Many boats were returning after releasing a marlin or two along with a mix of several Yellowfin and Dorado to provide some tasty table fare for their anglers. The inshore fishing was again very productive with some nice counts of Snappers, Groupers, and Sierras as well as some nice Roosterfish particularly from Solmar west to around the Lighthouse.

The prime Marlin activity was reported at the 1150 Spot and also the 130 spot. The Yellowfin were found primarily to the south and southwest and also reports of success at the Gordos and the Cabrillo Seamount to the southeast. The Dorado were scattered from Migrino around the point and to the east off Palmilla.  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.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Jacks were plentiful off the rocks from Solmar west.

Cabo Climate:  July has featured a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and a bit higher winds than normal.  The future outlook into early to mid August is for more of the same with mostly sunny skies and partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the upper 80’s and evenings in the upper 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny skies with no precipitation forecast through mid August. Winds are expected to lie down a bit in the 10-15 mph range into mid August 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, have been in the 2’-3’ range. Forecast through mid August is for more of the same with winds in the 10-15 mph range from the West and NW. The Pacific side sea temps are running in the 71-75 degree range with mostly clear water. The inside has warmed with temps in the 81-85 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 was a hotspot for Marlin action this past week along with the 1180 and 130 Spots. The Yellowfin were most often found 20-25 miles out to the south and southwest with the Gordos and Cabrillo Seamount to the east and southeast also noted as holding large schools.  Los Arcos and Migrino were the choice for inshore fishing with some really nice catches of Sierras coming off Migrino. 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 and feathers 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.

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

The weather improved for our friends at the El Cid in Mazatlan and the boats were able to get out every day after losing several days of fishing due to thunderstorms the previous 2 weeks.  The summer time Dorado were close in and within reach for the super pangas.  The Yellowfin Tuna showed up in increasing numbers this past week to add to the daily tally. The billfish counts were solid with an even mix of Sailfish and Striped Marlin. Their inshore fishing produced solid results for fishermen on 4 hour or 6 hour trips.

The offshore boats reported a nice mix of Striped Marlin, 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. The Roosters showed up in the surf off the beaches to add to the inshore excitement.

Over the past week The El Cid fleet fished a total of 25 offshore days and 5 Super Panga inshore trips.  They reported 7 Striped Marlin, 8 Sailfish, 15 Dorados, and 40 Yellowfin Tuna. Inshore, they reported 85 Snappers, 50 Queen Triggerfish and 11 Roosters.

Mazatlan Climate: July ended with a warming summer weather pattern with scattered thunderstorms and a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for early August is similar with warming to the low 90’s daytime and upper 70’s into low 80’s in the evenings. The forecast through mid August 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 mid August.  Humidity is predicted to be in the lower 70’s into mid August for very pleasant fishing conditions. The forecast calls for a 10%-40% chance of scattered thunderstorms forecast over the next couple of weeks.

Sea Conditions: The water has been warming and is now in the 85-87 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 picking up 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

The rainy season has started to settle in and 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!  The independent fleet reported sparse action but some really good sailfish results with 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 and the Rooster season. Capt Temo reported some very large Roosters for one of his dedicated off season clients.

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 past the 1000 fathom mark with lots of 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 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 upper 80’s and night time temps in the high 70’s with humidity expected to run in the mid 70’s through mid August.  The winds are expected to be very mild in the 7-8 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 late afternoon and evening, and then begin rebuilding the next day.

Sea Conditions: The offshore water temperature is unusually warm 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 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 continued to produce nice results. With the close-in fishing available at Puerto Morelos many clients opted 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 are winding down for the season but fishermen enjoyed a nice showing of giant Atlantic Barracuda and 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 3 Sailfish, 1 White Marlin, 1 Wahoo, 32 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 44 Mahi-Mahi, 1 King Mackerel , and 3 Blackfin Tuna from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 172 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 12 Mutton Snappers, 19 Black Groupers,  76 Queen Triggerfish, 3 Rubias and 2 large Amberjacks.  A total of 87 offshore fish and 284 inshore fish for a total of 370 fish for an average of over 5 ½ fish per trip on a total of 66 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  mid August 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 to be modest in the 9-11 mph range primarily out of the East and ESE into mid August. Expect some occasional showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day into mid August.

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 9-11 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 07/24/19

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

After a few days of unsettled water caused by strong southerly winds and currents the week settled down with some outstanding summer fishing. The Striped Marlin bite was solid this past week with an average of 2 fish per boat. Blues were consistently showing up in the reports with most in the 200-250 lb range. The Yellowfin Tuna action picked up considerably 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 Dorado were mostly running in the 15-20 lb range this past week 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, and Sierras 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.  Some very nice catches of Red Snappers and Groupers were also reported fishing close to the rocks around El Arco. Jacks were plentiful off the rocks from Solmar west.

Cabo Climate:  July has featured a mix of mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies and a bit higher winds than normal.  The future outlook into early August is for more of the same with mostly sunny skies and partly cloudy skies with average daytime temps in the middle 80’s and evenings in the 70’s. The 2 week forecast is for mostly sunny skies with a 10-20% chance of some scattered late day thunderstorms forecast over the next 2 weeks. Winds are expected to be a bit higher than normal in the 10-20 mph range into early August 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 early August 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 running in the 71-75 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. 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.

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 reported some thunderstorms again this past week.  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 fished a total of 15 offshore days and 8 Super Panga inshore trips – less than normal due to the thunderstorms in their area...  They reported 9 Striped Marlin, 2 Sailfish, 32 Dorados, and 21 Yellowfin Tuna. Inshore, they reported 65 Snappers,64 Queen Triggerfish and 15 Corbinas.

Mazatlan Climate: July started with a warming summer weather pattern with scattered thunderstorms and a bit higher winds than normal. The outlook for late July into early August is similar with warming to the low 90’s daytime and upper 70’s into low 80’s in the evenings. The forecast through early August 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 early August.  Humidity is predicted to be in the lower 70’s into early August 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 85-87 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

The rainy season has started to settle in and 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 some really good sailfish results with 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. Capt Temo reported some very large Roosters for one pair of clients.

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 early August.  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 is unusually warm 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 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 opted 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 are winding down for the season but fishermen enjoyed a big showing of giant Atlantic Barracuda. 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, 33 Giant Atlantic Barracuda, 4 Mahi-Mahi, 1 King Mackerel , and 1 Blackfin Tuna from targeted offshore fishing.   The close in reef fishing reported 252 Chack-Chi (Caribbean Snappers), 25 Mutton Snappers, 20 Black Groupers, and 73 Queen Triggerfish.  A total of 46 offshore fish and 370 inshore fish for a total of 416 fish for an average of over7 fish per trip on a total of 59 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  early August 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 to be modest in the 8-12 mph range shifting primarily to out of the East and ESE into early August. Expect some occasional showers and late afternoon scattered thunderstorms. Daily precipitation forecast is the 10-40% range almost every day into early August.

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 8-12 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