flyfishing Archives - Page 4 of 5

May 24, 2022May 24, 2022

A HOT bite and Guy Harvey visits Pacific Fins

Wow! is how to describe this past month. It was a busy one for sure. Two hosted trips; first with Dr. Guy Harvey and the other with George Gozdz of Unfathomed.
It’s no surprise the bite in April was really good. There were days of amazing numbers – which resulted in 1218 sailfish raised. This gave first time visitors to our region the experience of a hot bite. Also during this month, another big group traveled to Guatemala to fly fish. What better opportunity to catch and release billfish on fly than in our waters!
There were 28 blue marlin raises, which we knew April was going to be a better one than March numbers. And of course the supporting cast of yellowfin tunas and dorados were out in full force.

April Fishing Report :

April 1st – 30th: Chechos – 433 sailfish raises, 371 bites and 257 releases. Sailfish on Fly: 20 sailfish raises, 6 bites and 2 releases. Blue Marlin: 12 raises, 5 bites, 4 release. Dorados: 13. Yellowfin tuna: 7 (1-150lbs) (22 days of fishing).
April 1st – 30th: Knotwork – 349 sailfish raises, 287 bites and 178 releases. Sailfish on Fly: 7 sailfish raises, 5 bites, 3 release. Blue Marlin: 6 raises, 3 bites, 1 release. Dorado: 8. Yellowfin tuna: 8. Roosterfish: 2. (22 days of fishing).
April 1st – 30th: Maverick – 169 sailfish raises, 150 bites and 92 releases. Sailfish on Fly: 52 raises, 19 bites, 11 releases. Blue Marlin: 5 for 5. Dorado: 4. Yellowfin tuna: 18 (1 on Fly). (14 days of fishing).
April 1st – 30th: Gypsy – 120 sailfish raises, 88 bites and 55 releases. Sailfish on Fly: 30 raises, 10 bites, 2 releases. Blue Marlin: 1 raises, 1 bite, 1 release (on Fly). Dorado: 5. Yellowfin tuna: 9. (12 days of fishing).
April 10th – 29th : Sirena – 110 sailfish raises, 84 bites and 70 releases. Sailfish on Fly: 4 raises, 1 bites, 1 release. Blue Marlin: 1 for 1. Dorado: 1. Yellowfin tuna: 1. (Based on 8 days of fishing).

Guy Harvey Expedition Meets all Expectations

On April 19th marked Dr. Guy Harvey’s first ever visit to Pacific Fins Resort and for four days the action was caliente!

The renowned artist and conservationist brought his posse of Steve Roden, CEO of the Guy Harvey corporation; Fred Garth, Editor of GH magazine; Brian Rowland of Rowland Publishing; and, of course, his daughter Jessica, who holds numerous fishing world records. The GH crew, along with 13 guests who came from far and wide to hang out and fish with Guy and Jessica.
All the guests were able to fish with Dr. Guy Harvey and Jessica for a unique experience. The 4 boat 3 fishing days expedition manage to raise 144 sailfish, had 119 bites, released 78 sailfish and some dorados and yellowfin tuna action. One of the groups wanted to try out even rooster fish and they released 2 in just 30 minutes. Also had the opportunity for some sailfish on the fly rod.

During the expedition one of the wildest days, the boats circled a massive school of literally thousands of spinner dolphins as they launched high into the air. Why do they do this? Only they know. What we do know is that the anglers hooked up on lots of tuna.

An added bonus for everyone was getting to watch Guy himself paint an original piece of art during the trip. Amazingly, Guy was able to finish the painting just before dinner on the last night. Appropriately, he painted a sailfish surrounded by spinner dolphins, an animal behavior interaction Guy has never painted before. The last step was to auction the art to the highest bidder.

When all was said and done the auction raised $18,000 and Guy generously donated the entire proceeds to the local K12 school near the resort.

As part of this donation during their visit, Billfish Conservation Project members, Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, Pacific Fins, and Casa Vieja Lodge joined the school for a kind donation of 10 computers as a startup project to help the local education on Marine Science. Dr. Harvey Foundation will donate the course materials to start education that will help 100% on conservation.

While this may have been Guy’s first visit, plans are already in the works for another Guy/Jessica trip next year. If you’re interested in fishing and hanging out with Guy and Jessica, call 850-766-2201 or email Brian@guyharvey.com

It’s really nice to witness Dr. Guy Harvey painting an original. Especially a first for Pacific Fins.

To all the GH Expedition participants, form all of us at Pacific Fins, THANK YOU for making it a great trip!

In the end, this is what’s it all about. Pacific Fins, Billfish Conservation Project, and Casa Vieja Lodge donate 10 computers to the school of Santa Marta in Iztapa. To support the education program donated by the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation. Everything with the support of the Minister of Education in Guatemala.

January 7, 2022January 7, 2022

Guatemala Billfish Invitational – Best One Yet!

Guatemala Billfish Invitational Recap

A HUGE congrats to everyone involved. What an event!

The 6th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational was not only sold out, we had three lodging locations at capacity. It was no surprise with such high anticipation that built throughout the year.

The event week started Thursday night with a Captains meeting at Pacific Fins. It was a nice time for all anglers to get acquainted and teams got to spend sometime with their boat Captains.

Saturday night was a night that all anglers were looking forward to. Celebrity Chef, Serial Griller, Matt Moore cooked up an amazing feast for all to enjoy.
Whether you were Pro or an Amateur team, The 6th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational was a nail biter from the start. On the Pro class, the highlight were Rumline and Chechos team. They both entered the tournament not looking for a second place trophy.

Day one; Rumline and Chechos finished the day tied with 1300 points. Rumline managed to win the daily by 11 minutes.
Day two; It was a mirror of day one, but at the end of the day, Chechos took the lead by 3 fish and managed to win the daily.
Day three; It was a thriller of a final day as claiming the top spot came down to the wire! With minutes left before lines out, team Chechos was in the lead, when second place Rumline, hooked up a double in the final moments…almost inching a comeback to overtake the top spot. What a way to end the 6th annual of competition for team Chechos!

Tournament Results

1st Place Pro Team for a total of 4100 points, team Chechos.
Anglers: Ozzy Delgado, Juan Manuel Cobar, Josh Greene, and Peter Miller. Captain Carlos Diaz. Team won day 2 calcutta and overall prize money.

**2nd Place Pro Team for a total of 4000 points, team Rumline.**
**Anglers: Dell Dembosky, Mary Dembosky, Ken Cofer, Amanda Cofer. Captain Terry Brennan. Team won day 1 calcutta. Congrats to Captain Terry and his crew for putting up a great fight to the end.**

**3rd Place Pro Team for a total of 3700 points, team Makina.**
**Anglers: Ed Secke, Mark Anstine, Austin Collins, and Carey Riel. Captain Luis Wicho Ramirez. Team won day 3 calcutta.**

**1st Place Amateur Team for a total of 3100 points, team Piragua.**
**Anglers: Hugo Mayorga, Alexander Alonso, Nelson Duarte, Jaret Williams.**

**1st Place Marlin with 2 blue marlin releases, team Captain Hook.**
**Anglers: Kris Mohandie, Fran Gough, Kyle Sowell, Fran Gough, and Matt Moore.**

**1st Place Dorado for a total of 127.4 pounds, team Uno Mas.**
**Anglers: George Plihal, Albert Guzman, Mike Russell, and George Gozdz. Captain Justin Royal.**

Another amazing highlight during the Invitational, to have Rivers Rutherford’s presence at Pacific Fins. With a name like Rivers Rutherford, it’s no surprise this soulful storyteller and recent Nashville Songwriter’s Hall of Famer was destined to become one of music’s most talented and accomplished singer-songwriters.

Guests at the Invitational had front row seats as David Lee Murphy performed several songs. David is an American country music singer and songwriter. He is best known for his #1 country hits “Dust on the Bottle” and “Everything’s Gonna Be Alright”, as well as the hit songs “Party Crowd”, “Out with a Bang”, “Every Time I Get Around You”, “The Road You Leave Behind”, and “Loco”. Oh and by the way… Congrats to David for releasing his first blue marlin!

The tournament in 3 days, generated a total of 545 sailfish raises, 480 bites and 348 Sailfish releases. 8 blue marlin and 2 striped marlin.
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 (Casa Vieja Lodge, The Hook, Sailfish Oasis, and Aeroclub) 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 $18,000 was collected.
In addition, we are going to be posting on our social pages pictures that were taken during the event. 2022 dates will be: December 8th through the 12th. 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 ALL ANGLERS AND SPONSORS, CHEERS TO YOU FOR MAKING IT A SUCCESFUL ONE!

January 27, 2020January 27, 2020

Two Big Shows: Meet You There!

For years now, we have entertained the thought of attending trade shows. These events take place in the biggest cities across the country in any industry you can imagine. A gathering of industry experts, enthusiasts, and media under one roof in a setting that promotes business, education, and fun. There is much value in attending a trade show for your industry. In fact, the upside is so great, it would be a shame to miss out.

One of those shows we will be attending is the Atlanta Fly Fishing Show (January 31st – February 1st, 2020).

The Atlanta Fly Fishing Show, which is held at (Infinite Energy Center) is the largest fly fishing extravaganza in the Southeast. See the newest rods, reels, clothing, accessories, lodges and camps along with non-stop fly-tying and casting demonstrations.

We will have a booth C9, next to our friends, Nautilus Reels. Come by and say hello, it’s going to be a good one.

Another show that is a biggie, not just for us, but to all in the industry… Safari Club International Convention (SCI). Ask any member who has attended the SCI Convention, and you will likely hear, “Sensational, you have to go! It is the Ultimate Sportsmen’s Market and it’s a knockout!”

This hunters’ heaven has everything the mind can dream of and occupies over 452,000 square feet of exhibit space. Six continents are under one roof where members come to book hunts, fishing trips, rendezvous with old friends and shop for the latest guns and hunting equipment. That only scratches the surface of products available at SCI’s Annual Hunters’ Convention. Notable authorities of the outdoor sports and shooting industries attend the premier hunting show annually.

There are dozens of informative and educational seminars designed to provide attendees the opportunity to learn new hunting techniques or refine old ones, discover imaginative ways to prepare wild game, or to glean tips on the best care for your equipment and gear. Countless topics that appeal to the hunting sportsman are covered.

Yes, it’s true! SCI’s Convention is the most dynamic and diverse hunting show today. You will find it to be the most powerful buying and selling environment in the outdoor industry. Mark your calendars and join us in the Fishing Village, Booth 784, February 5 – 8, 2020, for the 48th Annual Hunters’ Convention in Reno, Nevada.

November 1, 2019November 1, 2019

October: Great Start to the Season

The month of October, which is the start of our peak season, was just epic for all species; Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Stripe Marlin, Yellowfin tuna, Dorado and Roosterfish.

The hot Dorado bite we saw all Summer doesn’t seem to slow down. They just got bigger in size!

Mr. Mackinnon showing off his big Dorado

The Sailfish has been consistent through this period and the numbers of raises are ranging anywhere from 18 to 35 – and sometimes more. Doubles and triples are starting to be common.

Offshore, if you run into the Yellowfin tuna, the bite has been productive. Our average size tunas are in the 40-60-pound range. But, recently we got to witness a 184lb beast hit the dock.

The man in the blue suit, the blue marlin has reign supreme this month. Watching a blue marlin come into the spread and crash the party is a site like no other. Everyone’s heart rate goes into overdrive witnessing how it can swallow a 5-pound bonito like nothing. If that doesn’t get your attention, once hooked, you will see a spectacular jumping ability and power it possesses. All our groups have been raising anywhere from 2-3 fish per trip.

The Blue Marlin, something about them that will make everyone SMILE

Mixed in with the Sailfish, our clients have had their share of releasing striped marlin, which have produced Billfish Grandslams – a bucket list accomplishment many anglers want to achieve.

Rooster fishing… has been nothing short of amazing. When the waters near shore are clear, look out… these aggressive feeders are not just beautiful, they also pack a good fight.

Johnny Mac with 2 of 33 Roosters released during his 30th trip to Pacific Fins. I’d say that’s one heck of a day!

If October was a sign of things to come, we suggest booking early. You don’t want to miss what this season has in stored.

Give us a call at 888-431-5556 or email us at ozzy@pacificfinsresort.com

October 31, 2019October 31, 2019

The Powers make history on their 30th trip!

It’s no secret, people love Pacific Fins. Since its inception in 2006, we have strive for excellence. Yes, the fishing has a lot to do with it, but it’s much more. One of those assets is the people who work for us. Not all resorts/lodges are equal. PF is unique in dedicating the amenities and options for our guests away from their home.

Our repeat clientele is very high, Why? Our staff are the friendliest and warmest around. You become part of the family and that sets us apart from everyone else. It’s a bold statement, but don’t let us tell you, this can be echoed by those clients and the reviews on many online platforms.

Here is a great example by Mr. And Mrs. Powers:

“Who knew on our thirtieth trip we would break the resorts record on Rooster Fish 33 in one day. Then to follow up the next three days 24 Dorado up to 60 lbs , and 15 Sailfish. Pacific Fins Resort, has excellent food, order off a menu, the staff and service are five star. The resort has become our home away from home. The fantastic fishing, conventional or fly is always outstanding, after all Guatemala is the Sailfish Capital of the World. You never know what you are going to catch, Blue, Black or Striped Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, and the world famous Sailfish. Pacific Fins Resort will have its fourth annual fun fishing tournament in April 23rd through the 27th, 2020. Come and join us or anytime. Who knows we might be there!” – Johnny Mack AKA Mr. Maraca and Stacey Powers

The Powers at the 2nd Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational with Uncharted Waters host, Peter Miller.

Johnny Mac with his famous maracas – his lucky charm.

The Powers have done it all here, from winning the Guatemala Billfish Invitational (picture above) to having their names on a plaque on their favorite Suite. We want to THANK them for their loyalty and friendship through the years. Johnny/Stacey be careful, there are other clients behind you trying to take away that prize.

October 14, 2019October 14, 2019

The BITE continues… And it’s only the beginning.

I see on some social media outlets, people are gearing up for their hunting trips. Well, I think it’s time to put away that hunting gear in exchange for some rod bending fun. Heck… why not do both!

Here is this week’s fishing report:

Tejada Group: Fishing one days; aboard Maverick – went 5 for 5 on Sails, and caught 5 Dorados.

Andrade Group: Fishing one day; aboard Maverick, 4 for 5 on Sails, raised 4 blue marlin (none wanted to bite), but made up with a striped marlin release (picture below). Also, 7 dorados.

Aramburu Group: Fishing one day; aboard Chechos, 10 for 16 on Sails, 5 dorados – 1 of them being 50lbs.

Amunategui Group: Fishing 2 days; aboard Chechos – raised 16 Sailfish, had 13 bites and released 9. Went 1 for 1 on blue marlin (350lbs) and 3 yellowfin tunas.

Hamilton Group: Fishing two days; aboard Sirena, raised 12 Sails, had 10 bites and released 6. 1 for 2 on blue marlin (est. 250 lbs). 11 dorados and 1 yellowfin tuna.

Powers Group: Fishing three days, inshore & offshore; aboard Maverick, raised 30 Sails, had 24 bites and released 11. Also, 12 dorados. Inshore fishing: raised 69 Roosters, had 55 bites and released 33.

If you got to notice the cover photo of a big yellowfin tuna, it’s a 184 beast that was caught by Grandslam. Just when you think the tuna bite starts to taper off, you never know…

We look forward to your visit! Give us a call at 888-431-5556 or email us at ozzy@pacificfinsresort.com

September 25, 2019September 25, 2019

Fall Fishing Has Begun

Per our last newsletter, we expressed Fall fishing should be on your radar. Well folks, the season is here! The fish are biting and the guests are happy.

Autumn is the lost season for countless anglers who trade their time on the water for hunting, football and indoor activities from September through December.

Too bad! They are missing out on what could be their most cherished season — if only they would give it a chance!

Here are some numbers of this week’s action:

Beer Group: Fishing four days; aboard Chechos – raised 46 Sailfish, had 43 bites, and released 35.

Another highlight for the group was the blue marlin wanted to play. They released 3 out of 4 bites with the man in the blue suit.

And for lunch and dinner; 5 Dorado.

Menedez Group: Fishing 1 day; aboard Chechos – raised 5 Sailfish and had 4 bites. Went 1 for 1 on blue marlin and 6 Dorado.

Evans Group: Fishing half day; aboard Maverick, 2 for 3 on Sails, 1 for 1 on blue marlin (est. 300 lbs) and 1 Dorado.

If you are planning to join us this Fall or 2020 season, I would highly recommend to contact us soon. Our phones are ringing and our calendar is filling up.

We look forward to your visit! Give us a call at 888-431-5556 or email us at ozzy@pacificfinsresort.com

September 5, 2019September 5, 2019

Fall Fishing in Guatemala, Should Be On Your Radar

Fall is quickly approaching and October starts our peak season. I may sound like a broken record, but Guatemala’s calm Pacific Coast is hands down one of the greatest billfishing destination in the world. Our waters hold some of the highest concentration of billfish year round. Guatemala has both the conventional and fly fishing records for most sailfish released in one day. In addition to sailfish and marlin, yellowfin tuna, and dorado are omnipresent. And if we have another banner season of yellowfin tuna like we are having in 2019, it’s going to be one not to miss.

Your trip will become a lifetime remembering experience, coupled with volcano, mangroves and natural reserves in the background. You are in for a sportfishing experience of a lifetime.

A sight that never gets old…the acrobatic displays of billfish.

Coming in HOT! Nothing gets the blood pumping than a lit up Sail on your bait.

There is no surprise in the fishing industry and internationally, Guatemala is the GO-TO destination – “Anyone looking for high numbers of Pacific sails need look no further than Iztapa and neighboring Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala, where sport-fishing fleets tally two dozen or more releases most days this time of year.” – Saltwater Sportsman Magazine.

September and October are still part of our “Marlin Guarantee” promo.Book our most popular package, 3 days fishing, 4 nights for Sept or Oct and we guarantee your boat will get at least 3 Marlin Bites on conventional tackle over the length of the trip! That’s right… 3 bites by the man in the Blue, Black or Striped suit over 3 days fishing! For more info, contact us.

I could keep on writing about our fishery, but I would rather not spoil the surprise.

Check out our website at https://pacificfinsresort.com for more information. Feel free to contact us at 888-431-5556 or ozzy@pacificfinsresort.com with any questions.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

August 26, 2019August 26, 2019

Experience Fly Fishing For Sailfish

Thinking of changing it up a little on your next visit to Pacific Fins? How about taking a crack at a Sail on Fly? Sounds intimidating right? Well…it’s not.

Guatemala is the knock-down, drag-out world champion when it comes to fly fishing for sailfish! With more raises and releases than anywhere in the world you will have the best opportunity for success in the bluewater off Guatemala’s Pacific Coast.

The anticipation of landing that first sail on fly is a great feeling. As you cruise these fertile waters and suddenly hear our mates scream “vela, vela, vela” your bluewater fly fishing baptism has begun.

Fly fishing for sailfish is not difficult. It is certainly easier then fly fishing the flats for bones, permit and tarpon which require much longer casting. Just like anything else – it requires a little discipline. Anglers must be patient, listen to our mates, cast at the appropriate time, and position the rod at the correct angle to set the hook.

Let’s face it. You won’t be perfect every time – there are several moving parts involved. So you need a fishery that is prolific. And Guatemala is that destination where you can have upwards of 15 – 20 shots per day at sailfish averaging 80 – 110 lbs.

Our waters are teeming with billfish.

The captains and mates at Pacific Fins are among the finest in the world. They’re experts when it comes to locating, teasing and fly fishing for billfish. They have had a lot of practice with so many sailfish over the years.

Tools of the trade: Nautilus Monster reel with tube fly.

June 27, 2019June 27, 2019

You Are Missing Out!

Three weeks ago, I sent out a newsletter expressing how good Summer is in Guatemala. Well…I should have been a betting man.

While many know that our waters hold loads of sailfish, particularly during the peak season from November through June, many don’t realize this region hosts good numbers of blue marlin and plenty of dorado, aka mahi-mahi during the rainy season (summer and early fall). Not to mention how good the yellowfin tuna bite has been this year and the bigger fish being caught.

The crew of Maverick and angler Mr. Schmid with an impressive 155 lb trophy.

Besides this awesome tuna, Mr. Schmid had 18 Sailfish bites and released 15. 13 dorados, 6 yellowfin between 40-50 lb range and a 100 lb yellowfin tuna to start day one. Lets not forget the hot marlin bite going on this time of year. Schmid also released a 350 lb blue. And of course going home with a bang…the trophy fish pictured above. We can surely say that Mr. Schmid went home all smiles!