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Live the Pacific Fins Experience

Happy New Year!

As we are all in a hurry to close the final chapter of 2020, we have to count our blessings for our health and incredible support by you.
This year has been so challenging, so it is even more important than ever to look to find the things we are grateful for. If we decide to call this year a wash and let it go down in history as awful, with nothing of merit coming out of it, then we lose. If we learned something new or just got to slow down a bit and really live in the moment, and recognize that, we win. It’s amazing to see how many people traveled to Pacific Fins to not only show their support, but to enjoy a little of normalcy.
The 5th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational was a success and now it’s on to more guests arriving at the resort. With 856 sailfish raises and 396 sailfish releases during the the Invitational, one would think that the fishing would have slow down a bit, but who are we kidding… It’s Guatemala!

FISHING REPORT

The sailfish numbers just got better and the supporting cast; dorado, blue marlin and yellowfin tuna have made for unforgettable trips for our guests. December is when everyone is making plans for the holidays. But, one thing to consider… this time of year has always been prime time to be fishing our waters. How about a 2021 December trip? See the numbers below and you will be a believer.

December 16th: Knotwork (Captain Caluco) – 12 sailfish raises, 10 bites and 7 releases. 4 doradosDecember 17th: Knotwork, 15 sailfish raises, 13 bites, 9 releases. 2 doradosDecember 18th: Knotwork – 23 sailfish raises, 22 bites and 14 releases. 3 doradosDecember 19th: Knotwork – 10 sailfish raises, 8 bites, 6 releases. 150lb yellowfin tuna
December 19th: Maverick (Captain Nestor Garcia) – 13 sailfish raises, 10 bites, 8 releases. 3 yellowfin tuna 40-60lb range.
December 20th: Gypsy (Captain Jorge Piñeda) – 28 sailfish raises, 23 bites, 18 releases.
December 20th: Knotwork – 30 sailfish raises, 25 bites, 16 releases. 2 dorados
December 20th: Maverick – 26 sailfish raises, 24 bites, 17 releases. 2 Dorado
December 21st: Gypsy – 42 sailfish raises, 30 bites, 21 releases. 3 dorados.
December 21st: Chechos – 18 sailfish raises, 12 bites, 6 releases. 1 blue marlin est. 250lbs, 1 yellowfin tuna, 2 dorados 30-45lbs.
December 22nd: Maverick – 18 sailfish raises, 14 bites, 11 releases. 1 dorado.
December 22nd: Gypsy – 15 sailfish raises, 13 bites, 9 releases.
December 27th: Gypsy – 33 sailfish raises, 28 bites, 24 releases. 1 dorado
December 27th: Chechos – 20 sailfish raises, 18 bites, 10 releases. 1 dorado 
December 28th: Maverick – 37 sailfish raises, 35 bites, 20 releases.
December 28th: Gypsy – 46 sailfish raises, 41 bites, 25 releases. 2 dorados
December 28th: Chechos – 62 sailfish raises, 58 bites, 49 releases.
December 29th: Gypsy – 35 sailfish raises, 30 bites, 24 releases.
December 29th: Chechos – 43 sailfish raises, 41 bites, 32 releases.
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WE KEEP TESTING SO YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE

We make sure to not let our guard down. Your expectations for cleaning and disinfection is our top priority. That’s why whether during your day out on the water or during your stay at Pacific Fins, we deliver a clean environment for our guests.
As pictured, our Captains, mates and resort staff go through constant COVID testing on top of our already rigorous cleaning standards to provide complete peace of mind when you stay with us. Our promise to you is to deliver the same level of reliable and friendly service you’d expect from Pacific Fins, but with the added confidence of industry-leading hygiene practices created to keep you safe.

Guatemala Billfish Invitational Recap

WOW! What an event. The question that echoed throughout the tournament… “How did you manage to pull off such a successful event during these times?”. It’s called team work and a lot of support from our guests competing in the 5th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational.
When we started to put this year’s tournament together for this April of 2020, we knew that it was going to be a good one. But… what we didn’t expect is that it was going to be postponed due to the pandemic. Professional and novice anglers from the US and neighboring countries made the journey to Guatemala wanting to be a part of it. 
Tournament highlights included celebrity guests, Uncharted Waters Peter Miller and Unfathomed George Gozdz. The week’s festivities kicked off with a little twist. Oceana Resort hosting the first night’s event – ‘the welcome party’. Anglers got the opportunity to get acquainted with each other and meet their boat Captain. 

The Guatemala Invitational started by George Gozdz and Peter Miller being invited to the press conference, organized by the Tourism Board of Guatemala. During the press conference Niels Erichsen, Managing Partner of Pacific Fins presented how important billfish conservation is in the region. Juan Manuel Cobar, Manager of Billfish Conservation Project informed on the event details that was about to begin. The highlight of the conference was when the Director of Tourism Board recognized the event as the start of new normality to make Guatemala a safe place regarding COVID 19 prevention on tourists visiting.He also recognized Peter and George as Ambassadors of Guatemala tourism due to their involvement with people as positive leaders in the fishing industry. 

Tournament Results

Team Brooklyn Fishing Club takes top honors on boat Sirena. Fishing with Captain Rosendo Velasquez. The crew released a total of 63 Sailfish. Photo: Victor Lucia, Dan Rosenblatt, Michael Fortinberry, and Amal Salameh.
Second place overall goes to team Gypsy. Fishing with Captain Joel Fajardo. The crew released a total of 52 Sailfish and reaps the rewards with some cash! A twist we did this year, a daily fishing calcutta was introduced into the tournament. Making team Gypsy $3850 richer by winning two days out of three. Photo: Danny DiFabio, Raymond Douglas, Josh Greene, and Tim Willis.
eam Maverick takes third place overall. Fishing with Captain Nestor Garcia. The crew released a total of 50 Sailfish. Photo: Niels Erichsen, Chad Heinsohn, Ozzy Delgado, and Juan Manuel Cobar.

The tournament in 3 days, generated a total of 395 Sailfish releases and 856 bites.
We want to THANK all our participating anglers for making this a special one yet. We were happy to see all having a great time, meeting and making new friends. From the kick-off party and Poolside Celebration to the neighboring resorts who took part in the Invitational, to the awards presentation at the final dinner and all the parties and fishing in between, this is definitely 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 generate much needed funds for a worthy cause – A total of $12,000 was collected.
In addition, we are going to be posting on our social pages pictures that were taken during the event. 2021 dates will be: December 9th through the 13th. Trust me… YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS IT!

A Special Award For A Special Person

A lot happens behind the scenes that people don’t see or hear. Much hard work and preparation goes into these events. It can be stressful at times, but in the end, the results are all worth it.
It is with great pleasure that we present Niels Erichsen with a special award. We want to recognize the person whose work has had a truly outstanding impact in conservation and in the lives of many. 
We THANK YOU Niels Erichsen! 

TO OUR ANGLERS AND SPONSORS, CHEERS TO YOU FOR MAKING IT A SUCCESFUL ONE!

Pacific Fins CleanStay

We understand that our guests’ expectations for hotel cleaning and disinfecting have changed. That’s why we’ve taken additional measures beyond our industry-leading cleaning standards by partnering with BOFASA, the biggest pharmaceutical company in the country. This innovative program builds upon our already rigorous cleaning standards by providing enhanced training for Team Members, increased cleaning of public areas and adjusted food & beverage service, to ensure our guests enjoy a worry-free stay.

FISHING REPORT
It felt like an eternity, but we are happy to welcome back our guests. I don’t know who is happier… the clients or the fish. Our guests haven’t traveled in a while and the sails haven’t seen a ballyhoo in sometime. Which in turn creates the perfect storm – a HOT bite!

October 2nd:Knotwork (Captain Caluco) – 31 sailfish raises, 25 bites and 14 releases.
October 2nd: Gypsy (Captain Jorge) – 31 sailfish raises, 25 bites, 14 releases.
October 3rd:Knotwork – 31 sailfish raises, 25 bites and 14 releases.
October 3rd: Gypsy – 58 sailfish raises, 52 bites, 33 releases.
October 3rd: Knotwork – 50 sailfish raises, 45 bites, 24 releases.
October 16th: Gypsy – 23 sailfish raises, 19 bites, 12 releases.
October 16th: Knotwork – 25 sailfish raises, 18 bites, 10 releases.
October 17th: Gypsy – 38 sailfish raises, 31 bites, 18 releases. 1 Dorado.
October 18th: Knotwork – 25 sailfish raises, 23 bites, 15 releases.
October 19th: Knotwork – 38 sailfish raises, 35 bites, 27 releases.
October 21st: Knotwork – 19 sailfish raises, 17 bites, 12 releases. 1 for 2 blue marlin and 2 dorados.
October 23rd: Knotwork – 15 sailfish raises, 15 bites, 9 releases. 5 dorados.
October 24th: Knotwork – 16 sailfish raises, 15 bites, 12 releases.
October 26th: Knotwork – 15 sailfish raises, 15 bites, 11 releases. 

October: Start to the Season

The month of October, which is the start of our peak season, is an epic time for all species; blue marlin, sailfish, stripe marlin, yellowfin tuna, dorado and roosterfish.
With the news that Guatemala will open soon, our phones and emails have started to get busy. The thirst for travel to fish is at an all time high, the same goes for local charters. The local clientele started to fish as relaxed restrictions make things easier to travel to the coast. It’s only the beginning of September and the bite has started to get good, our boats have had double digit releases of sails and shots at blue marlin and dorado.

Stud Guatemalan Blue Marlin

Unfathomed with George GozdzGuatemala 2020 Part 1

A New Partnership

Pacific Fins is pleased to announce the partnership with one of the best hook manufacturers on the planet, Eagle Claw. Founded in Denver, Colorado in 1925, the Wright & McGill Co. is solely owned by Lee McGill. They continue to manufacture all of our world famous fishhooks in Denver, Colorado. The only brand of fishhooks “Made In The USA!” They are proud stewards of an 90+ year American legacy and the most recognizable brand name in all of fishing.

Welcome Back!

On Friday, September 18, La Aurora International Airport will be fully operational again, informed the Presidency of Guatemala. Passengers entering national territory must present proof that they do not have Covid-19.

The Director of Civil Aeronautics, Francis Argueta, told the press: “We are ready to open in a safe way. We are ready for economic reactivation through aviation.” 

He explained that passengers who wish to enter and who do not have the Covid-19 test, will be offered to perform it at the Health Center that will be installed in the air terminal, or they will be asked to be in quarantine under the supervision of the Ministry of Public Health. 

Francis Argueta explains the method of taking temperature. 
(Photo: Twitter DGAC)

“The negative Covid-19 test will be required for people who enter Guatemala. As soon as they board a flight to Guatemala, they must present the proof and if they do not have it, they will be give the option to be quarantined”

For more information, please contact us at 888-431-5556 or email [email protected]

5th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational

The 5th Annual Guatemala Invitational was to take place on April 23rd. But, due to the pandemic, we had to postpone. The great news is we re-scheduled to December. Flights will be cheap, fun atmosphere, great people, delicious food, and same amazing fishing.

Last year’s event was one for the books and this one will mirror it. The celebs joining us are, New York Yankees pitcher, CC Sabathia and Host of Bravo TV’s Top Chef, Tom Colicchio. Other guests include: Uncharted Waters – Peter Miller, Unfathomed – George Gozdz, and Into the Blue’s – Scott Walker. 

The 5th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational will take place December 10th – 14th, 2020, at our beautiful Pacific Fins Resort. Well-known anglers from across the globe will compete in this exciting three-day event while raising money to support Guatemala’s conservation efforts.

This tournament provides a unique opportunity to fish the most prolific billfish destination on the planet in prime time, while you network with fellow anglers, celebrity guests, and potentially earn bragging rights for the next 12 months! The tournament will kick off on December 10th at the lodge with the professional chefs creating a full-on feast for the check-in and opening party. Fishing dates are December 11th, 12th and 13th, with an award’s ceremony taking place the night of the 13th. Guests will depart on December 14th.

The tournament costs $3,500 per person and includes four night lodging, double occupancy, daily laundry service, a la carte meals, beverages, transportation to and form the airport and three days of fishing. When fishing with Pacific Fins you can expect all of the tackle and gear to be top-notch and the crews to be on their game. During the tournament there will be four anglers per boat. Each day of fishing also includes snacks, fruit, lunch and beverages. 

Pacific Fins Resort & Marina is Guatemala fishing at its best. The boutique hotel offers private villas and suites and is located in the world’s most productive billfishing destination. The world-class chefs offer Á la Carte dining, open bar and personalized concierge service. The setting on the water and attention to detail is unmatched. For more information contact Ozzy Delgado at 888-431-5556 or [email protected]

Honoring Health Care Heroes

Recognizing all health care workers on the frontlines of COVID-19 

Pacific Fins is honoring health care heroes from all over the country. American professionals are putting their lives on the line to help others, it’s time to show them our gratitude.  

These workers have shown extraordinary care to their communities and hospitals hit hardest by the crisis in the U.S. We want to give these men and women a complimentary vacation, once they’re able to take time for themselves.

We have teamed up with HUK Apparel, YO-ZURI, Rodriguez Cigars, Eastern Title, King Sailfish Mounts, Biscayne Rod, and Maui Jim Sunglasses, to give a special THANK YOU to these amazing people. 

DETAILS:

One Guest Pay and One frontline worker can join them for FREE! That’s right. One angler pays the two per boat “Luxury Package” rate and the Frontline worker is on us!

Package: 3 days fishing, 4 nights. (Can be customized, call for details).

Target species: Sailfish, Dorado, Yellowfin Tuna, Roosterfish, and Marlin.

What is included? 

Fishing:

Captain & 2 mates

All fishing tackle and natural bait, either for conventional and/or fly fishing

Beer, rum/vodka, sodas, Gatorade, and bottled water

Fresh fruit and snacks

Hot lunch prepared fresh on board by our mates

Lodging & transportation:

Transportation with an English-speaking driver to and from the airport

Full a-la-carte breakfast

Gourmet dinners with an international a-la-carte menu for your culinary delight (Recommended globally by TOP chefs)

Beer, wine, and spirits included while at the Resort 

Included in the package:

Laundry service daily

Wi-Fi Internet service throughout the Resort

International calls to the US via Vonage Phone Service

Sky TV Satellite Service with English Programming

Flat Screen TV’s in each Villa

**Newsletter Picture – Jessica Stark (Left) in NY doing what she does best. Daughter of one PF’s friends**


Help us say thank you to those keeping us safe every day.

Thank You

Dear Guest,

With the extraordinary headlines that we are waking up to each day, most businesses have lost sight of simple common courtesies and the power of saying THANK-YOU. 
Like you, we’ve received many calls and emails expressing their concerns about our staff. So, we are writing to you today to say a simple thank-you for your support for Pacific Fins – We truly value and appreciate your support, especially in a time like this. 
Once this situation is behind us and once the world returns to normality (and it will), it will be back to business releasing big numbers of Sails!
 
Please be patient with everyone during these unprecedented times. Nobody knows with any certainty when travel will return to normal and millions of passengers can once again enjoy carefree sunny days, it WILL resume and w
e will be there to welcome you back with open arms.

We promise you, that everyone at Pacific Fins are looking forward to ensure that you prosper in the weeks and months ahead.

So, another big thank-you from us and everyone at Pacific Fins. 
Sincerely,

Niels Erichsen & Ozzy Delgado

Chef Tom Colicchio is fishing the Invitational!

We are excited to welcome to the 5th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational, James Beard award–winning chef, Tom Colicchio.

If you are a fan of watching reality food competition on Food Network or other networks, like Bravo TV’s Top Chef… then you should not miss out on this opportunity to fish along side one heck of a Chef.

Host of Bravo’s Top Chef; Padma Lakshmi, Tom Colicchio & Gail Simmons

Colicchio has been involved with Top Chef since its beginning in 2006, where he has served as head judge. He is also the main consulting producer on Bravo’s Top Chef spin-off series entitled Top Chef Masters. He also won an Emmy Award in 2010 for Outstanding Reality-Competition Programming as an executive producer of Top Chef, on which he appears.

These days, Colicchio is busy as ever. When not filming, he has to manage his restaurants, but would love to have more time out on the water.

Colicchio was the host of the reality series Best New Restaurant (an adaptation of the British reality show Ramsay’s Best Restaurant) in 2015. Colicchio appeared in the fifth episode of the first season of HBO’s Treme as himself along with fellow chefs Eric Ripert, David Chang and Wylie Dufresne. He made another cameo in Season 2 alongside Ripert. In 2011, he made cameos in the Season 23 premiere episode of The Simpsons, “The Falcon and the D’ohman,” and The Smurfs.

This is your chance to mingle with a cool guy and other celebs. Want to learn more about the 5th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational, give us a call: 888-431-5556 or email me; [email protected].

Our Fleet Never Looked So Good

Now available at Pacific Fins gift shop, our fleet will have their own standout artwork on long-sleeve UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) performance shirts, hooded and non-hooded. Other items that you can look forward to finding at our new and improved gift shop: sunglasses, sun masks, hats, and much more. 

So, don’t forget to check out our gift shop before leaving the resort so you too can always have something to look back on for that great experience you shared with friends and/or family.

Take a souvenir from your home away from home and support your favorite boat crew.