“Hello Ozzy, The experience at Pacific Fin’s was beyond my expectations. You really have something amazing there. The fishing , your staff and the crew on Knot Work were the best. An unforgettable trip. The fishing was amazing, 70 sails day one, WOW”. – Thanks for an amazing trip, Harry Aguero.
A highly anticipated trip, which began planning in March 2019, five Cuban-Americans set a fishing trip for August 2019. Unfortunately, that trip was postponed last minute due to a hurricane heading towards Miami and then again in April 2020 due to Covid travel restrictions.
Talk about bad luck… but as they say… third time is the charm and it was worth the wait! We have to THANK Ralph, Harry, Robert, Joel, and Mandy for doing a very nice thing for Pacific Fins. They got together and created a website about their trip to Guatemala. Check out their website which highlights all of their experience from day one – plus… they have some great videos.
No more roller coaster rides! For a couple of weeks, the fishing was like visiting an amusement park – up and down, up and down. I’m happy to say, our fishery has gained back the status of “Sailfish Capital of the World”. For a while there, we were scratching our heads on what was going on. On the positive side, when the sailfishing was not up to par, a mixed bag of yellowfin tuna and BIG dorado made up for slow time. What better way to release a few sails and still catch sushi grade tuna and dorado. Overall, the numbers on our fishing report illustrates how April started. Dorado and yellowfin tuna are still there and we expect it to last through the summer. If you are planning a trip in the near future, I highly suggest to book soon. More and more people have started to look into the months ahead and you don’t want to miss out on an adventure of a lifetime. Live the Pacific Fins Experience!
April 16th: Chechos: 17 sailfish raises, 15 bites, 8 releases. 1 blue marlin (est. 250lbs).
THANK YOU!
Since the start of the global pandemic last year, the travel industry has been turned upside down. And although we don’t know exactly when we will get back to normal, we know that we can’t do it without you. Today we’d like to share a genuine THANK YOU to you, our guests. We want to take the opportunity to express our gratitude for all of your support. We know that traveling during these times is not always an easy experience, although you make it seem so effortless – So, thank you! Thank you for your dedication. Thank you for introducing Pacific Fins to friends and family. For the long travels, for the late night travels, for the long calls, for the longer email chains… for the passions stirred, for the experiences created. Thank you for working with us. We know it’s been a challenging time for the entire travel industry, but please accept our sincere appreciation for your continued support, kindness, and understanding. It may be difficult now, but we know that together we will get through this – stronger than ever. We can’t wait to continue making your fishing dreams a reality, together. In the meantime, we are never more than a call or email away! From your friends at Pacific Fins, THANK YOU and look forward to your visit.
You can’t say “Spring Break” without thinking of a fishing trip. We are aware you are tired of the cold and miserable Winter. So, now it’s time to start planning a fishing trip to Pacific Fins, where you will get thawed out. Our peak season is October through May, but… now comes the time of year many love. I call it “The Smorgasbord Season”. This is when not only you get intense sailfish action, its when blue marlin start to be more abundant. Yellowfin tuna will be active around spinner dolphin, and dorado will be in the larger class. Plus, you can’t never rule out a striped marlin in the spread and wahoo. March through May is a great time to be here. It’s also the time that books fast. We have limited space available, want to be part of an epic season? Grab your passports, call your fishing partners, pack your bags, and head to Guatemala!
Fishing Report
Uncharacteristic for this region, due to a mix of strong cold fronts and green water making it’s way into the fishing grounds, it has been a slow February. As you can see the fishing reports, there has been better days than others. The good news, blue water started to make its way into the grounds which has resulted in better action. The blue marlin bite has picked up and reports of yellowfin tuna has sushi lovers very happy!
February 6th: Chechos (Captain Nestor) – 4 sailfish raises, 3 bites and 2 releases. 1 for 2 on blue marlin and 2 dorados.
SOLD OUT! We knew this was going to happen. The first Unfathomed hosted trip with Captain George Gozdz booked in record time. This is an all-inclusive adventure with 4 nights/5 days accommodations and 3 full days of offshore fishing on May 13th – May 17th, 2021. In addition to the fishing we have added an afternoon of sightseeing in the old capital city of Antigua on the day we arrive. Due to limited space and demand, we will be adding a second Unfathomed hosted trip soon. Stay tune to social media and our weekly news letters for the next date. You don’t want to miss out on one heck of a time.
“This is an incredible opportunity to discover the world class fishery Guatemala has to offer. I’ve visited Pacific Fins Resort on 5 separate occasions and each trip has been amazing. After repeated trips to Pacific Fins, most recently in December, I know exactly what to expect and will help ease the burden of uncertainty of travel during these challenging times. May is an incredible time to fish Guatemala with targeted species including sailfish, marlin, tuna, and dorado.” – George Gozdz, Unfathomed. This is an all-inclusive adventure with 4 nights/5 days accommodations and 3 full days of offshore fishing. In addition to the fishing we have added an afternoon of sightseeing in the old capital city of Antigua on the day we arrive. Grab a couple friends or make new ones and don’t miss this chance as space is limited.
Dates: May 13th-17th, 20214 night/ 5 days3 full days offshore fishing- 4 person/boatAll inclusive including transportation to Pacific Fins from Guatemala City- tips extraReturn Covid test provided Price $3295 per person – flights to and from Guatemala City (GUA) not included. Depending where you are traveling from, round trip airfares have been as low as $189!
A new year, same forecast… a lot of fish on the radar.
I have to say, it’s been a little while since our last newsletters. But, it’s not because we are fishing and laying around the pool… it’s because we have been hard at work in making sure YOU will have the best experience during your next visit.
One of the many upgrades we are doing; putting new engines on our luxury boat, Knotwork. Also, on your next trip, you’ll notice a fresh change in our rooms. Since, it’s the busy season, our staff is working diligent around the clock.
Now to the good stuff… what you been waiting to hear… FISHING REPORT!
When our peak season started in October, it started with a bang. Lot’s of action offshore and Inshore (with the Rooster). The sailfish were hungry and so was the blue marlin. The yellowfin tuna was still biting good and plenty of dorado for everyone to go around.
Fast forward to today, the action has kept strong and steady. Pacific Fins has been busy and so have our boats. One of the recent fishing highlights is the day our fleet released in one day; 177 Sails!!! and 2 blues (Maverick / Gypsy / Chechos). If you ask me… no one had time to eat lunch.
More highlights:
Houston Group: Fishing three days; aboard Maverick with Captain Jimmy, raised 138 Sailfish, had 125 bites, and released 90. Also, 1 for 2 on blue marlin (est. 150lbs), yellowfin tuna and a dorado.
Incredible job by the crew and angler to get this shot, Blue and Sail!
Dillard Group: Fishing four days; aboard Maverick, raised 90 Sailfish, had 69 bites, and released 60. Also, 2 Dorado for the grill.
When your goal is to release 60 sails on your trip and catch your first blue marlin – Priceless!
Kenyon Group: Fishing three days; aboard Maverick with Captain Jimmy, raised 186 Sailfish, 170 bites, released 120. Also, 1 blue marlin (est. 200lbs). 2 Dorados.
Shulman Group: Fishing four days; aboard Chechos with Captain Carlos, raised 133 Sailfish, 111 bites, and released 87. Went 3 for 3 on blue marlin (est. 300lbs), 1 striped marlin (est. 150). 4 Dorados and 3 yellowfin.
Sawor Group: Fishing three days; aboard Gypsy with Captain Caluco, raised 99 Sailfish, had 87 bites, and released 67. Also, 4 Dorado.
Balensiefen Group: Fishing two days; aboard Maverick, raised 42 Sailfish, 34 bites, and released 30. 3 dorado.
Maga Group: Fishing for one day; aboard Chechos, raised 25 Sailfish, 25 bites, and released 17.
Odom Group: Fishing three days; aboard Maverick, raised 60 Sailfish, 52 bites, and released 30. 6 dorado.
Young Group: Fishing three days; aboard Gypsy, raised 59 Sailfish, 57 bites, and released 48 (conventional gear). Went 3 for 8 on Fly (sailfish). 6 dorado and 1 yellowfin.
Plihal Group: Fishing one day; aboard Chechos, raised 32 Sailfish, 29 bites, and released 17. 4 dorado.
Alvarez Group: Fishing one day; aboard Chechos, raised 9 Sailfish, 8 bites, and released 4.
Bullmhan Group: Fishing one day; aboard Sirena, raised 12 Sailfish, 12 bites, and released 8. Also, went 1 for 2 on blue marlin (est. 250lbs). 2 dorado.
Wilburn Group: Fishing two days; aboard Chechos, raised 54 Sailfish, 47 bites, and released 34. 3 dorado.
Blaine Group: Fishing four days; aboard Gypsy, raised 42 Sailfish, 34 bites, and released 30. 3 dorado.
Wish I can post more pics to get you excited, but you can do that by following us on our online social platforms.
There’s a reason why Guatemala is one of the world’s top destinations for saltwater anglers. Actually, there are multiple reasons, such as impeccable fishing for Sailfish, Marlin, Tuna. Even if you aren’t an avid angler, odds are you’ve heard about the volcano excursions, Lake Atitlan, Antigua and Tikal – to name a few.
Whether you’re aiming to beat your personal best or you’re casting lines for the very first time, we are here to help you land the catch of a lifetime!
I echo what National Geographic says about Guatemala: List of Best Trips to take in 2020.
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.
In April 2018 at the Guatemala Celebrity Pro-am invitation fishing tournament, University of Miami researchers deployed 10 satellite tags off the coast of Guatemala to study the behavior and habitat use of sailfish in the Eastern Pacific Ocean (EPO). Of the 10 satellite tags, 7 produced high quality data sets while 1 tagged sailfish was caught by commercial fisherman off Mexico and 1 tagged sailfish died due to post release mortality. The final remaining tag status remains unknown and likely represents a mortality or fishery event.
Of the 7 tags with data, no sailfish traveled eastward toward El Salvador and Nicaragua while all tagged sailfish traveled westward, northwestward or southwestward (Figure 1 Top). This is consistent with the majority of sailfish tagged throughout the EPO.
Figure 1: (Top) Map of seven satellite tags placed on sailfish off Guatemala in April 2018. (Bottom) Zoomed in map of sailfish tag density created from satellite tag data showing regions of highest sailfish presence in shades of blue with darker shades inidicating higher levels of tag density.
Sailfish traveled to regions known to be productivity hotspots such as the San Jose Canyon off the coast of Guatemala and the Tehuantepec upwelling system south of the Mexican coast indicated by the darker blue in Figure 1 bottom plot. Tagged sailfish tended to immediately leave the tagging location after the tagging event but only 2 of these made long distance migratory movements outside of the EPO region toward the west. The majority of sailfish stayed in the region with multiple sailfish returning to the relative location where tagging occurred.
The likelihood of sailfish to remain coastal within the Guatemalan economic zone region is critical for management and conservation as measures to protect this species within Guatemala may be more effective than in other locales given the high density of local sailfish. Through regional conservation regulations such as those put in place by the Guatemala Sailfish Conservation Commission, it will be possible to maintain the high catch rates seen historically in the region.
Sailfish preference for specific habitat ranges can be obtained from the tagging data and when analyzed next to sea surface temperature, a clear preference for the EPO warm pool is present (Figure 2). Here we see a preference for waters between 29o and 30o Celsius with a range of 26o to 32o Celsius. This is just one example of sailfish preference estimation made possible with the use of satellite tagging data and available satellite oceanographic information.
You want to have a better understanding of how sea-surface temperature (SST) charts and satellite imagery can help you find fish. You want to learn how to rig baits like a pro. And you want to fish an incredible location without any hassle.
With Expedition FishTrack you can build your fishing resume and improve upon all of these skills while networking with fellow anglers and enjoy three full days of fishing for sailfish and marlin.
This all-inclusive trip includes three days fishing for sailfish and marlin at Pacific Fins in Guatemala, as well as evening seminars. Dates are December 7-11, 2019. Space is very limited.
Scheduled for December 7-11, 2019, the inaugural Expedition FishTrack will be hosted by Pacific Fins Resort and Marina in Guatemala, home to the world’s most best billfish bite. The expedition includes three days of guided fishing, instructional seminars, on-water fishing tips, four nights lodging, all food and beverage, airport transfers, use of tackle and a take home swag bag. Cost is $4,500 per person, and FishTrack Premium members receive a discount of $150, so if you’re not already a premium member make sure to join now.
“We often get asked how the satellite imagery and sea-surface temperature charts on FishTrack helps anglers find more fish, so we try to come up with interactive ways to educate our users,” says Charlie Levine, FishTrack editor and publisher. “Expedition FishTrack is a program that brings it all together. We will host informal evening seminars, as well as on-water angling and boat-handling instruction. And luckily for everyone who attends Expedition FishTrack, we’ve partnered with Pacific Fins Resort and Marina in Guatemala, a world-class fishing lodge with excellent boats and accommodations.”
INSTRUCTORS
Tony DiGiulian, Lead Instructor: Tony has more than 40 years experience as a captain, mate and consultant. He has led clients to more than 10,000 billfish captures. He co-founded the IGFA School of Sportfishing and runs fishing seminars at many of the top boat shows. He is a dedicated conservationist and was named The Billfish Foundation’s Conservation Ambassador in 2010. Tony will lead all bait-rigging and angling seminars at Expedition FishTrack.
Charlie Levine: Charlie is the Editor and Publisher of FishTrack.com and helped grow the satellite imagery provider from its beginnings into one of the most trusted SST services in the offshore fishing world. He has fished many hot spots around the world and has written hundreds of articles on all facets of sport fishing. Charlie will run satellite imagery seminars and tutorials at Expedition FishTrack.
Ozzy Delgado: Based out of Miami, Florida, Ozzy is an experienced offshore angler and fly-fisherman. Ozzy has worked in the sportfishing industry for many years, with stints at Grundéns, Guy Harvey Magazine and Mako Marine. He is currently the VP of sales and marketing for Pacific Fins. Ozzy will make sure all students have everything they need on site.
SCHEDULE
Arrive December 7: All guests are responsible for booking their own airfare to Guatemala City. Once you arrive, clear customs and head for the airport exit. Students will be welcomed at the airport by Pacific Fins staff. All travel is extremely safe and hosted. Board the Pacific Fins vans for the ride to the coast. Upon arrival at the resort, enjoy a welcome beverage and feel free to freshen up. There will be a group dinner where guests can choose from the outstanding menu prepared by the on-staff gourmet chef. Students will have a chance to network with one another over dinner and drinks. The Expedition FishTrackstaff will have welcome remarks, explain the agenda and hand out swag bags.
Fish December 8: Guests will gather for breakfast and boat assignments will be given out. Each student will have a chance to fish with each instructor over the three days of fishing. While driving out to the fishing grounds, students will be briefed on the drop-back and pitch-baiting techniques used in Guatemala, where sailfish and marlin are caught on circle-hook rigged ballyhoo with 30-pound fishing gear. After fishing, return to the lodge. Take time to freshen up, enjoy appetizers, drinks and dinner. Evening talk about satellite imagery, sea-surface temperature charts, chlorophyll charts, altimetry, tide, currents and all of the tools on FishTrack that helps anglers find hot spots, anywhere in the world. The floor will be open for questions and each individual will have ample time with FishTrack staff to make sure they understand how to use these valuable tools to help them find fish in their home waters and abroad.
Fish December 9: Guests will gather for breakfast and boat assignments will be given out. On the ride out to the fishing grounds we will compare sea surface temperature charts with real-time conditions. Each angler will have plenty of time to bring up more questions about angling techniques or FishTrack tools. After fishing, return to the lodge for appetizers, dinner and drinks. Lead instructor Tony DiGiulian will run a bait-rigging demonstration. Some of the baits he will teach include the circle-hook ballyhoo, o-ring ballyhoo, Spanish mackerel, strip baits and any other rigs students would like to see.
Fish December 10: After breakfast, guests will head to the marina. On this day we will host a mini tournament with awards for most fish caught and most improved angler. After fishing, guests will be driven back to Pacific Fins to enjoy appetizers, drinks and dinner. After dinner, Pacific Fins owner Niels Erichsen will lead a discussion about billfish conservation. Niels has been keeping records on the local sailfish population for many years and can highlight this fishery, the issues of post-release mortality and how important circle hooks are to our mission of sustaining this valuable resource. After this discussion, awards and diplomas will be handed out to Expedition FishTrack participants.
December 11: Guests will enjoy breakfast before departing for the airport. The staff from Pacific Fins can also plan excursions for this day if you’d like to stay and visit the local volcanos, catch a roosterfish, schedule additional fishing days or head to the colonial city of Antigua for some shopping and tours. For more information on the excursions available contact Ozzy at [email protected].
FishTrack is extremely excited to launch this new program. Expedition FishTrack is open to any and all anglers from anywhere in the world. Take advantage of this affordable trip and come meet your fellow anglers while fine-tuning your skills. You will go home a better angler. That much we can guarantee. For more information, contact Charlie Levine at [email protected] or 407-222-3893.
What is Unfathomed you may ask… Unfathomed with Captain George Gozdz strives to present the highest quality fishing show that appeals to fisherman and non-fisherman alike through portraying the outdoor lifestyle with cinematic storytelling. Fishing will serve as the bond to combine unique personalities, exciting destinations, and fishery education to provide an engaging viewer experience.
Meet Capt. George:
Throughout his childhood, fishing was George’s true passion. As a young boy, he fished the waterways of Florida and dreamed of one day becoming a famous fisherman like his television idols. As a young man, with that dream still in his heart, he entered the field of emergency medicine, but his down time was always spent on the water. 15 years in a high-stress work environment convinced this father of 2 to follow his dreams. After several years operating as a local guide, Captain George became a frequent guest host on a number of popular fishing shows. In 2010, this exposure and his reputation as an angler’s angler led him to being tapped as the host of one of the most popular fishing shows “Reel Time Florida Sportsman” that has run for 8 seasons. With over 100 shows, Captain George has garnered an incredible following and proven his loyalty to industry partners. With Captain George as the host, RTFS has had mass appeal due to its innovative approach with use of compelling storytelling based on the outdoors, combined with cutting edge cinematography.
Unfathomed 2019 Episode 2- Guatemala part 1. Join George as he travels to Pacific Fins in Guatemala and experiences the best billfishing in the world. Fishing is only half the lure in this beautiful country. George sets off on an adventure and experiences the volcano Pacaya, the mountain coffee fields, the ancient city of Antigua, and more.
Unfathomed 2019 Episode 3- Guatemala part 2. The journey of discovery continues in Guatemala. Incredible sailfish action is also highlighted by the rich culture of this wonderful country. After multiple sailfish releases including one on a fly rod, George travels to explore the volcano Pacaya.
Why Not Surprise Dad With A Father’s Day Fishing Adventure This Year
When it comes to dads and husbands don’t we all want to make their day special? If you are looking for some new and different ideas of what to do this year when Father’s Day rolls around on Sunday, June 16, we can surely help! What guy wouldn’t love a fishing adventure out onto the fertile waters off the coast of Guatemala.
When you book a trip for the month of June, two paying adults – kids are FREE (regardless of age).
Shake up Father’s Day celebration with more…
Instead of driving, how about surprise him with a first class trip to the resort on our private plane? A great way to start the adventure.
How about a local tour? We are certain that once you get to know the hidden beauty our countryside can offer, you will fall in love as well. Let us recommend a variety of tours and activities that can make your visit to our country memorable. We can help plan, coordinate and book any tour you choose, as we rely on the top tour operators for this segment of your trip. like…
Tikal – El Peten, in northeast Guatemala, represents the largest tropical forest in Central America, containing ruins, great and small, from the ancient Maya civilization.
Antigua Guatemala – Spanish Heritage
Antigua Guatemala is one of the most idyllic destinations in the world, with painstakingly restored Spanish colonial architecture, manicured parks, stylish hotels, superb international cuisine and a horizon shaped by three spectacular volcanoes. Walking along cobblestone streets, visitors find high-end art galleries, fascinating museums, luxurious shops with international treasures and traditional markets packed to the rafters with locally made textiles and wood crafts. With its architecture, culture and unique setting, Antigua Guatemala, quite simply, is the most charming city in all the Americas.
Lake Atitlan – Natural Splendor
Lake Atitlan is a natural marvel like no other, 50 square miles of deep, crystal blue water surrounded by three lofty volcanoes. Formed by a volcanic cataclysm 100,000 years ago, the lake shimmers in a mountain valley, overlooked by a dozen quaint villages, whose residents proudly wear traditional dress that distinguishes each town from the next.
If an excursion is not on your radar, our fishery will keep you busy. There is a lot more we offer at Pacific Fins.
Muscles or back a little sore from an action packed day on the water? How about a 60 minute massage session that will make you feel brand new for the next day.
Relax Poolside with apps and drinks of your choice…
Whatever your package preferences are, we can make your loved ones trip one he will never forget!
