Monster Yellowfin Tuna at Tres Maria Islands, Rooster fish, Snappers and more at the Marietta Islands.

Written by Stan Gabruk of Master Baiter ´s Sportfishing and Tackle

Ok, twenty minutes after I wrote the last weeks report everything got better at most locations. Yellowfin Tuna for the fanatics have gone into the Monster Size mental frenzies as Yellowfin have gone in the 180 lb plus sizes and are everywhere around the Marietta Islands. There are some local companies now that have cattle boats heading out this way so if you´re interested, let me know, we´ll fix you up. But be warned this trip is going to take you 80 miles in one direction just to get there. But be warned, just because there is a lot of noise on the web, you can still come in empty handed. Those who are more ¨normal¨ staying in a lot closer still has great ¨spring¨ fishing in February!  We have some fishing options as we continue to enjoy the strangeness.

Yellowfin Tuna 200 lbs on Animal House with Capt. Luis at helm

Lets just jump in, there have been some non-qualifying world record sized Yellowfin Tuna around the north end of the Tres Maria Islands (North Island) for sure. There was one boated in the 430 lb range just this last week. For the fanatics out there, now is a good time to be one if it means you´ll get off your back side and get it in gear. For we all know that things change so quickly that it all may fall apart in a few days. Just remember to keep your distance and you won´t have any problems.

El Banco and Corbeteña are still in the thick of things running Yellowfin Tuna from 30 pounds and up before you come to the high spits. Striped Marlin, Cubera Snappers and the odd large Dorado. It´s a fair distance and like always can leave you scratching your head. Fishing is fishing, we   all know this so be ready to come in empty handed if you take the chance, but you can always fall back to the Marietta Islands for the afternoon bite. With plenty of live bait, blue water and favorable currents we´re finding Blue lures are working well along with whatever local live bait you can put in front of these picky fish. Squid chunking works for those who can afford the bait.

The Marietta Islands to El Morro and a little farther out is still the ¨promise land¨ when it comes to producing fishing grounds… Running Blue tiger print Rapallas is working very well for Jack Crevalls, Rooster fish and Dorado in the 25 lb range. Live bait is working on everything else. But for some reason the fish have moved out a little from the islands so be ready to search for birds amigo. Bonito, Snappers, Sierra Mackerals and even a shot at a Sailfish. Strange conditions for sure, but we´ll take the fishing any way we can get it. Those heading out for an eight hour trips are doing well and this will continue in the next few weeks as my Crystal ball is telling me, but it´s been wrong before.

Rooster Fish ¨Lookin at Ya¨ at the Marietta Islands

Not hearing much from Punta Mita and points north. Guyavitos should be running strong with Sailfish since this is where they normally hang out for the winter here in PV. Dorado and Rooster Fish are still in the Sayulita area so don´t forget to look into these areas as everyone else is all basically heading in the same direction where the action was hot yesterday.

I was concerned that people would think the fishing here is always like it is now, of course it is better than this in the summer. But for now this is not the case, we are seeing some very unusual conditions with warm currents coming in from the west. This means warmer water and warm water species hanging out in the area. Now for those who live here you can wait for things to improve, but those here on vacation will find most fishing agents will tell you whatever you want to  hear, anything  that will get you on their boats. Watch the docks, read my reports and feel free to ask what the present conditions are in the area. They can change by the day so get it fresh for best results.

While you are in town don`t forget to visit Marina Vallarta with the ¨other Malicon¨ in Puerto Vallarta! It`s the second most popular tourist attraction in Puerto Vallarta with Restaurant  row and 150 shops of all kinds… I´ll keep an eye out for you!

Until next time, don´t forget to kiss your fish!

Master Baiter´s Sportfishing & Tackle is located in Marina Vallarta on the Boardwalk between the light house and Porto Bellos restaurant. Come by and say hello!  Remember, at Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle, We Won´t Jerk You Around! If you have any questions on any subject regarding fishing or Puerto Vallarta, feel free to ask at my email: CatchFish@MasterBaiters.com.mx

The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing and Tackle is protected under trade mark law and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.

www.masterbaiters.com.mx

Now You See ¨Em¨, Now you Don´t fishing, Dorado at Distant Locations

Written by Stan Gabruk of Master Baiter ´s Sportfishing and Tackle

As unpredictable conditions continue we are seeing some days with fish, others with nothing. There seems to be strong currents constantly swirling pushing fish out. Water temperatures are fluctuating as well. With La Nina not exactly following the ¨rules´ we can´t understand what is happening in our world famous fishing grounds. To have even the possibility of Yellowfin Tuna at El Banco in Late January would be a joke if it wasn´t happening. Dorado outside of the

Cubera Snapper in the 50 lb range at Corbeteña

bay at Corbeteña, you´d call me a liar. I won´t even mention the two striped Marlin at Corbeteña that was boated this past week, they too are not playing by the rules. So what do you have here, frustrating conditions.  For those looking for action, sure we have that, no worries. But if you are hoping to check specific summer species off your bucket list in January, you may just get lucky amigo.

Last week were talking about how these strange warm currents coming in form who knows where would probably not last long and those who can should hit it hard and fast before things change. Many have but we´ve seen a slowing in the areas that were producing trophy sized gamefish.  Don`t worry, what gets good will go through a cycle and get good again. We are still seeing clear and fairly blue water in the Bay of Banderas, but the whales are taking their toll on the fishing. When whales show up in the area the smaller fish think they will soon be lunch so they bug out and I mean quick. If you´re in the area with whales, then enjoy the happy accident, but don´t expect to see any sizeable fish, they are like Elvis and have left the building!

El Banco or The Bank had all but died when it comes to Yellowfin Tuna. I could not tell you why, but for some reason the Yellowfin Tuna have been moving in then out. You never  know what you´ll get t hese days at The Bank, but along those lines, anything is now possible. I was thinking this is a freak warm current and it had to move out or change pretty darn quick. Now I am starting to think that this could be around for a while. Yellowfin Tuna are here and they can be anywhere from 40 lbs to 200 lbs. Dorado are here as well in the 25 to 40 lb range. Striped Marlin in the 250 lb range have come in for pictures with more that have been released. The Tres Maria Islands like normal have YF Tuna for the taking, but the eighty miles or so just to get there is enough to make most people look at the other options if you know what I mean

Jack Crevall or Torro as they are called in Spanish

Corbeteña on the other hand has seen some strange yet welcome Dorado action. Yes I said Dorado and who knows why. Running from 30 t o 45 lbs you can have a great day with some arm breaking action. Some days are better than others, so roll the dice. Lures and Google eyes are doing the trick so no need to worry too much about bait, there is plenty now, not like last week. If you are just a touch inward the area between the Marietta Islands and Corbeteña has seen some Striped Marlin as late and since they like colder water temperatures it may be worth it to take a run out this way. Dorado and Striped Marlin are there as are Cubera Snappers for the bottom guys with a host of other unexpected possibilities.

The Marietta Islands and El Morro have lately hit the skids for some reason. For about three days last week things just came to a halt and it left us all scratching our heads. Bait, clean water, favorable water temps, but the currents could wash away a ship wreck. Rooster fish thinned out drastically, Dorado are here as well in the 25 lb range. Sailfish are still in the area and they have been known lately to take what is being offered bait wise. The secret for the Islands are the currents and they have been changing, almost violently causing rough water as tides change. This should settle down the next day or so, so keep an open ear and get those fuel dollars ready to go amigos… Still, Jack Crevalls to 30 lbs, Sierra Mackerals t o 25 lbs,  Snapper, Rooster Fish, Bonito and the list of regulars goes on, just check the latest conditions before making a decision.

Inside the bay for the last two weeks has been weak at best . Small fish for the most part if you got any. Jack Crevalls are not even around as the whales are invading the bay of Banderas as they normally do at this time of the year. We did have a few days where those Yellowfin Tuna have been hanging around Yelapa and began taking baits! Just remember to check  the latest conditions before heading out as things can change before this article hits the newsstands.

All and all the fishing is good, not fantastic or horrible, but good fits at the moment. Those venturing out are getting the target fish they seek, but be ready to be disappointed since things change faster than my ex wife maxed out on credit cards

While you are in town don`t forget to visit Marina Vallarta with the ¨other Malicon¨ in Puerto Vallarta! It`s the second most popular tourist attraction in Puerto Vallarta with Restaurant  row and 150 shops of all kinds… I´ll keep an eye out for you!

Until next time, don´t forget to kiss your fish!

Master Baiter´s Sportfishing & Tackle is located in Marina Vallarta on the Boardwalk between the light house and Porto Bellos restaurant. Come by and say hello!  Remember, at Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle, We Won´t Jerk You Around! If you have any questions on any subject regarding fishing or Puerto Vallarta, feel free to ask at my email: CatchFish@MasterBaiters.com.mx

The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing and Tackle is protected under trade mark law and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.

www.masterbaiters.com.mx

 Strange Days Fishing, Dorado in the Bay, Yellowfin Tuna at El Banco

Written by Stan Gabruk of Master Baiter ´s Sportfishing and Tackle

Welcome to Strange Days amigos. What we call winter fishing has morphed into something that can only make you shake your head and wonder what the deal is. Last week we were looking at Sailfish that would not take bait, No Dorado.. Anywhere from 60 lb Tuna in the bay, No fish at all at El Banco and the sad tale never seemed to end. But that was last week, this week you may think I am not exactly telling the truth, but it is, every word. Now it feels strange to putting this in writing so here we go… Sailfish are and have taken baits in front of Los Arcos, this never happens. Dorado are in the 25 lb range in the same location. Dorado are also at the Marietta Islands and I have no reason to believe they are not at Corbeteña or Punta Mita at this moment. Rooster fish are taking baits, no surprise there.  For most of us Yellowfin Tuna are running anywhere for 60 lbs to over 100 lbs and I am not talking about the Tres Maria Islands amigo. Hell even a Striped Marlin was boated in the bay, it was small, but it´s still Marlin amigos. So what the heck is happening, your guess is as good as mine. These fishing days are like a gift horse and we shouldn´t be questioning, we should be accepting and getting… as in getting out there now!

Dorado, Jeff McGuire on Guanatuna II, our 28ft Super Panga with Capt Juan does it again... First Marte Oliver pictured here as well.

The report this week is easy to write, but hard to understand. Lets start where it matters with the big fish at El Banco. Several days this week there have been larger Yellowfin Tuna at El Banco. They can be anywhere in size, but average is about 80 lbs. Now they can be eight miles before the high spots, they may be twenty miles off the high spots, but they are out there. We also know that this can not last long, it´s a freak occurrence so if you have been waiting for the fishing to pick up here, then it has amigos. Look for Striped Marlin in the 200 lb range, Cubera Snappers t o 60 lbs, Sailfish, Amber Jacks, Rainbow runners. The Bank is finally worth your time. No reports from Corbeteña right now, but if El Banco is firing then there is hope for the rock.. Stay tuned.

The Marietta are still pretty much the same as last week, just add Dorado to the list and you´ll have some great arm breaking action with the Rooster fish running 40 lbs, Snappers around 30 lbs, Arctic Bonito to 35 lbs, Pompano, Sailfish are taking bait s and they are in the area. For the last week I have been telling people to just say no to anywhere but the Marietta Islands or El Morro. But now things have changed as they will.  Still well worth the time and fuel dollars.

Inside the bay, which has been mostly Sierra Mackerel city of 2 pounders has now turned a corner. Mackerals are now worth targeting of about ten pounds and a little larger…  Dorado in front of Los Arcos has us all scratching our heads along with the Sailfish that have started taking baits as well. It´s unusual for them to be in the bay at this time of the year and even stranger they would not take bait. For the moment you have Sailfish on the list of fish in the bay. Remember this could end in a heartbeat, so get out there now amigo.

Rooster Fish and Roger Collard and my friend Sammy from Tony´s Place with some trophy sized Rooster fish, which they ate for the record!

The ocean conditions have been going through all sorts of changes or adjustments. There is not telling what is happening out at our world famous fishing grounds right now. With Dorado back in the area you would think the water temperatures are back up. Not warm, but warm enough at 76 degrees in the bay. Another unusual thing is to have blue, blue almost purple water in the bay. It is bluer in the bay than at El Banco, more strangeness. Something else to keep track of is the bite, which has been happening mid day to late afternoon right now. Rooster Fish are coming up in the afternoon and are big, so I have been sending fishing parties out from Marina Vallarta about 9 a.m., again this is a moving target.  For those reading this article, remember everything can change by the time you are reading t his so make sure you check my blog: www.masterbaiters.wordpress.com for situational daily reports to keep you up with the action and the bite.

While you are in town don`t forget to visit Marina Vallarta with the ¨other Malicon¨ in Puerto Vallarta! It`s the second most popular tourist attraction in Puerto Vallarta with Restaurant  row and 150 shops of all kinds… I´ll keep an eye out for you!

Until next time, don´t forget to kiss your fish!

Master Baiter´s Sportfishing & Tackle is located in Marina Vallarta on the Boardwalk between the light house and Porto Bellos restaurant. Come by and say hello!  Remember, at Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle, We Won´t Jerk You Around! If you have any questions on any subject regarding fishing or Puerto Vallarta, feel free to ask at my email: CatchFish@MasterBaiters.com.mx

The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing and Tackle is protected under trade mark law and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.

www.masterbaiters.com.mx

The Islands Turn Into Rooster City, Crowded Fishing, Time to Zag!

Written by Stan Gabruk of Master Baiter ´s Sportfishing and Tackle

For the last couple of weeks we have seen what I would call the most frustrating fishing you can come across. Plenty of fish, plenty of bait and plenty of frustration as almost every species to a fish was ignoring any bait you put in front of them. With hugely abundant bait in the bay and surrounding areas there has been little to offer that could entice these fish to even glance in the direction. But like I always say, if you don´t like how things are now, things will change shortly and they have amigos. All of a sudden Rooster Fish, large Snappers, Arctic Bonito (skip Jack Tuna), Pompano, and even Needle fish (a summer indicator fish) are turning up around the islands and reefs. So things have changed, why, who knows. Still plenty of bait in the bay so we won´t question why, we´ll just enjoy it for what it is.

Roger Collard and my friend Sammy from Tony´s Place in Marina Vallarta with two 45lb Rooster Fish they boated at El Morro!

The deep water locations of El Banco and Corbeteña are both a tossup. You can come in with Yellowfin from anywhere around 60 lbs to 200 lbs. They may be a few miles off the high spots or they may be forty miles off or the Tres Maria Islands. The water may be clean, but it will probably be ¨clean green¨. Which is working, but blue is better. Cubera Snappers are also in the area and with a little luck you could still boat a Dorado of decent size. For me there are better locations to be spending your fuel dollar location wise.

Punta Mita is seeing the invasion of Snappers from 20 to 45 lbs.  Rooster fish around the Sayulita area and the possibility for a Sailfish if you can find a warm current. This area has been ignored for some time now and would be an option to the islands.

Speaking of the islands, the water is still warm with Needle fish around the reefs. Needle fish to me are indicator fish that warmer currents have moved in as we enter summer, not winter. So there are some strange currents out there, where they are coming from is a mystery. But with Rooster fish in the 40 to 60lb range who cares. Snappers are abundant (35 lb average), Pompano from 10 to 30 lbs, Jack Crevalls, Arctic Bonito and the list goes on. All and all this has been the hot location this week. Try and avoid the crowds if you can. Something to remember, the Rooster Fish hav e been coming up in the hours between 1 and 4 p.m. now. Early birds are hooking int o several different species, but  Roosters are chasing bait balls and when they come up you cast live bait into it and see what happens. They may like it, or they may not. Look at Roosters right now as a cherry. If they hit, great, but you have an equal chance they won´t and there you are…

Inside the bay is still frustrating. Four hour trips are less than exciting right now. The fish will be small and smaller. With Whales in the bay, fish have a tendency to think they will be lunch so they don´t linger around whales. Yet there are still Yellowfin Tuna off Yelapa, Sailfish also. The bait must be keeping them in the area, but warmer water is also in the bay with the warm days we´ve been having and the currents. Sierra Mackerals are abundant, Snappers around the rocks and in schools. Like normal at this time of the year the bay is small game fish central.

That is me holding up a 30 lb Jack Crevall, my body was shaking holding this up!

When you have the general perception that there is only one place in the area to catch fish, this is a good time to zag when the others are all ¨zigging¨ in the same place. With crowds attacking every bait ball that comes up, you find you will have crazy captains racing from bait ball to bait ball. Of course this practice is not a good idea when you have a fish on and a boat between you and the fish! Tempers flare, fish are lost, it´s just a bad situation. You won´t change things, so why not try something different. I have been receiving reports of massive herds of Snappers off Punta Mita and the area around Anclote, the reef is strong when it comes to Roosters. So try ¨zagging¨ when the others are in a frenzy ¨zigging¨…

While you are in town don`t forget to visit Marina Vallarta with the ¨other Malicon¨ in Puerto Vallarta! It`s the second most popular tourist attraction in Puerto Vallarta with Restaurant  row and 150 shops of all kinds… I´ll keep an eye out for you!

Until next time, don´t forget to kiss your fish!

Master Baiter´s Sportfishing & Tackle is located in Marina Vallarta on the Boardwalk between the light house and Porto Bellos restaurant. Come by and say hello!  Remember, at Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle, We Won´t Jerk You Around! If you have any questions on any subject regarding fishing or Puerto Vallarta, feel free to ask at my email: CatchFish@MasterBaiters.com.mx

The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing and Tackle is protected under trade mark law and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.

www.masterbaiters.com.mx

Almost every day people ask me about getting Fishing Licenses for Mexico and what are the regulations? For the most part they are unknown, there is nobody enforcing them and for the most part only the socially responsible have licenses. But north of us in Puerto Vallarta there has been a

Question: How many Rooster Fish can you legally boat in Mexico? Hit the link and find out!

surge to check fishing boats at the fishing grounds by the local officials. If you don´t have a license,  then they will give you a ticket…. But the ticket  is only six dollar equivalent in pesos… So the 13.00 dollar fishing license per person seems like a joke on some level. And of course they will try and get more out of you, this is your call if caught. But there are laws regulating the catch and species you can target, so again, a little information can go a long way….

Mexican Fishing Regulations, Yes they do exist but for some reason most are not  informed of what they are.For those of you out there that  have been running four to six lines and only have one or two guys fishing, you are breaking the law when it  comes to fishing here in Mexico! Now I know this seems silly, but  the deal is, one pole per person fishing at  any time! So running multiple lines with only one person with a fishing license is illegal. I bet you didn´t  know that now did you??

There is also a point system amigos… fish points if you will.  Billfish, those are ten points, Dorado, Sailfish, Rooster Fish, Tuna all come with different points. So it´s not exactly ten fish, it´s ten fish points and each fish is weighted.

You still need to get your Mexican Licenses from San Diego if coming down from the west coast. Or  like most people they do this on line…..

Looking for a Mexican Fishing license and all the related information, then follow this site: http://www.sancarlosmexico.com/fishregs.html

That is all for now amigos…. book mark this page so you have it  handy if fishing here in Mexico…

Stan

Master Baiters Sportfishing and  Tackle

www.masterbaiters.com.mx

Warmer Currents Move Into the Marietta Islands, Dorado and Yellowfin Reappear

Written by Stan Gabruk of Master Baiter ´s Sportfishing and Tackle

For years now I´ve been writing articles on fishing here in our world famous fishing grounds or Puerto Vallarta. In a normal season we would be seeing the end of the summer fishing season as the Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna and Sailfish filter out and head south for the winter. During unusual conditions like El Nino or La Nina the word ¨normal¨ does not apply. This year as you know if you read my ¨stuff¨ that we are in the second La Nina year in a row. This came after an El Nino Year. So for the last three years we have seen all sorts of conditions we ¨normally¨ would not have to deal with. So what does that mean to us now? Well all I can tell you is fishing is a mixed bag right now and if you are one of the thousands that have come to expect ´easy´ fishing, then you are in for a surprise. If you are looking for ¨action¨ then we`ve got game amigo. If you´re a little flexible and open to all that can happen, then you´re the person I am writing for again this week.

Red Snapper, Rooster Fish and Nate Profita on Guanatuna II with Capt Juan and Oliver first mate (midddle back row)

Last week or the last few reports I should say, Red Tide was a real issue. Fish hate red tide which is nothing more than dead plankton (single cell amebas). It cuts the amount of oxygen in the water, they can´t breath. So I am sure you can understand why the fishing was so horrible. But this has changed now, the currents have pushed the red tide out and the bay has warmer, fresh water. Good news for those looking for shorter days in the bay and actually have some action! So this is good news for us all. Inside the bay it´s Sierra Mackerals and Jack Crevalls for the most part.  They are taking bait and are the primary players for now in the bay. I know, nothing too exciting here, but there you are. We will soon see Snappers move in and Bonito pick up in numbers. Yellowfin Tuna are still in the area around Yelapa, but getting them interested in any bait you may have is difficult at best. With these tiny Sardines in the area there is no reason for them to pay attention to your trolled baits. I can´t even mimic these baits that are just a little bigger than a grain of rice…. This has to change soon. Now if you want to come back bald headed from pulling your hair out in frustration you can run over to Yelapa and see 100lb Yellowfin Tuna (yes I said 100 lb tuna, never seen this before in the bay) and many Sailfish. Now that`s cool, the frustrating part is the fact you can´t get them interested in anything you are putting in front of them. Sooner or later this will loosen up, that is the time you want to hit the bay with a full bait tank!

The Marietta Islands and its neighbor El Morro are still hit and miss. What do I mean by that, well it seems that Rooster fish and Jack Crevalls can spring up at any moment, anywhere in the bay. When they come to the surface chasing bait balls, it´s a feeding frenzy where casting a Google Eye in the middle of them will produce some arm breaking action. Trolling is working fairly well for the Crevalls, but when it comes to Rooster Fish you have to catch them on the surface and ¨in the mood¨. It seems like they have a ¨head ache¨ all the time and are on the downhill side of a 50 / 50 chance of boating one. Now if you do, they´re anywhere from thirty to sixty pounds. Eight hours is worth the time and money for now, but again thin skinned types may find this frustrating, the other word for fishing!

Pompano at the Marietta Islands

Update 1/5/2011: Rooster fish have finally started taking baits in the mid afternoon to about 4:00. So the bite is on. Roosters running 45lbs and up are everywhere and went into a feeding frenzy on the tons of live bait in the Bay of Banderas. You just have to be in the area of where they are coming up and bam, multiple strikes. Snappers are out there as well in the 30 to 40 lb range, Pompano, Bonito, Skip Jacks, Milk Fish and more!

There have been some warm currents and we´ve even seen some warm breezes similar to the Santa Anna winds in California, very strange. With these warm breezes and currents we have seen Sailfish and Dorado return. That´s right, we have some, not many, Dorado and Sailfish off the islands. Bonito and Snappers are increasing in numbers. Pompano to 35lbs, Jack Crevalls to 40lbs, Sierra Mackerals (they´re everywhere). If these tiny Sardines move out we´ll be rolling again in the bay….

Henery Sanepoel from South Africa with his boat load of Yellowfin Tuna

Great news this week for El Banco and Corbeteña, We´ve seen Yellowfin Tuna Returning, Striped Marlin and Cubera Snappers taking bait and being aggressive. Yellowfin Tuna to 200 lbs with the average being in the 45lb range (Footballs). Striped Marlin to 250 lbs and the Cubera Snappers are averaging 40 to 60lbs. So if you have a notion now would be a good time to hit the Rock and El Banco… One issue is the dirty water, to find blue water yesterday Bella Del Mar was on the door step of the Tres Maria Island aka Prison Islands. Lots of Yellowfin tuna, but make sure you respect the 15 mile limit or you may find yourself with an unhappy ending to your vacation!

What we are seeing now is the last breath of summer fishing with these warm currents so if you are looking at boating a Sailfish, Dorado  or Tuna you better get off that couch amigo, Time´s a wastin!

While you are in town don`t forget to visit Marina Vallarta with the ¨other Malicon¨ in Puerto Vallarta! It`s the second most popular tourist attraction in Puerto Vallarta with Restaurant  row and 150 shops of all kinds… I´ll keep an eye out for you!

Until next time, don´t forget to kiss your fish!

Master Baiter´s Sportfishing & Tackle is located in Marina Vallarta on the Boardwalk between the light house and Porto Bellos restaurant. Come by and say hello!  Remember, at Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle, We Won´t Jerk You Around! If you have any questions on any subject regarding fishing or Puerto Vallarta, feel free to ask at my email: CatchFish@MasterBaiters.com.mx

The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing and Tackle is protected under trade mark law and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.

www.masterbaiters.com.mx

Changing Currents, Cold Water, Unpredictable Fishing, It´s Hair Pulling Time!

Written by Stan Gabruk of Master Baiter ´s Sportfishing and Tackle

This week the fishing conditions can all be summed up in one word: Unpredictable. Right now you don´t know what you´re going to get out there and I mean anywhere when it comes to our world famous fishing grounds. With red tide, dirty water, cold water, warm currents, blue water outside of the both Corbeteña and El Banco. To use a Gump-ism, Fishing is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you´re going to get! And if you are fishing in Puerto Vallarta those words are ringing true for sure! Bait is not an issue, but if you are targeting a specific species right this moment, you will most likely be disappointed. Those looking to catch fish and have a good day on the water, then this week, this is the person I am talking to in this week’s article. For the high strung types who have to catch Moby Dick, well his cousin may still be out there, but it´s going to cost you time and money with the lucky coming in happy and the unlucky, well you can guess!

Striped Marlin 15 miles South of Corbeteña, The only Marlin caught this day on Camela

I mean it´s just incredible and I can´t remember the last time conditions like this existed. For the last couple of weeks the Rooster fish have been as reliable as the sun coming up. Today, you can hit the Marietta Islands and either come in with a full fish box or it could be empty, just like your hands and your wallet. For the person looking for guarantees when it comes to fishing, you´d be better off Golfing.

Let’s Start with El Banco, for the whole summer El Banco has been less than adequate when it comes to living up to it´s reputation this season and now with all the cold water those heading out this way are crossing their fingers hoping to find some clean blue water. That´s the bad news, the good news is there are Striped Marlin and midsized Dorado in the 45lb range. Now it´s a long way to be taking chances with your fuel dollar so wait to hear a report before you head out. Water temperatures are like all the deep water locations, find blue or clean green water and you´ll more than likely have a day worth remembering. The real challenge here is finding the clean water which is around 78 degrees, perfect for Striped Marlin and Dorado…. There you go, feel like rolling the dice?

Corbeteña, for the whole of fishing’s high season this has been the place to be and it looks like it still is if you´re looking for sizeable fish like Striped Marlin, Dorado, Sailfish, Cubera Snappers and who knows what else you´ll hit out there. Rainbow Runners, Amber Jacks and the list is endless. The only question is what is going to show up? Bait is still not an issue with plenty of Bonito on hand. Now the action for the most part here is 10 to 25 miles southwest of the Rock. Good Luck, a good backup plan would be to fall back on the Marietta Islands and target Rooster Fish. Same deal h ere, cool water, possibly red and dirty so be fueled up and ready to find those finned little frustration dreams.

Phillip Mimnaugh and Son from Bakersfield Calif with a couple of 50¨ Roosters at the Marietta Islands

El Morro and the Marietta Islands, if you want to pull your hair out try and tell a client he may or may not catch fish if he heads hear. One day the fish are striking in frenzies, the next day there´s nothing to be found. Then there are times you`ll find Rooster Fish and they won´t take a bait for love or money! So fishing in PV is not the ¨easy¨ fishing we expect and have become accustomed to. Now fishing in PV is really fishing, you may come in with an empty fuel tank, wallet and fish box! Not good, but there lies the challenge. Are you up for it?? For the thin skinned, if you have high expectations for the Marietta Islands, you just may find yourself disappointed. Roll the dice and see where it takes you.

The bay… wow, the bay has turned into an ugly monster for the moment. Red tide from dead or dying plankton. Dirty water, cold water, I mean could it get any worse out there? The answer to this is actually no, it can´t get any worse than it has been and when the currents settle down, things will get better.  If you are taking in a fishing trip, keep positive and enjoy the day for what it is. Watch some whales if you come across them and don´t sweat it if the fish are smaller than you would like. In the world of fishing there are no guarantees. For now, if you are going to have a cow if you don’t come in with a fish or any kind, then maybe a day on the golf course would be more for you. If you´re like me, then any day on the water is a gift from the heavens! So relax, it´s fishing! Snook at the rive r mouths, Snappers around the rocks and any structure. Sierra Mackerals to ten pounds, Jack Crevalls to 25lbs and the list is a little short for now, stay tuned!

Since you read this far, for the last couple of days I have been rolling the dice as to what the bite is going to do. A few days ago I had a client get down-right upset with me because I sent him out too early and missed the bite. All the previous days the bite was in the morning so we went with that. So when this client got upset, that day the bite was in the mid afternoon. So I start sending boats out later in the morning, around 8:30… Then the bite changed after one day to early and later. So now the bite is 8 in the morning and again about 4:00 in the afternoon. Just far enough for an eight hour trip to the Marietta Islands able to catch the early bite or the late bite, but not both. So this has turned into an unpredictable condition that I cannot predict. So there you are, it´s fishing. If you are up to the challenge and you don´t have thin skin, then once more, it´s worth the trouble, but during this transitional time, high expectations may just breed some monster disappointments. And that is the bottom line, as straight as I can put it.

12 28 2011 Nicolas Nikolov and his Rooster Fish from El Morro, Mi Jenny, 8 hrs,

While you are in town don`t forget to visit Marina Vallarta with the ¨other Malicon¨ in Puerto Vallarta! It`s the second most popular tourist attraction in Puerto Vallarta with Restaurant  row and 150 shops of all kinds… I´ll keep an eye out for you!

Until next time, don´t forget to kiss your fish!

Master Baiter´s Sportfishing & Tackle is located in Marina Vallarta on the Boardwalk between the light house and Porto Bellos restaurant. Come by and say hello!  Remember, at Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle, We Won´t Jerk You Around! If you have any questions on any subject regarding fishing or Puerto Vallarta, feel free to ask at my email: CatchFish@MasterBaiters.com.mx

The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing and Tackle is protected under trade mark law and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.

www.masterbaiters.com.mx

Winter Gamefish Explode at the Marietta Islands, Rooster Fish Dominate, Laundry List Fishing!

Written by Stan Gabruk of Master Baiter ´s Sportfishing and Tackle

It seems that every year we just dread the end of Summer Fishing as the water temperatures drop and the Whales arrive. The Whales are PV`s friend, but the fish in the bay think they could be lunch for these monster sized Mammals! If you´re a Yellowfin Football in the bay, you look like a Google Eye to a Whale, or so the fish think. In reality they are more interested in the Krill squids than the fish. But for this reason the boils of Football Yellowfin Tuna have moved out of the bay, yet the bait balls are springing up in everywhere. As El Morro and the Marietta Explode with a laundry list of winter gamefish we have to accept that winter fishing is here. This means smaller fish, closer in, abundant and equipped with a bad attitude for sure. For the Hard Core, you can still have larger Yellowfin Tuna if you´re willing to take the risk and pay the price in dinero and time! So, what are you going to do now amigo? Welcome to Puerto Vallarta´s World Famous Fishing Grounds.

Roosterfish at Marietta Islands

From this point forward I am afraid El Banco or The Bank in English is going to be something to think about come June when the warmer currents return. For now there are some reports from private boats of Marlin, Stripped I suspect, have been boated on multiday trips in the 300lb range. I was told it was larger, but we´re all fisherman so we understand! Spinner Dolphin are 8 to10 miles before you reach the high spots, which of course means smaller Yellowfin Footballs of forty pounds or so. Cubera Snappers and Bonito as well, but these species are no real reason to venture out and burn fuel when you can find better fishing closer in.

Hardcore Yellowfin Fanatics still have the Tres Maria Islands with Yellowfin Tuna to 250lbs. But don´t let your testosterone get the best of you amigo. The Tres Maria Islands are prision islands and getting closer than 15 miles is not permitted. There are some Drug Lord types out there now and there have been some escape attempts lately where believe it or not fishing boats picked up the escaped prisoners. There have been several boats that will tell you they have permits, insurance and fishing licenses, most don´t! One boat in particular was so careless this past year and pushed this envelope too many times. The Captain was finally brought to the islands under armed security guards confiscated the boat with clients who had to find their way back to Marina Vallarta and had a horrible day. Nobody knows about if the clients got their money back!  This has happened more than a couple of times yet you will not hear about that from those who got busted and write articles blowing their horns. I Could tell you who and what boat, but I don´t like being a finger pointer, especially when you have three pointing back at you!  Yet they´re charging enough for sure with no accountability??  I wonder if they will list these incident on their bloody decks site someday. For a group of finger pointers and nasty assholes, they seem to have forgotten to write this about themselves here. So don´t look to Bloody Decks for anything other than self promotion absent of responsibility and accountability as you lose your money and wonder if you are going to wind up in Jail.

Corbeteña is also slowing down, but there are still signs of Summer Fishing here for the moment. The bite has been all over the place and while there are Yellowfin Tuna from 40 to 150 lbs, you better be there when they`re in the mood. And like our female counter parts, reading their minds is impossible!  My suggestion is for now to hit it early around sun-up at the Rock to take a s hot at Yellowfin, Sails, Cubera Snappers, Dorado to 40lbs, Bonito, and more. Water temperatures hit 72 degrees here this week so whatever warm currents they can find out there is where you`ll find these finned fantasies. But you better get  out there quick while the iron is still hot so to speak!

The place to be t his week was once again the area around El Morro and the Marietta Islands. The primary players once again are Rooster fish!  Running anywhere from 25 to 50 lbs these quill headed demons ar e thick around the reefs and upwelling’s at El Morro.  They are aggressive and hungry, poppers, Google Eyes, Diamond Jigs, Rapallas, take your pick, they´ll hit it! Snappers to from 10 to 20 lbs are perfect for the blue plate special, Dorado, Amber Jacks, Pompano, Jack Crevalls you even have a shot (30%) of hitting a Sailfish out there. So the laundry list of fish available is constantly changing, yet plentiful in this area. Since we are looking at mirror weather conditions from last year we have no reason to think this sort of action at the Islands will change in the near future. It is hard to complain about having fish, I mean really… but I will. Just a reminder, the islands and the reefs are protected areas so respect the regulations even if there isn`t anyone to enforce them!

Update 12/21/2011: El Morro, The Marietta Islands, and Punta Mita have all come to an almost dead stop when it comes to  Rooster fish. Why, who knows, the bite was happening between 10 and 12 in the day. Many Rooster out there, few are taking bait. There are these tiny, tiny sardines that are like caviar to these fish and getting them to  hit one right now is like getting your kids to eat peas! Dorado are all but gone, El Banco has some on the south side off the high spots. No news from Corbeteña

Four and six hour trips in the bay are fo r light tackle gamefish like Snappers, Sierra Mackerals, Bonito, Jack Crevalls, and  the list goes on… Like I mentioned earlier the  Whales have pretty much scared the Yellowfin Footballs out of the bay along with Dorado. The bay for now is the most affordable option, but not your best option. For those with kids, the bay is perfect for them right now. Fly fisherman fare is all over the bay and if you are a ¨fly guy¨ bring the 10 wt poles, they`ll be tested!

Since you are here on my web page report, I had some folks come in the shop the other evening talking about the great time they had with another company that they had fished with. As I asked them some light questions they told me they were hooking into Rooster fish like crazy, but for some reason the line broke (9 times) under stress. I did not share the following information with these folks after the fact and don´t like stepping on peoples fun time memories with the negatives. For the record amigos, if you have line that is breaking under stress for a Rooster fish, several times, then you are fishing with OLD LINE. This guy lost nine fish because of this one little and easy to correct thing, fresh fishing line! This is one of the most basic expectations you should have for any fishing company. But you don´t know this will happen until you find yourself losing the fish you paid to boat! With the double expense for everything fishing in Mexico, this is a 30 dollar fix, once a year. So remember discount boats are slow and should come with NO expectations. All you have to do is look at the line, if it looks yellowed, salty, or just bad, you know what you are not getting. Don´t even get me started about drags when you have a reel full of stressed and ancient line. Make sure you know what you are getting or more importantly paying for and not getting. For those of you out there thinking this sounds like ¨sour grapes¨ I can see how you may think that. But Master Baiter´s is the oldest and most respected fishing company in Puerto Vallarta and has been for twelve years now. I provide business for every reputable fishing boat there is in Marina Vallarta with my overflow business. I will be here when and if there is only one fishing company in PV it will be Master Baiters. We´ve weathered the storms, we´re still here and our primary interest is getting you on fish. I will tell you if another company or boat is good, and there are several. The same holds true on the downside amigos. Once you find a person or company you feel you can trust, build some history with them and share your positive and negative opinions of who you are fishing with. It only builds the business of the good and lets the lower quality boats rely on selling their products at going broke prices. One step ahead of bankruptcy! Remember you are paying for wet line time, not getting there and back time. Fast boats cost more, it´s a fuel issue. So ask how long it will take to get to the fishing grounds and base your  tips on what they deliver.

As we come to another New Year I would like to thank everyone who reads my weekly articles. I enjoy writing them, but never really know how many readers I have. So who ever or where ever you are, I appreciate your support and hope to continue writing for years to come.  So Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle in Marina Vallarta!

While you are in town don`t forget to visit Marina Vallarta with the ¨other Malicon¨ in Puerto Vallarta! It`s the second most popular tourist attraction in Puerto Vallarta with Restaurant  row and 150 shops of all kinds… I´ll keep an eye out for you!

Until next time, don´t forget to kiss your fish!

Master Baiter´s Sportfishing & Tackle is located in Marina Vallarta on the Boardwalk between the light house and Porto Bellos restaurant. Come by and say hello!  Remember, at Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle, We Won´t Jerk You Around! If you have any questions on any subject regarding fishing or Puerto Vallarta, feel free to ask at my email: CatchFish@MasterBaiters.com.mx

The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing and Tackle is protected under trade mark law and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.

www.masterbaiters.com.mx

Welcome to the Banderas Bay Mixed Salad of Transitional Fishing or in real terms, WTF is going on out there?  Written by Stan Gabruk of Master Baiter ´s Sportfishing and Tackle

Well HERE WE ARE AGAIN, me in front of my computer in Marina Vallarta looking out over the Yachts and Sportfishers trying to figure out how to explain what is happening out there, it comes down to two words: Mother Nature. Yes, she is in control as we see the La Nina effects bring winter fishing early to our World Famous Fishing Grounds of Puerto Vallarta. With fields of bait balls of Krill sized Squids, Shrimps and Tiny Sardines, basically Whale food, (the main reason they come to our bay to breed and play) fish are still hanging out in this abundant environment. The bite is a moving target with plenty of Yellowfin Tuna Footballs near Yelapa to be found, getting them to pay attention to your baits is another thing. Marlin, Tuna, Dorado, Sailfish in the deep water locations, we have it all. So hang tight, this is useful information coming at you.

Warren Muir and Joel Hart, 4 hrs, Bella Del Mar, 40lb Football Yellowfin Tuna

Ok, the action at El Banco is less than spectacular. My friend Ray took friends and family out to El Banco and boated a few 40 lb YF Footballs, no Marlin sighting and water temperatures were downright cold at 72 in some of the colder currents. And this is my only input from El Banco?!

Corbeteña is still alive with one again, off again action. It is iffy and if you are at the rock you have a decent shot at a smaller Black Marlin in the 250 lb range. Cubera Snapper are there as well around the 50lb range. Dorado running 45 lbs, Sailfish in the 100 inch size, Yellowfin Tuna can be anywhere from 60 to 150 lbs. The water is blue, but cool and the only reason any of these warm water species are still hanging in the area is the abundance of bait in the waiter. If you are thinking of hitting the rock looking for Billfish you better get out there while you still have a shot at these finned fantasies.

The Tres Maria Islands are alive with 250lb Yellowfin Monsters, but the islands have gotten tight with their regulations. The Tres Marias are prison Islands where they have been put ting these captured cartel guys. I head a few prisoners had jumped the island and were floating out to sea. Now a fishing boat can easily be an escape boat in their eyes quite easily. So if you are heading out this way, keep your Sh-t straight and stay the 15 miles off the island, even if t here are boils closer in. You wouldn´t want to be stuck and thrown in with the general population amigos. Ask Capt. Steven Torres (Anna Maria) who was quiet about being thrown in with these prisoners (with clients on board) as he pushed the envelope too many times. They shaved his head and held him for close to a week…. Many of those Bloody Decks type who think they are going to push the envelope learned that day to keep their envelope pushing somewhere else! Just like the Maximus the Bloody Decks boys push, same situation, no insurance, no fishing licenses, the permits they had to fish the islands were bogus and after the third time being warned, they finally got the idea. Or did they, they are pushing it again. So they´ve been warned…..

The islands are the place to be. El Morro to the Marietta Islands are alive with action of the Rooster Fish variety, right now! Running anywhere from 20 to 50 lbs, these arm breakers will not disappoint those looking for some light tackle action. Any shinny bait, poppers, Google eyes, these all are working well and will guarantee many hook-ups. All you need is eight hours and a fast Super Panga for this day on the water amigos! The Marietta Islands come with a little more action in the form of Sailfish, Snappers, Bonito, Dorado, Jack Crevalls, Sierra Mackerals, and the list goes on. For your  fishing buck this area is your best  bet .

Punta Mita is still producing Dorado, but much smaller and less abundant.  Sailfish are still about ten miles off the point and a little north of the Sayulita. If you are fishing out of La Cruz this may be worth your time and effort.

Rooster Fish at the Marietta Islands, Joe and Wife, Baruk, 8 hrs

The bay is still producing fish or all sorts, Sierra Mackerals have taken over the bay and are everywhere you will be. So you don´t really have to hunt for these speckled beauties that are normally in the 10 to 20 lb range. They taste great and are wonderful for younger anglers. If you are looking for the Football Yellowfin Tuna, then you need to be patient amigo. With  the full moon we saw the bite erratic in the mornings and stronger in the afternoon.  Remember there is no reason you can`t take a Super Panga out in the afternoon and catch the late bite amigos, especially now when it is the best time to fish!  For the ladies our Super Panga comes with a head for privacy, so no excuses!  The Footballs are there, no trouble finding them, but with all the whale food in the bay they are chowing down on this Krill and if you are running smaller squid baits, then you have a shot. My suggestion, if you want some morning action, be out of the Marina before 6 a.m.. You may find the bite has ended before 11 a.m. For short times on the water you want to keep up with what the bite is like or you may just find yourself missing it completely.

Now that we have seen some very cold currents moving into the area we have officially moved into winter fishing and all that entails. The Yellowfin will only be around for a few more weeks at most. The Black Marlin are barely there as it is.  We should be seeing more Striped Marlin, but then again who knows. They like cooler water, so the conditions are rite for them. With  water temperatures at 72 degrees we seldom see cooler temperatures than that here. So it will be interesting to watch and see if they dip any further, which is very possible. So keep an eye on the bite, the water temperatures and what is coming in on the docks. The fishing is great if you know the facts amigo….

While you are in town don`t forget to visit Marina Vallarta with the ¨other Malicon¨ in Puerto Vallarta! It`s the second most popular tourist attraction in Puerto Vallarta with Restaurant  row and 150 shops of all kinds… I´ll keep an eye out for you!

Until next time, don´t forget to kiss your fish!

Master Baiter´s Sportfishing & Tackle is located in Marina Vallarta on the Boardwalk between the light house and Porto Bellos restaurant. Come by and say hello!  Remember, at Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle, We Won´t Jerk You Around! If you have any questions on any subject regarding fishing or Puerto Vallarta, feel free to ask at my email: CatchFish@MasterBaiters.com.mx

The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing and Tackle is protected under trade mark law and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.

www.masterbaiters.com.mx

Rooster Fish and Dorado at the points, Marlin & Yellowfin Tuna Thinning Out

Written by Stan Gabruk of Master Baiter ´s Sportfishing and Tackle

As we continue to move deeper into early winter we see the fishing conditions changing as colder water takes over our world famous fishing grounds. But this does not mean we are seeing the fishing go south as well as we see the bay explode with large football sized Yellowfin Tuna which continues to be the primary player for short trip anglers. No wonder with the amount of bait in the bay. The bite has moved closer to mid day as you would expect at this time of the month. Deep water locations of El Banco and Corbeteña see fewer anglers as Marlin and Yellowfin move out gradually. Yep, things are changing but if you don´t need to boat a fish over 100 lbs, then you are in for a great day at a more affordable price.

Yellowfin Football Tuna at Yelapa, 4 Hrs on Bella Del Mar, Our 28ft Super Panga

Normally at this time of the year the water temperatures are still warm so we normally have Large Marlin and Yellowfin Tuna, but with the La Nina Conditions we experiencing in back to back years, this is not the case this year, again. I am not saying you won´t find large fish at El Banco or Corbeteña, I am just giving you a friendly warning that if you have high expectations for these locations, you may just experience the same level of disappointment if you´re looking for Moby Dick amigos! We have seen some strong southern currents and with them comes colder water. Now there are other things that will come with the colder currents as well, bait for one thing. We are seeing very large Squids in the 40lb range at Corbeteña so as you can imagine there are still some Yellowfin Tuna at the rock. Now they may be forty pounds or they may be 120 lbs, it just depends on the draw. Marlin are still hanging around the rock, but they are getting smaller by the day if you are lucky enough to find one! Sailfish who like water a touch cooler are still swarming, but you don´t need to hit the rock to find Sails amigos. Cubera Snappers are large and worth the time and money if you are a mind to head out this way. Remember to keep in mind the local bait! If you are lucky enough to boat a Yellowfin Tuna, check the stomach and see what they`re feeding on, simple tricks from the old timers can save your day, so remember the basics when fishing! Squid, Krill shrimps and squids (whale food), Sardines and more have moved into the area. For those who just have to have a Marlin before they go home, the best place at the moment is the area between El Morro and Corbeteña. For some reason there are warm areas around this area and with the bait being as abundant as it is, there are plenty of reasons for these finned fantasies to hang around.

Rooster Fish at the Marietta Islands, 8 hrs Capt. Chema Mi Jenny

Update: 12/06/2011, well as I sent this article off to press things as you may expect changed for the better at El Banco and Corbeteña. Now the Marlin are still MIA (missing in action) for some unknown reason, but Yellowfin Turned up out of nowhere and are thick around the perimeter of the high spots. The water is clear and clean green, water temps are hovering in the 78 degree range (normal would be 82 degrees) and the Yellowfin Tuna are running anywhere from 60 to over 200 lbs right now! You may expect these Yellowfin (YF) Tuna to be chasing Krill and Sardines like in the bay, but in fact they are hitting bullet Bonitos, another of t heir favorites to feed on! If you are here in Vallarta and you have been looking for Yellowfin Tuna Action, then you better hit it while it´s hot or this will be another ¨You should have been here yesterday¨ story. While there give the Cubera Snappers a shot around the drop off (jigging) the high spots, you may find it surprising!

The Marietta Islands have exploded after a less than exciting summer. Rooster fish ranging from 20 to 70lb s are back being their aggressive selves. Dorado are here as well, yet we don´t seem to see much demand for Dorado unless it´s in the bay and close to Marina Vallarta. Snappers are turning up in the area as well in the 15 to 40 lb range. Don`t forget about the Jack Crevalls, Bonito, Skip Jacks, Sierra Mackerals and the list goes on. For the guy looking t o get some action and still keep some bucks in his back pocket, this is the best bang for your ¨Blue Water Fishing¨ excursions. Leave by 7a.m. and get back before the wife knows you`re MIA! Update 12/6/2011: Roosterfish have surrounded the Marietta Islands and have taken the area hostage! You need 8 hrs, but the action starts when you drop a line amigos. Don´t go there if you are looking to shoot the breeze and drink beer, you will only have moments between between strikes! They are running from small to ¨My God¨ sized… or 25 to 70 lbs. You may want to bring something larger than a Baitmaster casting reel and pole on this trip…. For you ¨Fly Guys¨ nothing under a 10 wt please! Snappers are here as well, with Jack Crevalls, Pompano, Bonito, Sierra Mackerals, and more. It´s OK to dip into that Xmas cash if you don´t abuse it too badly… tell you r wife I said it was OK!

Punta Mita is still smoking with Dorado in the mid size range of about 30 lbs up. Sailfish are still about ten miles off the point and of course the Rooster Fish have surged in both numbers and size. Nothing complicated here, just cast a silver diamond jig, popper or Rapalla and anything is likely to happen. If you are targeting Dorado, go here! Update 12/06/2011: Ok, Rooster Fish have taken over here as well and you get the extra benefit of Dorado in the area as well. Sailfish are still ten miles or so off the points with plenty of bait in the water to keep their attention.

As we move into the holiday season like we are now we see the ¨fishing client¨ change from the guy who wants Moby Dick to the guy who just wants a short day where he or she can catch something they can eat that night for dinner. We all understand that for sure and if you are this person then we have the fishing trip for you. Yellowfin Tuna Footballs anywhere from 20 t o 60 lbs have set up camp for the last few weeks and with more and more Krill and Sardines moving into the bay there does not seem to be much of a reason for them to be moving out. Now we know this is not going to last forever, no matter how much bait is in the water so if you are a mind to, get your lucky butt out there and take advantage of something that is kinda unusual.

The Bite update 12/06/2011: Well the bite has changed and if you are out there thinking the bite is in the morning, then you got stung with bad timing. From the time I wrote this report to now, the bite moved from early to early afternoon around 1 to 2 O´clock. We have seen some days were the Footballs were just think, you could walk across them, yet they did not take any baits. It could be we don´t have anything to offer them that gets their attention, or you missed the bite. Remember, if you are going out for a short day, you have to know when the bite is happening or you may find yourself in the right place at the wrong time… sounds like my last marriage.

Bait: Bait, bait and more bait … there are bait balls the size of simi-trucks of three inch Sardinas as they call them here… Whale food, but smaller fish appreciate them as well. Bullet Bonito are around the deep water locations, drawing in the larger Yellowfins as I discussed earlier. Krill are still in the bay, probably the biggest reason the footballs are lingering by Yelapa. So keep an eye on what the local bait is and mimic it if you find the Google Eyes are not working. Always good to have bait in the water!

While you are in town don`t forget to visit Marina Vallarta with the ¨other Malicon¨ in Puerto Vallarta! It`s the second most popular tourist attraction in Puerto Vallarta with Restaurant row and 150 shops of all kinds… I´ll keep an eye out for you! Or  check out the Facebook page or the Village at Marina Vallarta here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Village-at-Marina-Vallarta/113471265373196

Until next time, don´t forget to kiss your fish!

Master Baiter´s Sportfishing & Tackle is located in Marina Vallarta on the Boardwalk between the light house and Porto Bellos restaurant. Come by and say hello! Remember, at Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle, We Won´t Jerk You Around! If you have any questions on any subject regarding fishing or Puerto Vallarta, feel free to ask at my email: CatchFish@MasterBaiters.com.mx
The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing and Tackle is protected under trade mark law and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.

www.masterbaiters.com.mx