Hello All,
Need some advice. I'm going to Loreto early July and will be targeting Dorado off a panga. (Sail fish and Yellow tail might be in the mix) I've got some gear, but don't know what to bring.
Here's what I have.
1. Okuma Andros 5
2. Avet MX
3. Avet JX
4. Avet JX Raptor
5.Penn TRQ40
Cal Star 700 M, H and XH
Interested in your choice of line, top shot, lures, etc.
Thank a bunch.
Marc
Hey Marc where have you been? Good to hear from you. It's been a while. Markt and/or Socal Angler should weigh in since one of these members goes down there regularly. Dominick
Hey Dom,
How the heck are you? I've been real busy with work, but getting a little free time to go to Mexico. You been fishing? The last couple of years I've become an active diver, (Scuba and free diving), primarily Abalone hunting and spearfishing. Need to get together with you guys!
Going down to Cabo next Tuesday. Do you need a place to stay in Loreto? PM me. Dominick
Hi Marc,
In early July, deep drop fishing (200 feet plus) will be the mainstay if the dorado are not cooperating.
Long 60-80 lb leaders, Live bait hooks for 6-9inch mackerels. I like 7/0 to 9/0 Mustad circles. Usually around 12 oz weights, available locally. The more drag you can handle, the better, the big yellowtails will rock you fast. I can handle cranking against a higher drag with a two speed. shorter rods are better, just long enough to clear the outboard. Last couple years there have been some big amberjack, groupers and snappers mixed in with the yellowtail. Spectra around 80 lb is good here. A longer 60 lb topshot can come in handy for clearing tangles when fishing live bait.
Dorado: They haven't been around much the last 3 years, the water has been too hot. This year looks more normal weather wise, but they should be showing in larger numbers south off La Paz by now. If live sardinas (flatiron herring) are available for purchase, the plan will be to roll up on a paddy, toss a few sardinas and then one on a hook. So you want something you are comfortable tossing an unweighed 4-6 inch sardina up to about 50 feet to allow you to target specific fish. Nothing over 7 feet for a rod in a panga. I use 30lb leader for dorado fly fishing, sometimes drop down to 20 if they are getting leader shy. I will get break offs on the big bulls if the fly is taken deeply. I would consider having some circle hooks and 30 lb leader, plus the traditional 40 -50lb.
If paddy hopping and radio fishing isn't working, you may need to troll to find fish. They like to troll pretty fast there.
Running into breezing sailfish and striped marlin is a distinct possibility. Same big live bait, 80 lb leader minimum. They will also show up on the troll. A few marlin have already showed up this year.
Inshore shallow fishing should be winding down if the water temps are up to normal for July, but you never know. Target fish here are roosterfish, jacks, and smaller cabrilla and snappers. Same light gear as dorado.
Most folks bring too much and too light gear. Nothing funnier than three guys on a panga with 5 rods each :)
If you are not fishing alone, figure out how much gear total is going to be on the boat. I personally would have a two speed deep drop outfit that would double as a trolling rod, and a lighter 25lb mono setup that casts well, but still had a good drag and some capacity. Having a lightweight setup (like a heavy freshwater bass outfit) for screwing around with triggerfish, small dorado and needlefish might be nice if the options are limited and you want a challenge.
You generally want lures that can troll fast for dorado and sailfish. For deep drop, the standard irons work, just be aware that the local hot spots are deep and have strong current. Inshore trolling for roosters, think shallow running rapala type lures. I haven't done inshore lure trolling in a long time, but I was partial to the non-shiny mullet finishes.
Some smaller midwater irons can work if the dorado are shy, or there is not enough bait present to keep them on the surface. Sometimes dropping a an iron 60-100 feet and cranking up fast while your partner is soaking a live bait is just the ticket to turn on a bite. I am personally a believer that colors don't matter too much, but flash can either help or turn off the fish. Some poppers under 6 inch if the dorado are thick and you want to have some fun. After catching a few, I have the most fun with a hookless popper. Bigger mackerel catching sabikis, in case you have to catch your own bait. The squid skirt types are popular, but regular skin types work too.
There is a four rod, four reel limit increasingly being enforced at airport customs. They count what each person is carrying individually, so six rods for you and your partner is over the limit. They will hit you up based on a percentage of the value of each item over limit.
Fishing licenses are available online. Sometimes the operator will neglect to procure an "included" license for you. Much of the area requires a marine park daily permit. Last year the permits were available at the marina. You get a daily pink paper bracelet. You can usually have the operator get the permits for you. Carry some ID with you in addition to your license. There are times when license and permit checking is going on, both at the marina and out in the water.
Loreto is a great town. You will have fun.
Feel free to PM me if you have more questions..
-J
Did I mention the heat in July. :o Be forewarned. ::) Dominick
How long will you be in Cabo? We are all hooked up for Loreto. Thanks!
Marc,
jurelometer covered your options pretty well IMO. I will be down in Loreto June 25th to July 2nd. I fish the Loreto area every year around this time and then head back around mid to late October sometimes.
30- 40 lb setups is what I fish most for dorado, yt and others though I mainly find myself fishing 40 lb the most. 60 lb leaders like already stated are most commonly used for the above fish. 60-80 gear with 80-100 lb longer leaders is what I like to use for marlin and sails which aid in quick and healthy releases. I also like 2 speed reels for their flexibility and power for most of the fishing I do there.
For lures I like MirrOlures 111's or Rapala X Rap Magnum's for trolling as well as some tuna type feathers. Fishing the yoyo iron for yt, cabrilla, pargo and such I like Salas 6X jr's.
Good luck on your trip.
P.S. do you already have your panga's lined up?
Thanks Jurelometer and SoCalAngler. I am a newbie, so any info is much appreciated. I do not have a panga lined up. Recommendations? Can I book online? Should I buy my tackle here in the states or wait until I'm in Mexico? What about fishing licenses? Jurelometer said there was a limitation on the number of reels and rods, that is to say 4. Someone else told me it's 2. Do you know what the limitation is? My wife is not a fisherman. Is there room for her on the panga? Thanks!
Marc
Marc, check out BD Outdoors for recommendations for pangas. You can get your license online at this address http://pescadeportivaenmexico.sectur.gob.mx/en fast and easy service. I get mine from this site all the time. Purchase here you have a better selection and cheaper prices. I look forward to pictures and a report. If your wife will be on the panga be aware of the potty situation and she will have to have a fishing license even if she does not fish. Dominick
you've got 20 or 25, 30, 40, 50 and 60 covered. 30 should be enough! looking good!
Flying or driving? I fly to Loreto and only bring one reel a JX 6/3 to fish with 40 lb toppers. My father lives about 17 miles south of Loreto in Puerto Escondido so I have other gear at his place when I head down. If flying I try to keep my gear to a minimum.
There is no limit on rods and reels or other tackle you can have on a boat/panga but I mainly fish 30 sometimes 40 most often and a 60-80 lb trolling outfit. These 3 setups should cover just about everything you will run into in Loreto. Most of the panga's you will hire have gear, most often well used stuff, but all should have Penn 113's for trolling and for bait with 40-60 lb test on them.
There are the usual suspects as far as panga rentals go, check fishing Loreto through Google and you will see them but if it was me looking to hire one I'd check with these guys first. Torres Sportfishing, Jose the father lives in Juncalito south of Loreto and Manuel his son lives in town. Jose also has two other sons that fish and work with his outfit but I have only fished with Jose and Manuel. These guys will pick you up at the docks in Loreto. Next would be Sea and Land Tours right in Loreto proper. Juve the owner and Rick Hill who works there, will make sure you have the best time you can and know all of the ports captains. I know these two outfits personally and would not hesitate riding one of their boats.
Oh and by the way most of the fishing reports one see's on the net coming from Loreto are from Rick. I'm sure I will fish with him a few times this year on my fathers boat. As a matter of fact Rick took the pic in my avatar last year of the rooster I caught.
If your'e not fishing everyday take the wife on one of those day hikes to check out the cave paintings. Likely be pretty warm but there's one that goes to a ranch outside mulege that traverses back and forth over a river so the water cools you off as you wade across. A bit of a drive but well worth it. There's a few tour operators that offer it in town that arrange everything. Mulege is a nice town too if you have some time to kick around there.
Not sure if it's the right time of year but one year we went on a day trip across the penninsula to Gerro Negro to check out the grey whales. You go out in a panga and splash the water with you hand and the whales swim up and you can pet them. Some of them will lift the calves up to give them a scratch too. The operator we went with had a naturalist with us and we would stop every little while to check out different areas along the drive. Had a nice lunch there too.
Another thing to consider is to bring a small 12lb spinning outfit and a handful of small shiny lures like cast masters and krockidiles to fish off the beach.A fun way to spend a few hours in the evening, your wife might enjoy that too.
I don't know that I've been anywhere with nicer people than Loreto. You'll have a great trip.
Thanks again for all the help. Just to clarify, I should bring 3 rigs: a 30lb, 40lb and a trolling rig?
Quote from: Marc Fong on June 10, 2017, 03:04:35 PM
Thanks again for all the help. Just to clarify, I should bring 3 rigs: a 30lb, 40lb and a trolling rig?
The Pangero will have gear too. You don't have to get everything at once.
Don't miss Dominick's caution regarding your wife. No private facilities on the panga.
Steve
1. Inland touring to see the cave paintings in July - might be too hot to be comfortable. You might want to see how you feel about it after to get there.
2. Plenty of room on a super panga for you & your wife. She will need license and marine park permit, even if she does not fish. Lots to see out in the water. Big schools of jumping mantas, dolphins. We saw whale sharks right at the boat the last couple years. Sometimes we stop fishing early to go for a snorkel or swim at one of the islands. It will be hot, so this is pretty refreshing.
3. Customs statement is four fishing rods: http://www.sat.gob.mx/informacion_fiscal/normatividad/formas_fiscales/Documents/A30_ingles.pdf
This has been interpreted at the airport as 4 rods, 4 reels. If you carry 5, and your wife carries zero, they will probably charge you for one (16% of value I think). So make sure that you are not physically carrying more than 4 per person.
4. Reserving a panga is a good idea. You should be able to find a panga on short notice no problem, but the best guys have regulars, so their calendars can get full. SoCal knows his stuff: I haven't fished with the Torres family, but they are well regarded. Their home base is far enough south of Loreto that they can reach yellowfin sometimes, and the Torres' have a reputation for getting into them. The good news is that the local skippers in Loreto mostly work together, so if somebody finds fish, eventually everybody shows up.
5. Make sure that you have one rod to troll and deep drop (two speed capable of at least 15 lb drag)' and one light for dorado. If you want to fish the iron, add in a standard yellowtail iron outfit. Unlikely to be surface fish, and too hot to speed wind for me in the summer, so I do't usually fish the deep irons very long. gear tends to get banged up in the panga, especially if you bring a lot.
Quote from: Marc Fong on June 10, 2017, 03:04:35 PM
Thanks again for all the help. Just to clarify, I should bring 3 rigs: a 30lb, 40lb and a trolling rig?
That's what I would bring for myself if I took gear down. Most of the fish around Loreto are not really line shy so I tend to fish as heavy as I can get away with. Even live baiting dorado more often than not I have a 60 lb leader and yes those fish will eat it no problem. Another reason I fish heavier there is you never know what you may hook. A few times I have been dropping macks on high spots to fish for yt, pargo, cabrilla, amber or almaco jacks and such with a dropper loop setups only to have my line stop before reaching the bottom. I set the hook and see a billfish come charging out of the water that picked up the bait before it could get down to depth. Not to mention the no-see-ums that have rocked me or when I have had to button down the drag enough to bust off a fish before I get spooled.
It seems some people here edit post made by others that have no idea of the type of fishing your looking to do but what the heck its their forum. I say fish 30 lb at your own peril, it can be done and I have done it for near shore fish like triggers smaller cabrilla and such but remember some true fish of a life time swim in those same inshore waters.
These are not all my fish but are ones that were caught in Loreto, and good luck landing them when fishing the 30 lb string.
(http://i1372.photobucket.com/albums/ag355/SoCalAngler1/IMG_0649%202_zpsmj1dhsjs.jpg)
(http://i1372.photobucket.com/albums/ag355/SoCalAngler1/SharkBait_zpshcxhhryb.jpg)
(http://i1372.photobucket.com/albums/ag355/SoCalAngler1/Pacifico-Mark_45_8_zps9a72a656.jpg)
(http://i1372.photobucket.com/albums/ag355/SoCalAngler1/5bf2f305-9927-401b-b8d6-b7c88e4d2c87_zpsosf5sxja.jpg)
Good luck on your trip
X2 what SoCal said about using heavy line. I caught this yellowtail about 100yds off the beach in front of our hotel. The pangero was dropping me off on the beach at the end off the day and saw a swirl on the surface. I threw a live mackerel at it on 60lb with a TLD 30 and it ate it. Towed us around for awhile and we could see the bottom almost the entire time. I doubt I would have landed it on much lighter gear.
Thank you all. I am very grateful for Alan's website and the input of all of you. This helps my learning curve and will, hopefully, result in a successful fishing adventure.
Thanks again.
Marc
Quote from: Dominick on June 09, 2017, 07:51:48 PM
Marc, check out BD Outdoors for recommendations for pangas. You can get your license online at this address http://pescadeportivaenmexico.sectur.gob.mx/en fast and easy service. I get mine from this site all the time. Purchase here you have a better selection and cheaper prices. I look forward to pictures and a report. If your wife will be on the panga be aware of the potty situation and she will have to have a fishing license even if she does not fish. Dominick
I don't think this license site is up any more. I found a new link on BD Outdoors that worked for me recently: http://www.bajasursportfishing.com/
-J
If you get your license on line remember to stop by the CONPESCA office to get your wrist bands. The office is right at the harbor. Its a small little office but since there is not much there it is easy to find. If fishing more than one day I would buy one wrist band for yourself and who ever may go on the panga with you. Don't put the band on but keep it with your license. These are single use bands and have to be broken or cut off to remove them. I don't want to wear the bands the whole time I'm there as I fish several times in a week so I don't strap it onto my wrist, this way there is no need to buy a band for every day of fishing. If stopped and checked just show the license and band and your good to go. I have been checked a few times and they never cared that we were not wearing the bands, they just wanted to make sure we had them.
Edit: One other thing the office at Loreto harbor closes early, I don't remember the time but it is like 2 or 3 pm. Also, I don't know what time they open either but if your looking to fish a certain day I would get my wrist bands the day before.
Just a few more questions. Can I use my Penn TRQ40NLD with 80 lb braid for deep drop fishing and trolling? How about my Avet JX Raptor with 60 lb braid? Sorry for all the newbie questions. I also have an old Penn Senator 113HLW with 80 lb braid. Is that good for anything? My buddy doesn't have any gear so I'm trying to maximize what I have. Thanks!
Marc
marc, if you can ever make it over to the house, i can probably get you all set up with gear.
Done. Thanks. I'll contact you this coming week if that works for you. I have court Monday and Tuesday.
Best,
Marc
A Fathom 25nld2 is what Rick caught the Thresher on in the above pic and my JX 6/3 (non Raptor) is what I landed 45 lb dorado with. The TRQ40NLD should be fine for what your looking to do unless you hook a blue marlin which are not common in Loreto but several are hooked every year.
Just talked to my pops and he is fishing tomorrow, seems like the dorado have moved in the last couple of days. The first wave is usually the smaller stuff followed by the larger models. YT seems slow but this is the transition time of year so that comes as no real surprise.
Thanks SoCal. I'm starting to get excited!
Quote from: Marc Fong on June 19, 2017, 01:00:34 AM
Done. Thanks. I'll contact you this coming week if that works for you. I have court Monday and Tuesday.
Best,
Marc
i'm at the hospital every day this week, but i have the weekends off. weekday evenings are fine, too.
From Rich Hill's report through Baja Bytes.
The dorado scene blew wide open on Saturday for the Loreto boats. Kelp paddies were boiling with small to medium sized dorado with fish blasting baits as soon as they hit the water! There were wide open kelp paddies at both Punta Lobo and south at Punta Perico in the current lines.
(http://www.bajafly.com/report/06.19.17/06.19.17.03C.jpg)
(Not Part of Rick's report) Yes these are very small dorado in the pic but soon to be followed by larger models. I have also fished with Capt. Tony, on the right of the pic, as a matter of fact I think he is wearing the hat I gave to him last year to keep sun off himself.
Back to Rick's report: Photo of captain Tony Davis and Kevin Ellis with some perfect pan sized dodos.
Most of the fish parked in the fish boxes were 10 to 12-pound models. Many smaller dodos did the catch and release dance.
From me and not part of Ricks report. (Watch the light gear)
Back to Rick's report: Our clients, Kevin and Peggy Ellis of Arizona broke a light weight graphite rod on a heavy weight blue marlin that was well over 200 pounds. After a 2 hour fight and a break-off at boatside it was still a terrific day. Limits of perfect sized dorado and a trophy to mark the events.
Before the kelp paddies erupted we did have dorado hitting feathers but only blind strikes. A few dorado over 20 pounds were caught out at the "30" spot east of Coronado.
Looks like we may have the summer dorado season that had passed us by for the past few years...Rick Hill, Pinchy Sportfishing
(I soon will be there and I hope the larger models are too)
Nice! Can't wait to get down there. I don't leave until July 7, but already playing with my gear. Hopefully the wife will not see the credit card receipts. Does anyone have any recommendations on how I pack my lures? Soft tackle box checked at as baggage or should I try to bring on as carry on? I'm bringing my reels on a carryon backpack.
Thanks.
Marc
Hooks in carry-on are a no no. Dominick
Quote from: Dominick on June 23, 2017, 06:27:37 PM
Hooks in carry-on are a no no. Dominick
Yep, No hooks, definitely no line on reels in carrry-on returning from Mexico, it used to be the same leaving the US, but not enforced as much now. Depends on how lucky you feel.
Flying to and back from LAX to Loreto I have never had trouble with line on reels in my carry on baggage. I have been doing this for 10 years now without a issue. I only take one carry on suitcase and a smaller day type back pack. The reels are in my pack for easy access if needed but not one time have I even asked about them.
Hooks on the other hand are a no go on carry on luggage. The first year I went to Loreto I brought a couple of trolling lures in my carry on. Boom I got flagged by TSA at LAX and had a agent go through my luggage. I was lucky that the guy fished and let my lures through even though I said I would check my bag. When leaving to go to the plane the agent said to me "if I were you I would not carry these in my carry on any more" I got the hint. I have flown with leadheads for plactics one time and had no problem at LAX but it was a no go at Loreto. Plastics and lead heads and even a small Plano box were left behind. Thinking about it now I should of left the leadheads and kept the plastics and box... oh well.
When I'd go I use one of those albacore tackle back packs and secure it with a couple of giant zip ties used for securing water heaters to a wall and check it with my rod tube and duffel with clothes. I'd bring 6 extra zip ties because they going to cut them off if they want to inspect your bags. No hassles with TSA and a carry on and you can get pretty much everything you need in it. You have a hand for the rod tube, one for the duffel and all the heavy stuff on your back. Makes walking thru the airports pretty easy, being a tackle ho I bring a lot of crap.
Quote from: SoCalAngler on June 24, 2017, 04:44:41 AM
Flying to and back from LAX to Loreto I have never had trouble with line on reels in my carry on baggage. I have been doing this for 10 years now without a issue. I only take one carry on suitcase and a smaller day type back pack. The reels are in my pack for easy access if needed but not one time have I even asked about them.
Hooks on the other hand are a no go on carry on luggage. The first year I went to Loreto I brought a couple of trolling lures in my carry on. Boom I got flagged by TSA at LAX and had a agent go through my luggage. I was lucky that the guy fished and let my lures through even though I said I would check my bag. When leaving to go to the plane the agent said to me "if I were you I would not carry these in my carry on any more" I got the hint. I have flown with leadheads for plactics one time and had no problem at LAX but it was a no go at Loreto. Plastics and lead heads and even a small Plano box were left behind. Thinking about it now I should of left the leadheads and kept the plastics and box... oh well.
Agree 100% on hooks. I think there is a bit more to the story on reels. Line on the reels is prohibited on flights from Mexico. This doesn't mean that you won't get away with most (or nearly all) of the time, especially from specific airports. If you do get caught, you will have to strip off all your line, or try to get the airline to box it up for you and check it as another piece of luggage. If you argue with the Mexican TSA folks too much they won't let you take the reel on at all, even after you strip off the line. If you do try to carry-on reels with line, I would suggest a carry-on bag that is also suitable for a last minute check-in, and go through security before check-in closes if possible.
A search of the web of line on reels from Mexico will yield two stories: "I do it all the time, no problem", "I used to do it until I got denied": Here is an example of the latter from BDOutdoors:
"I have never been able to carry reels back with line on them from Mexico. I used to push the issue at the gate in Cabo or PV every time and was allowed to carry them on about 60% of the time. I pushed the issue once to far and missed my flight."A few personal experiences with fishing gear and flights:
1. Had a couple four piece fly rods in carry-on going to Canada (OK at that time for both USA and Canada). Flight delay required a connection change in Vancouver. The gate chnge required me to go through Security. Canadian TSA agent decided my rods were not allowed as carry on. Went to the airline counter- too late to check in luggage. They gave me a printout of the Canadian TSA guidelines allowing rods. For some reason, I sailed right through security on the second attempt without question. Lucky break.
2. On my latest trip to Mexico, it looks like the LAX baggage handlers drove the cart over my duffel containing reels and rod tubes. Ripped up the duffel and actually ground down the PVC on the tube. But everything inside was well packed and undamaged.
3. On a trip to the far end of the Solomon Islands, all of our checked in luggage and gear got left behind by Qantas in Australia. Still three flights and and long canoe ride from our destination. Two weeks later: on our way to another island we happened cross paths with all of it at a regional airport (a shack next to a dirt runway in the middle of nowhere). Otherwise it probably would still be traveling the globe looking for us. To be honest, I missed having a change of clothes more than my fishing gear :)
I check everything nowadays, except in the case of valuable reels. I check in the spools and carry-on the frames. No other fishing tackle. The more out of the ordinary stuff you carry-on, the more likely there is going to be an issue. Plus the TSA folks are trying to stop the bad guys, so carrying on less and less-unusual stuff improves their effectiveness.
Pick your poison...
-Jurelometer
OK, one more thing. The outside diameter of my DIY rod case is 4". Apparently, Southwest Airlines has a 3" limitation. Any advice on my ability to sweet talk my way through check-in?
I have a couple of 3 inch shipping tubes.
excellent information on how is fishing in Mexico on pangas and local fishing style, etc
this should be stickied for easy finding and just send links to this thread whenever someone ask something about how to fish in Baja.
I actually cannot add anything else, everything seems covered between Jurelometer and SoCal Angler
I just returned last week from Cabo. The Mexican version of TSA now have a plastic placard on the check in counter showing photos of what you may not bring on board the plane. I was not allowed to carry on a fishing rod in a case. They are getting very strict but they are allowing reels in the carry on bag. I have gone back and forth over 40 times with no problems. The no fishing rods in the cabin is new. Dominick
Plenty of the usual suspects to be had. I only fished 2 days on this trip, that had more to do with the age of my pops not being able to go as much as he use to. I still had a great time. I took very few pics just because there was not much outstanding fishing wise.
Limit style fishing on the smaller 12-15 lb dorado by 9-9:30am with several releases. Here is a pic of one mornings catch. The fish are 10-12 miles north east of Punta Perico. You just need to find the right bunch of weeds. 30 lb line is fine for these guys and thats what we used with the 60 lb leader.
Well I guess photo bucket does not allow 3rd party hosting any more. I have had issues with the hosting on this web site so I guess no more pics from me
Still lots of 25-35 yt in the area also, we managed several and one boat that we know fished in the same area we did but stayed longer got 14 one day for 4 guys, plus the usual cabrrila and pargo in the mix. 40 lb here as its deeper structure thats holding the yt. Not too deep around 160 to 240 ft depending on which high spot your fishing.
Not a billfish spotted by any boats we have contact with and some guys ran to the Trench about 40-50 miles from us at Puerta Escondido. The water seemed a little colder this year. The high we saw was around 80.5 degrees where the dorado were but a little cool for the billfish I guess. Many times this time of year we see 82 plus degree water.
Not a issue for me again this year with bringing reels on my carry on, and yes I brought 2 reels this time one for 30 and one for 40 lb test.
SoCal,
Thanks for the report. Did you fly Alaska? The count down has begun. I leave in three days.
Best,
Marc
Yep, Alaska. The airport is so small and has so few flights a day I'm sure the same TSA people just move to what ever airline is leaving, so unless someone is brand new the same rules as far as carry on goes should be the same. I have never seen two commercial planes on the ground at the same time at the Loerto airport.
Loving it down here in Loreto. Caught my first Dorado yesterday. Small, 11 pounder. Missed a couple of strikes, but having a great time. Saw sail fish, turtles, whales and Manta Rays. Out again tomorrow and will concentrate on bottom fish, Yellowtail, Pargo, Cabrilla and whatever else will hit. The Mision Hotel (That's the way they spell it) cooked up my fish for dinner, six different ways. Muy fantastico!
Hot down here, but certainly tolerable. Great restaurants at great prices.
Big shout out to all who offered great advice. Had breakfast with Jurelometer and met his lovely wife and will try to get together with him before we depart. Alan's website is such a great resource with great camaraderie...a nice place to call my digital home.
A special thanks to Alan Tani for spending time with me and going over all of my equipment. His eye for detail reminds me of my race car mechanic. No detail goes unnoticed, if it can aid in performance. When I get back I'm going to have him go through some of my gear and posting a little more on the equipment and set-up used. Look forward to fishing with you guys.
Thanks,
Marc
Hit Orlando's for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It may be a bit hot for lunch sitting outside but good food and nice people. And, of course you got to get some tacos at El Ray Del Taco, they are not open every day but when they are it's a must stop for me. I'd also tell you to hit Sabor but it's closed for the summer.
Going to Orlando's tonite and the ice cream shop next door. Went out for Dorado and rock fish today. Caught a bunch of rock fish and a Sailfish. Works for me.
Apparently Orlando's is no longer open for dinner. Had a great dinner at La Palapa though. They cooked our sea bass three different ways. Dessert at the ice cream shop next to Orlando's.
I did catch this guy. My first Sailfish, ever. I'm hooked.
Marc congratulations. A sailfish is on my "haven't caught one" list. Dominick
Thanks Dominick. Got this delicious Dorado too. Sorry the picture is upside down. The fish still tasted pretty dang good though.
Congrats Marc, nice catching! ;D
Thanks, John.
Way to go Marc. Loreto has been having some less than stellar fishing the last several years. Shark Norma?, who knows?. I'm sure the bite will get going again just like it has in the past.
I was thinking about going in October again this year but some medical stuff is going on with my dads girlfriend/ or as many call her my step mom so Oct is out for this year.
Instead a group of friends and family are heading out on a 2 day trip out of SD on the 8th. If you would like to come I'd like to see you on the boat.
Thanks SoCal. Already planning a return to Loreto, but interested in SD opportunities. Please let me know about the two day you have in mind.
Marc
Quote from: Marc Fong on August 04, 2017, 02:16:13 PM
Thanks SoCal. Already planning a return to Loreto, but interested in SD opportunities. Please let me know about the two day you have in mind.
Marc
Wow, just checked the boats website and 6 spots were filled today making it a max load. Sorry I know my group has 8-9 spots on the boat so we should have a blast. Maybe next trip we can share the rail.
Edit: I had it posted here but no biters.
http://alantani.com/index.php?topic=22313.0
Thanks again for everyone's help. Thought I'd summarize a few of the "lessons learned" from my trip, before I forget. (Caveat: Your mileage may vary. Hindsight is 20-20 and circumstances change which may change the accuracy of anything I say here.)
1. I made my own fishing tubes to carry my rods down to Mexico without first checking to see what the airline limitation might be. Turns out Alaska and Southwest have 3" diameter limitations. Oops. I now have two extra 4" tubes. If anyone would like to borrow any of these for your driving trek to San Diego or Mexico, let me know. (I'm in the San Francisco Bay Area) These 4' tubes are bullet proof and hold three rods.
2. I brought way too much gear. 4 rods and reels. Going from the domestic terminal to the international terminal was a pain. I fished from a panga and had a 20lb spinner and a 30 lb, 40 lb and 50 lb conventional reels, a bunch of lures, extra line, leaders, and hooks. The reality is the panga had everything I needed. Next time I might just bring two favored rod and reels and 2 or 3 lures. (#40-50) Panga equipment was adequate, as was all of the tackle.
3. I was satisfied with the panga outfitter and paid, I think, $270 for two people, plus $20 for bait. Note: As you walk the harbor there are a number of panqueros quoting prices in the $240-250 range. Depart around 6:30 am, back by 2-2:30 PM. They cleaned, packed and froze our catch and held it until we departed for the states.
4. En route back to the states Mexican TSA required us to put our reels in baggage. That was not required on the trip to Mexico.
5. Car rental. If you book with a major car rental agency here in the US, the contract price you agreed to is not what you'll pay in Mexico. Surprise. You'll pay more, because of the Mexican car insurance "requirement." Still not sure about this. In the end, I paid (I think) $230 for a Jetta for a week. Not bad, considering I paid $1200 for a week in Hawaii over the New Year.
6. The boss (Alan) suggested that I pick up insulated 50 can soda bags to carry back fish. Found two bags at COSTCO for $8.00 and they worked perfectly. We filled two bags with frozen sealed fish when we flew back.
7. Restaurants in Loreto are happy to prepare your catch for a nominal fee.
8. Bought my fishing license here in the states before I flew to Mexico. No problems.
9. Clothing. Two pairs of shorts and one pair of jeans would suffice. Long sleeve fishing shirts are recommended. Sun screen hat and sunglasses are important. You should see the tan lines still on my feet from wearing my KEEN sandals.
10. With the exception of one previously convicted felon, so he said, who hassled my wife and my sister in law, we found the people to be warm, friendly and charming.
Finally, meeting with Jurelometer in Loreto and all of the helpful tips I received, is a reminder of what a wonderful community Alan has created.
Tight line and thanks again.
Marc
4. En route back to the states Mexican TSA required us to put our reels in baggage. That was not required on the trip to Mexico.
Be warned this is now standard practice in the UK and most of Europe and some Asian countries as well. It seems that some of the airports will allow you to carry on reels without line (as useful as a chocolate teapot) ::)
Oh and NO fishing rods as carry on. That's why just about all of my rods are multi-piece ravel rods that will fit into a suitcase. Its either that or pay outrageous extra baggage charges for checked in stuff.
1. I made my own fishing tubes to carry my rods down to Mexico without first checking to see what the airline limitation might be. Turns out Alaska and Southwest have 3" diameter limitations. Oops. I now have two extra 4" tubes. If anyone would like to borrow any of these for your driving trek to San Diego or Mexico, let me know. (I'm in the San Francisco Bay Area) These 4' tubes are bullet proof and hold three rods.
Marc I don't know where you got the information on 3" versus 4" but the large Bazooka is more than 4" and I see them carried all the time.
2. I brought way too much gear. 4 rods and reels. Going from the domestic terminal to the international terminal was a pain. I fished from a panga and had a 20lb spinner and a 30 lb, 40 lb and 50 lb conventional reels, a bunch of lures, extra line, leaders, and hooks. The reality is the panga had everything I needed. Next time I might just bring two favored rod and reels and 2 or 3 lures. (#40-50) Panga equipment was adequate, as was all of the tackle.
I too only take 2 reels and very little in the way of tackle. I either use the rods I leave down there or borrow one from the boat. Most of the time the locals don't have enough hooks. Usually the lures on the boats work for the target fish.
3. I was satisfied with the panga outfitter and paid, I think, $270 for two people, plus $20 for bait. Note: As you walk the harbor there are a number of panqueros quoting prices in the $240-250 range. Depart around 6:30 am, back by 2-2:30 PM. They cleaned, packed and froze our catch and held it until we departed for the states.
The prices seem to be cheaper in Los Cabos. A panga price down there is anywhere from $180.00 to $225.00.
4. En route back to the states Mexican TSA required us to put our reels in baggage. That was not required on the trip to Mexico.
I'm going down in November and will see what the regulations are at the time. The Mexican airport security banned rods in the cabin for the first time last June. I never had problems with reels in my carry-on but they change regulations like I change my socks.
5. Car rental. If you book with a major car rental agency here in the US, the contract price you agreed to is not what you'll pay in Mexico. Surprise. You'll pay more, because of the Mexican car insurance "requirement." Still not sure about this. In the end, I paid (I think) $230 for a Jetta for a week. Not bad, considering I paid $1200 for a week in Hawaii over the New Year.
I don't know if Loreto has a Fox Rent-a-Car but they are extremely cheap for a mid-sized car (less than $8.00 for the week). However, Mexican law requires that you must carry liability insurance. I think it is around $20.00 a day. Try Fox if available and book on line and carry the confirmation with the price to avoid and misunderstandings.
6. The boss (Alan) suggested that I pick up insulated 50 can soda bags to carry back fish. Found two bags at COSTCO for $8.00 and they worked perfectly. We filled two bags with frozen sealed fish when we flew back.
Good idea. I might do this next trip.
7. Restaurants in Loreto are happy to prepare your catch for a nominal fee.
Yes the Mexican people are very accommodating.
8. Bought my fishing license here in the states before I flew to Mexico. No problems.
Yep, easy peasy. I usually get an annual. I have been stopped and asked for my license when I was last in Loreto.
9. Clothing. Two pairs of shorts and one pair of jeans would suffice. Long sleeve fishing shirts are recommended. Sun screen hat and sunglasses are important. You should see the tan lines still on my feet from wearing my KEEN sandals.
Yep. Also a little bottle of hand cleaner.
10. With the exception of one previously convicted felon, so he said, who hassled my wife and my sister in law, we found the people to be warm, friendly and charming.
I'm sorry you ran into a dirtbag.
Finally, meeting with Jurelometer in Loreto and all of the helpful tips I received, is a reminder of what a wonderful community Alan has created.
Yep, this is one great site. Dominick
Quote from: Dominick on August 31, 2017, 07:06:49 PM
1. I made my own fishing tubes to carry my rods down to Mexico without first checking to see what the airline limitation might be. Turns out Alaska and Southwest have 3" diameter limitations. Oops. I now have two extra 4" tubes. If anyone would like to borrow any of these for your driving trek to San Diego or Mexico, let me know. (I'm in the San Francisco Bay Area) These 4' tubes are bullet proof and hold three rods.
Marc I don't know where you got the information on 3" versus 4" but the large Bazooka is more than 4" and I see them carried all the time.
I looked at the airline website that indicated a 3" diameter. I called to confirm. The agent(s) were less than helpful I got several answers depending on who picked up. In any event I concluded that 4" was possible, but that kicks you into the category of excess charges.
2. I brought way too much gear. 4 rods and reels. Going from the domestic terminal to the international terminal was a pain. I fished from a panga and had a 20lb spinner and a 30 lb, 40 lb and 50 lb conventional reels, a bunch of lures, extra line, leaders, and hooks. The reality is the panga had everything I needed. Next time I might just bring two favored rod and reels and 2 or 3 lures. (#40-50) Panga equipment was adequate, as was all of the tackle.
I too only take 2 reels and very little in the way of tackle. I either use the rods I leave down there or borrow one from the boat. Most of the time the locals don't have enough hooks. Usually the lures on the boats work for the target fish.
3. I was satisfied with the panga outfitter and paid, I think, $270 for two people, plus $20 for bait. Note: As you walk the harbor there are a number of panqueros quoting prices in the $240-250 range. Depart around 6:30 am, back by 2-2:30 PM. They cleaned, packed and froze our catch and held it until we departed for the states.
The prices seem to be cheaper in Los Cabos. A panga price down there is anywhere from $180.00 to $225.00.
Nice. How's the fishing down there?
4. En route back to the states Mexican TSA required us to put our reels in baggage. That was not required on the trip to Mexico.
I'm going down in November and will see what the regulations are at the time. The Mexican airport security banned rods in the cabin for the first time last June. I never had problems with reels in my carry-on but they change regulations like I change my socks.
5. Car rental. If you book with a major car rental agency here in the US, the contract price you agreed to is not what you'll pay in Mexico. Surprise. You'll pay more, because of the Mexican car insurance "requirement." Still not sure about this. In the end, I paid (I think) $230 for a Jetta for a week. Not bad, considering I paid $1200 for a week in Hawaii over the New Year.
I don't know if Loreto has a Fox Rent-a-Car but they are extremely cheap for a mid-sized car (less than $8.00 for the week). However, Mexican law requires that you must carry liability insurance. I think it is around $20.00 a day. Try Fox if available and book on line and carry the confirmation with the price to avoid and misunderstandings.
I think that's what I was expecting, but likely got hosed. Whatcha going to do? Didn't want to walk to Loreto.
6. The boss (Alan) suggested that I pick up insulated 50 can soda bags to carry back fish. Found two bags at COSTCO for $8.00 and they worked perfectly. We filled two bags with frozen sealed fish when we flew back.
Good idea. I might do this next trip.
7. Restaurants in Loreto are happy to prepare your catch for a nominal fee.
Yes the Mexican people are very accommodating.
8. Bought my fishing license here in the states before I flew to Mexico. No problems.
Yep, easy peasy. I usually get an annual. I have been stopped and asked for my license when I was last in Loreto.
9. Clothing. Two pairs of shorts and one pair of jeans would suffice. Long sleeve fishing shirts are recommended. Sun screen hat and sunglasses are important. You should see the tan lines still on my feet from wearing my KEEN sandals.
Yep. Also a little bottle of hand cleaner.
10. With the exception of one previously convicted felon, so he said, who hassled my wife and my sister in law, we found the people to be warm, friendly and charming.
I'm sorry you ran into a dirtbag.
Finally, meeting with Jurelometer in Loreto and all of the helpful tips I received, is a reminder of what a wonderful community Alan has created.
Yep, this is one great site. Dominick
Let's do some fishing Dom!
Pictures of my Costco soda can bags I used to carry on my frozen fish filets from Loreto. So far I've used them on 2 fishing trips and several camping/picnic trips and the plastic liner is still intact. Won't last forever, but for approximately $10.00, they've already paid for themselves. The Penn Torque 30 box will give you some sense as to the scale of the bag.
Don't forget to get your wristbands to fish in Loreto as most of the area is a marine park.
Quote from: SoCalAngler on September 17, 2017, 12:25:47 AM
Don't forget to get your wristbands to fish in Loreto as most of the area is a marine park.
Good point. However, they ran out of the wristbands before we got there, so none was required. How much are they?
I asked my wife if she wanted to go back to Loreto next year. She said not in July, because it was too hot. Also she reminded me about the Panga bathroom break. Guess she didn't much like climbing off the dive ladder and taking a squat. I tried not laughing at the time she polluted Loreto, or yesterday, when she reminded me. The Panguero did avert his eyes. She'll get over it. Last week she just got back from a girls trip to Costa Rica, where she caught yellow fin tuna. I think she's hooked!
Quote from: Marc Fong on October 10, 2017, 05:22:36 PM
I asked my wife if she wanted to go back to Loreto next year. She said not in July, because it was too hot. Also she reminded me about the Panga bathroom break. Guess she didn't much like climbing off the dive ladder and taking a squat. I tried not laughing at the time she polluted Loreto, or yesterday, when she reminded me. The Panguero did avert his eyes. She'll get over it. Last week she just got back from a girls trip to Costa Rica, where she caught yellow fin tuna. I think she's hooked!
Yea, that's a good time to go further south. With the rainy season down there it is actually cooler than winter.
The bathroom stuff can be a issue for sure on smaller boats especially for the ladies, so I have no real help there other than renting a sport-fisher/ larger boat with a head.
As far as weather goes in Loreto this time of year is normally when I head back down. In mid to late October it is like someone flips a switch and the weather cools down, 80's in the days with cool nights and mornings. June is a transition month most years with the yt moving out the Dorado starting to move in. Years past I found great fishing in June for YT, Dorado and billfish. I guess I will have to see how things start to shape up moving forward.
I choose not to head back this year due to the poor fishing they have had for the last several years. When I say poor I mean not up the standard but even poor fishing there can be great at times.
My wife's Costa Rican catch. Yes, she's hooked.
Quote from: Marc Fong on September 16, 2017, 04:20:42 PM
Pictures of my Costco soda can bags I used to carry on my frozen fish filets from Loreto. So far I've used them on 2 fishing trips and several camping/picnic trips and the plastic liner is still intact. Won't last forever, but for approximately $10.00, they've already paid for themselves. The Penn Torque 30 box will give you some sense as to the scale of the bag.
No surprise. You get what you pay for. I've subsequently used the bag four-five more times and the poly liner has a number of tears. These bags are a cheap and potentially problematic for use in bringing back fish from Mexico. I bought a YETI bag, heavier, very expensive, but quite durable. That being said, I am considering other alternatives for bringing fish back from Mexico.
Just got this from Chris Wheaton, the coordinator of the " Fishin for the Mission Tournament" that we were invited to last July, in Loreto. If you want to see what Baja is all about, check out the videos on Amazon Prime, entitled "Destination Baja Sur"
Quoting from Chris Wheaton:
"For those of you that asked or are interested, Destination Baja Sur Season 2 is airing now. First airings are on the Pursuit Channel and then soon after they will be available on Amazon Prime. New episodes air on Sundays and episode 4 just aired. Episodes 9, 10, and 11 will be documenting the trip that we took on the Pacific Provider with my Sea Fox on board, fishing and filming from Ensenada to San Jose Del Cabo in 2016. I can't wait to see the adventure through the eyes of the cameramen and see what makes the cut. Set your DVR's to record the season and see the beauty of Baja California and that will explain why I have loved going down there for the last 45 years! If you missed the season 1 episode 1 in Loreto that I was on, it is available to watch free for Amazon Prime members already. The episode highlights the Fishin for the Mission tournament that I have run for the last 2 years. Enjoy!"
I'm definitely going back. Airfare is a bargain and accommodations was less than $100 a night. If you have an Alaska Airline credit card your buddy can fly free.
Ciao,
Marc
Quote from: Marc Fong on February 02, 2018, 11:49:12 PM
Just got this from Chris Wheaton, the coordinator of the " Fishin for the Mission Tournament" that we were invited to last July, in Loreto. If you want to see what Baja is all about, check out the videos on Amazon Prime, entitled "Destination Baja Sur"
Quoting from Chris Wheaton:
"For those of you that asked or are interested, Destination Baja Sur Season 2 is airing now. First airings are on the Pursuit Channel and then soon after they will be available on Amazon Prime. New episodes air on Sundays and episode 4 just aired. Episodes 9, 10, and 11 will be documenting the trip that we took on the Pacific Provider with my Sea Fox on board, fishing and filming from Ensenada to San Jose Del Cabo in 2016. I can't wait to see the adventure through the eyes of the cameramen and see what makes the cut. Set your DVR's to record the season and see the beauty of Baja California and that will explain why I have loved going down there for the last 45 years! If you missed the season 1 episode 1 in Loreto that I was on, it is available to watch free for Amazon Prime members already. The episode highlights the Fishin for the Mission tournament that I have run for the last 2 years. Enjoy!"
I'm definitely going back. Airfare is a bargain and accommodations was less than $100 a night. If you have an Alaska Airline credit card your buddy can fly free.
Ciao,
Marc
Also check out the Tripui fishing tourney. Not much to enter, has kids division, no big money pay out as the proceeds go to charity. Without the big pay out boats are much more willing to call out where they are catching fish. There has been huge raffles in the past with lots of gear and such. Nice banquet if you choose to buy in for it, though not a must, great trophies if you are lucky enough to win a category and all kids get one for just being there and signed in.
It's held the last week in June. Thursday is signup for those that are not presigned in and there is a pot luck dinner, if you choose to attend the pot luck just bring a dish of your choice to share. Friday first day of tourney fishing. Saturday second and last day of the tourney, with awards that night, raffle and dinner. If you choose not to have dinner that's fine but do attend for awards and raffle. If you like adult beverages they are sold there or if you want to BYOB is fine also.
All the money raised helps out the local Loreto community. Off the top of my head one year it went to a school to get them much needed supplies, another time to the Loreto fire department which built them beds and cooking area that they did not have and to the old widows home to buy them a Suburban to get the ladies to the doctors, shopping and such.
It's a lot of fun and I have been there every year they have had the tourney.
The YT are WFO south of Loreto right now. Many of the boats out of Puerto Escondido are reporting limit style fishing for the moss backs. My pops went fishing out to Catalana and saw fish stacked up over a couple of high spots he likes to target. Their largest YT went to around 30 lbs. A couple of others boats around the island didn't have much luck until they got the radio info and headed to the area my father was at, then they proceeded to catch all the fish they wanted.
The bait report for the last couple of days has been bad, there is so much krill in the water that the Mack's will not bite the sabiki rigs. It seems their getting fat and happy on all that krill. Not to worry if you can't get bait, the fish are biting the iron well as well as other artificial's. Rick Hill (he is the person that gives the Loreto reports to Gary Gram for the Baja Bytes reports) was fishing with my dad and decided to tie on one of the bucktail jigs I gave him. These are bigger jigs with 2-3 oz heads. The first cast out resulted in a yellowtail. Ya baby.
These are all good signs the Loreto area is back to form fishing wise after the poor last 4-5 years.
Quote from: SoCalAngler on March 10, 2018, 06:39:49 PM
The YT are WFO south of Loreto right now. Many of the boats out of Puerto Escondido are reporting limit style fishing for the moss backs. My pops went fishing out to Catalana and saw fish stacked up over a couple of high spots he likes to target. Their largest YT went to around 30 lbs. A couple of others boats around the island didn't have much luck until they got the radio info and headed to the area my father was at, then they proceeded to catch all the fish they wanted.
The bait report for the last couple of days has been bad, there is so much krill in the water that the Mack's will not bite the sabiki rigs. It seems their getting fat and happy on all that krill. Not to worry if you can't get bait, the fish are biting the iron well as well as other artificial's. Rick Hill (he is the person that gives the Loreto reports to Gary Gram for the Baja Bytes reports) was fishing with my dad and decided to tie on one of the bucktail jigs I gave him. These are bigger jigs with 2-3 oz heads. The first cast out resulted in a yellowtail. Ya baby.
These are all good signs the Loreto area is back to form fishing wise after the poor last 4-5 years.
Sounds promising. Can you rent pangas out of Puerto Escondido or would you rent one out of Loreto proper?
I don't think they have panga rentals right in Puerto Escondido, but Jose Torres of Torres Sportfishing lives in the bay next to Puerto Escondido and I have seen him pick people up at the Docks there. I would have no problems fishing with him or his sons, as a matter of fact I would highly recommend them. And they have pangas
Anyone heading down to Loreto this year? My trial schedule has lightened up and I'm thinking about heading down early July for a quick trip. I've seen some nice pictures of mahi mahi and would like to get me some.
Quote from: Marc Fong on June 02, 2018, 01:47:53 PM
Anyone heading down to Loreto this year? My trial schedule has lightened up and I'm thinking about heading down early July for a quick trip. I've seen some nice pictures of mahi mahi and would like to get me some.
I might be down, but most likely I'd stay 17 miles south of town in Tripui where my father lives. I don't think I would have a problem getting to town even not on fishing days, so splitting the room cost would be a issue if that was something you were looking to do. My father sold his boat as he is getting too old to deal with launching, getting in and out of it, maint. and such.
So panga rental is in my future when I head down.
Remember July is hot, very hot in the Loreto area. Loreto has a micro climate which is often hotter than places further south like La Paz or even Cabo. Many of the restaurants, shops and such close down in late June or beginning of July do to less tourist traffic and don't open back until Oct., so just remember that.
It might be better to head down in late Oct when things cool down.
No dorado yet. The only dorado out of Loreto that I have heard about was from the the charter operation that travels pretty far for the big tuna. They are getting some dorado in La Paz now, and the locals in Loreto are starting to think dorado thoughts as the fish work their way northward.
I saw lots of sardina in April and May, and a decent amount of sargasso grew over the winter. The sargasso is starting to break off and form paddies. Water temps are climbing slow and steady. Could be a decent summer for dorado and sailfish if enough get past the gauntlet of the commercial fishers.
-J
My buddies caught some nice Dorado in July at the tournament I missed because of work. There's always next year.
Funny, I read this thread sometime back and thought loreto would be worth checking out. Just yesterday, I was invited to Loreto to fish the third week in August. They say the dorado are around in big numbers and they are even catching yellowtail some days. I know it will be hot, but I'm thinking it will be worth it if the dorado fishing is good - the yellows would be a bonus. Any feedback from you guys who know Loreto fishing would be welcome.
Smols
Quote from: Smols on July 31, 2018, 02:32:30 PM
Funny, I read this thread sometime back and thought loreto would be worth checking out. Just yesterday, I was invited to Loreto to fish the third week in August. They say the dorado are around in big numbers and they are even catching yellowtail some days. I know it will be hot, but I'm thinking it will be worth it if the dorado fishing is good - the yellows would be a bonus. Any feedback from you guys who know Loreto fishing would be welcome.
Smols
Check the Baja Bytes reports on BloodyDecks and other places. Gray get his Loreto info from my buddy Rick Hill. Good Luck
Quote from: Smols on July 31, 2018, 02:32:30 PM
Funny, I read this thread sometime back and thought loreto would be worth checking out. Just yesterday, I was invited to Loreto to fish the third week in August. They say the dorado are around in big numbers and they are even catching yellowtail some days. I know it will be hot, but I'm thinking it will be worth it if the dorado fishing is good - the yellows would be a bonus. Any feedback from you guys who know Loreto fishing would be welcome.
Smols
The dorado showed up the last week of June, a bit later than normal. At the beginning of dorado season there were a decent percentage of larger fish, a welcome change from the last couple of seasons. I don't fish for billfish,but saw a few striped marlin around, and the folks interested in trolling for marlin did pretty well on some days. The dorado fishing was excellent for a couple of weeks.
July had an unusual amount of windy days, and combined with some unfavorable current shifts, the water temps dropped. The nearshore seaweed paddies got scarce and the dorado got harder to find. On most days, it was possible to find little dorado and catch all you want on bait or flies (not my bag). But getting skunked or only a fish or two on the troll was not uncommon either. I had some pretty slow days the second week of July.
Conditions will always be changing, so who knows what August will bring. Typically the bigger dorado will be more common in August, the marlin will be less available, but there will be more sailfish around. The inshore species will have moved into deeper water. (150' +) and will be harder to catch. You can usually scratch out a yellowtail or two, even some especially big ones, but you have to be willing to soak a mackerel for quiet awhile in some pretty hot weather. If you really want to bottom fish in the late summer, I think the best bet is to leave early, bottom fish fish for an hour or two on your way out to look for bluewater species. Ask the captain for advice the night before. Sometimes there can be a good bottomfish bite happening.
To have really good consistent dorado fishing in Loreto there needs to be the right water temps, lots of sargasso (seaweed) patches, and a healthy population of the local inshore baitfish (flatiron herring AKA Sardina). Plus the dorado have to make it past the gauntlet of the illegal commercial fisherman.
This August, the water temps have a good chance of being where you want them, there was a decent amount of sargasso before the wind and current shifts, I have no idea if it will show up again. The sardina population has been very good all season. And they are still having a decent dorado season in La Paz (the dorado will pass by La Paz on their migration nothward in the direction of Loreto), so the commercials did not get all of them.
The weather will be very hot, and humidity will be rising in August, and you are getting into hurricane season. This is not usually a problem, but it is worth getting travel insurance and watch the NOAA hurricane web site starting the week before your trip. The heat and humidity in August shuts down the land based tourism.
In terms of fishing reports, no news is usually bad news. As with everywhere else, there will be plenty of information when fishing is good, and little or nothing to report when fishing is not so good.
My advice is always go fishing when you can, life is short. And the one thing never to bring on a fishing trip is expectations. The hype is always stronger than the fishing.
There is a bunch more Loreto advice in the rest of this thread. If you have a choice of where to go, I would also consider La Paz for late August. Better chance for yellowfin tuna and dorado combo.
-J
Great analysis Jurelometer.
Thanks for the detailed report on loreto jurelometer! You helped me decide to skip this trip and plan a trip for early spring instead. There just have not been enough good reports on dorado lately.
smols
Be flexible on your fishing dates if you do plan on early spring. The north winds can and most likely will blow pretty hard for several days in a row this time of year.
Quote from: Smols on August 07, 2018, 05:43:29 AM
Thanks for the detailed report on loreto jurelometer! You helped me decide to skip this trip and plan a trip for early spring instead. There just have not been enough good reports on dorado lately.
smols
That's the problem with an un-hyped report. What I meant to say was that almost all the conditions for very good dorado fishing in August are in place. I wouldn't turn down a trip.
As SoCal noted, the later in the spring you fish, the less likely you will miss days due to high winds.