Fishing Archives - Pacificfins Resort

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

September 23, 2024September 23, 2024

Ready to make history in Guatemala!

We are excited to add another incredible boat to our Luxury Package fleet.

Jersey Cape DEVIL, is a 36′ Jersey Cape Express that has made history in the fishing community. Previously known as AMANTE, she is most widely famous for her numbers of billfish in the region. Re-powered and customized by John Bayliss.

The Jersey Cape 36 is the ultimate sportfishing boat, designed for anglers who demand performance, comfort, and style. With its sleek lines and robust construction, this boat is built to handle the rigors of offshore fishing.

The boat will have at the helm, Captain by Jimmy Fajardo. Mates; Edison Fajardo, and Edgar Hernandez.

Key Features:

Exceptional Stability: The deep-V hull design ensures a smooth ride.
Spacious Deck: Ample space for maneuvering and battling fish, the Jersey Cape 36 features a well-designed layout that enhances your fishing experience.
Advanced Fishing Amenities: Equipped with high-quality equipment, live wells, and fish boxes, this boat has everything you need for a successful day on the water.
Comfortable Cabin: After a long day of fishing, retreat to the comfortable cabin with air-condition, which includes cozy seating, and amenities for relaxation.
Powerful Performance: The Jersey Cape 36 offers the speed and reliability you need to reach the best fishing spots quickly and efficiently. Powered with CAT ACERT C7 engines-460 hp each. Cruising at 24 knots.

This would not be possible without you, our amazing guests – Thank you!

August 15, 2024August 15, 2024

1st Annual Hook & Hole Challenge

Peanut butter and jelly. Bacon and eggs. Jimmy Page and Robert Plant. Some things just go really well together, and one of these is golf and fishing.

In fact, golfers and fishermen are very similar. They both get too competitive and they love betting on their game.

Welcome to the first annual Hook & Hole Challenge! This event will provide our guests with the most memorable and enjoyable outdoor experience by combining world-class fishing and an amazing backdrop of 18 holes of golf.

The 18 hole, par 72 course features beautiful scenery of Lake Amatitlan and in the horizon, Pacaya and volcano Agua.

The event will consist of 1 day of golf and 2 days of fishing. Amateurs and professionals will compete to be the team that releases the most sailfish and shoots the lowest score on the golf course. Obviously, not all anglers will have a low handicap, but will have to make it up on the water.

Lodging: Upon arrival, all participants will be transported to the beautiful Camino Real in Antigua, where we will stay the first night. Everyone will have a free day to explore around town. The following morning, game on! As we take to the golf course.

The second part of the trip will be at Pacific Fins and fish for two days.

June 13, 2024June 13, 2024

Calling All Cigar Aficionados

We will start to announce all of the special guests and sponsors that will take part in this year’s Billfish Invitational. For all of you “Cigar Aficionados”, we are happy to invite, Rodriguez Cigars to the 9th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational.

“This year for the 2024 Guatemala Billfish Invitational, the Rodriguez Cigar Company, will be providing the anglers with an exclusive rum and cigar tasting experience! We will be pairing exquisite rum with vintage cigars from the Rodriguez family collection. Also, during the event, Rodriguez Cigar will be making an exclusive product release”. – Danny Difabio, Owner Rodriguez Cigar.

In 1947, the Rodriguez family began the masterful art of cultivating tobacco on their private plantation in the town of Siguaney. The tobacco plantation was called, La Finca De Carmencita. Located in the villas province of Cuba. La Finca De Carmencita specialized in growing, aging, and curing filler tobacco leaves for numerous manufacturers throughout Cuba.

By 1952, La Finca De Carmencita employed over 20 workers and grew over 120,000 pounds of tobacco annually.

Eight years later, the Cuban government nationalized the private plantation and the Rodriguez family was forced to immigrate to the Unites States.

In 1971, the Rodriguez family found a new beginning on the beautiful island of Key West and established the Rodriguez Cigar Factory.

June 13, 2024June 13, 2024

Pacific Fins Wins Elite Charter 2024

“Nautical Pathfinder is proud to the present our Grandslam trophy to Pacific Fins. This award is only given to the most elite fishing charters around the world. Charters must earn a score of 90 or above to obtain.

Our grading system is based on 6 key elements – service, Safety, Education, Experience, Professionalism, and Communication. Pacific Fins crushed the grading scale (95) and is truly a must visit charter for avid and serious anglers. The management and staff make this place feel like home!

If you are looking for a special fishing experience, look no further, Pacific Fins is the place to be.” – Zak Miller, Owner of Nautical Pathfinder.

What is Nautical Pathfinder? Nautical Pathfinder was created for those seeking adventure, self-growth, and interaction with nature. At Nautical Pathfinder, we produce an Exclusive list for anglers worldwide to experience the best fishing charters this world has to offer. Only the top-graded charters make our list. In doing so, we help charters improve their services as needed and keep the fishing industry thriving. We want to produce a great experience for both the angler and the charters.

June 13, 2024June 13, 2024

One HOT May!

Curious about Guatemala’s fishing scene in May? I’ve always been asked if the bite is as good as January through March. My answer is always the same… you can’t go wrong fishing in Guatemala any time of the year. Plus, let the numbers below be the answer.

It was an action-packed May at Pacific Fins. We had groups from the Gale Force Twins, Amanda and Emily Gale, George Gozdz Unfathomed hosted trip, and One More Bite’s Matt George.

Sailfish gave our guests banner days. Some days we raised 20+ fish and some days up to 70. You know when that happens guests become a little more inspired to try out a sail on the fly.

Marlin activity has stayed consistent and it will continue through the summer months. Congratulations to all the anglers who had big smiles on their face, as they released their first-ever blue marlin.

May Fishing Report :

May 1st – 31st: Chechos – 475 sailfish raises, 428 bites and 241 releases (7 on FLY!). Blue Marlin: 7 raises, 5 bites, and 3 released. Dorados: 9 (1 on FLY) and 9 Yellowfin Tuna. (21 days of fishing).
May 2nd – 31st: Knotwork – 539 sailfish raises, 439 bites and 227 releases (2 on FLY). Blue Marlin: 8 raises, 7 bites, and 6 released. Dorado: 17. (19 days of fishing).
May 1st – 31st: Maverick – 463 sailfish raises, 416 bites and 227 releases (6 on FLY!). Blue Marlin: 10 raises, 7 bites, and 3 released. Dorado: 12. Yellowfin Tuna: 3. Roosterfish: 3 and Wahoo: 1 (15 days of fishing).
May 1st – 30th: Gypsy – 146 sailfish raises, 129 bites and 84 releases. Dorado: 5. (7 days of fishing).
May 3rd – 29th: Libertad – 109 sailfish raises, 97 bites and 70 releases. Blue Marlin: 2 raises and 2 bites. Dorado: 4. (5 days of fishing).
May 4th – 5th: Uno Mas – 15 sailfish raises, 11 bites and 10 releases. Dorado: 2. (2 days of fishing).
May 18th: Fishy Business – 22 sailfish raises, 20 bites, and 10 releases. Dorado: 1. (1 day of fishing).

TOTAL MAY NUMBERS: 1688 Sailfish raises, 1496 Bites, 917 Releases. 28 Blue Marlin raises 22 bites, and 12 are released. Sailfish on Fly: 83 raises, 46 bites, 15 released. 50 dorados, 12 yellowfin tuna, 3 Roosterfish, and 1 wahoo.

April 4, 2024April 4, 2024

A Very Fishy March

Look at that report! January and February tallies were awesome, but we also expected March to be strong as well. How strong? you’ll see it shortly.The sailfish bite was out of this world. I know it sounds cliche, but guests had rod-bending action throughout their entire visit. Take long-time repeat guest, Byrd Miller and his family broke their one-day record: 103 sailfish raises, 89 bites, and released 62.

I am going to go out on a limb and say… by far in March, Guatemala was the go-to destination if you wanted to wrangle a blue marlin. Marlin activity was strong and then you throw in striped marlin, and you got yourself a Billfish Grandslam.

Dorado is still here in big numbers. We have seen lots of spinners around, but none marking tunas yet. That will change very soon and you’ll want to be here when it goes off.With so much action offshore, many decided to check out the inshore scene. The beach waters have been clear and with the right tides, Roosterfish greeted everyone.

Planning your visit for March 2025? We highly advise you to lock in your dates, as it’s already filling up.

March Fishing Report :

March 1st – 31st: Chechos – 552 sailfish raises, 435 bites and 270 releases (10 on FLY!). Blue Marlin: 11 raised, 6 bite, and 5 released. Striped Marlin: 1 raised, 1 bite, and 1 released. Dorados: 49. Rooster Fish: 2 (26 days of fishing).
March 1st – 31st: Knotwork – 610 sailfish raises, 449 bites and 303 releases. Blue Marlin: 5 raises, 3 bites, 3 release. Striped Marlin: 1 Raises, 1 bite, and 1 release. Dorado: 52. (26 days of fishing).
March 1st – 31st: Gypsy – 502 sailfish raises, 378 bites, and 245 releases (9 on FLY!). Blue Marlin: 16 raises, 12 bites, and 9 releases. Striped Marlin: 2 raises. 2 bites and 2 releases. Dorado: 67 (1 on FLY!). Rooster Fish 35. (27 days fishing). ONE DAY WITH GRAND SLAM
March 1st – 31st: Maverick – 452 sailfish raises, 408 bites and 244 releases. Blue Marlin: 12 raises, 10 bites, and 2 releases. Striped Marlin 3 raises, 3 bites, and 3 releases. Dorado: 61. Rooster Fish: 32. (26 days of fishing).
March 2nd – 31st: Libertad – 452 sailfish raises, 378 bites and 243 releases. Dorado: 43. (14 days of fishing).
March 1st: Uno Mas – 15 sailfish raises, 10 bites, and 8 releases. (1 day of fishing).
March 1st – 30th: Sirena – 71 sailfish raises, 46 bites, and 21 releases (3 on FLY!). Dorado: 3. (4 days of fishing).
March 1st: Tranquility – 9 Rooster Fish. (1 day of fishing).
March 30th: Mojo – 7 sailfish raises, 5 bites and 4 releases. Dorado: 10. (1 day of fishing).TOTAL MARCH BILLFISH NUMBERS: 2661 Sailfish raises, 2109 Bites, 1038 Releases. 44 Blue Marlin raises, 31 bites, and 19 released. 7 for 7 for Striped Marlin.

A big CONGRATULATIONS to anglers, William Brookshire and David Rembert II for releasing a Billfish Grandslam (Sailfish, Striped Marlin & Blue Marlin). Congrats to team Gypsy for a job well done.

Great time for Preston McElheney and his entire group of 16. There is nothing more important than spending a fishing excursion with family and friends. The group had the time of their lives. Their numbers were 457 sailfish raises, 385 bites, and released 240.