Current Conditions

Current Conditions http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/ FishingVideos.com en-us Nucleus CMS v3.33 © Weblog http://backend.userland.com/rss http://www.fishingvideos.com/news//nucleus/nucleus2.gif Current Conditions http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/ <![CDATA[Big X Goes To The Bank, Withdraws Wahoo]]> http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2104

Skipper Mike Ramirez called in with this report on the day’s fishing (May 15) aboard the Excel: "For the last two days we have been fishing the Lower Zone. Yesterday we had really good Wahoo fishing throughout the day. So we decided to move to another area and focus on Tuna today. We scratched out the day today and we ended up with a handful of quality Tuna. Big fish honors went to "Big Al Scow," he ended up with a 236. We also had a handful of high 190s, just a good quality of fish. We'll be here again tomorrow, we'll check back to let you know how we did."

Captains Justin Fleck and Mike Ramirez
(619) 223-7493 - Fisherman’s Landing

Back From The Canal Zone

From the Intrepid office: “The Intrepid will be back at Point Loma Sportfishing on Wednesday May 16th from our Incredible Panama Sportfishing Adventure! Guests and friends alike are welcome to come down to the Vessel on Wed 5-16 through Sat 5-19 from 8:00am to 4:00pm for pick-up of personal gear. Any questions please call Steve @ 619-778-3110.”

Captain Kevin Osborne and Mike Pritchard
(887) 686-7827 - Point Loma Sportfishing

East Cape Marlin Thick

“We are experiencing the most amazing weather at the moment,” noted Rancho Leonero foreman Gary Barnes-Webb. “Very calm seas and mild spring days, just a hint of the  summer ahead. The water temps have touched on 80 degrees this week which seems a little warm, a little early.   All this said the fishing was a bit disappointing with all the high expectations and good conditions.   Striped Marlin are plentiful, with boats baiting anything from 5 to 15 fish daily and seeing many jumpers all over.  Boats are landing one to two fish per day. Most fish taken on dead ballyhoo or live Forrelito. The fish seem to be reluctant  to hit lures at the moment. Best area was off La Ribera three to four miles out.
   
“Yesterday a huge Dorado bull hit the cleaning table. Its been that way, a few good sized fish but no schoolies yet.   We are experiencing one of the best Mako bites I can remember. I don't recall this being a game fish we target much,  but right now you can do so. The average fish released about three and a half feet long.   There are skipjack around but no tuna yet. 

 ”We have a lot of fly fishermen in the resort and they are mostly working the inshore. Tons of roosters around close in, all sizes, not as aggressive as last week. Mostly the panga fleet is heading north to take advantage of the sardines that  are plentiful up there. Along the way they pick off good-sized Jack Crevalle and Lady fish.  Still a few Pompano coming in, but that bite is South, where bait was scarce this week.   All the usual Pargo and Cabrilla off the bottom, best right out front of Leonero.”

The phone number for the Ranch is (760) 438-2905.

]]> General http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2104 Wed, 16 May 2012 10:23:31 -0700 <![CDATA[In Memoriam]]> http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2103

I fished with Eric Bergan several times on long range boats, including the Red Rooster III and the Excel. I met him back in the 1990s on the big X at Guadalupe Island, and took his photo as he learned to use the surface iron. He told me he was a wireman aboard marlin cruisers, and wanted to be called Eric The Wireman. I saw him many times coming off boats at the docks and he told me stories about what had happened. He was a good fisherman.

After he passed away April 27 at the age of 50, Eric was mourned by his friend Dave Berutich in the May 11 edition of Western Outdoor News.

“In the late ‘80s,” wrote Berutich, Bergan “…moved to St. Croix, again fishing in all the top marlin tournaments, including the Boy Scout Tournament. Returning to Kona in the early ‘90s, he fished both commercial and sport, again fishing with the elite boats and captains in Kona.

“In recent years Eric had returned to his greatest love, long range fishing, frequently fishing the most successful boats out of San Diego, the Royal Star, the Red Rooster III and Intrepid...I hope you can find some time to remember him.”

La Paz, Las Arenas Going Hard

Tuna are showing up, roosterfish and pargo are biting. Reporting for the week of My 6 to 13, Jonathan Roldan wrote on his Tailhunter (http://fishreport.jonathanroldan.com/) post, “Roosterfish and pargo really kicked it into a higher gear this past week. As air and water temperatures ratchet up bit by bit and everyone is anticipating the incoming warm-water species, some days it seems like the roosters and pargo just dog-piled onto each other!

“The roosters were in their normal spots along the sandy areas literally terrorizing schools of bait right up to and onto the sand! However, we were also getting them around the rocky areas of the islands as well as over reefs and high spots where we were fishing for pargo and cabrilla! The faster and more mobile roosters often hit the baits before the pargo or cabrilla could get to them and some of the roosters would blow up in spectacular fashion out of the water. We were even hooking some roosters just offshore in deeper water!

“As I said last week, everything just looks primed to blow up any day. Signs of roosters are just one indication, but there’s a ton of sargasso out there floating around and flurries of dorado have been seen under them. As well, schools of fast moving tuna have eluded the pangas and marlin are just starting to wake up and we had several hook ups and break offs this week…”

From AFTCO: New Guy Harvey Plaid Technical Fishing Shirts

Our latest shirt, The Guy Harvey Plaid Technical Fishing Shirt, combines style with functionality. With a subtle plaid pattern, these shirts are suitable for wearing about the waterfront, or out to dinner after a day of catch and release. Made from a super lightweight Nylon Polyester blend that is stain resistant and quick dry. The best features of this shirt are the cape back and mesh side panels. These panels extend the full length of the shirt, and all the way up the inside of the arms. Talk about keeping you cool! Other key features include two front chest pockets with Velcro flap closures, button-down collars, and roll-up sleeve tabs to keep your sleeves out of the way.

The MH36220 - Guy Harvey Plaid Technical Fishing Shirts are offered in (CHR) Charcoal, (BLU) Blue, (TAN) Tan, and (GRA) Gray. MSRP is $79.99. Sizes: S–3X.

To see the entire Guy Harvey sportswear line, go to http://www.guyharveysportswear.com.

]]> General http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2103 Tue, 15 May 2012 11:04:50 -0700 <![CDATA[Herd Of 31 Corralled]]> http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2102

Roy Rose docked Royal Polaris at Fisherman’s Landing May 14 after a fine long trip into southern waters that produced 31 tuna over 200 pounds. Long-time RP regular Clyde Smith, 79, of Scottsdale, AZ accounted for five of those big boys. He told dock reporter Bill Roecker his fish tied his personal record. They weighed 245, 236, 221, 205 and 201 pounds. Wahoo in the area remained thick enough to be pesky, and anglers got all they wanted with bait on mono.

Chris Petersen won first place for his 245-pounder. He also got one at 225, on the kite with a “giant squid.” His winning fish took a sardine on an 8/0 ringed Owner Super Mutu hook. He fished with 130-pound Blackwater fluorocarbon and 130-pound Izorline spectra.

Ron Jew made it into a tie for second place with a 243-pounder that took his sardine on a 6/0 Super Mutu on 100-pound Blackwater fluorocarbon. He was not present at the offloading for an interview. Thanks to skipper Roy Rose for collecting much of the information on the trip’s catch.

Mike Ashford cut off one cow near the trip’s end. He was the other half of the tie with Jew, taking a 243-pounder and another at 218 pounds. He baited a mackerel on a 7/0 Super Mutu hook on 130-pound Seaguar Premier fluorocarbon and 130-pound Kanzen spectra from Seaguar, on a Shimano 50 LRS reel and a Calstar 7465 XH rod.

Clyde Smith’s quintuplet catch was made with sardines on the new Mustad Demon 4X circle hooks. He used 130-pound Blackwater fluorocarbon and 130-pound Line One spectra on an Accurate ATD 50 reel and a Calstar 765 XXH rod, along with a Super Seeker 2 X 4. The big one came in 40 minutes.

“I pull hard,” said Clyde.

Frank "the Crank" Fink with a 243-pounder.

Gary Cotter of Santa Barbara got cows of 235 and 205 pounds. He said he fished sardines on 7/0 Mustad Demon hooks tied to 130-pound Blackwater fluorocarbon and 130-pound ine One spectra on an Accurate ATD 50 reel and a Super Seeker 2 X 4 rod.

Seaforth Sportfishing manager John Yamate bagged a brace at 234 and 202 pounds. The big one was on the kite with a squid. For the other one he baited a sardine on 6/0 ringed Super Mutu hook tied to 130-pound Blackwater fluorocarbon and 130-pound Blackwater spectra on an Accurate ATD 50 reel and a Calstar 770 XXH rod.

John Natsume kited up a 234-pounder with a mackerel on a 9/0 Super Mutu hook and 130-pound Blackwater spectra.

Jim Travis had his personal best at 232 pounds. He got a rope on it by way of a 16/0 Mustad circle hook under the kite.

Bill Nakaki caught a 229-pounder with a salami mackerel on a 12/0 Super Mutu hook 130-pound Izorline, a Penn 50 W reel and a Calstar 6460 XXH rod.

Jack Gruschus of Corrales, NM had two cows at 228 and 208 pounds. His rig had to go into the water with a float, he said, but he got the fish. He used 130-pound Seaguar and 130-pound Izorline spectra.

Rick Tyrer had three tuna over 200 pounds on his first long range adventure, at 227, 222 and 203 pounds. The big one came on a whole squid, and he used an Accurate ATD 50 W reel and a Seeker 6463 XXXXH rod.

Marc Calder, a first timer from Westminister, had a 225-pound yellowfin on a sardine and a 6/0 hook on one of the boat’s rigs.
“It was on the first day,” he remarked. “It was my first tuna ever.”

Mike Hieshima had three cows at 218, 207 and 206 pounds. He fished sardines on 6/0 ringed Super Mutu hooks tied to 100-pound Blackwater and 130-pound Line One spectra on an Accurate 30 ATD reel and a Super Seeker 2 X 4 rod.

Bill Golder of Chula Vista had a 214-pound tuna that fought him for an hour. He said he baited a salami on a 9/0 ringed Super Mutu hook tied to 130-pound Blackwater fluorocarbon and 130-pound Blackwater spectra on a Cal Sheets-treated Penn 50 reel and a Seeker 6463 XXXXH rod. Bill won the Friends of Rollo jackpot for his bomb-caught 72-pound wahoo.

Another first-timer, Warren Hamachi, got two fish at 209 and 207 pounds. He flylined sardines on 9/0 Super Mutu hooks. He fished with 100-pound Blackwater fluorocarbon, an Okuma Makira 30 reel and a 770 XH Calstar rod.

Sue Beck of San Clemente had a 202, courtesy of a salami on a 9/0 Super Mutu hook and 130-pound Blackwater fluorocarbon. She fished with a Penn 50 reel and a Calstar 6460 XH rod.

Roy Rose won the crew fishing tourney with his personal best of 204 pounds. He said he used a Blue Water 8/0 hook, 130-pound running gear and a Seeker rod.

Captains Frank LoPreste, Roy Rose, Billy Santiago Jr.
(619) 226-8030 - Fisherman’s Landing

]]> General http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2102 Mon, 14 May 2012 14:49:45 -0700 <![CDATA[Up The Hill]]> http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2101

“We have had a very pleasant ride up toward Cabo,” said the Royal Polaris report for May 10. “Most of the passengers spent the day packing and relaxing. Poker, cribbage, books and movies were the main activities of the day. We had a phenomenal prime rib dinner with all the fixings. Everyone aboard truly deserved a quiet day and nice dinner to recharge before heading home...

“The trip was outstanding and exceeded any of our long range trips prior. The boat totals for the trip were 220 tuna and 259 wahoo. In addition, we released more than 150 tuna in the 80 to 190-pound range and a few that were likely over 200 pounds. The boat ended up with 31 tuna over 200 pounds. The 200-Pound Club for the trip are as follows:”

Clyde "the Glide" Smith tied his best trip with 5 tuna at 201, 205, 224, 234 & 235 pounds
Frank "the Crank" Fink with a 243
Jim "Chopper" Travis had his personal best at 232
Marc "I'm having soooo much fun" Calder a first timer had a 225
Jack "Babyface" Gruschus had 2 tuna at 228 & 208
John "the Best of the Best" Yamate had 2 at 202 & 232
John "I need a backup" Natsume had his personal best at 234
Ron "Maybe I have the Flu" Jew tied for 2nd in the jackpot at 243
Mike" Your humble guest author" Hieshima had 3 at 218, 207 & 206
Chris "I can't stop talking" Peterson had 2 fish at 225 and won jackpot with a 245
Billy "The tuna slayer" Boulder had a 214
Sue "Another one hits the deck" Beck had a 202
Gary " Welcome back" Cotter had 2 at 234 &205
Mike "I'm not that guy" Ashford tied for the 2nd largest at 243
Rick "East Cape" Tyrer had 3 on his first adventure fishing long range at 227, 222 & 203
Warren "Please no wasabi on my" Hamachi, another first timer had 2 at 209 & 207
Bill "Where's Tsuj" Nakaki had a 229
Roy "Bring on the hose" Rose won the crew fishing tourney with his personal best of 204

Captains Frank LoPreste, Roy Rose, Billy Santiago Jr.
(619) 226-8030 - Fisherman’s Landing

The Çure

Got yellow fever? Never fear, the cure is here. Bill Roecker has finished a new video with some of the best action you’d ever want to see on the decks of the Independence. “Yellow Fever” was shot last summer on a trip to The Ridge and The 23 Spot, where yellows from 18 to 40 pounds bit like crazy. They bit bait and surface and yoyo jigs like it was the last chance to eat for the next 300 miles. After anglers were nearly limited out, some enjoyed watching the crazed jacks fight with one another to smash a hookless surface jig. It makes a big wow factor for this new video. Dorado and yellowfin tuna also provide entertainment and great eating on the way back north. Don’t miss “Yellow Fever,” soon to appear here and in tackle stores that carry Oceanic Productions and FishingVideos.com products. Here’s what the disc looks like right now. When the cover’s ready this one goes on sale!

]]> General http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2101 Fri, 11 May 2012 09:52:39 -0700 <![CDATA[Last Hurrah]]> http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2100

“Once the crew rearranged the fish last night,” said the report from Royal Polaris May 9, “it appeared we could fit two more of the larger models in the remaining space before departing at noon for Cabo. We did just that adding two more 200s to the boat total of 31 tuna over 200 pounds. Mike Hieshima (me) caught his third over 200 early in the morning at 206 and Roy caught a 204-pounder. Let me tell the story of Roy's fish...

“Earlier in the morning, Bill Nakaki and a few of us devised a fishing tourney for the crew. The basic rules were simple, we would give the entire crew 30 minutes to catch the largest fish while worked the deck. At exactly 10 a.m. we called the crew (including Bill Golder and John Yamate designated anglers for Anthony and James) to the back of the boat and asked them to choose a rod and reel. Surprisingly, almost all of them chose 100-pound outfits except Roy stuck with the 130 Blackwater and 8/0 circle hook (instead of 130-pound covered in the seminar). In addition, most chose 5/0 hooks instead of the requested 6/0s. Just before the start, we added a little twist and cut off all of their hooks adding a bit of pressure and testing their knot tying skill. Once the buzzer sounded, Ron Jew and John Natsume each sent a full scoop of bait flying and the wahoo were quick to react. It took about a minute to get a hook and bait. Talk about rude, they were pushing, shoving and stealing bait from each other.

“Speaking of bait, the importance of selection (also covered in the seminar) was pretty much out the window, 3 of them hooked salami mackerel onto 6/0 hooks (another no-no). The first volley of casts were hysterical with no "low bridge", "going out" or other pleasantries. During the first round, all contestants received an accidental spray down (payback gentlemen). It was like a spider web of spectra with casts flying in every direction. There was no "following of baits" (tsk, tsk) and every bait was picked or wahoo'd immediately with a 3-way tangle in the corner.

“The result of the first few minute, 0 fish and 1 tangle. From there the crew settled in and started hooking fish with Eddie hooking a wahoo and running to the bow. The back was bedlam with fish darting every which way and half the guys getting picked again. There was no calm in this storm as they had the fever as bad as any 3/4 day boat reaching the albacore grounds. From this point, it got a bit blurry as guys were crossing lines, wahoo ripping thru the corner and scoops of baiting being crushed right on the stern. By the halfway mark, there were 6 wahoo on board with Big D in the lead.

“That's when the Tuna decided to show. John Yamate hooked one and was blocked from passing around the corner by Dharyl, Terrence and his son. He squeezed by finally as the fish was 3/4 up the starboard side of the boat. His fish came to gaff and was a 75-pounder taking the lead over Big D's nice wahoo. Just as John's came aboard, a couple nice tuna showed up and were inhaling everything that hit the water. By now, there were only a few minutes remaining to officially hook a fish. Bill Golder did just that and went screaming up the port side.

“A minute remaining and Roy hooked the big one letting everyone know in his giggling Roy voice saying ‘just hooked the big one, yeah.’. A minute remaining with Bill and Roy hooked up and not following their fish. One last bait and just after the buzzer, Terrence hooks a nice one but was disqualified. Big D reached over his shoulder and flipped the reel into free-spool hoping to saw off Captain Roy's fish.

“The deck hose was used to distract Roy but as he was being hosed down, all he could say was "It's working, it's working". A few minutes later Roy's was gaffed by first timers Cliff & Ted from Arizona along with a third gaff as backup by Sue Beck. The gate was pulled and the gaffing team slid aboard the 204-pounder. In 30 minutes of fishing, the crew landed six wahoo and three tuna with one over 200. Pretty impressive if you ask me. The event was captured on video and Big D intends to put it on You Tube next week.”

Captains Frank LoPreste, Roy Rose, Billy Santiago Jr.
(619) 226-8030 - Fisherman’s Landing

Fish, Bait & Temp Coming Up

Water temperatures are rising and the bite won’t be far behind, thinks Shawn Steward, former Excel skipper and now owner of the Aloha Spirit. He fishes the Channel Islands like nobody else. Here’s what Shawn said May 9 (the real May 9, Wednesday.)

“The weather lately has been pretty nice and our water is starting to warm up.  We have seen water as warm as 61 degrees and we are seeing sign of squid.  We are starting to catch the occasional halibut and the shallow water is starting to show some signs of life so we will be spending a portion of each day looking for some surface fish in the shallow water so make sure to bring a light outfit when you come out with us. If you would like to make a reservation please call 805-382-1612  We will see you on the water.”

Line Size At The Rocks

“Hi Bill: I made a purchase yesterday of three new Accurate reels, and my boy and I now have total of 12 to use. Below I will list the reels we have, and please give us advice on what size line to use for a 7-day trip from 7-21 to 7-28 (I know we do plan to fish Alijos Rocks).”
Thanks, Ernie M. (by email May 10)

Bill’s Answer

OK—here's what I'd use—you have an excellent selection here and should be well-prepared for all events at AR:

2 > 270s (1-speeds) 25-pound line
2 > 870s (1-speeds) 30-pound
2 > 870s (2-speeds) 40
2 > 665s (1-speeds) 40 or 50
2 > 665W (2-speed) 50
1 > B30 (Dawg) Regular size 50 or 60 (could go to 80 if needed)
1 > B30N (Dawg) Narrow 50 or 60

After Big Biscuits

“The Fortune is a for sure go, leaving Thursday(tomorrow) night at 8pm from 22nd street landing, returning on Friday evening. We still have six spots available. Price is $190. If you would like to join us for this ultra limited load trip give me a call at (619) 972-9161.

Big White Sea Bass Happen,"
Bruce Smith, Owner-Operator

]]> General http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2100 Thu, 10 May 2012 10:54:12 -0700 <![CDATA[Crowned At Clemente]]> http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2099

Independence is in LA at 22nd St. Landing for some spring fishing. She just returned from a trip that was more than successful for her anglers,who found some large bottom grabbers and a salmon. The photo sent in makes both the weather and the fishing look very good. Here’s the report for May 7:

“The Independence had fantastic fishing at San Clemente during our recent 2.5 day trip. A red rockfish was gaffed weighed 11.5 pounds. We also had over 35 lingcod, averaging 18 to 25 pounds. We also caught a king salmon.”

Captains Mark Pisano, Paul Strasser, Jeff DeBuys
(619) 226-6006 - Point Loma Sportfishing

Outta Here

“Leaving Acapulco,” said the report from Intrepid May 8, “our halfway point. Our travel north continued, after spending the night in the Acapulco harbor. We have been lucky to make good time to the one stop made during our trip home. This morning we cleared customs and immigration, put some fuel on the boat, and got back on course. The weather this afternoon is beautiful with calm seas, and little to no breeze. Projects around the boat are getting worked on everyday, and the checklist is diminishing. We should be passing Cabo San Lucas in a few days and the final stretch will be in sight.”

Captain Kevin Osborne
(887) 686-7827 - Point Loma Sportfishing

To The Brim

“We had another great day,” noted the Royal Polaris report for May 8, “and filled the RSW tank early this morning with several nice fish over 200 pounds. Jim "Chopper" Travis caught his personal best, a 232-pounder. Jack "Baby face" Gruschus caught his second at 208. Gary " Welcome Back" Cotter caught his second over 200 at 205. Clyde "The Glide" Smith matched his record of 5 over 200 with a 207-pound beauty. We had 20 wahoo that filled the remaining voids. From that point on, we cut off all tuna including several that were likely right at 200. Officially, we are now at 29 fish over 200 pounds.

“The entire group is exhausted but has found energy to catch mackerel for the morning bite. While I use the word exhausted, it is the type of fatigue that only arises from having 9 days of truly amazing fishing days in a row. Veteran and first timer alike agree that it would be difficult to make the trip any better.”

Captains Frank LoPreste, Roy Rose, Billy Santiago Jr.
(619) 226-8030 - Fisherman’s Landing

Stuck At The Beach

It’s halibut time again. The big flatfish are moving into the shallows to spawn, where shore anglers and divers can reach them. Many seafood lovers think halibut are among the very best fish for eating available on the coast of southern CA. This morning, a photo and a note came in from the heavily populated Carlsbad area, sent by television producer and licensed skipper Dan Walsh. Dan wrote,

“George Mironoff, my neighbor across the street, speared this 41.2-pound Halibut around six p.m. last night at his favorite Carlsbad spot to skin dive. He got a smaller but legal 30" flattie last night at the same Carlsbad flattie hot spot.

“The fish was one of five he saw, three about this size, one larger, one smaller. He had already shot this one, which was 44 1/2 inches long, when he saw one about 4 inches larger, but George was already quite busy landing this one.”

]]> General http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2099 Wed, 9 May 2012 09:46:23 -0700 <![CDATA[Cows Jump On]]> http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2098

“OMG! What a great evening bite,” said the report from Royal Polaris May 7. “We had our slowest morning followed by our best afternoon/evening. We ended up the day with six fish over 200 pounds, bringing our trip total to 25. Several of the big ones came up as matched pairs with Chris "I can't stop talking" Peterson catching a 245, which matched up with Clyde "the Glide" Smith getting his 4th over 200 at 245. Mike "the Author" Hieshima caught his second cow, a 207. Bill "Tsuj is coming next year" Nakaki caught a 229. The last matched pair came in the dark with Frank "the Crank" Fink catching a 245 matched with Ron "I could really use a brew" Jew catching a 245. Despite our cut-off at 150, we are very close to filling the last RSW well. The cut-off tomorrow will be 200 pounds.

"It is difficult to describe the talent of the crew. The last fish of the day were the really mean pair of 245's that took many laps around the boat and twisted and turned numerous times around the anchor line. There were several hair-raising moments and all we could do was watch the artistry in motion. It is obvious they have worked together for many years and seem to know what each other is thinking before needing to say anything. They have an incredible passion for saving our fish of a lifetime and it is truly a joy to experience...

"The vibe around the boat is at an all time high. Everyone emptied the galley to watch Frank and Ron land the last two fish. High fives for both anglers reminded me of winning the big game and having your close friend as the hero. The applause for angler and crew was louder than I have experienced on any trip. Truly camaraderie at it's best. As I am typing, Ron and Frank are cheering for every mackerel caught as bait for tomorrow. I think the last battle may have been too much and they are now suffering from the Roy Rose giddy laughter syndrome.”

Captains Frank LoPreste, Roy Rose, Billy Santiago Jr.
(619) 226-8030 - Fisherman’s Landing

10th Annual “Friends of Rollo” Spring Shootout

(Press Release) May 19th, 2012 will see the Spring Shootout is presented by The Marlin Club of San Diego. All the proceeds from this event benefit “Friends of Rollo” Kids Fishing Foundation.

Entry Fee when signing up by May 7 is $60 after the 7th it jumps top $75. Shootout announcement and entry form can be downloaded at www.themarlinclub.com, or you can come by the club to enter.

White Seabass/Yellowtail Division Combined. Side Jackpots for Halibut and Bass are optional $15 per person per division. All Fish must be caught from, not before, 4 pm on May 18 and weighed in by 5 pm May 19. Awards Dinner and Giant Raffle will be at the Marlin Club at 6 pm on May 19.

The Marlin Club is open on weekends from 1 & 5 pm, at 2445 Shelter Island Dr., (619) 222-8677. Providing the only Free Certified IGFA Public Weigh Station on San Diego Bay, since 1947.

Contact: John Campbell 619-991-5480 johncinsd@roadrunner.com

Strong Bite At East Cape

The report from Rancho Leonero May 7 indicated last week had “…the same good fishing as in the past week. Both the Striped Marlin and Roosterfish are normally released so we have very few photos of either. That said, the Striped Marlin mixed with a few Sailfish are abundant and close. Anglers targeting billfish are releasing at least one a day. Most are being taken within eyesight of the hotel. The billfish are very close inshore some within a 1/2 mile of the beach. Our shuttle Panga driver, Eddie, caught a Striper around our boat anchorage on Wednesday afternoon. The billfish are very close. There are a few big bull Dorado to 60 pounds being taken daily, all on trolled marlin lures. The Roosterfish bite is very strong with lots of Pez Gallos around. Roosterfish are bigger this week with some 40 to 50-pounders released. Inshore has been good with lots of Pompano and Pargo taking Sardine. The water is warming fast, we will have 80 degree water within the next two weeks, very early.”

]]> General http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2098 Tue, 8 May 2012 09:43:11 -0700 <![CDATA[Wide Open Chunking]]> http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2097

“Our fishing so far has truly been off the hook,” said the report for May 6 from Royal Polaris. “It may be difficult to believe but today was the best day so far. We had a constant pick of really nice grade tuna mixed in with really nice wahoo and ended the day getting slammed by a school of nice tuna. Today had a different twist, all veterans agreed they have never seen chunk fishing as wide open as today. We probably had 20 fish over 100 pounds on the chunk. To say the least, it was an extremely productive technique with some of the guys hooking fish every other drop. As for big fish, we had five fish over 200 today. Jack "Baby-face" Gruschus started us off and needed a back up to land a very nasty 228-pounder. Big fish honors went to John ‘I may be small but carry a big 770XH stick,’ Natsume with his personal best of 234 pounds that at times looked to be catching John more than vice versa. Clyde "the Glide" Smith had his 2nd 200lber of the trip with a squeeker at 201 pounds. John ‘I really could use a Latte’ Yamate also had his second over 200 at 202 pounds. The first-timer but no rookie of big tuna fishing, Rick ‘the Stick’ Tyrer from the East Cape is outdoing everyone with his third tuna over 200 at 203 pounds.

“Since we are on our last RSW tank, we have been extremely selective in which tuna are allowed to ride home with us. If I had to guess, we released 35+ tuna between 100- 125lbs. The plan is to only take the larger models from this point on. We are currently catching bait to replenish the supply while being entertained by the Roy and the crew. It definitely helps to make bait while laughing and having fun to fight the effects of the sleepiness from a great turkey dinner (with all the fixings) making everyone tired.

“Just a quick note about Roy: For those of you that know him, he is at the top of his game this trip, you do know what I mean. For those that don't, he has an incredible talent to deliver a tremendous fishing experience and punch lines from the crack of dawn until the late evening. He is doing a great job on the boat and we are all having an incredible time.”

Captains Frank LoPreste, Roy Rose, Billy Santiago Jr.
(619) 226-8030 - Fisherman’s Landing

Stas Vellonakis: Top Of The Heap

“We made a few schedule changes worthy of mention next year,” wrote Royal Star owner-skipper Tim Ekstrom May 7, “adapting our Winter/Spring itinerary to accommodate new requested dates. More than anything we simply shifted the April fly down/fly back a few days forward and changed the May fly down that bombed out this year into a 12/15 chartered by long range veteran Chris Yamada. Also, the February 14 day will now accommodate the famed “Las Rocas” Group, and will also follow the 12/15 format with a drop off in Cabo San Lucas to save anglers the time and rigor of a three or four day ride up the line. Finally, the April fly down voyage will proudly carry the sponsorship of “Let’s Talk Hookup” with confirmed rumors of Pete Gray himself joining us on the run.

“Photo for the day features perhaps the finest all around giant yellowfin tuna fisherman I know. With history, experience, and ability in his favor Stas Vellonakis projects the earned confidence of consistent results. And with all the experience Stas boasts (he wastes no time boasting), his love affair is with fishing, not himself. I am greatly entertained by this dynamic as I have observed the rise and fall, the peaks and valleys, of various long range legends by their own claims. Stas was there in the beginning, the middle, and obviously still is, doing what he does with poise and precision, catching giant yellowfin using live bait with an ease that reveals a union of experience and genuine savvy. Respect best sums up my sentiment toward Stas, respect of the highest order.”

Captains Tim Ekstrom, Randy Toussaint and Brian Sims
(619) 224-4764 - Fisherman’s Landing

]]> General http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2097 Mon, 7 May 2012 09:09:11 -0700 <![CDATA[Rooster’s Almost Ready]]> http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2096

A recent posting for Red Rooster III noted the boat “…has passed the yearly USCG bottom side inspection. The ABS five-year  inspection includes an ultrasound test of the entire structure from main deck to keel. The Red Rooster III passed all corrosion tests. These tests keep the Rooster sound and one of the safest boats to be aboard.  The interior has been redone with a new wet bar. This area now has a filtered chilled water dispenser and new ice machine. With the new salon cushions and carpet there will be the impression of a new galley. Last year project in the heads will be complete with refinished showers to go with the granite and tile.  Lots of painting, new decks on the upper and lower decks will refresh the exterior.  We are looking forward to getting the Red Rooster III back into the water and starting the 2012 season.”

Captain Andy Cates and Derek Waldman
(619) 224-3857 - H&M Landing

600 Entertaining Pounds

“Today was another great day, really great day,” said the report from Royal Polaris May 5. “The morning started off with Susan Beck scoring the first fish over 200 for the day at 202 pounds, in the dark. We scratched fish until early afternoon when the big fish rolled in. We had several fish over 200 pounds when the second tank reached its max. Gary Cotter had big fish honors with a 235-pound tuna (it required several of the crew to wedge it into the RSW tank). Rick Tyrer landed his 2nd fish over 200 with a 222, Mike Hieshima had a 218-pounder and was hosed off for being such bad reporter. Peter Lorman had a PB (personal best) of 193 pounds. Several others were landed in the 150 to 185-pound range. Of additional note, Bill Golder is leading the Rollo Wahoo jackpot with a 70-pounder caught today. We cut off a ton of nice fish and kept only the big ones.

“Late breaking entertainment news is that we are currently chasing down a large bronze whaler shark (at least 600 pounds) hooked by Frank Fink that he has been battling for an hour. However, it is somewhat unfair as Roy is narrating as only he can do and making everyone laugh so hard that it is making it difficult for Frank to wind. Following dinner, we have some serious re-rigging to do and more than a few anglers may stay up for a little night fishing...”

Captains Frank LoPreste, Roy Rose, Billy Santiago Jr.
(619) 226-8030 - Fisherman’s Landing

Baja Springs Into Summer

The report from Rancho Leonero, April 29 said,      “Only one windy day all week. Flat, warmer than normal water, temps from 76 to 80. It’s beautiful, clear with great visibility. The air is warmer. Highs in the 80s, light afternoon breezes. Another big week for Striped Marlin. All boats releasing at least one, most with multiples. All our boats are fishing no more than five miles from the hotel. You can see most of our boats from the front porch most of the day, lots of tailers and jumpers. They’re still pretty line-shy. Every fifth or sixth fish baited is biting. The Roosterfish bite really picked up this week. More and bigger fish, the bite improved as the week progressed. Inside has been very good, with very light pressure as most anglers are targeting the billfish. Limits of Pompano and some nice Pargo were taken this week in the 15-pound class.”

Jonathan Roldan Scores First Dorado

The Tailhunter Fish Report last week said, “Cabrilla, grouper, sierra, amberjack, jack crevalle and all three members of the pargo family (barred pargo / pargo liso/ dog tooth-snapper) were all taken this week usually in the areas around underwater structure. This included our first dorado of the season, a nice 25-pound class mahi picked up on live bait right in the middle of swarming bonito schools. This also included some really nice action on roosterfish that are hitting in numerous spots around the La Paz fishing area.”

]]> General http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2096 Sun, 6 May 2012 12:29:06 -0700 <![CDATA[Giant Squid Scores]]> http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2095

“We had another great day aboard the Royal Polaris,” said the report for May 3. “Much like yesterday, it started in the dark with a handful of tuna over 200 pounds. Rick Tyrer had a 227 on the biggest squid I have ever seen flown on the kite. Warren Hamachi scored his second over 200 at 207 pounds. The boat had 50 tuna in the 80 to 130 and the other class 150 -185lb with a couple over 200 pounds and 37 quality wahoo.

“We have an amazing group of anglers with the exception of one guy we will refer to as That Guy. Please remember on future trips to avoid being That Guy...We do miss Frank on the trip with his warm sense of humor, charisma, charm and for all the nice hugs he gives to us passengers. Not! Sorry Frank, it's like fisherman gone wild on the boat. Take for instance, allowing me to write the reports, which obviously would never happen with Mr. Grumpy Pants in the wheelhouse. However, in order to keep us in line, Little Frank was up to no good and we found him checking the fruit supply.”

Captains Frank LoPreste, Roy Rose, Billy Santiago Jr.
(619) 226-8030 - Fisherman’s Landing

]]> General http://www.fishingvideos.com/news/index.php?itemid=2095 Thu, 3 May 2012 09:47:53 -0700