Delila Fades…Tournament Looms

Lance gets a teener


REPORT #1073 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update July 28, 2007

East Cape



This week brought the first Tropical Storm of the season; Delila popped up out of nowhere and things went from flat calm to grumpy in the space of an afternoon. Fortunately, sea conditions were only messed up for a few days and then it was back to normal.

Delila departed just in time for the “East Cape Bisbee” which begins next week (Aug. 1-3). This year’s purse is expected to be around $300k so it’s no surprise that everyone has become tight-lipped about the current billfish action. Striper action continues to improve and rumors of a few blues are flying. The rumors claim that several have been caught weighing over 300 lb. and one purportedly in the high 4’s, which is all the encouragement needed to justify lots of pre-fishing.

Good news for the fly fisher’s; there were more and more instances of multiple fish showing up behind the teasers.

Tuna action slowed for weather related reasons. However a 145 lb. gorilla-class yellowfin made it to the scales… the largest of the 2007 season so far…stay tuned. For the football sized tuna we are having great success with our Baja Wasabi fly.

Dorado action continued to be less than wonderful, partly because of the weather; we are just not seeing the schools that provide the best action for the fly rod.
Lance Peterson reported; “Plenty of small jacks up to 5 lbs. to take shots at, along with breezing schools of small pompano that can be sucker-punched with small Clousers or even smaller ‘Crazy Charlies’. Roosterfish have been hit or miss. Most fish are seen in pairs or daisy chains of up to 6 fish. Mostly very tough to move them but I had some good reactions from them several days ago and landed one in the 30's. The weather has changed. Lots of clouds, some rain, very warm SE wind.”
On the bait front, live sardina are tough to come by unless you are willing to make the thirty mile run up to Bahia de Los Suenos. The good news is that there were some live mackerel being offered by the bait guys locally.

Water temperature 68-85
Air temperature 75-96
Humidity 73%
Wind: S 4 knots
Conditions: Partly Sunny
Visibility 4 miles
Sunrise 6:47 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:04 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

Tropical Storm Delila also dumped some rain here along with stronger winds. Tuna action resumed as soon as the seas settled down. Most of the action has been inside of thirty miles from Boca de Soledad. Closer to shore, inside of ten miles the dorado action broke wide open according to Bob Hoyt, Mag Bay Outfitters. It was so good that they were headed out today with a couple of kayaks loaded on Mar Gato. Hopefully he will have photos to share next week.

Because of the unsettled weather no one made the twenty mile run out to the Entrada this week. Up at Devil’s Curve, grouper and pargo provided the best action. Still a decent bite on the surface for corvina up to ten lbs.

Water temperature 64 - 76
Air temperature 70 -84
Humidity 73 %
Wind: WNW 9 – 13 knots
Conditions: Fog in morning
Visibility 3 miles
Sunrise 6:52 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:14 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

Conditions have improved this week, with the inshore action for roosters being phenomenal. The boats are each averaging between 7 and 8 roosters a day! Plus, that does not count an almost equal number of the hard fighting jack crevalle. The jacks are averaging between 12 and 16 pounds, with the roosters averaging a whopping 30 to 40 pounds.

It really does not matter if you go North or South out of Zihuatanejo Bay, all the beaches are producing jacks and roosters. Also, with most of the fish being taken on surface poppers, it is an ideal situation for the fly caster. The same popper, with the hooks taken off, makes an excellent teaser to bring the rooster to the boat, and well within fly casting distance.

Ed Kunze
Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 77-95
Humidity 73%
Wind: Calm
Conditions: Thundershowers
Visibility 2 miles
Sunrise 7:24 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:22 p.m. CDT

Summer Has Arrived!

REPORT #1072 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update July 21, 2007

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico


You know that season has arrived when you get a late night phone call reporting that some bruiser tuna in the 100 lb. class have been found just outside Boca de Soledad. The conversation went something like this:

“Amigo, the commercial panga guys found some really big tuna outside--- so big they couldn’t catch them on their handlines. We are going out tomorrow (Thursday) and we will let you know what happens.”

That’s it! Nothing more. Either they are still hooked up, are still cleaning their catch or it was bum dope. Stay tuned…I will let you know! Just before I posted this report I received the following “yellowfin tuna WFO thirty miles outside Boca de Soledad”.
Meanwhile more and more dorado are being seen each week near the shark buoys west of the Entrada. Yellowtail fishing continues to provide the best surface action at the entrada. On the bottom there are enough grouper to keep it interesting.

At Lopez Mateos, Mag Bay Outfitters finally received the kayaks they had ordered a while back. The Captains and crew couldn’t wait for clients to show up to try them out, so they loaded them on Mar Gato and headed up to the Esteros for their trial run. Judging by the photos the kayaks are a welcome addition!

Water temperature 64 - 76
Air temperature 69 -88
Humidity 94 %
Wind: WNW 9 – 13 knots
Conditions: Partly Cloudy
Visibility 2 miles
Sunrise 6:49 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:17 p.m. MDT

East Cape


Spring is gone and summer action is beginning to seriously kick in. Offshore, striped marlin and a few sails provided the best action this week with only a few blues reported so far. There are plenty of stripey’s around; they just don’t seem ready to get serious just yet.

Football sized yellowfin tuna dominated the offshore action this week. Distances ranged from a few miles offshore to more than thirty. As usual the boats arriving early to the spots got limits while the late ones watched.

Dorado action continues to be disappointing for most. There have been a few quality fish caught (up to fifty pounds) but they are few and far between.

Early in the week, a floating carcass produced the best concentrated action of the season, including limits of smaller dorado and YFT’s

Inshore the cooler water stubbornly remains close to shore and seems to have caused the sardina to evaporate, leaving us with only with a few larger live baits and dead ballyhoo. It has also slowed the rooster bite to a trickle compared to a few weeks ago. Still the tenacious angler prowling the beach has been rewarded with a few fish here and there.


Water temperature 75-87
Air temperature 67-93
Humidity 92%
Wind: ENE 5 - 6 knots
Conditions: Partly Sunny
Visibility 8 miles
Sunrise 6:43 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:07 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

We had a lot of rain for a couple of days this last week. On Wednesday, I recorded 12 inches of rain between 5:00 in the afternoon to 7:00 the next morning. This pushed a lot of weeds, trees, and debris out of the rivers, and it also pushed the blue water out to at least the 20 mile mark.

Most of the captains are reporting averaging between 1 and 2 sailfish a day per boat. And all of them are complaining that the weed lines are in such abundance, it is making trolling difficult. A trolled bait, with three feet of weeds trailing behind it, will not catch any fish.

However, a lot of the captains are also reporting several schools of peanut sized dorado among the weeds. Hopefully these fast growing fish will stick around for a while.

The inshore fishing was great early in the week. Santiago, on the panga, Gitana, did get 7 roosters, up to 40 pounds, in one day for his clients. And Adolpho, on the panga, Dos Hermanos, spent several days with an ESPN2 TV crew in Puerto Vicente Gro. They got a bunch of roosters and plenty of footage for their show.

Ed Kunze
Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 71-93
Humidity 92%
Wind: Calm
Conditions: Mostly Clear
Visibility 5 miles
Sunrise 7:21 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:24 p.m. CDT

Jacks Back….

REPORT #1071 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update July 14, 2007

East Cape


Inshore fishing still seems to be the best bet for the fly rodder providing consistent action for jacks and roosterfish close to the beach.

For the beach walkers, though, it seems to be more walking and less casting. Even the ‘go to’ ladyfish have been tougher to find recently. The lucky anglers are getting some shots at nice sized jacks and roosters ranging from a few pounds to Bubba sized.

Offshore, there are plenty of striped marlin around to look at but it’s tough to find the hungry ones. They just haven’t turned on yet.

Tuna action has been producing limits of football sized fish the run has been beyond thirty-five miles and the risk is if you are not one of the early boats there you can miss the bite entirely.

Dorado fishing continues to be hit or miss with most of fish caught showing up behind the teasers.

Water temperature 75-86
Air temperature 76-100
Humidity 88%
Wind: N 6 - 8 knots
Conditions: Partly Sunny
Visibility 5 miles
Sunrise 6:40 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:09 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

As the water continues to warm, more dorado are being spotted near the shark buoys twenty miles west of the Entrada. There were a few schools of yellowfin tuna found outside of Boca de Soledad with quite a few skippies mixed in. The occasional billfish can be spotted tailing down swell in the afternoons.

The Entrada continues to produce good catches of yellowtail and bonita chasing the breezing sardines.

While the snook action has diminished this week, the leopard grouper filled the gap with a few better sized ones up to twenty pounds. Corvina action provided the best surface action up above Lopez Mateos where they could be found feeding on balls of sardines near the surface.
Water temperature 64 - 76
Air temperature 72 -90
Humidity 88 %
Wind: WNW 13 – 18 knots
Conditions: Mostly Sunny
Visibility 7 miles
Sunrise 6:46 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:19 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

The fishing has slowed a bit this week. We have had some unsettled weather, with the barometer bouncing around like a yoyo. We only had one day of rain (Thursday), but we got over two inches between 8AM and 10AM.

The fleet is averaging only 1 or 2 sailfish a day average. However, the 10 to 15 pound yellowfin are between 15 and 20 miles off the beach and are providing very good action for the light line angler.

The clear and clean water is just two miles off the beach, and the inshore action is doing well. The roosterfish action is good, and there are lots of mid-sized jack crevalle between 12 and 16 pounds. The jacks are giving the fly rodders a great day on the water.

Ed Kunze
Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 78-100
Humidity 79%
Wind: N 5 knots
Conditions: Clear
Visibility 5 miles
Sunrise 7:19 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:25 p.m. CDT

Cold Currents Persist….

REPORT #1070 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update July 07, 2007

East Cape

Unseasonably cooler water plagued the area again this week, pushing the best offshore action farther up into the Sea of Cortez from Punta Pescadero out to the eighty-eight - more fish seen than caught. However, there were a few blues to add to the excitement. Sardina were tough to come by so the bait supply was limited to ballyhoo and cabillitos. Dorado action continued to be sporadic with only an occasional trolled fish caught, though some were as large as forty pounds. Tuna action could be found if you were willing to travel 30 – 50 miles…mostly football sized fish with a few 20+ pounders mixed in. If you weren’t on one of the early boats to find the porpoise, your odds diminished quickly.
Inshore has continued to be the best option for the flyrodder, offering good action for smaller roosters and jacks (with a few decent sized pargo in the mix) close to shore.
Beach action continued to be a challenge and is best left to the physically fit. Patrolling the beaches on foot in the midday sun trying to be in the right place at the right time can be tough. Try early morning and late afternoon when the ladyfish come out to play.
Water temperature 69-84
Air temperature 75-91
Humidity 83%
Wind: ESE 8 knots
Conditions: Partly Sunny
Visibility 5 miles
Sunrise 6:37 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:10 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

The only offshore reports this week came from the shark fishermen who found a few dorado twenty miles west of the Entrada. Enrique Soto, from San Carlos, continued to pound the yellows at the Entrada, mostly firecrackers with just enough mossbacks to keep it interesting. There were also a few sierra and bonita mixed in with the yellows under the bird schools chasing the breezing sardinas.

Devil’s Curve produced a few snook in the ten pound class, as well as a few pargo and grouper that were suckers for a slow-retrieved chartreuse Baja Deepdiver.

Above Lopez Mateos the best bet was the surface action for corvina that were hitting poppers of any description. Of course there were plenty of spotted bay bass deeper down in the water column that couldn’t resist small Clousers.

Water temperature 64 - 73
Air temperature 70 -85
Humidity 58 %
Wind: W 8 – 11 knots
Conditions: Partly Sunny
Visibility 5 miles
Sunrise 6:42 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:20 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

Clean clear water is at the solitary rock at the entrance to Zihuatanejo Bay. Fishing is improving, with the trend on the plus side as we move away from the full moon phase. Even though there are not many boats going out, the fleet is averaging about 3 sailfish a day, per boat. Adan, on the panga, Gitana II, fished only one day this week, but managed 4 sailfish released.

Most of the sailfish have been taken between 12 and 14 miles from the bay entrance. The blue marlin and yellowfin tuna are still around, but they are still out at the 1,000 fathom line (about 30 to 32 miles).

Santiago, on the panga, Gitana, told me he released two nice roosters this week weighing approximately 42 to 45 pounds, but most roosters are averaging about 25 to 30 pounds. He also said there are a lot of the hard fighting jack crevalle filling in the gap between the rooster bites and are averaging 14 to 16 pounds.

Ed Kunze
Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 71-95
Humidity 79%
Wind: Calm
Conditions: Cloudy
Visibility 17 miles
Sunrise 7:17 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:26 p.m. CDT

Cold Current Recedes…Action Returns

Our June Hatch


REPORT #1069 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update June 30, 2007

East Cape



As last week’s cold, off-color current receded, the fishing immediately picked up. The place to be for the billfish action seemed to be from Punta Pescadero to the eighty-eight, though it was still tough to keep them behind the teasers long enough to get a shot with the fly.
Tuna action also snapped back with fish being found under the porpoise from six miles off of Las Arenas to thirty miles out in front of Buenavista. The shark buoys off Punta Pescadero also provided some action for the few boats that checked them out before continuing on to the eighty-eight in search of billfish action.
Back on the inside close to shore, there were plenty of smaller roosters and jacks (with a few “toads” sprinkled in), feeding on breezing bait schools. The best opportunities for sight casting to the “Bubba class fish” were from La Ribera to the Lighthouse from the beach.
We are beginning to find some of the pompano schools making their way mid-day up and down the beach; small beige ‘crazy Charlie’s will do the trick.
Water temperature 69-83
Air temperature 75-91
Humidity 77%
Wind: SE 7 - 9 knots
Conditions: Clear
Visibility 8 miles
Sunrise 6:35 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:09 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

With water temperatures soaring, Magdalena Bay is beginning to stir. Offshore confirmed catches, instead of the vague reports, of dorado sightings happened this week for the first time this year - only six miles offshore. Humboldt squid are thick. Hopefully this is a good sign of things to come. Farther out at the twenty mile mark, good sized schools of tuna were found feeding on sardines under the bird schools.

Enrique Soto, from San Carlos, reported good yellowtail action at the Entrada - well worth the twenty mile run. Sounds like what they lack in quality is made up in quantity. Most of the fish are in the 5 – 10 lb. class with an occasional ‘fatty’ showing up.

Once again, Ruben Duran, Lopez Mateos, spotted the guys with the nets hauling 20 – 60 lb. snook out of the surf outside the Boca.

Bob Hoyt, Magbay Outfitters, spent a day fishing with his son and reported good catches of leopard grouper, pargo, and halibut near sand beaches and enough spotted bay bass to consider them a nuisance.

Water temperature 64 - 73
Air temperature 70 -83
Humidity 58 %
Wind: W 8 – 11 knots
Conditions: Partly Sunny
Visibility 8 miles
Sunrise 6:40 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:20 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

Inside the 1,000 fathom line (which is 30 miles from Zihuatanejo Bay), the water temperature is a minimum of 88º, with some areas as warm as 90º. Beyond the 1,000 fathom line the water is a more reasonable 86º. The action is good for most species, but it has moved out a bit.
We are averaging about 2 sailfish per day per boat with most of the action in the 12 to 14 mile areas. The marlin are still striking lures beyond the 30 mile mark. Plus there are quite a few yellowfin tuna at 30 miles also.

Inshore, Adolpho, on the panga Dos Hermanos, is still doing very well on roosters and jack crevalle up in the Troncones area
Ed Kunze
Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 75-100
Humidity 89%
Wind: Calm
Conditions: Mostly Sunny
Visibility 3 miles
Sunrise 7:14 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:25 p.m. CDT

Action Slowed by Cold Water Current!

Chart complements of terrafin.com shows the far-reaching effect of the cold current

REPORT #1068 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update June 23, 2007

This link is to a report about my report about

The Escalera Nautica Land Bridge to Boating in the Sea of Cortez

East Cape

A cold water current sweeping around the tip from the Pacific invaded our area the last few days. The 71 degree water and windy conditions turned some of the inshore water off color and made offshore conditions a bit slow. Most boats had to run 12 to 24 miles to find action. The tuna seemed to have moved out farther to escape all the green water; while there seemed to be plenty of marlin showing, they still had a serious case of lockjaw. There were reports of a few large dorado here and there.
Lance reports: “Inshore fishing was been ‘on again, off again’ depending on the day and your luck. There are good numbers of 5lb roosterfish around making for fun light tackle action. That is...if you had sardina for chum and teasing. It has really been tough to come by recently. There are plenty of mullet available for purchase and anglers who put the time into slow trolling these larger baits had some shots at the larger better quality roosterfish. Another fish making appearances in the bait boats have been bonefish. There seems to be lots of them around. Some anglers have reported good results trolling these bonefish though I have yet to have much luck with them as teaser bait.”
Beach fishing cooled off a bit the last few days. Although there are good numbers of jacks near the beach providing most of the shots, roosterfish have been tougher to come by. As usual, if you are in the right place at the right time you will get some great chances. However, the roosters are still the toughest fish to feed a fly to at East Cape. With all the hype last winter there seem to be more anglers than ever chasing them.
Water temperature 71-84
Air temperature 70-96
Humidity 90%
Wind: WSW 7 - 9 knots
Conditions: Partly Cloudy
Visibility 8 miles
Sunrise 6:33 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:09 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

The best action this week was out at the Entrada with good surface action for yellowtail and bonita under the birdschools. There are also some good sized grouper down deep-just above the bottom. The sandy beaches still continued to produce some halibut action for the fly guys using chartreuse Clousers retrieved very slowly across the bottom.

Estero action was limited to a few pargo and the usual spotted bay bass.

Water temperature 64 - 73
Air temperature 60 -86
Humidity 78 %
Wind: WNW 10 - 14 knots
Conditions: Sunny
Visibility 4 miles
Sunrise 6:38 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:19 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

The water is really warming up, and it may just be a bit too warm for most species. The coolest water we have right now is inshore, and it is right at 84º. The blue water is almost 87º.

There are a few sailfish being caught, yellowfin tuna and blue marlin. Almost all fish are being taken between 16 and 20 miles of the Zihuatanejo Bay entrance.

There are still a lot of jack crevalle up near the Troncones area, and are readily attacking surface poppers. Adolpho, on the panga Dos Hermanos, spent 4 days down at Puerto Vicente Gro. fishing for jacks and roosters. They were handicapped a bit because the red tide we had here a few weeks ago has moved south, but they still took a lot of jack crevalle, green jacks, and a few roosters. He told me the best action was on the last day because the red tide had moved on out and further south. All the fish were taken on surface poppers.
Ed Kunze
Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 79-96
Humidity 83%
Wind: Calm
Conditions: Mostly Sunny
Visibility 6 miles
Sunrise 7:13 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:24 p.m. CDT

The Closer, the Better!

"Bubba" fly Lance Peterson designed works again
REPORT #1067 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update June 16, 2007

East Cape
The week began with some decent tuna action inside of thirty miles that moved out further as the week progressed. Dorado action, while picking up, is still sporadic and tough for the fly rodder to connect. The number of marlin sighted is significant; getting them to bite is another story.
This brings us to “where the action is”! Inshore action for larger jacks and roosters with an occasional dorado is enough to keep the flies a flying with plenty of surface action.
Lance reports: “On the 9th, I landed another grande but had a mishap in the surf on his final run. I caught a loop around the rod tip somehow and broke the fish off. I managed to finish the day with a barely ‘teener’. Back on the beach on the 11th: Terrible conditions, overcast with very strong south wind; however the fish went nuts again in the afternoon. I landed 2 grandes in the 40lb class. Wide open action as large rooster surfed the wind waves right to the beach. On the 12th, I landed another quality fish...30lb. I guess. Plus I fed 2 other grandes that didn't stick.” So far this year has proven to be one of the best in recent memory for large roosters.
Back in April, Lance showed me a new “Bubba” fly that he was designing. Judging from his success on the grandes so far this year, I would say he has come up with a good one. There are even reports of others trying to copy it. Lance tells me the fly is still evolving and he hasn’t quite perfected the design. We’ll let you know when he has it ready and where you can get one!
Water temperature 74-85
Air temperature 72-97
Humidity 84%
Wind: ESE 7 - 9 knots
Conditions: Partly Cloudy
Visibility 2 miles
Sunrise 6:32 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:07 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

Windy outside. Up in the esteros, the action remains consistent for corvina on the surface. Deeper in the water column the grouper and pargo are the best bet. There was also a decent halibut bite along almost any sandy beach in shallow water. Early morning under the bridge at Puerto San Carlos yielded cabrilla, grouper and a few small pargo.

Water temperature 62 - 72
Air temperature 62 -88
Humidity 97 %
Wind: WNW 13 - 18 knots
Conditions: Sunny
Visibility 4 miles
Sunrise 6:36 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:18 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

THE INTERNET GOBLINS MUST HAVE EATEN THIS WEEK’S REPORT

This is last week’s report. The 82º blue water is still holding at the 20 mile mark, but the inshore red tide has all but dissipated. And, the fishing has improved dramatically.

Offshore, the main topic is the blue marlin and the yellowfin tuna. At least one boat in three is getting a shot at a blue marlin each day. They are hanging out in a strip all along the coast between 12 and 14 miles. The tuna are at the 20 mile mark, and the edge of the blue water.

Mike Griffin of Anchorage, AK got a nice blue while fishing with Luis on the panga, Gringo Loco. Santiago, of the panga, Gitana, went with a friend on a private boat out of Marina Ixtapa. The idea was to test the yacht out for possible purchase. They found out it raised fish well, as they caught and released 3 blues. All the fish were taken on trolled lures.

The sailfish action is holding steady at about two fish per boat average.

Inshore, I spotted Adolpho fishing the surf line up at Troncones. I called him on the cell phone, gave him a wave, and asked how he was doing. He replied they had 19 jack crevalle, 3 pompano, and about 15 green jacks. All were taken on spin gear and surface poppers
Ed Kunze
Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 79-100
Humidity 78%
Wind: NNE 4 Knots
Conditions: Partly Sunny
Visibility 3 miles
Sunrise 7:11 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:22 p.m. CDT

“Bubba” Takes the Stage!

REPORT #1066 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update June 9, 2007

East Cape

Offshore action this week included striped marlin and some decent tuna action if you found the right pod of porpoise. The sardine arrived in big numbers and inshore and beach fishing action immediately increased.
Our week was largely devoted to beach fishing. Great sight casting conditions allowed for some fantastic rooster hunting. However, being in the right place at the right time was the key as the fish were not evenly distributed along the shore. A few days ago it was mostly a jack show. Crevalle from 8 to 20lbs. swept into the shallows and tore up the bait both early and late in the day. In the melee, it was wide open fishing for these tough customers. Those jacks are as strong as they come and wear you out! Two big jacks on back to back casts were enough and after two, it was time to move on in search of roosterfish.
Lance reports: “Thursday, the roosters joined the beach party. Lots of Pez Gallo were working the beach in schools of up to a dozen. Ranging in size from 5 to 50 pounds, they were anxious to chase a well presented fly right up the rod tip without hesitation. There were a number of fish over 30lbs., fully “comb-up” and chasing the fly. What a thrill to see one of them devour the fly just feet from shore. After about 10 minutes, the hook just popped out! Brand new fly, brand new hook wasn’t enough to close the deal. Those big roosters are super tough to get a good hook set into. By the end of the day the score was two "small" roosters to the beach and countless close encounters. To say those fish make you work hard is an understatement. Running down fish until your lungs burn....good times in June at the East Cape!
Friday: Landed three grandes today! Fed a couple of others that didn't stick, had countless of the craziest “comb-up” follows I've ever experienced. What an amazing day.”

Water temperature 74-85
Air temperature 70-94
Humidity 77%
Wind: SSE 6 knots
Conditions: Partly Cloudy
Visibility 6 miles
Sunrise 6:31 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:04 p.m. MDT


Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

Action this week was once again limited to the Esteros with few anglers venturing offshore and as water temperatures continue to be cool.

A few nice sized grouper were taken near Boca Santo Domingo and small corvina with a few sierra mixed in were biting on the surface throughout the Bay.

Enrique Soto reported that he had found a few smaller-variety yellows out at the Entrada and plenty of small halibut at Belchers

Water temperature 62 - 72
Air temperature 68 -79
Humidity 81 %
Wind: WNW 10 knots
Conditions: Sunny
Visibility 4 miles
Sunrise 6:36 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:15 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

The 82º blue water is still holding at the 20 mile mark, but the inshore red tide has all but dissipated. And, the fishing has improved dramatically.

Offshore, the main topic is the blue marlin and the yellowfin tuna. At least one boat in three is getting a shot at a blue marlin each day. They are hanging out in a strip all along the coast between 12 and 14 miles. The tuna are at the 20 mile mark, and the edge of the blue water.

Mike Griffin of Anchorage, AK got a nice blue while fishing with Luis on the panga, Gringo Loco. Santiago, of the panga, Gitana, went with a friend on a private boat out of Marina Ixtapa. The idea was to test the yacht out for possible purchase. They found out it raised fish well, as they caught and released 3 blues. All the fish were taken on trolled lures.

The sailfish action is holding steady at about two fish per boat average.

Inshore, I spotted Adolpho fishing the surf line up at Troncones. I called him on the cell phone, gave him a wave, and asked how he was doing. He replied they had 19 jack crevalle, 3 pompano, and about 15 green jacks. All were taken on spin gear and surface poppers
Ed Kunze
Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 74-95
Humidity 83%
Wind: NNE 4 Knots
Conditions: T-Storms
Visibility 5 miles
Sunrise 7:10 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:20 p.m. CDT

Blue Flags Flapping - Roosters Snapping

REPORT #1065 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update June 2, 2007

East Cape

Most days there were plenty of marlin spotted offshore, but most of each day it was a bite here and a bite there. As slack tide neared, the bite picked up and some boats would finish the day with enough marlin flags flying to nearly break the outriggers. The largest number I saw was six blue flags flapping in the wind. For the fly angler, it was tough and there were few shots were to be had. Inside, closer to shore, sardina for chum was the key. A hookless sardina slow trolled tight to the beach in front of La Ribera attracted enough small rooster and ladyfish to keep the “fly flingers” flinging. The largest of the day was caught by Mike Little, from Calgary. On one of John Ryzanich’s new, chartreuse, Fat Boy flies, the first time the fly hit the water it was inhaled. The second time the line broke and that was the end of that!
Weather remained perfect until Friday, when a strong south wind came up from the southeast about mid-day and continued to increase to twenty knots by sundown. While sardina became easier to find later in the week, with the increase in the wind the bait guys will probably have a tough time catching bait for the next few days.
Lance Peterson, BOF guide, reported marginal fishing on Friday with some smaller roosters and jacks in the morning. Then the bite died until mid-day when the roosters reappeared at La Ribera, providing fair but short lived action. The day finished with a show of good sized ladyfish near the Spa. There were a few roosters up to 25 lbs mixed with them, putting on a good show and eating the chum but they never got hot for the fly.
Tuna continued to be a long ride away and the dorado action was spotty at best.

Water temperature 70-82
Air temperature 70-95
Humidity 86%
Wind: NE 5-7 knots
Conditions: Mostly Clear
Visibility 2 miles
Sunrise 6:31 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:02 p.m. MDT


Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico


Little to report from the offshore as the winds continued most of the week. Closer to shore, the net guys slaughtered the snook in the surf line near the Boca. One report was that when they unloaded they had thirty snook weighing thirty-five pounds and up with one monster in the fifty pound class, plus a few huge pargo. It’s no wonder there is little action for sport fleet. If the Mexican Government continues to look the other way, it won’t be long before we are all flying kites instead of fishing.

The best action to be found in the esteros included the halibut, grouper, sierra, corvina and cabrilla, with easy limits for everyone.

Water temperature 65 - 72
Air temperature 68 -85
Humidity 93 %
Wind: S 14 knots
Conditions: Sunny
Visibility 3 miles
Sunrise 6:36 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:12 p.m. MDT


Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

Fishing has been slow. The red tide is finally starting to disperse, but it is still spotty in several areas. The inshore game fish have yet to come back.

Offshore, the average is about 1 sailfish per boat, per day. There are a few yellowfin tuna showing up, but they are moving fast and are hard to catch. The blue water is still about 20 miles, with dirty water out to the 12 mile mark. The dirty water will start clearing as the red tide clears out.
Ed Kunze
Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 78-100
Humidity 78%
Wind: Calm
Conditions: Clear
Visibility 5 miles
Sunrise 7:10 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:18 p.m. CDT

Inshore Shines for “Feathers and Fur”

REPORT #1064 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update May 26, 2007

East Cape

Plenty of fish were seen this week ranging from striped marlin to YFT’s hiding under the porpoise schools beyond thirty miles. Seems like there is bait everywhere - from squid to sardina - and that has made it tough to entice them with feather and fur! Dorado action continued to be a tease with the lucky boats finding something floating to provide cover for these critters.

Inshore the fly fishers shined this week! Ed Randall, Houston, TX, headed out with BOF Guide, Lance Peterson, looking for his first rooster on the fly. Fishing with Captain Victor, Jr.
on "Mosca I”, they scoured the coastline for roosters on the bite. When they found a bait receiver full of sardina (flat iron herring) near La Ribera, their luck improved. Roosters had gathered around it and using a hookless live bait, Lance teased several into casting range. Ed had some great shots and when the scales settled, he had landed two nice roosters and a good number of really big ladyfish that made his 10wt creak in protest. Most of the roosterfish were in the 5 to 10lb class with a few much larger fish mixed in.

Watching Ed have all the rooster action fired up Lance and he headed down to the beach to find one of his own at the end of the day.

Water temperature 70-81
Air temperature 73-90
Humidity 24%
Wind: SSW 9-12 knots
Conditions: Mostly Clear
Visibility 10miles
Sunrise 6:33 a.m. MDT
Sunset 7:58 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

Estero action continued to be the best bet this week as the Pacific continued to be whipped into a froth by strong winds from the WNW keeping everyone close to shore. Inside, nice sized grouper and a corvina bite on the surface kept fly flickers happy. Those that braved the strong breezes in the open water were rewarded with only a few firecracker sized yellows for their effort. The local shark fishermen have reported seeing an occasional dorado under their buoys, but definitely not a bonanza.

Water temperature 65 - 72
Air temperature 67 -85
Humidity 45 %
Wind: WNW 14 knots
Conditions: Sunny
Visibility 3 miles
Sunrise 6:38 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:09 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

Fishing has been below par for this time of the year. A lot of it can be attributed to the red tide that hit the coast this last week. It has decimated the inshore fishing. The red tide has affected the coastline for at least 40 miles in each direction from Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo. But, there are signs of it breaking up now, and should clear out by next week.

The 82º blue water is now at the 25 mark, with dirty, almost red tide conditions, water out at least 12 miles. The only bright spot is that the blue marlin are here and the yellowfin tuna are here also. But, the anglers looking for sailfish are averaging only about 1 fish per day per boat.

John Wilkinson of Michigan has fished with Santiago on the Gitana a couple of times this week. On the first day, because the 30 to 40 pound yellowfin tuna were traveling fast and were line shy, they dropped down to 30 pound test. Of course that is when the 100 pound beast came up from the depths and ate the bait. They fought the tuna for almost 2 hours, got a good look at it, and the line parted.

On the next trip they lost an estimated 400 pound blue after only a 15 minute fight. A 100 pound plus yellowfin tuna and a 400 pound marlin would make a decent week, however John ended up with only one sailfish released for the two days on the water.

Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 76-98
Humidity 26%
Wind: ENE 9 knots
Conditions: Clear
Visibility 5 miles
Sunrise 7:11 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:15 p.m. CDT

Billfish Threatened by Mexico’s New Regulations!

REPORT #1063 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update May 19, 2007

East Cape

Once again the Mexican Government has made an end run approving some really rotten legislation regarding long liners that will only yield further declines for the offshore fishery in Baja. For more info click on the link: http://www.billfish.org/new/NewsArticle.asp?ArticleID=60

Our week was largely devoted to beach fishing. Matt Jones, Dallas, TX, and his buddies Ian Crabtree, and Lee Field came down for some Baja fishing before they head up to Alaska for their guide season. On Tuesday, they hit the beach hard and prowled mile after mile of hot sand. They had their share of chances, though fishing was not wide open. Action on smaller roosters was fair but the “big boys” proved as difficult as usual. Their second day, Friday provided better action. Matt had the shot of the day when a 35lb+ rooster lit up on his fly...only to turn away at the last heart pounding second. Ian had the jacks dialed in on Friday. He hooked two fine jack crevalle sight casting, the largest about 12lb.

Offshore, Billfish action consisted completely of striped marlin this week and they seemed to be spread all over the map. The dorado action seemed to follow the same pattern with little or no concentration to be found. The few lucky anglers were the ones who stumbled into some floating debris providing some cover. For the rest, it was a single here and there. White flags were the most predominant this week as the fleet found tuna from a few miles offshore out as far as forty miles, with the best catches awarded to the boats that traveled the further distances.

Water temperature 70-81
Air temperature 75-87
Humidity 85%
Wind: SW 8 - 10 knots
Conditions: Mostly Clear
Visibility 4 miles
Sunrise 7:35 a.m. MDT
Sunset 7:55 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

Overcast and windy conditions for most of the week didn’t shut down the cabrilla and grouper bite in the Esteros. The only boats venturing outside were the commercial shark fisherman that had to go. Even the Entrada action slowed down this week.

The new legislation passed by the Mexican Government will only yield declines for this offshore fishery. For more info click on the link: http://www.billfish.org/new/NewsArticle.asp?ArticleID=60

Water temperature 65 - 72
Air temperature 62 -84
Humidity 86 %
Wind: WNW 11 - 15 knots
Conditions: Partly Cloudy
Visibility 3 miles
Sunrise 6:40 a.m. MDT
Sunset 8:05 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

Earlier this week the fishing had slowed down considerably when compared to the great action we had this last couple of weeks. However, it is on the rise again. Even though the boats are only averaging about 1 sailfish a day average per boat, the blue water has moved into the 12 mile mark. This will definitely bring the fish closer.

The yellowfin tuna have showed up at the 19 mile mark and are giving us a lot of action. Even though they are only averaging between 22 and 25 pounds, there are a lot of them. Plus, a few of the boats are also picking up a couple of sailfish each when working the perimeter of the tuna schools.

The inshore action, with dirty water all up and down the coast, has turned off. A few chulas (a white meat tuna with teeth) are showing up about a half mile off the beach, and are hitting trolled Rapalas.

Ed Kunze

The Mexican Government’s new legislation on long liners that will affect the Zihuatanejo fishery as well. For more info click on the link: http://www.billfish.org/new/NewsArticle.asp?ArticleID=60

Water temperature 80 - 84
Air temperature 78-86
Humidity 77%
Wind: N 3 knots
Conditions: Clear
Visibility 5 miles
Sunrise 7:13 a.m. CDT
Sunset 8:13 p.m. CDT

“Grande” Rooster Thrills…Disappoints

East Cape Beach produces quality jack for Lance Peterson

In the oddity department, an Oarfish was found, caught, captured? Near the beach at East Cape this week.

REPORT #1062 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996 Endless Season Update May 12, 2007



East Cape

While the roosters were not exactly numerous close to the beach there were a few quality shots and patience on the hunt finally paid off Friday when a true "Grande" roosterfish came in from the deep water. After chasing a fly in classic fashion, the rooster with its comb fully extended, tracked the fly for a short distance and then devoured it. A brand new fly on a razor sharp hook wasn't enough to keep the fish hooked up and the fish came unbuttoned after a short fight. Those big ones are really tough to get a good hook set into. After all the hard work, it was brutally tough to see a "Grande" swim away. But that's roosterfishing...the high's are high and the lows are low. Next time!At least the jack crevalle were kind enough to eat flies with some frequency and take some of the sting out of big rooster loss. Early in the week, Lance battled with one of his best jacks ever. When those fish get over 20lb they are a force to be reckoned with. The panga fleet had some great days on roosters to 10lb's just off the beach. Lance, fishing with Brad Ellis on his panga, “Macaira”, had some great action teasing roosterfish with live bait. In just a couple of hours they had lots of chances and Brad hooked 3 nice Pez Gallo on the new fly.Dorado action was great for the few lucky ones who stumbled on the right school. For others, it was a single here and there. Yellowfin action disappeared when the Mexican seiners, led by a helicopter overhead, wiped out the school. However, by the end of the week the Seiners had been run off by the government and the YFT action picked back up. While there are plenty of billfish to look at, getting them to bite is the tough part.

• Water temperature 65-74
• Air temperature 75-87
• Humidity 77%Wind: ENE 2-3 knots
• Conditions: Partly Cloudy
• Visibility 5 miles
• Sunrise 7:15 a.m. MDT
• Sunset 8:19 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

The weather and Estero fishing both improved late in the week. The spotted bay bass, halibut and grouper finally decided to bite along with a few corvina. Out at the entrada the small yellows, along with schools of bonito, continued to put on a show, chasing bait on the surface. Down lower in the water column a few decent sized grouper were also willing to bite a slow-retrieved chartreuse Baja Deepdiver.
Out at the Entrada, the big swells, pushed by the wind, made it difficult to get under the bird schools feeding on the sardines that were chased to the surface by firecracker yellows and small bonito.
Offshore, strong winds and big swells prevented many boats from getting outside the Entrada.

• Water temperature 65 - 72
• Air temperature 67 -89
• Humidity 61 %
• Wind: NW 12 - 20 knots
• Conditions: Sunny
• Visibility 13 miles
• Sunrise 6:44 a.m. MDT
• Sunset 8:02 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

After this last week's short down-turn from the effect of the full moon, the fishing for all species has been turning on again. Last week's 114 boat annual sailfish tournament (the 40th) also hurt the fishing early in the week. There were just too many boats out there pounding the water. But, sailfish averages are again close to 6 to 8 strikes a day, one boat in three is getting a shot at a blue marlin, a few dorado are being taken, and the yellowfin tuna are at the thirty mile mark. Plus, the roosterfish are starting to show on the beaches. In fact, this last Wednesday they really put on a great show down at Puerto Vicente Gro. Fly fishing client, Jim (Doc) Coulthurst of Portland, OR, fished with Cali and me in one of the three pangas set up for sport fishing in the Port (meaning it has a shade cover).Doc is an experienced guide in the Northwest states, but this was his first time for roosters. By 11:00, we had raised 20 roosters on a hookless popper, giving Doc five legitimate shots with the fly. He hooked two, but was only able to get one to the boat for photos. The roosters were all on the small side, averaging between 12 and 25 pounds. The big boys should follow in a couple of weeks. Doc finished up the day catching several black skipjack tuna. At times there were so many tuna breaking the water, it sounded like a rainstorm. With acres of fish on the surface, it was almost a fish a cast. Even Cali got into the action. With his first time ever at casting a fly rod, he managed to land several skipjack from the bow. He even talked about it with the other captains at the municipal pier in Zihuatanejo. He is hooked! Ed Kunze

• Water temperature 80 - 84
• Air temperature 78-99
• Humidity 77%
• Wind: Calm Conditions:
• Mostly Sunny
• Visibility 5 miles
• Sunrise 7:15 a.m. CDT
• Sunset 8:10 p.m. CDT

Jacks Are No Joke

REPORT #1061 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update May 5, 2007

East Cape

This week started out with a great day on the water with Mike Vogel, Thornton, CO. We fished inshore on the panga “Victoria” with Capt. Victor Garciglia, Jr. Early in the day, we found great action on smaller roosters at Punta Colorada.
Working our way north, we noticed a large number of frigate birds swirling and diving near La Ribera. It didn't take long for the teaser baits to be attacked by large black skipjack and bruiser jack crevalle in the 14 to 20lb. class.
An all out feeding frenzy ensued and when the day came to a close, Mike had boated 2 big jacks and 2 hefty black skipjack along with a number of other close encounters and "long line releases". The hard pulling jacks took their toll on Mike’s equipment. His new Sage 10wt gave in under the pressure and broke right above the cork! Just goes to show you...those jacks are no joke!
Offshore fishing has been good this week as well. The yellowfin tuna have made an appearance in the porpoise schools and there have been plenty of white flags flyin'.
The marlin action has continued to be great as well. The bite is close, too...just 8 to 15 miles off of La Ribera produced some great billfish action. The marlin have been chasing lures in a big way making for excellent opportunities for those willing to tackle them with a fly rod.
The spring season is in full swing here at East Cape and with the water warming up every day, it can only get better.
Water temperature
65-74
Air temperature
64-90
Humidity
44%
Wind:
ENE 2-3 knots
Conditions:
Mostly Cloudy
Visibility
20 miles
Sunrise
6:42 a.m. MDT
Sunset
7:49 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

Wind and grumpy seas kept most of the fleet close to home this week.

In the bay up above Lopez Mateos the grouper action was excellent along with the ever present spotted bay bass. On the surface the corvina put on a show chasing almost any popper that hit the water. Once the wind settles down and it warms up a tad, the action should improve.

Out at the Entrada, the big swell pushed by the wind made it difficult to get under the bird schools feeding on the sardines being chased to the surface by firecracker yellows and small bonito.

Water temperature
65 - 72
Air temperature
62 -87
Humidity
44 %
Wind:
WNW 14-19 knots
Conditions:
Mostly Cloudy
Visibility
5 miles
Sunrise
6:48 a.m. MDT
Sunset
7:58 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

The fishing has been fantastic this last week, and thank goodness for the full moon, which should slow the action down a bit. It has already moved the blue water to out beyond the 25 mile mark.

Today (Friday) was the first day of the annual sailfish tournament. The winners are determined by the largest three sailfish, the largest single marlin, and largest single dorado. They are all killed to determine the weights. Some day the Mexican fisherman must wake up to reality.

There are 127 boats this year, and they averaged about two sailfish a day....killed.
Plus, there are two more days of the tournament left.

The largest sail weighed today (dead of course) was only 81 pounds. The largest blue marlin was only 264 pounds (and again it was dead).

Santiago told me his brother on the Gitana II caught 5 sailfish in this first day of the tournament, but were all small, and were tagged and released.

Adolpho, on the panga, Dos Hermanos, told me he did not get any roosters this week, but did manage several jack crevalle.

Cali and I fished with fly fishing client, P.J. D' Amico of the Denver area in Puerto Vicente Gro. He had great luck on the fly with several black skip jack tuna and jack crevalle to about 6 pounds.
Ed Kunze
Water temperature
80 - 84
Air temperature
76-100
Humidity
65%
Wind:
S 10 knts
Conditions:
Sunny
Visibility
11 miles
Sunrise
7:18 a.m. CDT
Sunset
8:07 p.m. CDT

Roosters Rule, Jacks Follow!

REPORT #1060 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update April 28, 2007

East Cape

Roosterfish action speeded up just in time for Doug Booth’s (Tustin, CA) inshore trip Saturday. The 8 to 20lb class pez gallo put on a real show tearing up bait on a flat calm sea as frigate birds dipped and dived above the frenzy. This classic East Cape action lasted a couple of days until the North wind came roaring back down the Sea of Cortez once again causing lumpy and off color inshore conditions. Back on the beach, the North wind made sight fishing tough as the wave action churned up the shore line. Nevertheless, bright sun allowed for decent fish spotting and if you were in the right spots, the jack crevalle were fairly numerous and were responding to flies with some aggression. A few good sized roosters were in the mix too. Our Guide, Lance Peterson, reported that they were picky as usual but he did manage to get some hard follows. However, getting one to eat the fly was a different story.

Offshore the north winds made for a tough week until Thursday when the wind backed off again. That is all it took for the billfish to begin to bite again. Thirty miles offshore a few boats found some pods of porpoise producing some of the best YFT action in several weeks. Hopefully, the action will continue this week if the north wind stays away.

Water temperature
65-74
Air temperature
62-82
Humidity
77%
Wind:
NNW 5-7 knots
Conditions:
Sunny
Visibility
5 miles
Sunrise
6:47 a.m. MDT
Sunset
7:45 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

Continued cooler water temps offshore have pushed most of the fish further down the coast. Entrada action continues with sierra, yellows and bonito found feeding on the surface under the bird schools.

Corvina provided the best action inside the esteros along with a few sierra found up above Lopez Mateos. Grouper, pargo and snook seemed to be among the missing this week or maybe it was the anglers that were missing.

Water temperature
65 - 72
Air temperature
60 -82
Humidity
68 %
Wind:
NW 7-9 knots
Conditions:
Sunny
Visibility
12 miles
Sunrise
6:53 a.m. MDT
Sunset
7:55 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

The fishing this week has really turned on for the blue water. For the inshore action, the roosters are right on schedule and starting to make their migration back. There are a few showing up on the beaches again.

The biggest news is the blue marlin and sailfish. Each day, one out of every three boats are getting a shot at a blue. This is normal for the month of May, but it is late April, and they are week or so early. We have averaged at least 5 blues a day for the daily 18 to 20 boat fleet. In addition, with the arrival of the blue marlin, the big 200 pound plus yellowfin tuna will not be far behind. Most of the tuna and blue marlin action in May will be at less than the 20 mile mark.

Plus, we are averaging an incredible 5 to 6 released sailfish a day per boat this week. Some boats are posting double digit numbers of releases.

Mike Griffin, of Anchorage, told me he fished with Captain Poli on the Don Gordo II this last Wednesday. With 20 sailfish raised and striking the baits in the spread, they had run out of baits by 11:00. Two elderly couples were very satisfied with the day and their 4 sailfish releases, so their captain gave Poli his remaining baits. They finished the day with 25 strikes, of which they had two triples, two doubles, and three singles. Most of the action was within 12 miles of the lighthouse at Zihuatanejo Bay.

Mike told me there were acres of porpoise, and birds crashing on bait everywhere. There were free jumping sails in every direction, and every boat in the fleet was hooked up at the same time. They could not even get the entire compliment of trolling rods out before they were hooked up. With only two rods out, sometimes they did not make more than 50 yards before they were bit again. Two of the fish they caught were over the 100 pound mark. Mike said it he had never had a better day on the water.

Adolpho, on the panga Dos Hermanos, told me he got 5 roosters in 3 days of fishing inshore, and a few jacks are starting to show up also.
Ed Kunze

Water temperature
80 - 84
Air temperature
72-99
Humidity
88%
Wind:
WSW 8 knts
Conditions:
Partly Sunny
Visibility
5 miles
Sunrise
7:22 a.m. CDT
Sunset
8:06 p.m. CDT

Jack’s are Back!

REPORT #1059 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996 Endless Season Update April 21, 2007

East Cape

Baja on the Fly Guide Lance Peterson with his best Jack in 2007..so far!

Sporadic north winds influenced the fishing this week! On the less windy days the billfishing was excellent with many boats racking up multiple scores. Dorado, while spread out throughout the bay, were mostly singles and still not grouped up in schools. YFT catches could only be classified as dismal. Cecilia “Pudge” Kleinkauf, Women’s Flyfishing©, Anchorage, AK, finished up on Monday and the group ranging from novice to seasoned anglers all came away from the trip with plenty of bragging rights until they return next year. Baja on the Fly guide, Lance Peterson, took the day off on Friday and sent us the following report. “Had great fun fishing the beach all day. Literally hundreds of jacks with a few chasing the flies were enough to keep it interesting and provided non-stop action. When the scales settled, the score was one big jack landed as they continued to prove how tough they can be to catch from the shore. Also had some great rooster action with some follows but no takers; I'm absolutely spent from running down fish. Great day.”

Water temperature 65-74
Air temperature 59-85
Humidity 59%
Wind: NNE 8-11 knots
Conditions: SunnyVisibility 8 miles
Sunrise 6:53 a.m. MDTSunset 7:42 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

Strong winds and high seas kept the local boats inside this week. Entrada action under the bird schools improved with enough sierra and yellows to bend the rods of the few anglers there. Devil’s Curve produced a few grouper, small pargo and the corvina were suckers for surface plugs or poppers.
Closer to San Carlos at the bridge early morning action also included corvina and small groupers using Chartreuse Clousers retrieved slowly along the rocky bottom.

Water temperature 65 - 72

Air temperature 58 -90

Humidity 43 %

Wind: NNW 15-20 knots
Conditions: Sunny
Visibility 12 milesSunrise 6:59 a.m. MDTSunset 7:52 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

Fishing has improved considerably this last week. We are now getting a potpourri of several blue water species, including sailfish, blue marlin, dorado, and yellowfin tuna. Sailfish are still the predominate catch, with most fish being taken between 18 and 21 miles from Zihuatanejo Bay. The 80º blue water is at about 15 miles. Santiago on the panga, Gitana, has been averaging about 8 sailfish a day raised to the spread. With Santiago, 1st time blue water fly fishing client, Mark Pinski of Cameron Park, CA, managed to tag and release two sails on the fly on Thursday. Adolpho, on the panga, Dos Hermanos, is back to finding decent inshore action on jack crevalle and black skipjack tuna, and with May just around the corner, the outlook is very promising..
Ed Kunze

Water temperature 80 - 84

Air temperature 63-87

Humidity 43%

Wind: Calm

Conditions: Partly Sunny

Visibility 3 miles

Sunrise 7:26 a.m. CDT

Sunset 8:04 p.m. CDT

Bills Come Early!

REPORT #1058 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update April 14, 2007
East Cape

Cecilia “Pudge” Kleinkauf, owner of Women’s Flyfishing©, Anchorage, AK, arrived early in the week with a group of fishing buddies to enjoy some Baja sun and flyfishing. It didn’t take long to get the party started! First day out, with Pudge’s coaching, Jen Hall, Boston, MA, landed her first striped marlin on the fly. Not to be outdone, Maria Knutson, Anchorage AK, landed her first sailfish. Yes, read SAILFISH. They have arrived early this season.

Most of the marlin, sailfish and dorado action was due east anywhere from 14 – 35 miles from the Hotel Buenavista Beach Resort. The action continued to build throughout the week and some of the boats had as many as 9 flags a flying as a north wind chased them back to the dock Friday afternoon. Though most of the dorado were singles, the quality was decent with many of the fish exceeding fifteen pounds. Many of them were caught on bait, but there was enough fly action to keep things interesting.

With a lack of sardina locally, two boats opted to make the run up to Isla Ceralvo thirty miles to the north where sardina was available. These two boats found excellent fly rod action for skipjack lasting most of the day with the aid of the sardina.

Inshore there were a few jacks caught. Long time client, Allison Osinski, San Diego, CA, landed her “personal best” jack crevalle estimated to weigh 22 lbs. While there were a few roosters found cruising close to shore and a few near misses none were caught. Even tossing the leftover sardina in front of them didn’t stir up much action --- only a few ladyfish and one lone rooster. As the water temps continue to climb, the roosterfish action should begin to get better.

Water temperature
65-78
Air temperature
60-84
Humidity
64%
Wind:
N 12 - 16 knots
Conditions:
Sunny
Visibility
5 miles
Sunrise
6:59 a.m. MDT
Sunset
7:40 p.m. MDT


Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico
Another “cookie cutter” week of moderate action both at the Entrada for small yellows and grouper and inside the esteros where there was some surface action for corvina using small poppers. Fishing further down in the water column near the bottom, with slow retrieved chartreuse Clousers, tricked a few small grouper and pargo.

As the waters have cooled offshore the action has slowed as well. None of the local boats headed out this week and we didn’t hear any reports from boats traveling either up or down the coast.
Water temperature
65 - 72
Air temperature
64 -85
Humidity
43 %
Wind:
SW 10 knots
Conditions:
Sunny
Visibility
3 miles
Sunrise
7:08 a.m. MDT
Sunset
7:48 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico
Fishing still remains on the slow side, however there are definite signs of improvement. At least things were improving until we were hit by a 6.3 earthquake at mid week. Earthquakes apparently affect the vibration sensitive lateral lines of the game fish, and they absolutely refuse to bite for at least 24 hours after a quake.
Centered only about 60 miles South of Zihuatanejo, the quake did no damage at all.
Santiago, on the panga Gitana, told me he was raising 4 to 5 sailfish a day in an area between 18 and 21 miles from Zihuatanejo Bay. Dan and Alicia Sauder fished with Santiago for three days, releasing 6 sails and had a nice blue marlin come unbuttoned.
Inshore fishing is only showing a few black skipjack tuna and smaller jack crevalle.
May will be here in a few weeks, and May is usually one of our best months of the year for tuna and marlin.
Ed Kunze
Water temperature
80 - 84
Air temperature
71-90
Humidity
43%
Wind:
ESE 4 knots
Conditions:
Partly Cloudy
Visibility
4 miles
Sunrise
7:31 a.m. CDT
Sunset
8:02 p.m. CDT

Easter Week without Wind? Almost!

REPORT #1057 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update April 7, 2007

Yvonne and I recently acquired a Road Trek, a self-contained van, so that we could spend more time exploring Baja. This week I made my first trip to Baja in the rig and it has been great. Internet access is a must for me and I can’t believe that every RV Park I have stayed in on the trip down had wireless access. Baja is a changing!

East Cape

It has been a while since East Cape had an Easter week with no wind! On Monday, the wind just died and the Sea of Cortez was like grease through Thursday. On Good Friday the wind arrived just in time to greet the Locals celebrating "Semana Santa" on East Cape Beaches.

Offshore action has included good marlin counts with even a few early sailfish in the mix. If you were up for a long boat ride, you could have found fair numbers of dorado to the north and a smattering of tuna way south.

The sight fishing conditions were near perfect until Thursday when the clouds came rolling in. While you could find action on small roosters and a few ladyfish in the likely spots, the larger variety of roosterfish were among the missing in the shallows. Schools of big jacks are around but are still locked into their milling/daisy chaining behavior, making them tough to catch. Ever so often they cruise close to shore and on occasion will light up and chase a well placed fly. Although there are few sardina to be found along the beach, there are quite a few ballyhoo and pockets of mullet so far.

Water temperature
65-74
Air temperature
60-90
Humidity
47%
Wind:
SW 13 knots
Conditions:
Cloudy
Visibility
20 miles
Sunrise
7:05 a.m. MDT
Sunset
7:37 p.m. MDT

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico

Didn’t hear of much action outside this week. In the Esteros, there was another big tide and fast current. This week yielded so-so action for corvina, spotted bay bass and a few grouper.

Even the Entrada’s yellow action slowed this week and about the only thing biting consistently was the small halibut in the shallows near the sandy beaches at Belchers.
Water temperature
65 - 72
Air temperature
64 -81
Humidity
47 %
Wind:
SW 10 knots
Conditions:
Cloudy
Visibility
3 miles
Sunrise
7:14 a.m. MDT
Sunset
7:45 p.m. MDT

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico

Under the full moon period, the fishing has been a bit on the slow side, with most of the action beyond the 20 mile mark.
Sea temperatures have held at 80 degrees plus which is unusual. for this time of the year. Normally early April current, brings a current of cold green water pushing the blue water out beyond the 40 mile areas.
Inshore was lightly fished this week with so-so results. Ed Kunze
Water temperature
80 - 84
Air temperature
76-86
Humidity
65%
Wind:
SW 8 knots
Conditions:
Partly Cloudy
Visibility
11 miles
Sunrise
7:46 a.m. CDT
Sunset
8:01 p.m. CDT

Spring Forward…..Wind Back

REPORT #1056 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update 03/31/07
East Cape

Mexico switched to daylight savings time this week, just as the north wind cranked back up shutting down what had been some good early season beach fishing. Water conditions quickly went from clean and fairly warm, to off color and cooler as the relentless wind waves pounded the beach. Earlier in the week the first pods of larger roosterfish in the 10 to 15 lb range could be seen cruising the beach in groups of a half dozen or so. The smaller juveniles roosters (1 or 2 lbs) are still numerous as well. While not exactly spring-style beach action, it was great to have a few cruisers to cast to. The jack crevalle have been seen schooling near-shore in larger groups. They are still in their milling/spawning behavior and they continue to be tough on the fly. That being said, they will indeed eat a fly if you are persistent and lucky enough to get a few chances. Sea lions have them spooked as well, which doesn't help the bite.
Offshore fishing action prior to the return of the wind included a good showing of striped marlin for those willing to run south...way south. Tuna action was found under the porpoise throughout Las Palmas Bay before the wind stirred things up.
Water temperature
65-78
Air temperature
55-82
Humidity
70%
Wind:
NNW 11-15 knots
Conditions:
Clear
Visibility
6 miles
Sunrise
7:12 a.m. MDT
Sunset
7:34 p.m. MDT










Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico
Little action reported by the steady stream of yachts pounding up the coast toward California in less than ideal traveling weather. The best action found was on the finger bank below Tasco.

Whale watching season is over and attention has turned back to fishing by the locals. So far the action has been spotty; the Entrada produced a few small yellows along with a few bonito. With big tides creating ripping currents, the Esteros also performed poorly this week only yielding a few grouper, corvina and spotted bay bass.
Water temperature
65 - 72
Air temperature
55 -86
Humidity
64 %
Wind:
WNW 6-9 knots
Conditions:
Clear
Visibility
5 miles
Sunrise
7:20 a.m. MDT
Sunset
7:42 p.m. MDT




Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico
Fishing has been a bit slow this week. The blue water moved out to the 15 mile mark, and then back in to 10 miles.

According to the Terrafin Satellite Surface Temperatures, the water within the normal fishing zone of 30 miles is a blustery 84º, with the preferable 80º water about 40 miles. This explains why most sailfish are being taken between 18 and 20 miles, with the tuna and blue marlin coming from the 40 to 45 mile mark.

Adolpho on the panga, Dos Hermanos, told me he did have one decent day on sails, releasing four. He also said the inshore action is very slow. Adolpho is one of our absolute best roosterfish and jack crevalle captains, and if he says it is slow, then do not waste your time trying for them.
Ed Kunze
Water temperature
80 - 84
Air temperature
74-86
Humidity
83%
Wind:
NNW 4 knots
Conditions:
Partly Cloudy
Visibility
7 miles
Sunrise
7:42 a.m. CDT
Sunset
7:59 p.m. CDT

Transition Time in Baja

REPORT #1055 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update 03/24/07

East Cape
Water temperature
65-78
Air temperature
62-75
Humidity
57 %
Wind:
NNW 7 to 9 knts
Conditions:
Clear
Visibility
5 miles
Sunrise
6:27 a.m. MST
Sunset
6:39 p.m. MST

The transition from winter to spring is in full swing and hopefully it won’t be long before the north winds will only be a fading memory. Most of the action offshore was down to the south and included some football tuna that have begun to arrive along with the continuing striped marlin bite. Unfortunately, dorado action slowed down a click or two this week.

Inshore the small roosters and sierra led the way along with a few ladyfish and pompano. We’re still seeing the larger variety jacks but they seem to be afflicted with a serious case of lockjaw.

Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico
Water temperature
65 - 72
Air temperature
55 -82
Humidity
82 %
Wind:
WNW 13 knots
Conditions:
Clear
Visibility
5 miles
Sunrise
6:26 a.m. MST
Sunset
6:39 p.m. MST
The few boats heading offshore found slim pickings from the Entrada all the way out to the Thetis Bank. The preponderance of bait in the water, mostly squid, may have had a lot to do with it. Back at the Entrada the bite also had slowed for the firecracker yellows for the same reason.

Action was a bit better in the Esteros with corvina providing the best action. There were also a few grouper, pargo and plenty of spotted bay bass to be found at slack tide up above Lopez Mateos.

Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico
Even though the incredible blue marlin bite of last week has not continued at its torrid pace, we have not exactly had a "should have been here last week" situation either.

A full half of the 15 boat fleet is still getting at least a shot at a blue marlin, with an average of about three blues a day being hooked. Cheva, on the panga, Dos Hermanos II, told me how he had a double on two marlin going a respectable 230 and 300 pounds. They got them both to the boat, and with what is probably the understatement of the year, he said, “it was a "bit confusing at times”.

The sailfish action is still only averaging about 1 fish per boat per day. A few yellowfin tuna are being taken at the 40 mile mark by the commercial pangeros.

We had some high surf this week, and the jack crevalle action slowed down a bit, but there are tons of black skipjack tuna. (This is one of the reasons the marlin are plentiful - the small tuna is a favorite food of a marlin.) The hard-fighting small tuna are providing very good action for fly rodders.
Ed Kunze
Water temperature
80 - 84
Air temperature
66-86
Humidity
83%
Wind:
Calm
Conditions:
Partly Cloudy
Visibility
2 miles
Sunrise
6:46 a.m. CST
Sunset
6:57 p.m. CST

Wind Gone? This Week Anyway…

REPORT #1054 “Below the Border” Saltwater Fly-Fishing reports since 1996
Endless Season Update 03/17/07

East Cape
Water temperature
65-72
Air temperature
61-91
Humidity
90 %
Wind:
W 5 knots
Conditions:
Clear
Visibility
5 miles
Sunrise
6:26 a.m. MST
Sunset
6:29 p.m. MST

The excellent weather all the way down the Sea of Cortez this week allowed the East Cape beaches to continue to produce good action for the small roosters (can’t wait until they grow up!). The jacks and pompano that were spotted had a case of lockjaw but there were some good sized croaker that were hot for small Clouser retrieved slowly over the bottom.

Offshore, the local Captains were all smiles as the marlin and dorado action heated up along with the weather. The locals are saying that it is an early spring but I suspect there is still a bit more north wind to come.


Magdalena Bay, Baja Mexico
Water temperature
65 - 72
Air temperature
61 -90
Humidity
60 %
Wind:
WNW 8 knots
Conditions:
Clear
Visibility
5 miles
Sunrise
6:34 a.m. MST
Sunset
6:36 p.m. MST
The Lopez Mateo’s estero fishing was great for our clients, Charles Kittrell and his nephew, from Carmel, CA, with double digit catches of grouper, corvina and spotted bay bass every day they fished. The panga fleet from Puerto San Carlos flocked to the Entrada where there are still plenty of whales to be seen. Enrique Soto reported a few firecracker yellowtail could be found under the bird schools as well as bonito.

Offshore the marlin and dorado are still hanging around but there are few boats heading out to chase them and there are only a small number of yachts traveling up and down the line from So. Cal to Cabo.
Zihuatanejo, Mainland Mexico
In two words: Blue Marlin! It is that good. Every boat in the fleet is getting at least a shot at a blue. The twenty boat fleet is averaging at least 8 caught blue marlin a day, with as many as 11 caught blues this last Tuesday.

The sailfish count is down, but everybody is slow trolling a large black skipjack tuna, which is way too big an offering for a sail to consider.

Margarito, on the Gaby caught two blues in one day for client, Sandy Week. They went 230 and 300 pounds. Adan, on the panga Gitana II took three marlin this week. They went about 120 pounds, 280 pounds, and 480 pounds.

Santiago, on the Gitana told me he only fished the blue water one day, releasing one sailfish, and catching a 40 pound class dorado.

Santiago has been fishing mostly inshore this week, and said the jack crevalle action is outstanding.
Ed Kunze
Water temperature
80 - 84
Air temperature
74-96
Humidity
83%
Wind:
ENE at 5 mph
Conditions:
Partly Cloudy
Visibility
2 miles
Sunrise
6:53 a.m. CST
Sunset
6:56 p.m. CST