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Mag Bay Marvel

February 27, 2020 By InTheBite Editor

striped marlin feeding on bait ball

Photo courtesy Gary Graham

A long-time west coast secret, the incredible fishery that is Mexico’s Magdalena Bay is attracting ever increasing international attention. With ever more traveling operations exploring the fishery, we’ve turned to Baja expert and longtime Mag Bay angler Gary Graham to provide a full report on the fishery, how to get there and what to expect.

By Gary Graham

Located on the Pacific side of the Baja Peninsula – approximately 800 miles south of the California border – Magdalena Bay is protected by five barrier islands. Spanning some 131 miles, with most of its shore lined with mangroves, this is the largest bay on the West Coast of the peninsula. An extraordinary habitat, the plankton-rich environment attracts sardine and shrimp with other baitfish which in turn attracts a diversity of sea life. The astonishing offshore fishery stretches approximately 100 miles out in front of Magdalena Bay, from the Thetis Bank north of Cabo San Lázaro, down to below Punta Tosca at the southern end of Santa Margarita Island.

Over the years, as the word spread, the number of local boats large enough to access the offshore action comfortably has grown and many yachts traveling to and from California plan their trips to coincide with the “you have to see it to believe it” fall fishery that can begin as early as August and can last until January. A few yachts make the journey from Mexico, Central America and a few even travel all the way from the U.S. East Coast to experience what many claim can be overwhelming – some of the best striped marlin action on the planet! Yet, the number of boats fishing in the Mag Bay area is still minimal compared to other Baja destinations. Seldom is the visiting recreational fleet large enough or the area fished tight enough to cause any issues and Magdalena Bay continues to remain unblemished by major inroads of tourism.

striped marlin boat side

This scene, repeated 50 times daily, is what Mag Bay is all about. Photo courtesy Gary Graham

The Fishing

“The striped marlin fishery at Magdalena Bay is the best there is! When you see the bait show with striped marlin, sea lions, dorado, tuna and whales, it’s like a National Geographic movie…a fantastic fishery!” Capt. Bubba Carter, Los Suenos, Costa Rica, gushed recently. “It is literally a ‘fishing proving ground’ where, more than likely your crew will hook more fish in a week or two than they normally see in most fisheries in a fistful of seasons.” The schools of marlin, wahoo, tuna and dorado that find their way into a boat’s pattern often outnumber the lures being trolled. The multiple double-digit events per day can include four or five species – billfish, dorado and maybe even a wahoo or yellowfin tuna all in one area.

What makes the Magdalena Bay offshore fishing so astonishing is a convergence of conditions that occur in the fall. This spectacle varies from year-to-year but can often reach truly amazing proportions in October and November when the volume of baitfish appears, attracting large schools of billfish – mostly striped marlin – but additional species can also be found feeding frantically on the huge bait balls. “As the sea-temps cool, pelagics that had moved north or came in from the west will move south, following the warmer sea-temps as they retreat down the Baja West Coast. Certainly, the huge volume of bait they find off Mag Bay is one large factor,” observed Steve Crooke, Scientific Adviser, Sportfishing Association of California.

It would be easy to assume that the volume of fish would attract a huge fleet of battlewagons to exploit the Magdalena Bay fishery. Still, the remoteness and lack of facilities, added to the difficulty of getting there has thus far kept the fleet size small. The offshore fishery is primarily accessible only to larger trailer boats and sportfishers with sufficient fuel capacity, water-makers and accommodations that allow extended stays cruising up and down the Pacific Coast of Baja. Add in a few local pangas and a handful of larger local trailer boats that are available for charter out of the villages of Puerto San Carlos and Adolfo Lopez Mateos for both offshore and in the mangroves, and the number is still insignificant for the size of the area. According to 2018 reports, there were roughly no more than 30 yacht/sportfishers and a few local boats fishing the area at any given time throughout the season that began in October and was still going on in mid-February.

Pisces Sportfishing putting clients on multiple hookups

Pisces Sportfishing putting clients on multiple hookups. Photo courtesy Gary Graham

Anchorages

The offshore zone stretches from the Uncle Sam Bank to the north to below Punta Tosca on the southern end, between the “Ridge,” with various bumps and high spots, and including the Thetis and the Petrel Banks along with others. When the fish are in the northern zone, Santa Maria Bay is the preferred anchorage. Ample mackerel are usually around to reload the bait tanks, unless the anchorage is crowded. If that’s the case, there are usually birds picking out at the entrance to the bay where the mackerel are feeding on the surface. Another option to filling the bait tanks is on the fishing grounds beneath the bird schools, that is, if you can keep your crew from getting distracted by all the stripers swimming around the boat!

If the fish are farther down outside in front of the entrada to Mag Bay proper, Belcher’s Fish Camp, located a few miles inside the bay, offers an anchorage which is also a decent spot to load up on bait. Plus, there is an anchorage in front of Puerto Magdalena, although bait fishing is less likely most of the time. If all else fails in the bait department, the entrada itself often has mackerel schools chasing sardines on the surface; or they can be found on the meter.

If the main body of fish is in the lower zone outside of Punta Tasco at the south end of Isla Santa Margarita, anchoring options are either Punta Tasco or along the lee of Santa Margarita Island – or the adventurous, if willing, can run the narrow channel into the bay (the smallest of the bays mentioned). At times bait is available in the anchorage, but if not, it can be replenished out on the fishing grounds. Mag Bay offshore encompasses a much larger area than

many expect. Getting good information from another boat fishing in the area or that has only recently departed can be extremely useful and a good starting point.

Warning: Weather and conditions can change quickly. It is very important to watch for weather changes, calculate fuel consumption, boat range, and have a plan for the closest place to duck inside for cover. The area is remote and access to fuel and supplies are limited…another reason good planning is essential!

mag bay map of sea bottom

Google Earth

Dialing in Striped Marlin

Striped marlin fishing in most parts of the world is often more looking-than-hooking – where every detail is examined and every technique debated – trolling speed, pattern, lure color, single, double or no hook, bait type, and so on, can fill the countless hours in-between bites and heart-pounding action. “Typically, catching is the easy part at Mag Bay. There is a tremendous amount of bird life normally piled up on gamefish. Find the birds and the fish won’t be far,” Captain Mark Rayor, Jen Wren Sportfishing, Los Barriles, BCS.

This fishery is clearly bait driven and enough time should always be devoted to having a full bait tank. Any of the anchorages available in the area are worth a shot at fishing bait while on anchor. Check the meter to see what is under the boat. Use Lucky Joes, Sabiki rigs or anything similar. Because of the size and volume of the bait caught, cutting the rigs in half makes them more manageable. Just drop them down and either twitch the rig or slightly yoyo. When the bait is tough, cast to the school and let the bait rig move down through the water column at an angle; this method can be productive. If chum is needed to entice them under the boat, cat food is one solution that has become popular and doesn’t take much room aboard the boat.

striped marlin under water

Photo courtesy Gary Graham

If the anchorage is crowded, the mackerel may disappear. Watch for bird schools at the entrance and try those spots. Another alternative is to catch them out on the grounds. One of the mistakes often made by crews of visiting sport fishers is their failure to pay attention along the way as they head straight for the high spots or where they left the fish the day before. As an example, when departing from Santa Maria, always check the 100-fathom drop-off that curves northwest from Cabo San Lazaro for bird schools and feeding fish.

Frigates are just one type of sea-bird easily spotted from long distances – either high flying or in tight bunches closer to the surface of the water – a sure sign that there is bait being pushed to the surface by something feeding below. Terns are another sure indicator of feeding fish, often spotted flying close to the surface, picking up the leftovers from a sardine bait school being chased by feeding fish. When running to the fishing area, the more people looking in binoculars the better the results. Although most of the fleet generally heads for the high spots, the fish are usually spread out and the bird schools are a great way to figure out where the fish are on any given day.

Normally, when fish feed on the surface there is no need for an elaborate spread. Hookless lures in-stock colors or ballyhoo should be all that is needed to draw them behind the boat, and then its drop back or cast live bait. Don’t stop on the first bite. Multiple hookups are the part of the game that makes it fun for all.

 image of Vaquera fishing boat

The Vaquera, operated by Wren Jen Sportfishing out of East Cape runs special Mag Bay charter packages. Photo courtesy Mark Rayor

Inshore

When examining Magdalena Bay, take time to take a peek at the inshore which offers a variety of habitats. The inshore is equally unusual in a different way. It is marked by a multitude of channels, both deep and shallow, leading to the mangrove-lined esteros. They are remarkable in that they offer their own challenges for white sea bass, spotted bay bass, broomtail grouper, corvina, halibut, pompano, a variety of snapper, sierra, black snook, palometa amarilla, and a host of other species. There are also the sandy beaches, rock structures, and shallow sandbars where many of these species hide out.

There are a few mangrove channels near Puerto Magdalena not far from the anchorage, as well as along the anchorage at San Maria. Both of these areas are easily accessible with an inflatable. There are pangas for hire that dart back and forth between the anchorages.

It takes an alert angler to capitalize on the opportunities found inshore. Anglers who have fished mangroves before already know that many freshwater techniques can come into play – fishing the current as steelhead fishermen do, using top water poppers like bass fishermen, or fishing different parts of the water column like trout fishermen with streamers.

Understanding tidal flow is crucial! The temptation to attempt to capitalize on high and low slack is always present. Contrary to offshore behavior, the inshore bite usually shuts off at high slack. Incoming or outgoing tide or current is an angler’s friend regardless of what style fishing: live bait, artificial or fly. Ripping current and water color are a couple of clues to watch for together with birds diving, baitfish on the surface and fish chasing bait.

Casting along the edges of the channel, using different lures – top-water, sub-surface or heavier gear on the bottom – until the right combination is found that the fish can’t resist, can be the key to success. An excellent way to determine the most likely area to target is slow-trolling a Rapala-style swimming lure along the mangrove-lined shoreline in order to locate spots where the fish are schooling.

According to Captain Peter Groesbeck (see sidebar), “The key to the whole area is about bait. When fish come into that area (either offshore or inshore) or any area down there, the bait is the reason why. If the conditions are right and there’s a lot of bait, they will find it!”

So, if you want to experience some of the finest fishing available, Mag Bay should be your destination. Be sure to do your homework, be patient and you can experience the marvel of the Magdalena Bay action.

image of guy holding fishing rod

Photo courtesy Mark Rayor

Recent Reports from Mag Bay

Captain Peter Groesbeck is a 30-year-veteran of fishing Mag Bay. In 2017, aboard Total Chaos, Groesbeck observed that the striped marlin bite went off in August and lasted until mid-December. In 2018, the action began in October and was still happening in February 2019, although there were few sports fishers remaining in the area. The reports received by that time were from Long Range boats passing through.

This year, 2018/2019, there was a large volume of fish with three different schools from above the Thetis Bank, down off Santa Maria Bay, outside Mag Bay and off Punta Tosca. The bait could be made either out where the fish were or inside Mag Bay at Belcher’s or even in front of Puerto Magdalena. Although some bait was at Santa Maria, the number of boats in that area made it hard to catch.

“We used the ‘run-and-gun’ method when the fish were up feeding; and dredges, teasers and ballyhoo when the fish weren’t showing. Both techniques were very effective. We didn’t use lures often, but when we did, normal colors worked,” Groesbeck concluded.

frigate birds flying over bait

Whether it’s for filling the bank tanks or looking for stripers, balls of frigates are a key to success. Photo courtesy Gary Graham

Getting There

There are flights available to Los Cabos, La Paz and Loreto from San Diego and Tijuana – and many other places in the States. The main international airport, San Jose Del Cabo (SJD is the code), is about a half hour’s drive north of Cabo San Lucas. From the Los Cabos Airport by car, it is a five and one-half hour drive (263.7 miles) by car to Puerto San Carlos and to Adolfo Lopez Mateos, 265.8, miles or a little over five and one-half hours.

From the La Paz airport, there are a couple of options: Mag Bay Outfitters offers shuttle service to both villages and the other option is by rental car. It is a three and one-half-hour drive to either village.

From Loreto, the best bet is the shuttle service of Mag Bay Outfitters, a taxi, or a rental car for the one and one-half hour drive. Mag Bay Outfitters can also arrange a ride out to the anchorage at Santa Maria Bay to meet your boat as well as deliver fuel to the boat.

Hotel Choices – Puerto San Carlos

The Brennan Hotel, www.hotelbrennan.com.mx/Secciones/inicio

Hotel Alcatraz, hotelalcatraz.mx/hotel-san-carlos/

Hotel Villas-Isabela, www.magdalenabaywhales.com

Hotel Choices – Adolfo Lopez Mateos

Whale Tales Inn, magbayoutfitters.com/whales-tale-inn-1

Sportfishing and other services including Transfer Service from La Paz and Loreto, as well as out to private sport fishers anchored at Santa Maria Bay.

Mag Bay Outfitters

magbayoutfitters.com

Sportfishing-Hotel

Google “Sportfishing Hotel Happy Shrimp,” ballenasypescadeportivaenlopezmateos.com/en

Charter Operations

Jen Wren Sportfishing – Custom Mag Bay Charters, offering multi-day offshore trips. www.teamjenwren.com

Local Airstrips

For private aircraft (both jets and standard), Ciudad Constitución Airport is one mile east of the central business district with a paved 5,250-foot runway. There is also a dirt strip available at Adolfo Lopez Mateos

Filed Under: Adventures, Featured Stories, Fishing, News, North America, Places Tagged With: baja peninsula, fishing mag bay, mag bay, magdelena bay, mexico, striped marlin

Capt. Alex Rogers, Cabo San Lucas

January 22, 2020 By InTheBite Editor

Most days, Capt. Alex Rogers can be found chartering his boat, the Protocol, off the shores of Mexico’s Cabo San Lucas where marlin are frequently seen, and caught, on these trips. Rogers’ dogs, Rigger and Makaira, featured in “Boat Dogs,” Oct/Nov. 2019 Issue of InTheBite magazine, are also a common sight on the sportfishing boat Protocol. Rogers chats with InTheBite about fishing in this area and why it’s a great place to visit, no matter what your fishing experience may be.

Filed Under: Dock Talk, Featured Stories, News, North America, Places Tagged With: cabo, Captain Alex Rogers, mag bay charters, mexico, sportfishing

Team “El Suertudo” Wins 20th Annual Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore

August 6, 2019 By InTheBite Editor

Bisbee's East Cape Tournament Logo

Team El Suertudo With Top Team Check for $619,800.00

LOS BARRILES, BCS, Mex. – Team “El Suertudo” won top dollar at the 20th Annual Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore fishing tournament with a 381-pound blue marlin caught in the first hours of the first day.

The $619,800 was the largest payout in the history of the event, according to tournament director Wayne Bisbee.  Total prize payout for all categories in the big game fishing tournament was $771,599.50.

Sixty-five boats with 260 anglers competed during the two-day event in Baja California’s Sea of Cortez.

The winning blue marlin was caught by team member Bruce McDonald in 21 minutes.  Team “El Suertudo,” from Southern California, is a frequent big game fishing tournament participant and money winner, acknowledged Bisbee.

Other winners included Team “Carajos” from Sinaloa, Mex., with four blue marlin $6,587 for 3rd place in the Release Division; Team “Tag Team,” Southern California, $11,087.50, four marlin for 2nd place in the Release Division; and Team “Second Wind,”, $34,255 for 1st place with three blue marlin and four striped marlin in the Release Division.

The Day One Tuna Jackpot went to Team “Snafu” with a 50.8-pound yellowfin worth $18,275.  The Day Two Tuna Jackpot went to Team “Hotel Buenavista” with a 60.8-pound fish worth $31,395.  Day Two winning angler was Esaul Valdez of the host Buenavista Beach Resort Hotel while his brother Felipe won Day One.

The tourney’s biggest dorado (mahi-mahi) was a 34-pound fish caught by Team “Los Compadres,” Los Barriles, BCS, worth $50,200.

Contact Gary Graham-That Baja Guy at thatbajaguy@gmail.com or 760 522-3710

Filed Under: Featured Stories, Fishing, General News, News, North America, Tournament Results, Tournaments Tagged With: bisbees east cape offshore, Captain of the Year, El Suertudo, International Division, LOS BARRILES, mexico, winners

Record Yellowfin Tuna Caught Sets Standard for Dominican Republic

January 16, 2019 By InTheBite Editor

Friday December 28th, 2018

La Romana Dom. Rep.

Sunday December 23rd established a very important feat for sport fishing In the Dominican Republic and the world as Luis Viyella captured the biggest Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus Albacares) ever captured in spearfishing, and the biggest one ever captured in any form of fishing worldwide. The Tuna weighed in at an astounding 480 pounds, it measured 109 inches in length and 62 inches in width.

Luis Viyella together with Gabriel Pinto, Phillipe Coates and crew Jose Francisco Brea, Fevorinki Avila and Alberto de los Santos aboard the boat Lady Shell (Viking 68 sport fisherman) established a new world record (still pending confirmation) in spearfishing for this species, the previous biggest Yellowfin Tuna captured with spear was 353 pounds by Julian Allen-Ellis in Mexico in 2007 according to the International Spearfishing Association.

On the other hand, and according to the IGFA (International Game Fishing Association) the world record for the biggest Yellowfin Tuna ever captured using Rod & Reel belongs to Guy Yacom, which was also captured in Mexico on September 18th, 2012 weighing in at 427 pounds.

The fish was weighed a few hours after being captured using a certified scale and with over 20 witnesses on the dock at Marina Casa de Campo.

Luis Viyella tells us that “it was an unforgettable experience, it was my first time spearfishing in blue waters and to capture a fish that is a world record.” Luis assures us that it was pure luck to find a fish this size and to capture it requires a lot of skill and knowledge in this type of fishing.

Filed Under: Featured Stories, General News, News, Press Releases Tagged With: 480 lb, domincan republic, game fishing, IGFA, International Game Fishing Association, InTheBite, magazine, Marina Casa De Campo, mexico, record, spearfishing, sportfishing, Tuna, viking yackts, Yellowfin Tuna

Captain’s Wife-Approved Destinations

November 27, 2018 By InTheBite Editor

by Alexandra Stark

One of the many charms of the sportfishing lifestyle is the travel to exotic places. By the very nature of the activity, just about every place from which you can catch a marlin or sailfish has a beach. Most also have marinas and a place to grab a bite to eat. For a captain’s wife, the chance to spend a vacation in a place where the boat is fishing can be a wonderful perk.

If you were setting up a travel plan, how could you select a location that combines great fishing with everything necessary for a special trip for your special lady? Get this wrong at your own peril – Ascension Island has world class blue marlin fishing, but how would she feel about “feeding bread to half-wild donkeys” as the headliner of her land-based itinerary? There are also many places with great night life and amenities that don’t hold up the fishing side of the equation.

There are places, however, that play host to great fishing and the types of amenities and activities that make them ideal for captains and their wives. We’ve selected the following locations by asking professional captains and their wives for their recommendations. The following is a profile of a few of the best, with an interview from a professional who describes the ins and outs of each location.

Andrea Angel, with her husband Captain BC, is a veteran of many fishing vacations.

Los Suenos Resort and Marina, Costa Rica

By now everyone in the world has heard of the great billfishing opportunities out of Los Suenos. The world class fishing is matched by a resort that overlooks no detail in providing an incredible atmosphere. It truly boasts of a whole gamut of activity – one that any captain’s wife would certainly enjoy.

Ashley Bretecher, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications has been with Los Sueños for 16 years. When she started it was to help during the high season only. Ashley left for a year to go to school and decided to come back to stay. Los Suenos is now home to Ashley and her daughter. Here is Ashley’s perspective:

  • What are some of the reasons most people choose to come to Los Suenos? While the reasons vary between guests, most come because they can enjoy the Costa Rican jungle and Pacific Ocean in 5-star luxury, with superior service and amenities. The marina and our fishery have and continue to be the primary driver of real estate sales, given the blue skies, flat calm waters, and supreme bill fishery. We are also known as a premium inshore fishing destination with plentiful roosterfish, cubera snapper, grouper, and amberjack.
  • What about Los Suenos is especially attractive to women? Los Sueños is especially attractive to women because they can enjoy all the same activities that their husbands enjoy, with the benefit of a 5-star resort. There is shopping, medical services, restaurants, chef services, cooking classes, full service spa, golf, fitness facilities, yoga, tennis, beach club, and plenty more. All this in a safe and secure environment. We hear it all the time – they can go out walking or jogging and feel completely safe at all times

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Cabo San Lucas is a place full of adventure and wonder. Its desert climate mean lots of sunshine and little rain. The waters surrounding it host a world class striped marlin fishery, with big blues and blacks mixed in. Aside from the fishing, Cabo offers an unmatched quality and diversity of accommodation and activity (dune buggy riding, parasailing, desert camel riding, spa days, drinking margaritas on the beach…you can even take pictures with baby lions!)

If you can’t figure out a good place to grab a cold drink in Cabo, you might have a serious problem. The Marina Cabo San Lucas is a great place to start. Photo courtesy Marina Cabo San Lucas

Darren “Diz” Carey is the General Manager of IGY’s Marina Cabo San Lucas, the 375-slip marina that plays host to sportfishers and megayachts – up to 380’ – from far and wide. A British ex-pat, Diz offers some wise perspective on what a companion/fishing vacation to Cabo might look like. His perspective is delivered charmingly with an understatement, thoughtfulness and wit.

  • What are some of the reasons most people choose to come to Cabo? There are many fishing tournaments in Cabo San Lucas, most notably the Bisbee’s Black and Blue Marlin tournament each October.
  • What about Cabo is especially attractive to women? “Cabo is especially attractive to everyone if you ask me. Cabo has it all –

 shopping from designer brands to the best fakes – you can buy a $10 Rolex or walk down a little ways and pay $25k for the real thing. There are health spas with a large spectrum of services and pricing, 19 luxurious golf courses, restaurants spanning from taco bars to Michelin star chefs,” Carey says. Carey recommends the organic farm to table restaurant “Flora Farms” for a great meal and a good time. Whale watching and turtle hatchling release are must sees if you are there in the right season. There are also secluded beaches with wild horses are in Cabo, yes, this actually exists and it’s free!  Carey reports that there are three stores in the marina that cater to women, even selling the latest in fishing gear.

One of Cabo’s many charms: You never know what you might see. Photo courtesy IGY Marinas

  • What is one thing about Cabo San Lucas that most people do not know? “Though many people are attracted to Cabo for the fishing and the partying, there is also a recent uprise in upscale and high-end restaurants that are getting national acclaim,” Carey reports. Baja has also recently opened its first and only craft brewery, El Toro Baja Brewery. Another surprising fact is that there are many family packages available when visiting Cabo so that the entire family, including the kids can have a wonderful time in this magical place.

The Abaco Islands, Bahamas

There is just so much to do in the Abacos, so many places to go – rent your own boat or grab a ferry and you can do most anything. Everything is right next to each other and you can do something new every day. The main hub is Marsh Harbour, but don’t miss Manowar Cay or Treasure Cay. The most popular spot is Guana where you can join the sportfishing crowd every Sunday at Nipper’s and Grabbers. Visit Pete’s Pub by boat while you’re at it.  You can swim with the pigs on Pig Beach in No Name Cay. The blue marlin fishing in the spring time is the high liner. The Abacos feature lots of canyons and bottom topography with plenty of coverage for tournament fleets.

Kevie Thomas, Rooms Division Director, Abaco Beach Resort & Boat Harbour Marina Marsh Harbour, Abaco, The Bahamas.

Kevie is a local and oh so proud of her Bahamian culture. She provides an insider’s perspective on what a trip to the Abacos, a group is islands and barrier cays in the northern Bahamas, might look like. “I was born and raised here, but I would not want to live anywhere else. Abaco is one big family, everyone knows everyone. It’s just a relaxing great place to live.”

“Don’t leave me on a beautiful beach with a waterfront resort!” said no wife ever. Photo courtesy Abaco Beach Resort

  • What are the reasons most people choose to come to the Abacos? “People choose to come to Abacos first and foremost because of the warm, friendly, kind and loving people. Abaco is also the destination of choice for the boaters because there is so much you can do. We have some of the best deep sea and bone fishing, diving, snorkeling and best beaches in the world. We are surrounded by little Cays each offering something different to explore. The Abacos are so protected that boating is still possible, even on windy days.”
  • What about the Abacos is especially appealing to women? Women like if they do not want to fish on that particular day they can go beaching, island hopping, shopping or visit a very nice restaurant for lunch or just relax by the pool.
  • What is one thing about the Abacos that most people do not know? Abaco has so many unexplored natural resources, like the blue holes, one of the amazing wonders of the world and this island is covered with them.

Key West, Florida

Want an island experience without the need for a passport? Key West provides an excellent fishery for everything from sailfish and wahoo to all manner of snapper and grouper exploits. It is also home to a vibrant hospitality scene, complete with a laid-back atmosphere, plenty of options for having a good time and eating something tasty.

The Oceans Edge Marina provides the fishing facilities necessary to compliment Key West’s full suite of good time attributes.

Brianna Birtles is the marketing director at Oceans Edge Marina in Key West.   “I have been in Key West for six years now, having moved from New York. I was sick of my NY commute and in need of a change. I visited Key West prior to and decided to (do as David Sloane’s book suggests) ‘Quit my job and moved to Key West.’  I had previously worked in both advertising and travel but looked to completely restart and build a career in hotels.” Just 90 miles from Cuba, Key West is the most Southern City in the United States.

  • What are the reasons most people choose to come to Key West? People travel to Key West to enjoy the beautiful, surrounding waters, many water activities, fantastic fishing, the vibrant Cuban culture and many musical influences.
  • What about Key West is especially appealing to women? “Key West has many female fishing enthusiasts that travel here to Key West for tournaments like: That’s What She Shot. Additionally, women travel to Key West for our beautiful scenery, luxurious spas and resorts and lots of fun on Duval!  Key West also has a very close connection to the arts and history.”
  • What is one thing about Key West that most people do not know? Key West once declared war with and succeeded from the US. In the 19th century, Key West was one of the country’s most prosperous cities per capita thanks to its numerous shipwreck treasures. Key West is home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental US. Last, but certainly not least, Key West is NOT known for our beaches. Due to the surrounding reef system we don’t naturally produce beach.

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Filed Under: Featured Stories, General News, News Tagged With: abaco beach resort, april may, Bahamas, beaches, billfish, boating, cab san lucas, captain's wife approved destinations, Costa Rica, exotic places, fishing destinations, florida keys, from the archives, igy marinas, InTheBite, key west, los suenos resort and marina, magazine, mexico, oceans edge marina, sportfishing, travel, vacation

Team “Sea Angel” Wins 2018 Los Cabos Billfish Tournament

October 23, 2018 By InTheBite Editor

2018 Los Cabos Billfish Tournament Final Results

The 20th Annual Los Cabos Billfish Tournament recorded 150 billfish catches across three days of fishing. 

CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO (MONDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2018) — Radio Channel 28 stayed lively all three days of the 20th Annual Los Cabos Billfish tournament, with the tournament fleet averaging 50 releases each day. Last year, anglers released 61 blues and 31 striped marlin; this year, the striped marlin bite returned with a fury. In total, the fleet of 52 boats caught 150 billfish, consisting of 109 stripes, 29 blues, five blacks, five sailfish and two spearfish. Days one and two saw stronger afternoon bites, while day three’s afternoon bite was the slowest of the tournament.

Fishing teams were competing for $642,300 in cash, plus prizes.

The overall winner of the 20th Annual Los Cabos Billfish Tournament was Team Sea Angel, scoring 1,700 points. Sea Angel didn’t weigh any fish, but thanks to their 28 striped marlin releases and one blue marlin release, they were able to hold onto the top spots in the Overall Team Division and Overall Release Points Jackpot. Plus, they won the Day Two Release Points Jackpot. The team, consisting of Capt. Billy Chase “BC” Angel, Andrea Angel, Greg Angel, Austin Angel, Chase Travers, Fico Ortega and Juan Carlos Buenes, earned $113,500 for their efforts and an invitation to the 2019 Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica. For his outstanding showing, Capt. BC Angel won the top captain and received a Garmin Quatix watch.

The Los Cabos Billfish Tournament awards 300 points for black and blue marlin releases, while striped marlin, sailfish and spearfish are just 50 points. Marlin weighed over the 300-pound minimum are awarded points based on their weight. In 2018, each pound was worth 1.5 points, so a 500-pound black marlin catch earned 750 points. The Los Cabos Billfish Tournament point system favors blue and black marlin releases, or catching a monster marlin for weigh-in, but Team Sea Angel was able to defy the odds by totaling 28 striped marlin releases. The year 2018 was the first time a team not weighing a marlin won first-place team in the tournament.

Second-place in the Overall Team Division went to Team Chupacabra with 1,548.5 points. The team released two blue marlin and four striped marlin for 800 points. On the third day of fishing, angler Blake Stamper landed a 499-pound blue marlin worth 748.5 points. The monster blue marlin won all four levels of the Day Three Marlin Jackpot and the Overall Largest Marlin Jackpot. The team, consisting of Capt. Clay Hensley, Bo Jenyns, Jason Douglas, Blake Stamper, Don Stamper, Don Logue and Pablo Pino, earned $195,950, the largest check of the tournament.

Third-place in the Overall Team Division was secured by Team El Suertudo with 1,400 points with four blue marlin, three striped marlin and one spearfish. The team also scored the Day One Release Points Jackpot and Second-Place Overall Release Points Jackpot. Their top-three finishes earned them $57,780 in total. The El Suertudo team consisted of Capt. Greg DiStefano, Bruce McDonald, Alfonso Ortega, Guy Yocom, Oswaldo Ortega, Gary Mason, Dave Elow, Azam Flores and Noe Isaias Cruz.

https://www.inthebite.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/El-Suertudo-Release.mp4

Three qualifying marlin were caught during the tournament, with Team Chupacabra’s the heaviest. But two other marlin catches on days one and two won teams Carpe Diem and Second Wind large cash payouts.

On day one, Carpe Diem’s Dr. Rick McShane landed a 467-pound blue marlin. The blue marlin won all four levels of the Day One Marlin Jackpot, earning $81,750 for the team. The 2018 Carpe Diem team was made up of Capt. Jeff Hamm, Dr. Ricky McShane, James McDonald, Gary Benson, Kellium Tice, Alex Hill and Juan Manuel.

On day two, Team Second Wind won the day with a 363-pound black marlin caught by angler Ryan Donovan. The catch solidified all four levels of the Day Two Marlin Jackpot and second place in the Overall Largest Marlin Jackpot for a grand total of $119,550. Second Wind got redemption with their day-two catch after weighing a marlin on day one that was seven pounds shy of the qualifying weight of 300 pounds. The Second Wind team consisted of Capt. TJ Dobson, John LaGrone, Ryan Donovan, Tony Frascone, Erik Chang and Jerry Bribiesca.

Team Yahoo had two strong days of striped marlin fishing after a slow first day to win third place in the Overall Release Points Jackpot. On day three, the team also won the Daily Release Points Jackpot with 12 striped marlin released worth 600 points. Team Yahoo consisted of Capt. Ricardo Escamilla, Bryce Schell, Mike McKamey, Kurtis McKamey, Jose Escamilla, Ricardo Escamilla and Valentine Ucamp. In total, the team won a check worth $18,420.

Teams entered in the Tuna/Wahoo/Dorado Jackpot who weighed gamefish species were also able to get on the winner’s stage and take home cash prizes. No qualifying dorado were landed over the three days of fishing so that prize money was distributed to the tuna and wahoo winners. On day three, no qualifying wahoo were caught, so that purse was split between the day one and two winners.

Day One

Angler Edward Cota, of Team Estella Del Norte, landed a 66-pound yellowfin tuna to win the Largest Tuna Daily Jackpot. The fish won Team Estrella Del Norte $10,762. The team consisted of Capt. Adrian Miranda, James E Rosenwald, Daniel Camacho, Adrian Miranda and Edward Cota.

Angler Jesus Garcia, of Team El Animal, landed a 37.2-pound wahoo to win the Largest Wahoo Daily Jackpot. The fish won Team El Animal $13,837. The team consisted of Capt. Hugo Beas, Jesus Garcia, Jose Roberto Sanchez, Jose Macias and Daniel Fiol.

Day Two

Angler Scott Leonard, of Team Game Time, landed a 31.3-pound yellowfin tuna to win the Largest Tuna Daily Jackpot. The fish won Team Game Time$10,762. The team consisted of Capt. Javier Zamaya, Kris Anderson, Scott Leonard, Matt Condon and Manuel Gil.

Angler Jim Smith, of Team Mjolnir, landed a 43.9-pound wahoo to win the Largest Wahoo Daily Jackpot. The team consisted of Capt. David Harris, Brandon Walton, Jim Smith, Brandon Baiocco, Jared Dow and Kevin Schloot.

Day Three

Angler Jim Smith, of Team Mjolnir, landed a 70.3-pound yellowfin tuna to win the Largest Tuna Daily Jackpot. For their day two and three catches, the team won $19,987.

Filed Under: Featured Stories, General News, News, Tournament Results Tagged With: 2018 Los Cabos Billfish Tournament, 20th annual, billfish, Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, catch and release, final results, InTheBite, mexico, Spearfish, sportfishing, striped marlin, team sea angel, tournamnet results, winners, Yellowfin Tuna

InTheBite Location Spotlight: IGY Marina Cabos San Lucas

May 14, 2018 By InTheBite Editor

IGY Marina Cabo San Lucas is situated at the southern tip of Baja California. Surrounded by one of the most productive fisheries anywhere, Cabo San Lucas has it all– big black and blue marlin, numerous striped marlin, giant yellowfin tuna, a world class dorado fishery, trophy roosterfish and much more. Beyond the fishing, Cabo is home to a thriving restaurant scene, incredible nightlife and all manner of recreation. Whether it be whale watching or riding ATVs in the desert, Cabo San Lucas has you covered. There is no better jumping off point from which to explore Cabo San Lucas than the 380-slip, full service IGY Marina Cabo San Lucas.

Filed Under: Featured Stories, News Tagged With: Amberjack, Blue Marlin, boating, Cabo San Lucas, igy marina, InTheBite, mexico, Sportfishing destination, vacation

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