Sportfishing Archives - Page 3 of 6

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!

October 22, 2021October 22, 2021

October Fishing Frenzy

The start of our season has been nothing short of spectacular. Groups have been raising double digit numbers of sails, enough dorado for lunch and dinner, and yellowfin tuna from 60lbs to an impressive 176lb beast. Plus, we are not surprised the main attraction has been the blue marlin presence.

When a guest calls us, one of their question is… “when is the best time to fish Guatemala?”. You can ask many and get different answers. It’s hard to answer because Guatemala’s fishery is phenomenal year round.
I’ve always been a firm believer that October is the month to be in Guatemala. It kicks off the season with lots of action and variety.

Fishing Report :

A personal record! 400+lb Pacific Blue Marlin

***Congrats to the Johnson’s on their blue marlin***

***An impressive 176lb yellowfin tuna for Mr. Mackinnon!***

***Double the excitement for the Woods***

August 5, 2021August 5, 2021

Pacific Fins Welcomes Serial Griller: Matt Moore

Let the countdown begin! In the coming weeks/months leading up to the 6th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational, we will be announcing special guests and sponsors that will take part in this years event.
The Billfish Invitational is excited to welcome Serial Griller, Matt Moore.
Author. Entrepreneur. Cook. Musician. Host. Pilot. Adventurer. Southern Gentleman.
These are just some of the words used to describe Nashville, TN based Matt Moore. Moore’s work has garnered critical acclaim as far reaching as the BBC and CBC to The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Atlanta Constitution, Chicago Tribune, People, Southern Living, Redbook, Esquire, Men’s Journal, TODAY, CBS, VH1, FOX, Hallmark, The Art of Manliness, and countless others. As a chef, Moore specializes in updated Southern cuisine with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. He’s also a cast-iron and wild game enthusiast with extensive experience working over live fires.
His first book, Have Her Over for Dinner, a Gentleman’s Guide to Classic, Simple Meals was named one of the years’ best cookbooks by The New York Times. His follow-up, A Southern Gentleman’s Kitchen (TIME INC Books) was released to wide praise and acclaim in the spring of 2015. His best-selling, The South’s Best Butts (TIME INC BOOKS) was named the #1 cookbook of the year by The National BBQ and Grilling Association in 2018. Moore’s latest work, Serial Griller (HMH 2020), has also enjoyed best selling status with a focus on live-fire grilling throughout America. Moore is currently slated to release his next work in 2023.
When he is not cooking, traveling, or writing, Moore is busy running EastWest Bottlers, a boutique fragrance and apothecary company he founded in 2011. To date, Moore maintains a distribution of over 200 retail specialty stores where his fragrances and books are sold. He has negotiated distribution and license agreement in over 30 countries, including big-box stores such as Belk, Dillards, and Bloomingdales – securing license products for Fortune 500 brands, as well as luxury European brands.

**For those that love to grill, which I think the majority of us do, Matt will be handing out to all participating anglers a copy of his book, Serial Griller.**

April 23, 2021April 23, 2021

The sails are Back!

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!

FISHING REPORT:

April 1st: Gypsy – 4 sailfish raises, 4 bites and 4 releases.
April 1st: Knotwork – 7 sailfish raises, 6 bites and 3 releases.
April 2nd: Chechos – 20 sailfish raises, 17 bites and 13 releases. 2 Yellowfin tuna, 2 dorado.
April 2nd: Maverick (Flyfishing) – 31 sailfish raises, 11 bites and 4 releases.
April 3rd: Maverick (Flyfishing) – 11 sailfish raises, 4 bites and 2 releases.
April 3rd: Chechos – 12 sailfish raises, 9 bites and 7 releases.
April 3rd: Gypsy – 15 sailfish raises, 12 bites and 8 releases. 2 dorados.
April 4th: Knotwork – 14 sailfish raises, 9 bites and 6 releases. 1 dorado.
April 5th: Maverick (Flyfishing) – 6 sailfish raises, 4 bites and 1 releases.
April 8th: Maverick – 6 sailfish raises, 6 bites and 5 releases.5 yellowfin tuna.
April 9th: Gypsy – 22 sailfish raises, 14 bites and 12 releases.
April 9th: Sirena – 28 sailfish raises, 25 bites and 17 releases.
April 9th: Knotwork – 30 sailfish raises, 25 bites and 17 releases. 1 dorado (40lbs).
April 9th: Maverick – 18 sailfish raises, 13 bites and 8 releases.
April 9th: Chechos – 23 sailfish raises, 13 bites and 7 releases.
April 10th: Gypsy – 25 sailfish raises, 16 bites and 8 releases. 1 for 4 on Fly.
April 10th: Knotwork – 32 sailfish raises, 28 bites and 24 releases.
April 10th: Chechos – 20 sailfish raises, 6 bites and 4 releases.
April 10th: Maverick – 28 sailfish raises, 25 bites and 18 releases.
April 10th: Knotwork – 30 sailfish raises, 24 bites and 18 releases. 1 dorado (35lbs).
April 11th: Chechos – 24 sailfish raises, 18 bites and 8 releases.
April 11th: Maverick (Flyfishing) – 18 sailfish raises, 3 bites and 1 releases.
April 11th: Knotwork – 6 sailfish raises, 4 bites, 1 release (Flyfishing). 9 sailfish raises, 7 bites, 6 releases (Conventional).
April 11th: Gypsy: 28 sailfish raises, 19 bites, 11 releases.
April 12th: Knotwork: 14 sailfish raises, 13 bites, 7 releases. 1 dorado and 2 yellowfin tuna.
April 12th: Chechos: 10 sailfish raises, 6 bites, 6 releases.
April 13th: Chechos: 25 sailfish raises, 22 bites, 15 releases.
April 13th: Knotwork: 22 sailfish raises, 18 bites, 9 releases.
April 14th: Chechos: 19 sailfish raises, 18 bites, 11 releases. 2 dorado.
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.

February 4, 2021February 4, 2021

A fishing trip you don’t want to miss!

“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!

May 15, 2020May 15, 2020

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.

February 27, 2020February 27, 2020

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.

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.

January 24, 2020January 24, 2020

Guatemala 2020: Fishing Report

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.

January 23, 2020January 23, 2020

Mark Your Calendar!

Last year’s event was a huge success and this year’s invitational is shaping up to be one for the books!

The 5th Annual Guatemala Billfish Invitational will take place April 23rd – 27th, 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 April 23rd at the lodge with the professional chefs creating a full-on feast for the check-in and opening party. Fishing dates are April 24th, 25th and 26th, with an award’s ceremony taking place the night of the 26th. Guests will depart on April 27th.

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 from 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. The experienced captain and crew will always do everything in their power to keep you on the fish.

One advice we can give… last year’s event sold out… so don’t wait till last minute.

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]. You can also visit PacificFinsResort.com.