headlines Archives - Pacificfins Resort

November 12, 2025November 12, 2025

Wait… Are We Still the Sailfish Capital?

If you’ve been following the action via our social media this October, you might be scratching your head — or your lucky fishing cap — wondering if Guatemala just changed titles overnight. Sure, we’ve proudly held the crown as The Sailfish Capital of the World, but lately… the blue marlin bite has been absolutely off the charts.

We’re talking singles, doubles, and enough adrenaline to make your morning coffee jealous. The action has been so good, some of our guests are starting to whisper: “Are we in the Blue Marlin Capital of the Pacific now?”

We won’t go that far (yet)… but let’s just say, if you’re a marlin junkie, Guatemala has officially entered your bucket list twice.

The start of the season has brought in both familiar faces and first-time visitors — and many left with lifelong memories. Several guests celebrated the ultimate milestone: releasing their first-ever blue marlin! There’s nothing quite like that first big hookup, and the joy (and shaky hands) afterward said it all.

And it’s not just about the marlin — lots of big yellowfin tuna and dorado have been in the mix, adding even more excitement (and some epic fresh sashimi at the dock).

Honestly, there have been too many unforgettable moments to fit into one newsletter, but here are a couple that truly stand out.

Steve Reiter, Tyler Cano, Brandt Burkhardt, and John Burkhardt, who went on an absolute tear! They raised 10 marlin in a single day, got 7 bites, and released 4 blue marlin and 1 stunning black marlin.

And if that wasn’t enough to make jaws drop, Preston Ritcher, Eric Haeker, Shelly Haeker, and Austin Haeker took things to a whole new level aboard Maverick. They raised 18 blue marlin, had 12 bites, and released 8 blues — all in one day!

Days like these remind us why we love this fishery — it’s wild, unpredictable, and downright electric.

October Fishing Report :

Chechos – 102 sailfish raises, 74 bites and 48 releases. Blue Marlin: 18 raises, 12 Bites, 6 Released. Dorado: 8. Yellowfin Tuna: 22. (12 days of fishing).
Gypsy – 103 sailfish raises, 74 bites and 35 releases. Blue Marlin: 53 raises, 41 Bites, 22 Released. Striped Marlin: 1 Raise, 1 Bite, 1 Released. Dorado: 19. Yellowfin Tuna: 17 (19 days of fishing).
Bandido – 108 sailfish raises, 60 bites and 36 releases (1 on FLY!). Blue Marlin: 31 Raises, 23 Bites, 14 releases. Black Marlin: 1 Raise, 1 Bite, 1 Released. Dorado: 18 (2 on FLY!) Yellowfin Tuna: 62 (16 days fishing)
Knotwork – 34 Sailfish raises, 25 bites and 18 releases. Blue Marlin: 15 raises, 10 bites, 6 released. Dorado: 11. Yellowfin Tuna: 8 (8 days of fishing).
Maverick – 121 sailfish raises, 93 bites, and 56 releases. Blue Marlin: 62 raises, 42 bites, and 23 released. Striped Marlin: 1 Raise, 1 Bite, 1 Released. Dorado: 25. Yellowfin Tuna: 32. (19 days of fishing).
Libertad – 14 sailfish raises, 11 bites and 9 releases. Blue Marlin: 1 Raise, 1 Bite, 0 Released. (1 day of fishing).
Mijooo – 9 sailfish raises, 7 bites, and 5 releases. Blue Marlin: 2 Raises, 2 Bites, 1 Released. Yellowfin Tuna: 5 (2 days of fishing).
Typhoon- 24 sailfish raises, 18 bites, and 15 releases. Blue Marlin: 1 Raises, 1 Bite, 1 Released. Dorado: 5 Yellowfin Tuna: 2 (3 days of fishing).
Tranquility – 21 sailfish raises, 21 bites, and 16 releases. Blue Marlin: 10 Raises, 8 Bites, 4 Released. Dorado: 1 (3 days of fishing).
Sails Pitch – 10 sailfish raises, 9 bites, and 8 releases. Yellowfin Tuna: 1 (1 day of fishing).

Steve Reiter, Tyler Cano, Brandt Burkhardt, and John Burkhardt, who went on an absolute tear! They raised 10 marlin in a single day, got 7 bites, and released 4 blue marlin and this stunning black marlin.

Preston Ritcher, Eric Haeker, Shelly Haeker, and Austin Haeker took things to a whole new level aboard Maverick. They raised 18 blue marlin, had 12 bites, and released 8 blues — all in one day!

May 14, 2025May 14, 2025

The Tournament and Party of the Year! – 10th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational

The Tournament and Celebration of the Year!

The 10th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational is shaping up to be the most unforgettable tournament yet! Compete in Guatemala’s most prestigious billfish competition, meet celebrated figures in fishing and marine conservation, and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime live performance by country music star David Lee Murphy.

This year, we’re also thrilled to welcome back Chef Matt Moore, the renowned serial griller, cookbook author, and TV personality, who will be joining us to prepare mouth-watering culinary delights throughout the tournament. Additionally, Dr. Guy Harvey, the legendary marine biologist, artist, and conservationist, will be making a special appearance to celebrate this milestone. This is a tournament like no other!

A Decade of Excellence: The 10th Annual Invitational celebrates ten years of bringing together the best anglers and fishing enthusiasts from around the world. Join us in Guatemala, one of the world’s premier billfishing destinations, for a unique experience!

Unbeatable Location: Located in Guatemala, known for its world-class billfishing, this tournament offers anglers the chance to catch trophy species like Marlin, Sailfish. Dorado, and Yellowfin Tuna.

Exclusive Event: Join a select group of anglers, VIPs, and industry leaders for an invite-only event that promises unmatched camaraderie and competition.

Live Performance by David Lee Murphy: After an exciting day on the water, relax and enjoy a live show by David Lee Murphy, known for hits like “Dust on the Bottle” and “Party Crowd.”

Meet Dr. Guy Harvey: As one of the leading voices in marine conservation, Dr. Guy Harvey will join us to share his expertise and passion for conserving our oceans, bringing the mission of the Guy Harvey Foundation to life, and making this year’s tournament even more special.

Culinary Delights with Chef Matt Moore: We’re excited to welcome back Chef Matt Moore, the serial griller and author, known for his amazing BBQ skills and culinary creations. Get ready for mouth-watering dishes that will keep you fueled and satisfied throughout the tournament. Chef Matt will be serving up exclusive meals that blend his love of grilling with the flavors of Guatemala.

Don’t Just Take Our Word For It

– [Sean Kelly – Bajio Sunglasses]“The Guatemala Billfish Invitational is an experience like no other. The fishing is world-class, the competition is fierce, and the camaraderie is second to none. This tournament has everything!”

– [Christopher Thompson – Angler]

“With David Lee Murphy, Dr. Guy Harvey, and Chef Matt Moore, this year’s event is shaping up to be the most exciting and unique one yet. I can’t wait to return!”

Ready to Compete? Register Now!

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the 10th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational. This is your opportunity to experience world-class fishing, enjoy an incredible live performance by David Lee Murphy, meet Dr. Guy Harvey for a unique conservation experience, and savor the culinary delights of Chef Matt Moore. Spots are filling up quickly—register now to secure your place in the tournament!

The prize structure for 2025: Top Professional Team (1st, 2nd & 3rd), Top Amateur Team (1st, 2nd, 3rd), Top Captain, Top Pro Lady Angler, Top Amateur Lady Angler, Top Marlin, Fun Fish – Dorado and Yellowfin Tuna.

May 14, 2025May 14, 2025

Fairways & Fish Tales: The Hook & Hole Recap

What a month! April brought offshore action and fierce competition on the greens. Whether you were swinging for birdies or chasing billfish, the Hook & Hole Challenge delivered thrills from sunrise tee times to sunset bites. Here’s the full recap and what’s been hot on the water

Hook & Hole Challenge Recap

Three Days. 18 Holes. Offshore Showdowns.

Day 1 – Golf at Mayan Golf Club
Winning team: Gypsy (Joseph Wilson & Mike Eckard) / 68 (-4)
Closest to the pin: Jim Dykema (Knotwork)
Longest drive: James Dykema (Knotwork)
Putting contest: Logan Beall (Libertad)

Day 2 & 3 – Offshore Fishing:
Most billfish released boat: Maverick
Overall Champions: Gypsy (Joseph Wilson & Mike Eckard)
Best Moment: 6 year-old, Logan Beall (Blue Marlin)

Special thanks to our sponsors: Bajio Sunglasses, Yeti, Flor de Caña Rum, Mayan Golf Club

1st Place Overall goes to team Gyspy – Mike Eckard and Joseph Wilson

2nd Place Overall goes to team Maverick – Doug Dodson, Sami Dodson, Howard Rothwell, and Bob Pearson.

3rd Place Overall goes to team Knotwork – Amy Pollack, Jim Dykema, James Dykema, and Jimmy Johnson.

April brought continued bluewater action with an excellent bite across sailfish and dorado—plus a few surprise marlin encounters.

Sailfish kept up the heat with consistent raises and high release numbers across the fleet. The bait was stacked, and the fish responded. Most boats averaged 20–40 bites per day, with top crews reporting even higher numbers on peak days.

Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) remained plentiful around floating debris, especially on the run-out. Anglers brought in fish in the 15–30 lb range, with several larger bulls over 40 lbs adding fireworks to the mix.

Marlin sightings were fewer than March but still notable. One estimated 300+ lb blue marlin was released during the Hook & Hole Challenge—a highlight moment we won’t forget!

Guests continue to rave about their time on the water and at the lodge. One recent visitor said, “It’s not just the fishing—it’s the people, the food, and the energy of the place. Every day felt like a dream.”

The combination of fishing and our first land-and-sea competition made April truly special. Whether you’re coming back for more or planning your first visit, we’re ready to make your trip unforgettable.

April Fishing Report :

April 2nd – 29th: Maverick – 377 sailfish raises, 319 bites and 200 releases (1 on the FLY!). Blue Marlin: 15 Raises, 8 Bites, 3 Releases. Dorados: 38 (18 days of fishing).
April 2nd – 29th: Chechos – 412 sailfish raises, 313 bites and 188 releases. Blue Marlin: 6 raises, 3 Bites, 1 Released. Dorado: 44 (3 on FLY!). (22 days of fishing).
April 4th – 27th: Gypsy – 360 sailfish raises, 302 bites and 175 releases. Blue Marlin: 4 raises, 2 bites. Dorado: 88. (18 days fishing)
April 2nd – 29th: Knotwork – 442 sailfish raises, 301 bites and 200 releases. Blue Marlin: 5 raises. Dorado: 86. (25 days of fishing).
April 7th – 29th: Bandido – 367 sailfish raises, 304 bites, and 198 releases (2 on FLY!). Blue Marlin: 6 raises, 4 bites, and 2 releases. Dorado: 99. (17 days of fishing).
April 2nd – 26th: Libertad – 249 sailfish raises, 207 bites and 127 releases. Blue Marlin: 12 Raises, 6 bites, 3 releases. Dorado: 42. (14 days of fishing).
April 2nd – 18th Uno Mas – 91 sailfish raises, 56 bites, and 38 releases. Dorado: 14 (6 days of fishing).

April 3, 2025April 3, 2025

Blue Marlin Extravaganza – March Fishing Report

Welcome to the March edition of the Pacific Fins Fishing Report! As we transition into the spring months, the fishing continues to be as exciting as ever along the Pacific coast. After an incredible February, the action shows no sign of slowing down. Both experienced anglers and newcomers are reaping the rewards of some phenomenal catches this month.

The blue marlin bite was the highlight of March. Perfect conditions for offshore fishing, the man in the blue suit was a main attraction for anglers this month. Our fleet reported hook-ups with these magnificent fish, and some even landed stunning specimens over 400 pounds!

The waters off Guatemala have been teeming with blue marlin, making it a prime destination for those seeking the ultimate challenge. The blue marlin action was consistent throughout the month, with anglers experiencing thrilling battles on the water. One of the standout moments of March was when a new client (Helen Ong), who had never released a blue marlin before, managed to release an incredible 10 blue marlins by the end of her 3-day trip! What a spectacular achievement and a true testament to the excellent fishing conditions and our top-notch crews. This story perfectly reflects the kind of extraordinary fishing experiences we aim to provide for our guests.

Sailfish continues to shine in March with exceptional action. The bite remains strong, with many boats reporting multiple sailfish raised on each trip. Several boats in our fleet have been raising 70+ sailfish in a single outing! The sailfish are still aggressively targeting schools of baitfish, providing a thrilling experience for anglers.

Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) remains abundant, and the action is still strong as we enter March. These colorful fish can still be found near floating debris or while trolling for sails. Many anglers have been landing fish in the 25 to 50-pound range, with a few larger specimens pushing the 60-pound mark. Dorado continues to be a popular catch for anglers, not only for their acrobatic fight but also for their delicious flavor on the grill. It’s the perfect fish for those looking for a fight and a tasty meal after the catch.

Many guests have mentioned that they will return! This is always a great sign, not only that the fishing has been fantastic, but that the overall experience has been unforgettable. One recent guest said, “The captains and crews at Pacific Fins were top-notch. The staff at the resort were incredible, kind, considerate, and professional.” We’re always thrilled that our anglers are enjoying not only great catches but also exceptional service from both our crews and the staff at the resort.

The combination of the blue marlin bite, the sailfish action, and the abundance of dorado has made March an unforgettable month of fishing in Guatemala. With the weather heating up and fish still actively feeding, we expect the fishing to remain fantastic in the coming months. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-time visitor, the Pacific coast offers plenty of opportunities for big catches and unforgettable memories.

Tight lines and happy fishing!

March Fishing Report :

March 2nd – 31st: Maverick – 608 sailfish raises, 491 bites and 309 releases (8 on the FLY!). Blue Marlin: 14 Raises, 11 Bites, 7 Releases. Dorados: 54 (1 on the FLY!). Yellowfin Tuna: 4 (25 days of fishing).
March 1st – 30th: Chechos – 735 sailfish raises, 601 bites and 361 releases. Blue Marlin: 14 raises, 7 Bites, 2 Releses. Dorado: 6. Yellowfin Tuna: 1. (25 days of fishing).
March 1st – 29th: Gypsy – 534 sailfish raises, 461 bites and 254 releases. Blue Marlin: 14 raises, 11 bites and 5 releases. Dorado: 9. (20 days fishing)
March 1st – 30th: Knotwork – 373 sailfish raises, 246 bites and 171 releases (4 on FLY!). Blue Marlin: 7 raises, 2 bites and 1 released. Dorado: 10. (17 days of fishing).
March 1st – 30th: Bandido – 546 sailfish raises, 465 bites and 312 releases. Blue Marlin: 25 raises, 18 bite and 16 releases. Dorado: 49. (20 days of fishing).
March 1st – 29th: Libertad – 445 sailfish raises, 367 bites and 215 releases. Blue Marlin: 1 Raise. Striped Marlin: 1 Raise, 1 Bite. Dorado: 3. (12 days of fishing).
March 1st: The King and I – 12 sailfish raises, 8 bites and 6 releases. Dorado: 3 (1 day of fishing).

Congratulations to Helen Ong and Sherwood Kuo for releasing 10 blue marlin on their trip. What a spectacular achievement for someone who has never caught a blue marlin!

March 10, 2025March 10, 2025

‘One-in-a-million’ – February Fishing Report

Welcome to the February edition, Pacific Fins Fishing Report, where we bring you the latest news from the world-renowned fishing waters of the Pacific coast. After an outstanding January with hot bites all around, we knew that February was going to continue to deliver, and it definitely did not disappoint. Both seasoned and novice anglers have been treated to some incredible catches.

The sailfish bite during February was exceptionally hot, providing some of the best action we’ve seen in a while! Anglers were landing multiple sailfish on many days, with many boats raising over 70 fish in a single trip. The hot bite was particularly strong both in the early mornings and late afternoons, as sailfish have been aggressively feeding on schools of baitfish in the area.

Another highlight about February, many fly fishermen traveled to Guatemala to challenge themselves and catch their fish on Fly. The combination of consistent sailfish and dorado action made it the perfect destination for those looking to test their skills.

Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) has also been plentiful. Dorado can be found in floating debris and while trolling for sails. These colorful fish have been a hit among anglers, both for their exciting fight and their great flavor on the grill. Expect dorado to range from 20 to 40 pounds, with larger 50lb+ specimens also making an appearance.

While the larger numbers of sailfish and the hard-fighting dorado have been stealing the spotlight, yellowfin tuna has also made an appearance this month. Several anglers have reported exciting encounters with yellowfin tuna, ranging from smaller to larger-sized fish. These tuna are typically found in deeper waters, often inside schools of spinner dolphins.

January kicked off the year with an amazing bite, and we knew February would follow suit—and it certainly did! February proved to be another incredible month for fishing in Guatemala, with blue marlins, sailfish, dorado, and even yellowfin tuna all showing up in strong numbers. The sailfish bite was exceptionally hot this month, and anglers were treated to some phenomenal action. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time visitor, the waters off Guatemala are teeming with opportunities. We look forward to another exciting month of fishing in March!

Last Minute Opening: April 20th – 24th, 2025

February Fishing Report :

February 2nd – 28th: Maverick – 754 sailfish raises, 622 bites and 407 releases. Blue Marlin: 1 Raise. Dorados: 25. Yellowfin Tuna: 2 (21 days of fishing).
February 1st – 28st: Chechos – 339 sailfish raises, 276 bites and 184 releases. Dorado: 2.(9 days of fishing).
February 1st – 28th: Gypsy – 615 sailfish raises, 473 bites and 297 releases (16 on the FLY). Blue Marlin: 5 raises, 4 bites and 1 release on the FLY!. Dorado: 29 (10 on the FLY!). (17 days fishing)
February 1st – 28th: Knotwork – 627 sailfish raises, 448 bites and 291 releases (18 on FLY!). Blue Marlin: 4 raises, 2 bites and 1 released. Dorado: 46. (22 days of fishing).
February 2nd – 28th: Bandido – 855 sailfish raises, 667 bites and 422 releases (32 on FLY). Blue Marlin: 7 raises, 5 bite and 2 releases. Dorado: 57. Yellowfin Tuna: 27 (24 days of fishing).
February 1st – 28th: Libertad – 574 sailfish raises, 478 bites and 287 releases. Dorado: 5. (12 days of fishing).
February 3rd: Tranquility – 21 sailfish raises, 17 bites and 10 releases (1 day of fishing).
February 10th – 12th: Captain Hook – 169 sailfish raises, 143 bites and 76 releases. (3 days of fishing).
February 27th – 28th: The King and I – 64 sailfish raises, 49 bites and 32 releases. (2 days of fishing).

Congratulations to Clint Kadel for releasing a rare leucistic sailfish – that’s surely going to be one unique fish mount replica.

February 7, 2025February 7, 2025

January Fishing Report: A Stellar Start to the Year!

Hello, fellow anglers!

January has been an absolute goldmine for fishing enthusiasts this year! The conditions have been perfect for a variety of catches. Here’s a recap of the fantastic fishing we’ve seen this month:

Top Catches

The star of the month has undoubtedly been sailfish. These majestic creatures have been abundant in our local waters, with many anglers landing double-digit catches in a single outing!

Additionally, big yellowfin tuna have been chomping in both nearshore and offshore waters. Anglers who ventured out to deeper waters were rewarded with solid bites, and some massive yellowfins—topping well over 100 pounds—made their way to the boat. It’s been a tuna bonanza this month, with plenty of big ones showing up in the catch reports!

We also had some great Dorado catches, with many of the fish on the larger side! These vibrant fish have been active throughout the month, and the size of the catches has been impressive. Anglers who targeted Dorado this month reported some fantastic battles and big rewards.

A standout highlight this month was the number of first-time anglers who made their debut at Pacific Fins and released their very first blue marlin! These incredible catches were the highlight of many trips, with anglers marveling at the sheer power and beauty of the blue marlin. It’s always rewarding to see newcomers tick such an iconic fish off their bucket list, and we couldn’t be more thrilled for them!

Looking Ahead: February Forecast

If January is any indication, February is shaping up to be just as great! We expect to see continued good conditions for saltwater fishing, with more sailfish, yellowfin tuna, Dorado, striped marlin, and blue marlin on the horizon. Be sure to stay tuned for updates and don’t forget to book your trips early.

Last Minute Openings: February 21st – 24th and March 4th – 8th.

January Fishing Report :

January 2nd – 27th: Maverick – 417 sailfish raises, 360 bites and 264 releases (1 on FLY). Blue Marlin: 6 Raises, 6 Bites, 2 Releases. Striped Marlin: 2 Raises, 2 Bite, 2 Release. Dorados: 9. Yellowfin Tuna: 26 (17 days of fishing).

January 4th – 27st: Chechos – 582 sailfish raises, 485 bites and 309 releases. Blue Marlin: 8 raises, 4 bites, 1 release. Striped Marlin: 1 Raise, 1 Bite, 0 Release. Dorado: 13. Yellowfin Tuna: 9. (19 days of fishing).

January 2nd – 27th: Gypsy – 478 sailfish raises, 392 bites and 257 releases. Blue Marlin: 4 raises, 2 bites and 2 releases. Dorado: 8. Yelowfin Tuna: 10. (15 days fishing)

January 2nd – 27th: Knotwork – 539 sailfish raises, 437 bites and 308 releases (1 on FLY!). Blue Marlin: 13 raises, 6 bites and 2 releases. Striped Marlin: 2 Raises, 1 Bite, 0 Release. Dorado: 11. Yellowfin Tuna: 7. (21 days of fishing).

January 3rd – 27th: Bandido – 551 sailfish raises, 465 bites and 273 releases (4 on FLY). Blue Marlin: 3 raises, 1 bite and 1 release. Striped Marlin: 2 raises, 2 bites,1 release. Dorado: 43. Yellowfin Tuna: 59 (20 days of fishing).

January 17th – 26th: Libertad – 50 sailfish raises, 40 bites and 23 releases. Striped Marlin: 1 raise, 1 bite, 1 release. Dorado: 1. (3 days of fishing).

January 12th – 14th: Mojo – 124 sailfish raises, 113 bites and 79 releases. Dorado: 2. Yellowfin Tuna: 10 (3 days of fishing).

January 25th – 26th: Uno Mas – 61 sailfish raises, 40 bites and 25 releases. Dorado: 1. (2 days of fishing).

January 20, 2025January 20, 2025

December Fishing Report: A Banner Month on the Water

As we wrap up an incredible year of fishing, December proved to be another standout month, offering some of the best action we’ve seen all season! Anglers had plenty to celebrate, with an abundance of blue marlin, sailfish, dorado, and yellowfin tuna gracing our waters.

Billfish Invitational Tournament: A Spectacular Showdown: December also saw the return of our highly anticipated Billfish Invitational Tournament, a highlight of the season! This annual event brought together anglers from all over, competing for top honors in the pursuit of the elusive blue marlin and sailfish. The tournament was a true test of skill, with some impressive catches and fierce competition throughout the event. With many blue marlin released and multiple sailfish landed, it was clear that the waters were in peak condition, providing an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Blue Marlin & Sailfish: Speaking of the Billfish Invitational, the blue marlin bite was absolutely phenomenal this month. These majestic creatures were out in full force, with several boats reporting multiple hookups in a single outing. The offshore bite remained consistent, with fish ranging from 200 to 400 pounds, providing thrilling challenges for anglers. Sailfish, often considered the “pinnacle” of sport fishing, were also abundant, adding a touch of elegance to the water. Many fishermen had the opportunity to hook into these fast, acrobatic beauties, with some lucky crews landing multiple fish per trip.

Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): For anglers looking for a bit of fun and a tasty reward, dorado, also known as mahi-mahi, were plentiful. These beautiful, colorful fish provided great action, with many catches in the 15-50 lb range. Whether trolling or casting live bait, dorado proved to be a consistent target throughout the month, providing a perfect balance of sport and culinary delight.

Yellowfin Tuna: If you’re after some fast-paced action, the yellowfin tuna delivered! From the smaller 20-25 lb tunas to the larger trophy fish, which tipped the scales at over 161 lbs. These fish kept anglers on their toes, offering powerful runs and relentless fights, making for a fun mixed bag.

As we look forward to 2025, we’re excited to see what the year holds. The waters are abundant with opportunities, and if December is any indication, the fishing action will continue to be strong in the coming months. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer looking to cast your first line, the future is bright, and we can’t wait to share more great fishing moments with you!

Tight lines and happy fishing to all our anglers—see you out there in the new year!

December Fishing Report :

December 1st – 30th: Maverick – 142 sailfish raises, 110 bites and 64 releases. Blue Marlin: 5 Raises, 1 Bite, 1 Release. Striped Marlin: 1 Raise, 1 Bite, 1 Release. Dorados: 23. Yellowfin Tuna: 5 (14 days of fishing).
December 7th – 31st: Chechos – 242 sailfish raises, 190 bites and 116 releases (1 on FLY). Blue Marlin: 3 raises, 1 bites, 1 release. Dorado: 124. Yellowfin Tuna: 6. (13 days of fishing).
December 1st – 28th: Gypsy – 236 sailfish raises, 193 bites and 121 releases. Blue Marlin: 11 raises, 8 bites and 4 releases. Dorado: 20. Yelowfin Tuna: 17. (17 days fishing)
December 1st – 30th: Knotwork – 182 sailfish raises, 135 bites and 91 releases. Blue Marlin: 7 raises, 4 bites and 3 releases. Dorado: 21. Yellowfin Tuna: 8. (16 days of fishing).
December 1st – 31st: Bandido – 417 sailfish raises, 372 bites and 235 releases (4 on FLY). Blue Marlin: 5 raises, 3 bites and 3 releases. Striped Marlin: 3 raises, 3 bites, 2 releases. Dorado: 30. (16 days of fishing).
December 1st – 8th: Libertad – 81 sailfish raises, 71 bites and 31 releases. Blue Marlin: 5 raises, 2 bites and 1 release. Striped Marlin: 1 raise, 1 bite, 1 release. Dorado: 7. Yellowfin Tuna: 1. (6 days of fishing).

A huge shoutout to Captain Jimmy and his incredible crew aboard Bandido (new name soon) – JJ, Spencer, Tommy, and Alex – for making this year end trip one to remember! With 252 sailfish raises, 223 bites, and 139 releases. 1 blue marlin and 4 sails on Fly. These guys know how to end the year on a high.

January 20, 2025January 20, 2025

The Results are in! 9th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational

The 9th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational brought together 130+ world-class anglers for three days of thrilling deep-sea competition in the Pacific waters off Guatemala. Known for its world-class billfishing, the tournament saw teams from across the globe competing for top honors in a race to catch and release the most billfish, including dorado and yellowfin tuna.

Day two of the event presented an unexpected challenge as a cold front swept through the region, bringing windy conditions. Despite the shift in the atmosphere, the action remained steady, with anglers undeterred by the rougher seas. Fish were still biting, and teams adapted quickly, proving that nothing—neither weather nor wind—could take the excitement out of the tournament.

Over the course of the three days, competitors worked tirelessly to hook and release their catches, strategizing their approach while reveling in the camaraderie and thrill of the chase. With a strict catch-and-release policy in place, the tournament not only spotlighted incredible fishing skills but also emphasized conservation, ensuring that the abundant marine ecosystem of Guatemala’s waters remains protected.

In addition to the fishing, the event featured vibrant social gatherings, including a welcome reception, nightly celebrations, and a grand awards ceremony that honored the tournament’s top anglers and teams. The spirit of competition, as well as the stunning beauty of Guatemala’s coastline, made this year’s Invitational one of the most memorable in its nine-year history.

The 9th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational proved once again why it’s considered one of the premier events in the sportfishing world—a celebration of skill, sustainability, and the unbreakable bond between anglers and the ocean.

The tournament in 3 days generated 1139 sailfish raises, 923 bites, and 537 Sailfish released. 47 blue marlin raises, 28 blue marlin bites, and 18 released. 17 striped marlin raises, 15 bites and 10 released. Countless dorado and 9 big yellowfin tuna (including a 161 pounder). Making this tournament once again the largest in the history of Guatemala!

Tournament Results

1st Place Pro Team for a total of 4300 points, team Decisive.

Anglers: David Van Sant, Billy Bennet, Brent Maddux and Rick Norten. Team won overall prize money for a total of $14,400 also qualified to the Offshore World Championship 2025 in Quepos Costa Rica.

Congrats to Decisive’s Captain Brad Philipps.

2nd Place Pro Team for a total of 4000 points, team Gringo.

Anglers: Trey Wills, Kendall Hendricks, and Matthew Crim. Congrats to Captain Jason Brice.

3rd Place Pro Team for a total of 3800 points, team Bandido/Flor de Caña.

Anglers: George Gozdz, Darren Harrison, Phillip Weikert, and Matt George. Captain Jimmy Fajardo. Team won day 1 calcutta $6,000.

Congratulations to Stacey Wills for taking home First Place Lady Angler for the second time.

1st Place Amateur for a total of 3800 points, team Intensity with Capt. Mike Sheeder. Anglers: Steve Heese, Clayton Mcneel, Frank Ferreri, and David Burns.

2nd Place Amateur Team for a total of 3500 points, team The King II with Capt. Victor Ceballos. Anglers: Ken Good, Jim Reilly, Ralph Reilly, Jacob Good and Carter White.

3rd Place Amateur Team for a total of 3100 points. Team Sails Pitch II with Capt. Chris Stars. Anglers: Travis, Kaleb, Mike and JD.

1st Place Marlin with 2100 points, goes to team Decisive.

Top Pro Angler: David Van Sant aboard Decisive with 12oo points.

1st Place Funfish for a total of 161 points, team Cañaso.

Anglers: Gonzalo Ruiz, Dominic Gargiulo, Sean O’Connell, and Brent Stokes. Captain Lan Melendez.

Another highlight that gave the 9th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational stamp of approval, was the IGFTO (International Game Fish Tournament Observers). To have professional observers on the boats makes it clear to follow all rules by releasing the correct species and that the fish were properly handled.
IGFTO president, Evan Hipsley coordinated and assigned observers to boats each day. This organization promotes conservation therefore without a doubt accepted our invitation and donated $3,000.
Thank you, observers!

We want to give a huge THANK YOU to all our participating anglers for making it bigger than ever. We are happy to see you all having a great time, meeting and making new friends. From the Flor de Caña kick-off party and Poolside Celebration to the neighboring resorts; (The Hook, Sailfish Oasis, Aeroclub, Intensity Sportfishing, Blue Bayou, Jody’s, Gringo Sportfishing, Casa Vieja Lodge, Guatemala Billfishing adventures, and several private rental homes) who took part in the Invitational. This is a tournament that any novice or serious angler needs to be a part of. We are pleased to support the Billfish Conservation Project and the week-long festivities that generated much-needed funds for a worthy cause – A total of $48,000 was collected.

We will be posting pictures on social media pages. Get ready as 2025 brings in the 10th Anniversary. Dates are December 4th through the 8th, 2025. We already have teams booked. Call or email us to be a part of this history-making event. You don’t want to miss it in 2025!

November 2, 2024November 2, 2024

October Fishing – Out of this World!

Sailfish, marlin, dorado and yellowfin tuna were the main attraction this month. But, the blue marlin bite was on FIRE!

For me, October has been one of my go-to months when it comes to fishing in Guatemala. It’s the start of the peak season and it’s right after all the rain in September. That’s the perfect blend as the water cools off and the bait fish arrive in big numbers. And what happens when all the bait fish start to show? you guessed it…it’s feeding time.

For years, October has produced some impressive catches. Whether is a 150lb+ yellowfin tuna, 60lb+ dorado, or triple digits sailfish releases, this month should be on your radar. Even around the bright full moon, the fishing has been amazing. For those opposed to fishing on or around the full moon, see the below numbers as another example (Steve Reiter group).

October 10th – 29th: Maverick – 283 sailfish raises, 205 bites and 124 releases. Blue Marlin: 23 raised, 14 bites, and 6 released. Dorados: 9. Yellowfin Tuna: 46 (18 days of fishing).
October 4th – 24th: Knotwork – 350 sailfish raises, 257 bites and 178 releases. Sailfish on Fly: 14 raises, 2 bites and 1 released. Blue Marlin: 10 raises, 6 bites and 5 released. Blue Marlin on Fly: 1. Dorado 12. Yellowfin tuna: 12. (19 days of fishing).
October 4th – 28th: Chechos – 230 sailfish raises, 177 bites and 103 releases. Blue marlin: 26 raises, 21 bites and 8 released. 16 dorados and 59 yellowfin tuna. (14 days of fishing)
October 4th – 27th: Amante – 266 sailfish raises, 223 bites and 130 releases. Blue marlin: 33 raises, 24 bites and released 16. Striped marlin: 1. Dorado: 11. 48 yellowfin tuna. (15 days of fishing)
October 18th – 20th: Libertad – 204 sailfish raises, 178 bites and 112 releases. Blue marlin: 2 for 2. 3 dorados and 1 yellowfin tuna. (3 days of fishing)
October 4th – 24th: Mojo – 59 sailfish raises, 44 bites and 21 releases. Blue marlin: 4 raises, 1 bite, 1 release. 4 dorado. (5 days of fishing).

This month was full of many highlights and one of those were the crew of Amante. Captain Jimmy Fajardo with mates Edgar Hernandez, Edinson Fajardo and anglers Dwight Korenek, Gaylan Rawdon, and Caden Kozik raised 12 blue marlin, had 10 bites, and released 7! All in one day. And that’s not all…the team went out on their second day and raised 7 blue marlin, had 6 bites and released 4 more.

Full Moon Action: Congratulations to Steve Reiter, Dave Gallen, Kevin Naugle, and Greg Duffin for an awesome three days of fishing.

204 Sailfish raises, 178 bites, and 112 releases. 2 for 2 on blue marlin, which Steve and Kevin got to release their first ever. Three dorados, and one yellowfin tuna.

September 23, 2024September 23, 2024

Pacific Fins 2024 Safety Initiative

Nautical Pathfinder had the distinct honor of partnering with Pacific Fins Resort for their 2024 Safety Initiative, a pivotal program designed to elevate the safety protocols and preparedness measures at their renowned resort in Guatemala.

This initiative reflects Pacific Fins Resort’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety for both their guests and staff, reinforcing their esteemed reputation as a premier global fishing charter operation.

The training program was meticulously structured to cover a wide array of critical safety skills. Participants were educated in CPR, a fundamental life-saving technique, and abdominal thrusts for choking, which are essential in emergency situations. Additionally, staff received comprehensive instruction on the effective use of fire extinguishers, an important aspect of fire safety on board and at the lodge.

The program also included practical training on hook removal techniques, vital for addressing common fishing-related incidents. A key component of the training was the execution of man overboard drills, designed to ensure that all personnel are prepared to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of such an emergency. Furthermore, Nautical Pathfinder assisted in the creation of a robust medical kit for each boat and the lodge, ensuring that all necessary medical supplies are readily available to address any potential health issues that may arise.

“Pacific Fins Resort has long been recognized for its exceptional service and dedication to delivering unparalleled fishing experiences. By incorporating these advanced safety measures, they continue to challenge themselves and set new benchmarks in the industry. This Safety Initiative not only enhances their operational protocols but also solidifies their commitment to providing a secure and enjoyable environment for their clientele.

Overall, this collaboration underscores Pacific Fins Resort’s proactive approach to safety and their determination to uphold their distinguished global reputation. The implementation of these safety protocols marks a significant advancement in their ongoing efforts to prioritize the well-being of both their guests and their team, further establishing them as leaders in the fishing charter industry.” – Zak Miller, CEO, Nautical Pathfinder