7/1/11

The fishing continues to be great offshore. More Marlin are showing up on the 100 fathom line and Yellowfin Tunas in the 100-200 lb range are everywhere. Just last week we pulled up to a bait ball and I had a 100lb fish free jump into the boat. What a moment that was….. The inshore bite also continues to be spectacular. There’s a lot of Cubera Snappers now and catching them on top-water poppers are a real blast. Roosterfish are also abundant as well; big fish, in the 50-70 lb range. The Sailfish bite has slowed some but there’s more than enough other species offshore to keep the rods bent all day.
Christian Evans released his first Black Marlin estimated at 400 lbs. Delora McEnaney released her first Pacific Blue Marlin that went 300 lbs and her husband and John got his first Pacific Sailfish estimated at 100 lbs and caught a giant 227 lb Pacific Sailfish. Andria Childs released her first 300 lb Pacific Blue Marlin as well and Carter Magill also has a shot at his first Pacific Blue Marlin around 150 lbs.
Christian Evans released his first Pacific Sailfish estimated at 85 lbs and Doug Childs released his first Pacific Sailfish that went 100 lbs and also caught a 188 lb Yellowfin Tuna. Spencer Doyle, Angelo Salvatore and Marco Deluca all released their first Pacific Sailfish. Greg Farmanian weighed in a 142 lb Yellowfin Tuna and Spencer Miller also caught a nice one that went 159 lbs.
 

 

 

 

6/17/11

Over the last two weeks the inshore fishing have been spectacular. Herds of giant Roosterfish have arrived; many in the 70-80 lb range. This is as good as it gets. Every angler fishing at the lodge caught at least one fish over 60 lbs. There’s also good numbers of Cubera Snappers in the rocks and a few guests had fun catching them on poppers. We were also invaded by schools of Yellowfin Tunas in the 50-100 lb range. Sailfising continues to be good although sporadic at times and we have also been seeing fairly decent numbers of Striped Marlin offshore.

Juscelino Martins released his first Pacific Blue Marlin estimated at 300 lbs. Ecio Silva also had good luck and released his first Pacific Blue Marlin that went 200 lbs. Lucas Silva released his first Pacific Sailfish, 80 lbs. Gabriel Cestari released his first Pacific Sailfish estimated at 100 lbs. He released an awesome 6 Sails for the week. Luiz Garcia released his first Pacific Sailfish estimated at 80 lbs. Chloe Peppper released her first Pacific Sailfish estimated at 100 lbs and both Henry and Christine Stephens released their first Pacific Sailfish.

Skip Avara released his first STRIPED MARLIN and Pacific Sailfish. His son Skip also released his first Pacific Sailfish. Matt Frantz released his first Pacific Sailfish as well. Zack Webb was happy with his first Pacific Sailfish that went around 100 lbs and George Miller also released his first 100 lb Pacific Sailfish. Lloyd Hawthorne and his wife Treva has a fantastic trip, releasing their first Pacific Sailfish around 100 lbs.
 

 

 

5/28/11

The Sails are here! We’ve been waiting patiently all month for the arrival of the annual Sailfish run and they’re finally here. The last two days have been spectacular. Crews reported up to 20 strikes per day and it’s been non-stop action; doubles and triples included. Some anglers even nailed a few on the fly. That’s not all that’s biting offshore. Giant schools of Yellowfin Tunas are everywhere, most of them in the 50-80 lb range but one lucky angler caught a 230 lb monster a few days ago. Huge dorado are also biting; up to 60 lbs. Oh yes, there’s plenty of happy faces at TSL. The inshore bite has also been spectacular. Roosterfish are piled up on the rocks and there’s a few willing Cubera Snappers as well.

Jim Dickson released his first Black Marlin estimated at 400 lbs. Mark Brown, Louis Pelletier, Richard Page, Michael Greelish and Paul Raulinaitis all released their first Pacific Sailfishin the 120-130 lb range. Louis, released 2 more Pacific Sailson fly. Well done guys. Oscar and Rodrigo Prola double teamed a Yellowfin Tuna that weighed an astounding 230 lbs. Congratulations!

 

Other catches of note were by Tom Schievelbein, who released a giant Roosterfish that went around 70+ lbs. Hobart Richie Jr. caught a nice Yellowfin Tuna around 90 lbs. Hugh “Waco” Liles scored a trophy Roosterfish that went 60+ lbs and Louis Pelletier caught a trophy 40 lb bull dorado on the fly.

 

 

5/21/11

For the last few weeks we have been experiencing spectacular tuna action on the 100 fathom line just west of the lodge. Most fish are in the 40-80 lb range but there are some monsters lurking beneath. Just 3 days ago Oscar and Rodrigo Prola landed a 230 lb giant on 50 lb test.

For the last couple of days, the bite has been very consistent and it seems like this school of fish will be here for quite some time.
 

 

4/30/11

The offshore billfish bite has been quite slow for the last two weeks, however there were some days when the reef produced a decent Black Marlin bite. We are however fortunate as there were lots of Yellowfin tunas and big Dorado feeding on giant balls of sardines and squid along the coast. These fish aren’t small any means, ranging from school sized 15 pounders up to 80 lbs. Our guests got in the action and numerous double and triple headers were recorded. Cedar plugs worked best and pulling a couple of these lures through the schools on 30 lb tackle made for a fun time with lots of action. Inshore, the Roosterfish and Cubera Snapper bite was great as always during this time of the year. There were even a few nice sized Tarpon caught just north of the lodge.

Cody Jones released his first two Black Marlin. The first one went 300 lbs, and on his last day out he released a monster 600 lb fish on the reef. Cody also had good success inshore with a pair of nice 40 lb Cubera Snappers and his grandmother Yvonne caught a huge 50+ lb Roosterfish on a popper. Roberta Arostegui released her first Black Marlin estimated at 350 lbs and was caught on 20 lb spinning tackle and her husband Martin scored 5 potential IGFA release records for Almaco Jack, Skipjack Tuna, Sierra Mackerel and African Pompano. Paul Ingram released a Pacific Blue marlin estimated at 450 lbs. Other catches of note were by 9 year old Tori Glaser who caught 3 potential IGFA Records for the Small fry division; a 45.6 lb Roosterfish, 90.8 lb Blacktip Shark and 12 lb Pacific Needlefish. Kyle Vincent also has lots of action inshore and released a 100lb+ Tarpon and also has a pending line class record for a 73.6 lb Blacktip Shark.
 

 

4/1/11

The last two weeks has been mostly mix bag fishing and there are still a few Black Marlin around. April is usually when we make the transition n from marlin to sailfish and it also the beginning one of the best inshore fisheries in Central America. It’s difficult to describe the feeling of hooking into a 60+ lb Roosterfish. It’s a real rush and one serious tug of war. Fish in this size range are released almost every day from March thru May. The Cubera Snappers are hitting as well and it’s one of my all time favorite fish to catch. Stopping them from cutting you off in the rocks is one of the most difficult challenges you’ll ever face. I’ll cast all day just to see one of them explode on a surface popper! There’s lots of Yellowfin tunas around, up to 100 lbs or so. One day of that and you’d be headed directly for the massage room.

Justin Curran released a giant Black Marlin that easily went 750 lbs. James Upchurch released his first Black Marlin on his first morning out. The fish was estimated at 600 lbs. Karl Cyr also got lucky and released his first Black Marlin that went 400 lbs. David Edwards released his first Black Marlin as well. This one was a solid 250 lbs. Nancy Hopper released her first acific Blue Marlin around 250 lbs. The fish ate a live goggle-eye just a mile from the shore. Mitch Blunt released his first Black Marlin estimated at 400 lbs.

Linda Gentile released her first Pacific Sailfish that went 100 lbs. Kathy Williams released her first Pacific Sailfish. Tim Kehler also released his first Pacific Sailfish estimated at 100 lbs and landed a 50 lb dorado. Chris McCormick also scored his first Pacific Sailfish, 85 lbs. Ed Presley released a nice 60 lb Roosterfish. Richard Lane caught a huge 70+ lb wahoo and also landed monster 56lb Snowy Grouper on 20 lb spinning tackle. Chase Dicken released a huge 65lb Roosterfish.
 

 

 

3/19/11

As we move on through March, there are definitely signs that the Black Marlin and Blue Marlin are leaving our area, migrating south towards Ecuador and Peru. The crews are picking up a few here and there and most of them are being caught within 2-4 miles from the shoreline. What’s amazing is how every season seems to be a little different. Last march, around this time , the marlin bite was spectacular. As a matter of fact March 2010 was one of our top months. They’ll be back again soon but until then we’ll be busy with Yellowfin Tuna, Sailfish, Roosterfish and a host of other inshore species.
We’ve released over 300 Roosterfish this month. Guests are returning with up to 25 Roosterfish release flags. There’s some big ones too, up to 70 lbs. The Tuna bite is also spectacular. The fish are in the 40-70 lb range with a few 100+ fish in the mix.

Andrew Nolasco was the top angler for the week. He released his first 2 Black Marlin, both estimated between 250 and 300 lbs. He also released his first Pacific Blue marlin that went around 300 lbs. Paul Wirth also released his first Black Marlin estimated at 350 lbs. Mike Powers had his shot and released his first Black Marlin around 350 lbs. Eric Torano released his first Black Marlin in the 300 lb range.

Other noteworthy catches were by Edwin Nolasco who nailed a lovely 40lb Cubera Snapper last week. Mike Newman released his first Roosterfish that went 40 lbs.
 

3/12/11

 

Last week the action was really spectacular. Super sized schools of sardines invaded the coast and feeding on them were giant schools of Yellowfin Tunas and Dorado. It was non-stop action all week. The Black Marlin were also around but the pickings were fairly slim. Some very lucky anglers did get in on some of the action. Inshore was nothing short of spectacular. I have never in my three years seen so many Roosterfish. It was incredible to see 3-5 Roosters chasing the poppers while casting inshore. Boats returned to the docks every evening with the riggers loaded with green roosterfish release flags.

Andrzej Bilip had luck on his side this week He released 3 nice Black Marlin. Dan Parkes released his first Black Marlin estimated at 400 lbs and Ed Metzger also has great luck and released his first Black Marlin that also went 400 lbs. Doria Castle was stoked with her first Black Marlin release; the fish went 350 lbs. Wally Kerr released his first Pacific Blue Marlin estimated at 300 lbs.

Craig Cruise released his first Black Marlin estimated at 250 lbs and also had lots of action inshore, releasing 7 Roosterfish. Wayne Heraldson released a nice Black Marlin, 250 lbs. Darek Gieszczynski released his first Pacific Sailfish estimated at 80 lbs and Chip Metzger also released his first Pacific Sailfish that went 90 lbs.

Robert McBride nailed a trophy sized Yellowfin Tuna that weighed in at 144 lbs. Both him and his wife, Marion also enjoyed lots of Roosterfish action Marion. They released more than 12 in four days and Marion released a monster 70lb fish. Lynn Herlien was really happy with her 100 lb Yellowfin Tuna. Craig Cruise released a monster Roosterfish that went 60+ lbs.
 

 

 

3/5/11

The last two weeks was mostly mixed bag fish, and although the Blacks weren’t around in big numbers, the Yellowfin Tuna action offshore was nothing short of spectacular. They weren’t the biggest we’ve seen but there were quite a few in the 80-100 lb range. One angler weighed in a 162 lb brut. The inshore action was really great. Roosterfish were giving up themselves. I remember one morning throwing the popper close to the beach; on the first cast 5 Roosterfish were chasing it back to the boat. The next cast bang! Some boats released as much as 9 in a day. Many nice Cubera Snappers were also caught. If Roosterfish and Cubera Snappers are on your bucket list, there no better time to be at TSL.

Ernie Elliott released his first Black Marlin estimated at 450 lbs. Dennis Parker also released a nice sized Black Marlin that went 400 lbs. This was his first ever Black. Chris Thompson also got Lucky, and released his first Black Marlin estimated at 400 lbs. Grant Hughes was pleased with his first Black Marlin, 350 lbs.

Michael Bazos, Charlie Ferguson, Gary Higgs and Ed Hunstein all released their first Black Marlin in the 300 lb range. Jeff Erekson released a nice 280 lb Black Marlin. Ryan Rose scored his first Black Marlin in the 200 lb range and Tom Fisher was happy with his first Pacific Blue Marlin that went around 250 lbs. Curt Englert got lucky and released his first Black Marlin estimated at 350 lbs. Brendon Shanahan, Josh Davey and Lauren Heiter released their first Pacific Sailfish.

Gary Smith weighed in a monster Yellowfin Tuna that weighed 162 lbs. Tom Fisher nailed a huge Roosterfish, estimated at 70+ lbs. Laurel Waters and Robert Sullivan had an epic inshore day, scoring 8 Roosterfish in just 2 hours. Fabrizio Ruocco and Marcelo Federico had an incredible day inshore, catching a Pacific Sailfish, 9 Roosterfish and 5 Snappers

 

 

2/12/11

Last week the crews continued to work the reef, and although it seemed slow at times, those you stuck it out were rewarded with marlin. The bite was still consistent but the billfish seemed scattered over a wide area. Mid week the Yellowfin Tuna schools showed up just south west of the reef and the crews wasted no time getting our guests on them The fish weren’t monsters, most in the 40-80 lb range. Yes, there was plenty of sashimi for dinner. Catching dorado never seems to be a problem here and a few 50+ lb fish were taken as well. Dorado fingers after fishing is a real treat down here; there’s never enough!

 

Tony Visentin, Mark Stephen and Andy Linder was the top boat this week, releasing 6 Black Marlin and 1 Pacific Blue Marlin in 6 days of fishing. Andy released his first Black Marlin estimated at 500 lbs. They also had some good action with the Yellowfin Tunas and also caught a couple of nice Cubera Snapper inshore.

 

Giancarlo Lippi came all the way from Italy to fish the Pinas Bay waters. He had a trip of a lifetime, releasing his first Black Marlin estimated at 800 lbs, first Pacific Blue Marlin that went around 400 lbs, and first Pacific Sailfish. His mission was also to catch as many different species available at the lodge and he did just that, catching at least one of the following; Roosterfish, Cubera Snapper, Dorado, Yellowfin Tuna and Almaco Jack.

 

Bill and Laura Coley both released their first Pacific Blue Marlin last week. Laura’s fish went 500 lbs and Bill’s fish hit the 300 lb mark. Laura also got her first Pacific Sailfish release. Tommy Dozier released his first Black Marlin estimated at 400 lbs. Milan Kolcava also scored his first Black Marlin around 300 lbs. Jay Howington released his first Black Marlin, 300 lbs and Edward Francis also released his first Black Marlin that went 300 lbs.

 

Paul Mayeaux released his first Pacific Blue Marlin estimated at 400 lbs and Kevin Vaughn also released his first Pacific Blue Marlin around 350 lbs. Jiri Crhak released his first Pacific Sailfish around 100 lbs and Radim Ledl also scored his first Pacific Sailfish, 90 lbs.

 

 

2/5/11

As we continue on to the end of January, the bite is still going off. Big numbers of both Black Marlin and Blue Marlin are showing up around the reef and the further offshore on the 100 fathom curve. It was an early morning and late evening bite most of the week. The sailfishing continued to be slow and I am beginning to wonder about their migration patterns in the eastern Pacific as small pods are usually around this time of year. I am sure they will be arriving soon. There’s also some decent numbers of trophy Dorado around and quite a few in the 60-70 lb range were caught.

 

Capt. George Hemminger had his hands full with a trophy Black Marlin that was estimated at 700 lbs. Greg DeMille also encountered an estimated 800 lb Black Marlin and got the release. Greg DeMille released his first Black Marlin that went 400 lbs. and first Pacific Blue Marlin, 200 lbs. Sean Wylie nailed a monster Yellowfin Tuna last week. It bent the scale at 227 lbs. Congats Sean on your fish of a lifetime.

 

Paul Bent and his brother Jimmy were also back at the lodge last week and did they ever have a Trip of a lifetime! 12 Marlin released in 6 days fishing. Jimmy released his first Black Marlin and Pacific Blue Marlin, both estimated at 350 lbs, and Paul released his first Pacific Blue Marlin that went a solid 400 lbs.

 

Robert Kurz and his wife Sally also returned to TSL last week. It seemed that they brought a world of luck with them this time. They hit the jackpot, releasing 2 Black Marlin and 12 Blue Marlin for the week. Bob also completed his second BILLFISH ROYAL SLAM. What a trip! Sally also scored big, releasing a Black Marlin, Pacific Blue Marlin and Pacific Sailfish for a week’s Slam.

 

Susie Carlson released both her first Black Marlin estimated at 350 lbs, and Pacific Blue Marlin around 200 lbs, and first Pacific Sailfish. Congrats Susie; you got them all! Ken Hubbart released his first Black Marlin estimated at 300 lbs, and Robert Shawger released his first Pacific Blue Marlin estimated at 500 lbs. Michael Griffith and Tom Finkle also released his first Pacific Blue Marlin around 400 lbs.

 

 

1/29/11

Last week the bite really went off and the reef was teeming with Marlin, both Black and Blue. The crews were busy. There was no need to venture offshore either. Eight-eight marlin were released for the week. There were many happy faces and sore arms indeed. One boat released 14 Marlin in 6 days fishing. It was definitely one of the best bites we’ve ever experienced.

 

Bart Carey and Craig Spencer had the trip of a lifetime, releasing 14 Marlin in just 6 days fishing. Craig released his first Black Marlin estimated at 350 lbs and first Pacific Blue Marlin. Bart released his first Black Marlin that went around 400 lbs. Gordon Moss released his first Black Marlin that was estimated at 450 lbs and Pacific Blue Marlin around 400 lbs. Gordon also released the biggest fish for the week, a monster Black Marlin that had all of 750+ lbs. Randy Nyberg also had good luck last week, releasing his first Black Marlin estimated at 600 lbs. Dan Spalding also released his first Black Marlin, a hefty 500 lb fish.

 

Jorn Inge Thomassen released his first 2 Black Marlin both in the 400 lb range. Peter Gurd took his first Black Marlin around 350 lbs. Both Harald and Hans Krogh-Hanssen also scored their first Black Marlin estimated around 400 lbs. Hans also released his first Pacific Blue Marlin, a fish of a lifetime, 550 lbs. Harald also released his first Pacific Blue Marlin around 450 lbs. David Timm took his first Black Marlin release, a nice one in the 400 lb range and Robert Ferraro also scored his first Black Marlin, 350 lbs. Rick Glade released his first Black Marlin, 600 lbs, Pacific Blue Marlin, 350 lbs and also first Pacific Sailfish.

 

Hillary Ryan released both his first Black Marlin and Pacific Blue Marlin in the 450 lb range. Jason Keiswetter released his first Black Marlin estimated at 400 lbs. Frank Malena released his first Pacific Blue Marlin around 350 lbs. Jason Keiswetter released his first Pacific Blue Marlin estimated around 400 lbs. Paus Keiswetter released his first Black Marlin, 400 lbs. Michael Mechuga released his first Pacific Blue Marlin around 300 lbs and Stan Hardee took his first Pacific Blue Marlin, a 550 lb fish. Bill Keaty released his first Pacific Blue Marlin that went around 300 lbs. Jim Keaty released his first Pacific Blue Marlin around 400 lbs and also his first Pacific Sailfish.

 

 

 

1/22/11

Last week we saw some decent marlin action, most of it concentrated on the reef. The water was a bit green but the marlin were certainly not affected by it. Some adventurous anglers also ventured west to the 100 fathom curve in search of Yellowfin Tuna and were well rewarded with some nice sized fish in the 120-180 lb range. The Blue Marlin were also feeding on the reef which is a good indication that any time soon it’s going to go ballistic. We also caught a number of monster dorado last week in the 60 lb range.

 

Keith Keller released his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN, estimated at 600 lbs. Thomas Conti had a shot at his first BLACK MARLIN and got the release. The fish went around 400 lbs. He also weighed in the biggest YELLOWFIN TUNA for the week, weighing in at 177 lbs. Jared Carnes released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 350 lbs and his first PACIFIC SAILFISH around 100 lbs. His wife Coleen also released her first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 350 lbs and first PACIFIC SAILFISH, 100 lbs.

 

Steve Hennigen also scored both his first BLACK MARLIN that went 300 lbs and PACIFIC SAILFISH around 100 lbs. Ryan Corrigan released his first BLACK MARLIN that went around 450 lbs and Scott Corrigan was happy with his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN estimated at 350 lbs. Martin Pettet released his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN around 350 lbs and PACIFIC SAILFISH around 90 lbs. Jeremy Tollberg also released his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN around 200 lbs. and first PACIFIC SAILFISH, 120 lbs.

 

1/15/11

Last week we welcomed the Brimhall family and their friends to Piñas Bay for a full week of offshore fishing. The Marlin bite was as good as can be expected both on the reef and out on the ledge. Catching live bait was difficult at times; the crews had to work extra hard at this week. Also, schools of Pacific Sailfish showed up and the last two days of fishing was nothing short of spectacular. Many big Dorado were also caught; some in the 70lb range and few hefty Yellowfin Tuna made it to the scale. The biggest weighed in at 184 lbs.

George Brimhall released a BLACK MARLIN estimated at 320 lbs, PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN, 350 lbs, and 2 PACIFIC SAILFISH, for a GRAND SLAM. Well done. Grant Brimhall released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs and first PACIFIC SAILFISH around 90 lbs.
Blaine Hunt had an epic SLAM week, releasing his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 350 lbs, first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN, 350 lbs and first PACIFIC SAILFISH that went a solid 100 lbs. Mark Plunkett released a BLACK MARLIN, his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN estimated at 400 lbs and first PACIFIC SAILFISH for a week’s SLAM. Richard Bauer also released a BLACK MARLIN, PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN and first PACIFIC SAILFISH for a week’s SLAM.

Bill Borchers and Gary Rada both released their first BLACK MARLIN around 450 lbs. Bill also released his first PACIFIC SAILFISH, 100 lbs. Terri Grantham got a shot at his first BLACK MARLIN that went 300 lbs and also scored 5 PACIFIC SAILFISH. Bryan Zimmerman released his first BLACK MARLIN 350 lbs, and first PACIFIC SAILFISH, a monster, estimated at 120+ lbs. Jeremiah Harris released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 400 lbs. Austin Clayton released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 320 lbs, and first 3 PACIFIC SAILFISH.

Jason Pierce had a shot at his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN and got the release. This one was around 450 lbs. He also released his first PACIFIC SAILFISH, 100 lbs. Wells Brimhall released his first BLACK MARLIN and PACIFIC SAILFISH. Richard Bauer released his first PACIFIC SAILFISH around 80 lbs, and also had a SLAM for the week .Ryan and Bret Brimhall both released his first PACIFIC SAILFISH estimated at 90 lbs. Guy Dryer weighed in the biggest YELLOWFIN TUNA this week. It tipped the scale at 184 lbs.

 

 

 

1/8/11

Last week, the bite continued to be good both on the reef and further west on the 100 fathom curve. The Black Marlin and Blue Marlin did slow somewhat, however there was still a lot of great offshore action. Big schools of giant Yellowfin Tunas were feeding in the area and the crews did manage to put our guests on some of them. Quite a few big ones were caught and one angler weighed in a hefty 214 lb fish.

Eddie Jones was the star of the show this week. He released a BLACK MARLIN, BLUE MARLIN, and PACIFIC SAILFISH in one day for a GRAND SLAM. He also won the battle with a big YELLOWFIN TUNA that weighed in at 214 lbs. Great job Eddie. Jack Bell released his first BLACK MARLIN this week. The fish was estimated at 400 lbs. His wife Debbie also released her first two PACIFIC SAILFISH.

Lucas Aristidou and his wife Louisa also joined us at the lodge this week,all the way from Cyprus. Lucas released his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN estimated at 500+ lbs and Louisa released her first 2 PACIFIC SAILFISH. John and Vickie Wilson also joined us this week. Vickie released her first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN estimated at 400 lbs and PACIFIC SAILFISH, 100 lbs. John also scored his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN around 350 lbs. Beth Watkins also released her first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN that went around 200 lbs. Karen Weaver released a BLACK MARLIN, BLUE MARLIN and a PACIFIC SAILFISH for a week’s SLAM. Her husband Bob hung a nice 160 lb YELLOWFIN TUNA and a beastly ALMACO JACK, 70+ lbs. Jason Steinbicker released his first PACIFIC SAILFISH , a big one, that went around 130 lbs.
 

 

12/31/10

The last two week has been good fishing. The Black Marlin have been gathering on the reef in big numbers. It’s been sporadic but there’re here. Some good sized Blue Marlin are also in the mix. Offshore giant schools of big Yellowfin Tunas are showing up on the 100 fathom curve. Quite a few were caught in the 150-200 lb range. There’s no shortage of bait too both on the reef and out on the drop. Inshore, the bite is improving. Lots of Almaco Jacks, are pulling the lines and some lucky anglers are getting into some really big Roosterfish and Cubera Snappers. There’s also some good Wahoo fishing to be had inshore.

Duncan Whinnea released 5 BLACK MARLIN in six days of fishing; his biggest was a nice 500lb fish caught on the reef. He also released is first PACIFIC SAILFISH estimated at 90 lbs. Jim Johnson also released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs and topped off his trip with a 180 lb YELLOWFIN TUNA. Both Richard and Jenny Hair scored their first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 400 lbs.

The Heymann family joined us for a TSL Christmas vacation. Kobus released his first 2 BLACK MARLIN estimated at 400 lbs. His son Jacques also released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs. Franz Heymann released his first BLACK MARLIN around 350 lbs and PACIFIC SAILFISH at 120 lbs. Ferdi got his first PACIFIC SAILFISH estimated at 80 lbs.

Nick Rothaupt released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 600+ lbs. Keith Brandner released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs. Mark Hamilton had a true Tropic Star Experience releasing his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs, BLACK MARLIN and a 130 lb PACIFIC SAILFISH all in one day for a GRAND SLAM. His wife also caught a nice YELLOWFIN TUNA that went around 140 lbs. Chuck Walker released his first BLACK MARLIN that went 500 lbs and his wife Haddie caught her dream fish, a monster YELLOWFIN TUNA estimated 200 lbs.

Chase Anderson had good luck on his first day out releasing his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 350 lbs. Marshall Klimasewiski also released his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN estimated at 350 lbs and his wife Laurie released her first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN that went 250 lbs. Kevin Klopfenstein released both his first BLACK MARLIN and PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN. Sean Mendonca caught a big YELLOWFIN TUNA around 180 lbs.
 

12/18/10

Last week the fishing continued to be excellent. The marlin were packed up on the reef and for the first time in many years BLUE MARLIN, which are normally prowling the 100 fathom curve, were feeding together with the BLACKS on the reef. Some SAILFISH were also released later on in the week and couple of guests even ventured inshore and one was rewarded with a giant 70 lb+ ROOSTERFISH. We certainly hope the bite keeps up as we’re looking at some big numbers this month.

 

Carmine Benny released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs on the first day out. On the next day his son Mike hit them hard, releasing 3 Marlin, his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 450 lbs, and 2 PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN in the 300 lb range. Marsha Beni, Mike’s mom also had her turn and released her first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN estimated around 300 lbs. She also released a slob of a ROOSTERFISH, 70+ lbs!

 

Ron Thayer scored a GRAND SLAM this week, releasing a BLACK MARLIN, PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN and PACIFIC SAILFISH in one day!

 

Alec and Monica Weitzel came to Tropic Star Lodge this year for the first time to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary. Monika released her first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs and PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN, 250 lbs. Alec also got his first BLACK MARLIN around 370 lbs. See you again next year! Andrzej Bilip and his wife Agneska were also here this week. They had a trip of a lifetime releasing 2 BLACK MARLIN and 5 PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN in 6 days.

 

Bob Josselin released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 450 lbs, PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN, 350 lbs and PACIFIC SAILFISH this week. Bob Josselin also scored his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs and Scott Josselin released his first BLACK MARLIN that went around 400 lbs.

 

Sharon Goebel released her first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs. Michael Comb released a BIG BLACK MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs. Jack Richardon released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 400 lbs and PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN that went a solid 300 lbs.

 

Neil Shea also released his first 300 lb PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN and PACIFIC SAILFISH around 100 lbs.

 

Darin Neilson released his first BLACK MARLIN around 350 lbs.

 

 

12/11/10

Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tunas, Wahoo, Roosterfish

The season is off to a flying start and let me tell you; the reels are screaming. December has always been one the best months for fishing at the lodge. It was all hands on deck this week; 22 BLACK MARLIN and 30 BLUE MARLIN were released in 6 days. One boat even hooked into a GRANDER  BLACK MARLIN but this time it was not to be. The  big Yellowfin Tunas were also feeding and made for some epic battles on 50 lb tackle.

The crew form the Wanna Go Fishing show werehere this week and their lucky guest, David Bryant released the fish of a lifetime, a PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN estimated at 700 lbs.  Matthew Ruddo released his first BIG BLACK MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs. Agostino Paoletti had a trip of a lifetime, releasing his first 2 BLACK MARLIN that went 500 and 350 lbs, PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN, 250 lbs and also his first PACIFIC SAILFISH.

Bill DePriest and his dad along with Scott Dahlem from Pacific Coast Sportfishing  Magazine were also here this covering a story on offshore and inshore fishing at Tropic Star Lodge. They had a great week with some big catches including Scott’s monster PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN estimated at 500+ lbs. They also caught 2 nice YELLOWFIN TUNA around 150 lbs each and 3 nice WAHOO, the biggest around 65 lbs.

T.C. Hamilton released his first BLACK MARLIN estimated at 500 lbs.  Roger Hoff also released his first BLACK MARLIN around 300 lbs and Pat Gerald also scored his first BLACK MARLIN in the 300 lb range. Scott McDuffee also released his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN around 400 lbs and Bill Brady also got lucky with his first PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN around 250 lbs.

Jim and David west scored a pair of PACIFIC BLUE MARLIN and a couple of big YELLOWFIN TUNAS in the 150-200 lb range

 

 

11/28/10

I would like to welcome you all back for yet another season at Tropic Star Lodge. This month we kick off with our 10th annual TSL Tournament  at Piñas Bay Panama. We welcomed 93 anglers representing 31 teams for three days of billfish action and lots of fun. The weather was excellent with blue skies and very calm seas which made for some great fishing.

As expected, the marlin were hungry and it was not long before we were hearing the radios calling in Blue and Black Marlin releases. On the first day we had 10 released marlin. Day 2 the boats also released 10 marlin and a MONSTER Yellowfin Tuna caught by Barry Meier. The fish weighed in at 267 lbs.  Fello Azcárraga weighed in a nice 47.5 lb dorado. Day 3 ended with 15 releases for a total of 35 marlin releases over 3 days (30 Blue Marlin and 5 Black Marlin).

The tournament results were as follows.

Tournament Champions

IGFA / ROLEX INVITATIONAL

 

Team: 3 Cayman Rookies

Alistair Walters,Marcos Montana, Sebastian Guilbar

 

Top Boat - Bertram 31 Division

 

1st Place Team

 

3 Cayman Rookies (1,200 pts.)

Alistair Walters

Marcos Montana

Sebastian Guilbard

 

2nd Place Team

 

Full Release (1,000 pts.)

Michael Kelly

Paul Horning

BarryMeier

 

3rd Place Team

 

Cayman Real Hard Buoys (1,000 pts.)

Tony Burkman

Andrew Mc Carthy

Troy Burle

 

Heaviest Fun Fish

Biggest Dorado - 47.5 lbs.

Biggest Tuna - 135 lbs.

Heaviest Fish (Yellowfin Tuna) - 267 lbs.

Most Marlin Released

 

Top Angler

Paul Horning 600 pts.

 

Top Junior Angler

1st Place - 400 pts.    Nicholas Chen

2nd Place - 300 pts.   Alvaro Lewis

3rd Place - 100 pts.    Michael Dreszer

4th Place - Ernesto Btesh

 

Top Captain & Mate

Bertram 31 Division

Boat: Darien

Capt: Walter Palacios

Mate: Vicente Mecha

 

Top Boat - Private Boat Division

 

1st Place Boat

 

Santa Maria (400 pts.)

Manuel Morales

Ricardo Calvo

 

 

2nd Place Boat

 

Reelaxing (300 pts.)

Eric Endara

Fello Azcárraga

Eric Simone

 

3rd Place Boat

 

Mandyale (300 pts.)

Francisco Salerno

Alberto Navarro

Gilberto Guardia

 

 

Fello Azcárraga

Iván Jurado

Barry Meier

Paul Hornin

 

Top Female Angler

Alexis Conciatori 300 pts.

 

Daily Prizes

First Fish of Tournament:  Larry Salo

First Fish Day 2: Nicholas Chen

First Fish Day 3: Tom Kilburn

 

 

Last fish of Tournament: Sebastian Guilbard

 

Top Captain & Mate

 

Private Boat Division

Boat: Santa Maria

Capt: Randul Campa

Mate: Carlos Cajar

 

 

RATES

HOME PAGE

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Capt Gene Kelly

TROPICAL FISHING ADVENTURES Inc

631 668 2019

E-mail

captgene@tropicalfishing.com

Managers Yolanda and Peter manage to keep you in fish stories.