Feeds:
Posts
Comments

Archive for the ‘Tailhunter International’ Category

WHERE DID THAT WIND COME FROM?

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on November 7, 2010| Leave a Comment »

WHERE DID THAT WIND COME FROM?

Originally Published the Week of Nov. 13, 2010 in Western Outdoor News

             “Man, it was like a washing machine out there!”

            “I wish I had brought a jacket.  I got soaked.”

            “My wife and I walked around last night and all we had were t-shirts.”

            “How come there were waves out there?”

            “Where did the wind come from?”

            “Where did all the dorado go?  We ended up fishing for roosterfish along the beach.”

            It’s that time of year when these are not unusual comments from some of the folks we’re getting down here visiting right now.  Especially, as we get closer to the holidays and more vacationers and families come in and fewer anglers looking for more than just fishing.  They’re looking for beach-time and recreation time.   They see the brochures.  They read the travel mags and envision long days of warm tans and chilly margaritas.

            And come down finding out that the margaritas aren’t the only thing that’s chilly!

            Many times, one of the comments above is quickly followed by, “But it was never like this in the other  years we were here.”

            I’m sure it wasn’t.   I’m sure the tuna and dorado were jumping in the boat and the sun was so hot, you were basting.  The kayaking was like a pond and the diving was like bathwater.

            But this is transitional time here in the Baja.  You just never know what it can be like.   The range of conditions varies. 

            As for us “locals” I know you can’t believe it, but you’ll see us wearing long pants and sweatshirts.  Captains will have jackets on in the mornings.  We use extra blankets at night.  Personally, I’m wearing (oh no!)…SOCKS! and my wife Jill occasionally puts on her UGG boats…those furry sheepskin things. 

            Yes, I know that sounds nutty but take a hint when you see us.  It’s not JULY so plan accordingly and you’ll keep surprises to a minimum.

            It can get chilly at times, especially in the mornings before the sun comes up.  Most evenings are pleasant for tourists although you’ll see locals dressed up a bit warmer, but for the mornings, bring a light windbreaker or sweatshirt.

            If you’re headed out for any watersports, winds and waves can change at any time.  If you’re on the Pacific or the Sea of Cortez, don’t be surprised by more northern winds that can make any trip a bit bouncier than normal.

             Of course, it can be flat calm as well, but bring the extra protections. There’s an old saying, ” It’s better than have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.”

            That goes for fishing.  Sure, you’re very likely to continue getting warm water species like tuna, dorado, wahoo and billfish, but what if it’s blown out too choppy or the waters have gotten colder?  Especially, if you’re fishing further north,  for example between Loreto and San Felipe on the Sea of Cortez or between Guerrero Negro and Tijuana on the Pacific, conditions will cool even more rapidly than normal. 

            Therefore, pack your fishing gear accordingly or at least adjust your expectations accordingly.  Be prepared to fish inshore or, don’t be surprised if your captain asks if you’d rather fish for cabrilla or snapper along the shorelines than get your teeth rattled offshore. 

            Or, in some cases, if it’s really windy, prepare to just stay on the shore and wait it out for another day.  Go shopping or hang out around the pool.  Why get beat up?  If you can,  leave some extra “empty” days in your vacation agenda so that you can postpone a windy day on the water and make up for it later when the winds die down.

            If you’re driving or camping this time of year,  take cold and wind into consideration as well.  High profile vehicles like RV’s or even towing a big boat or trailer can be hazardous if the winds come up. 

            I remember many times camping in the desert where I wish I had a heavier sleeping bag or high winds suddenly came up that shook our tents so badly we all retreated to spend the nights shivering in our vehicles. There were some awfully chilly mornings as well. 

            A little extra forethought and preparation will go a long way towards eliminating surprises.

__________________________

Jonathan Roldan has been the Baja Columnist and Editor for Western Outdoor News since 2006.  He lives in La Paz, Baja, Mexico where he and his wife own and run Tailhunter International Sportfishing  www.tailhunter-international.com and also own and operate the Tailhunter Restaurant and FUBAR Cantina on the historic La Paz waterfront.  He can be reached directly via e-mail at riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com

Read Full Post »

“GOING LOCAL!” Originally Published the Week of Oct. 26, 2010 in Western Outdoor News

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, fishing tournaments, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexican Independence Day, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on October 23, 2010| Leave a Comment »

The sun rises on another day on the Sea of Cortez in the Baja

“GOING LOCAL”

Originally Published the Week of Oct. 26, 2010 in Western Outdoor News

With more gringos moving down here or spending an increasing amount of time here in Mexico, it really does take awhile to get into the nuances of life down here.  After 15 years, I’m learning things every day.

           

You know you’re going “local” if…

 

1.      There’s no such thing as too fast or too slow on the highway.

2.      There is nothing that can’t be fixed with duct tape.

3.      You stop asking for a lime in your beer (tourists drink lime with beer)

4.      No lime or salt with your tequila either!  (locals drink it straight up and a good tequila, like whiskey or brandy,  is sipped and savored…not slammed and yelling “Whooo-hooooo!”)

5.      Formal wear consists of wearing socks for men and a closed-toe shoe for women.  (few places or events have a dress code…but see the next one)

6.      You really don’t care to stay out in the sun that long (it’s darned hot out there…it’s more fun watching the tourists turn to lobsters!)

7.      Except for the swimming, you would never go shirtless.  It’s considered bad form. Tourists walk around with no shirts.  But it’s OK to roll your t-shirt up under your man boobs and show your belly sticking out!

8.      You no longer tan to impress your nieghbors back home.

9.      You can cuss like the best of them (and you know what each word actually means!)

10.  A “good day” means getting 2 of the 10 things done on your “to-do-list.”

11.  Being “stressed” is worrying about the 8 things that didn’t get done.  So stop worrying.

12.  You don’t care that your one of your car’s blinkers doesn’t work and you rarely use your blinkers anyway  (Might as well be like everyone else)

13.  You understand that it’s OK if your neighbor booms his banda music until all hours. Culturally he’s not rude.  He’s being polite by “sharing”  (this is true)

14.  You’ve learned to pop a beer using your belt buckle, teeth, screwdriver, car keys, fishing pliers.  (The true test!)

15.  You realize you eat about 90 percent of your food with your fingers and hands.  (And wipe them on your socks…if you’re wearing them!)

16.  Stop signs, crosswalks and most red lights are merely “suggestions” not rules! (You’re not breaking a law unless a cop sees you and does something about it).

17.  God invented ice cold water to drink and hot water for showers.  Take neither for granted!

18.  You realize that “manana” doesn’t alway mean tomorrow.  Sometimes it  means “probably never.”

19.  You let the tourists take the fish fillets because you know that the best parts are the head,  the collar and the belly meat for soup and the barbecue!

20.  There’s nothing a mid-day siesta can’t cure.

21.  Meals take a long time

22.  You don’t need a “winter wardrobe.”

23.  It’s OK to take the bus

24.  Spicy is relative…and a “state of mind.”

25.  The longer the line the better the taco.

26.  Subtitles on Mexico TV are the best way to learn handy phrases like, “I’m going to kick your, butt!” or “Stick it in your ear!”

27.  Falling in love with someone who only speaks Spanish is the fastest way to learn Spanish

28.  You know that beer bottles in Mexico have a return value.  Cans are cheaper.

29.  People aren’t defined by their job.  Family is more important.

30.  Culturally,  job title is more important than the job or the salary.

31.  You always carry toilet paper somewhere in your car

32.  You start your Sundays with menudo, birria or pazole soup, not pancakes and eggs

33.  Going to the shopping mall is considered a “big outting.”

34.  It’s OK if the mail doesn’t come today.  Sometimes it never comes at all…ever. 

35.  It’s impolite to use the word, “no.”  “Maybe tomorrow” or “Next time” is more socially acceptable even if you’re telling a white lie. Just realize that if someone says “Maybe tomorrow” , they might be really mean, “no.”

36.  Being vague in conversation is socially acceptable. The art of telling the story is the essence. “Getting to the point” of a story is sometimes bad manners and rude. 

37.  You never ever go to a party or dinner without bringing something

38.  A favor is a gift.   Asking for a favor in return is impolite. 

39.  Make a friend…take their photo and give them a copy.  Many people have rarely ever seen photos of themselves.  We take it for granted.

40.  We take it for granted, but most folks do not have e-mail, cell phones, Twitter, Facebook or cars. 

41.  7 day weekends are perfectly acceptable!

___________________________________

Jonathan Roldan has been the Baja Editor for Western Outdoor News since 2004.  He lives with his wife Jill in La Paz, Mexico since 1996 where they own and run the Tailhunter International Sportfishing Fleet and the Tailhunter Restaurant & Bar on the historic La Paz waterfront.  www.tailhunter-international.com.   He can be reached directly via e-mail at riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read Full Post »

A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE ON FISHING TOURNAMENTS

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, fishing tournaments, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on October 9, 2010| Leave a Comment »

It's great to be in the winner's circle, but it's so much more than that when you sign up for tournaments!

A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE ON TOURNAMENTS!

Originally Published the week of Oct. 12, 2010 in Western Outdoor News

             I remember the first time I was hired to work as a deckhand on a big-boy sportfisher in a big-money tournament. 

 

            I could barely contain myself.  It was like being called up to the main event…the major leagues.  I had “arrived.” Someone thought I was good enough to play with the rockstars!

 

            Looking at the fleet of gleaming fiberglass and stainless war wagons with every toy aboard and every conceivable type of fishing rig “roaring-to-go” was unimaginable. Vikings…Hatteras…Bertrams…Luhrs…Cabos…lined the docks like stallions.  Crews checking drags…tuna tubes…tying leaders… Fueled by testosterone and a hefty winner’s check, the excitement and anxiety bristled the air. I couldn’t help but strut. 

 

            Although I was pretty much a lowly deckhand, I couldn’t believe I was going to get paid $100 bucks a day PLUS a chunk of the winnings if we placed.  I couldn’t help feeling like a rockstar myself.  I was finally part of the inner circle.  The bands were playing.  The flags and Corona girls were out.  The millionaire parties were in full swing and no one was telling me I had to “go around the back to the delivery door.” 

 

            No way, Dude!    All I can eat?  Beer for the taking?  There’s another free party to attend in the hotel suite?  All these toys and swag in the goody bag are for me? 
What time did you say the banquet is going to be in the bar? You gotta be kidding! I could get used to this!

 

            I didn’t know who I ‘d be working for or which team, but I was assigned to a 42-footer that had been brought all the way over from Mazatlan.  All I knew was that I was going to be working for a “professional” multi-national team from Europe.  Wow! 

 

            Professionals?  How could we lose?  Besides…they had ME!

 

            Well, as it turned out, we didn’t win…even with me aboard.  In fact, we didn’t even catch a fish.  Didn’t even raise one.  Not a bonito.  Not a needlefish.  NADA!

 

            As it turned out, my host “employers” would have loved to have caught a “money fish,” but that would have been gravy.  All of them were famous fishermen in their own right back in their respective countries.  And initially, I will admit I was a bit peeved at their nonchalant attitude towards fishing that first day on the water.   I was expecting more. 

 

            Whereas I was all fired up to be on the big stage, they were just taking it all in with big grins and smiles.

 

            I was gung-ho.  Let’s get some fish!  Let’s win some money!  I wanted to be in the picture holding the big check next to the big fish and the Corona girls.

 

            But this obviously wasn’t their first rodeo. 

 

            As he explained to me, it wasn’t just about winning money.  They were paid by big tackle manufacturers in Europe to “represent.”  Indeed, all of the clothing they wore each day (different sets each day) and to the various events and even every piece of luggage or thing they owned seemed to be emblazoned with logos.  They were like the equivalent of NASCAR stars and their cars.

 

            The head of the group had his own fishing show in Europe and taught international fishing schools, “We all paid our dues to get here, but now we are paid to be here at these tournaments to fish and we also charge alot to wear each and every bit of logo you see.” 

 

            “It would be nice to win money, but look around you.  The tournaments are like a big circus!  This is our 6th tournament this year.  After this we go to Venezuela.  Then Tahiti.  I forget where we go after that one!”

 

            My envy level rose higher.

 

            “At each tournament we get to see our friends from Japan, Portugal, Canada and some state called ‘Wyoming’, ” added one of the German members of the team with a laugh.  “It’s like that at each event.  One big party!”

 

            “My gosh, the sun is out.  The girls are always pretty.  I love margaritas and tacos.  We fish all day and at night we dance with your Mexican senoritas on behalf of our sponsors!  Life is good.” chimed in an Italian member of the team emerging from the galley with a pitcher of something frosty.

 

            “Look, there are some very good teams here, but so much of tournament fishing is also luck.  If you have the right bait and just happen to run over a hungry fish at the right moment he will bite.  Maybe he will be a money fish.  It is not that complicated.  Fishing is just what brings us together.”

 

            And he was right.  I was told to stand-down from watching the trolling rigs astern like a good deckhand and go bring up more glasses, sausage and wine from the galley and join the “party.”  We had a great time. 

 

            From  Nov. 3-6, Western Outdoor News will be holding it’s 12 annual Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot Tournament.  Last year, it was the largest tournament in Baja and produced a 383-pound beast tuna that was just shy of the world record.  This year’s battle cry…”Fish Hard Party Harder.” is perfect.  It’s about having a great time with friends and do a little fishing in one of the prettiest places on the planet.  See you there!

 

            For more info:  http://www.wonews.com/Blog.aspx?id=1084&AuthorID=59044&t=Huge-Cabo-Tuna-293pounds-caught-at-th

 That’s my story!

Jonathan

            ____________________________

Jonathan Roldan has been the columnist and Baja Editor for Western Outdoor News since 2004 and has been a publishing since 1978.  He and his wife, Jilly, live in La Paz where they own and run the Tailhunter International Sporfishing Fleet www.tailhunter-international.com since 1996 and can usually be found at the restaurant, TAILHUNTER RESTAURANT on the historic La Paz waterfront.  He can be reached directly at his e-mail:  riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com

Read Full Post »

Dude…I Don’t Feel So Great…

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Dehydration, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Heat stroke, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Mexican Independence Day, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Sun stroke, Tailhunter International, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on September 25, 2010| Leave a Comment »

This might be a popular way to "hydrate" while in Baja, but it's not the best way to keep liquid in your system and can lead to other problems besides a hangover.

DUDE…I DON’T FEEL SO GREAT…

Originally published the week of Sept. 27, 2010 in Western Outdoor News

 

It can happen so fast.

            The last time I saw it happen, I wasn’t even sure what I was seeing.  One moment, the guy was sitting on the terrace of our bar here in La Paz enjoying the afternoon sunshine and another cold beer and in a nano-second it suddenly changed.

            I saw the guy smiling and laughing and the next, he simply tipped over.  Like someone threw the switch. Lights out.  Chair went over.  He hit the floor.

            The next few seconds were pandemonium.  People scrambling all over.  I heard “heart attack”…”give him air”…”get an ambulance”…”the guy is out”…”someone help my husband…”

            I looked through the melee of people and all the instruction giving.  At times like that it’s a bit like herding cats.  Everyone in panic mode.  Everyone is a doctor.  People actually arguing while a guy is flat out on the floor. The wife is wailing.  She has no clue.  They’re in a foreign country and she’s not being much help either.

            Then, the guy just sits up.  Just like that.

             Kinda woozy, but grinning. “C’mon, man…” He’s pushing people away from him.  Why are you all lookin’ at me? He’s puzzled.  “What am I doing on the floor?”

            We try to keep him down and comfortable. Call the paramedics anyway.  He doesn’t want all this fuss.  Just wants to get up and get another beer.  “I’m on vacation, man!”

            But the place collectively ramps down and breathes and sighs. None larger than my wife and I since we own the place, but deep inside we suspected the problem.

            It happens quite often actually.  More than folks know.

            Call it heatstroke.  Sunstroke.  Heat exhaustion.  Whatever.  It can be pretty serious and can disguise itself pretty well.  Just this morning when we were putting out our fishermen and one guy thought he was coming down with the flu that night…

            “I was chilly and my head hurt and I was aching. My stomach was upset and I was shaking so much we turned off the air-conditioner in the hotel room.” 

            Fortunately, his buddy (who works out alot)   fed him some gatorades and water and a good night’s rest he was fine.  But both had spent the previous day fishing all day in the hot Baja sun pulling on fish.  They thought they had drank enough waters, but on afterthought figured they must have been de-hydrated.

            Two weeks ago, some of our fishing clients ate at a restaurant and complained of “food poisoning” late that night.  I got called to their hotel room.

            I’m no doctor, but food poisoning usually seems to kick-in 3 to 6 hours after eating.  The both said that they went to town for dinner came back to the hotel and went to bed exhausted right away already feeling badly.

            They had fished hard all day.  It was clear from the blazing sunburns on their shoulders and the “racoon” pattern on their faces that they had only worn sunglasses on their heads…no hats involved.   They admitted to having drunk only one or two small bottles of water, but quite a few beers.  The only food all day had been some tacos they had just eaten and a bag of chips while they were fishing.

            I had some Pedilite (given to kids when they have the “runs” to replace fluids) and Gatorade and told them to drink some and see how they felt in an hour before I called the hotel doctor about food poisoning.  An hour later, they were much better.

            “Heatstroke” is a real medical emergency and  can be extremely serious.  Basically,  the body can’t cool itself down fast enough through normal means such as dissipation through the skin or by perspiration.  You’re overheated, Bucky!  In hot conditions or under strenuous activity, e.g. fishing in the hot Baja sun, you’re wide open. 

            Symptoms can be deceiving and sound like so many other maladies…(hangover? heart attack?  bad tacos?)

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • headache
  • cramps and muscle aches
  • dizziness
  • weakness
  • rapid pulse
  • elevated temperature
  • confusion
  • difficulty breathing
  • seizure

 

Caught early and recognized, it’s very treatable and very preventable.  Mostly it’s common sense. 

Get the person cooled down.  Shade.  Fan them to promote cooling and perspiration.  Liquids.  Ice packs under the armpits help too.

The best is prevention.  Stay as cool as possible. Hydrate!  Liquids with caffeine or alcohol actually help DE-HYDRATE you so take it easy.  Drink beverages that replace the electrolytes you’re losing out there in the sun.

The guy in our restaurant who fell over had traveled all day.  He was so excited about his trip that he didn’t eat.  He drank coffee on the plane.  He had lots of beer all day.  He had been sitting in the sun for several hours watching the ocean with buddies at our bar.  He was older.  He had not been drinking water.  Duh!

He got up and walked out helped by his wife, but he sure scared alot of people.

Read more:

http://www.medicinenet.com/heat_stroke/article.htm

_____________________________________

Jonathan Roldan has been the Baja Editor at Western Outdoor News since  2006.  He and his wife Jill live in La Paz and own the Tailhunter Fishing Fleet as well as run the Tailhunter Restaurant and FUBAR Cantina.  He can be reached directly at riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com  or through their website www.tailhunter-international.com

Read Full Post »

MY FIREWORKS PARTY

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Mexican Independence Day, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on September 11, 2010| Leave a Comment »

Ahhh...3...2...1...VIVA MEXICO! Give me the danged match! I can't wait. I just hope we don't set the roof on fire!

 MY FIREWORKS PARTY!

Originally published in Western Outdoor News the Week of Sept. 12, 2010

Some guys grew up always wanting a Harley or a Daniel Boone musket or a jet plane.  We get some of our dreams. Some we don’t. 

 

Others…well…they fall by the wayside.  Somehow owning the Batmobile isn’t as realistic now that I’m older either.   My wife always wanted a pony as a little girl.  She got a little ceramic statue.

 

I’ve always had a fascination with fire…well, specifically fireworks.  I mean, didn’t you?  Sparklers!  Pin wheels!  Fountains!  Those “Piccolo Petes” that you could make blow up if you pinched them off with dad’s vise grips.  I even liked those “snakes” that looked like something your dog left in the yard!

 

I’m always going to be a little boy at heart! 

 

Well, I guess I’m finally going to have a dream come true.  We just bought a full-on professional fireworks show to blow off in front of our Tailhunter Restaurant here in La Paz.

 

I’m not talking about some bottle rockets and a string of firecrackers.  Eight hundred bucks just bought us 90-exploding-seconds (yes…that’s right a minute-and-a-half for 800 bucks!) of full mortar-blasting-boom-rockets-red-glare-fun.

 

Talk about burning money.  I can only imagine what a full 15 or 30 minute show must cost some of these other places like Disneyland or Vegas where they really put on a show! But, Jill says it’ll be good for business.  An investment. 

 

That’s the kind of cost-benefit argument I’d use with my parents when they said no to a bb-gun.  You know the stuff you laid on mom and dad… It was an “investment” in teaching me responsibility and safety.  Plus…it keeps me out of the house.   Blah blah blah. In reality,  I just wanted to ping the neighbor kid and shoot the hell out’ve cans and annoy  the crows. 

 

We have “professional” rocketeers/pyro-technic guys setting up on the beach across the street from us.  I just hope they face them towards the bay since we have a 3 story bar with palm-frond roofs! 

 

Two years ago we saw another “professional” show here in La Paz at a wedding and they ended up lighting the local palm trees on fire!  It was pretty comical watching gardners at the hotel trying to put out the 30 foot palm trees  with garden hoses that only shot 6 feet high!

 

There’s no way this little-boy-small-business-guy like me could get away with this back in the U.S.

 

Anyway, the reason for the celebration is Mexico’s 200th Independence Day Sept. 15th.  We hope you’re somewhere in Mexico for it and, if not, we’re sorry you’re going to miss it.

 

We figure we might as well go all-out for it with costumes and decorations and the afore-mentioned fireworks show.

 

I’ve always liked how Mexico does it’s national holidays.  Unlike say,  our 4th of July in the U.S. where we have 24-hours to party then back to work the next day, Mexico starts their parties half-a-day ahead of time. So you really get a holiday that’s about 36 “official” hours long!

 

Anyway, when someone has a 1/2 day of work who works anyway?  It’s a play day.  Officially speaking…No work stops about noon. Beer bottles start cracking open.  Everything stops except the party.  It goes all night and then the next day…EVERYONE has the day off to sleep it off or continue the party!  I like how they roll!

 

In a “normal” year celebration, whole chunks of every city and pueblo close down for massive parades, street fairs and block parties.  The preparation itself is massive. Being Mexico’s 200th birthday promises to be even bigger.

 

Independence Day is Christmas/New Years/ Labor Day and Memorial Day rolled into one and magnified by 10.

 

A month before hand, buildings were already getting decorated.  People were planning parties.  Street vendors pushing 4-wheel carts were selling Mexican flags and banners.  People buy airline tickets to visit family or to be near the biggest parties just like folks plan to be in Times Square when the ball drops on New Year’s Eve!

 

Except in Mexico their “GRITO” (the yell) is coordinated.  Instead of every location waiting until midnight to yell out like the U.S. does at New Years, in Mexico they do it differently.

 

When the clock hits midnight in MEXICO CITY, the whole country is in synch no matter what time it is in Mazatlan or Puerta Vallarta or Monterrey.   In order to commemorate Father Hidalgo’s brave declaration of independence from Spain, the entire country yells out at one time!  All zillion-million Mexicans scream out in time with Mexico’s President broadcasting from the capital…

 

“VIVA MEXICO!”

“VIVA MEXICO!”

“VIVA MEXICO!”

 

…and then the fireworks start!  And I get to light the big sparkler and see what an 800 dollar fireworks display buys me for 90 seconds!

 

Some dreams do come true! Heh-heh-heh…

 

I guess at some point, I’d better start looking into  pony for Jill…

 

 ______________________

Jonathan Roldan has been the Baja Editor for Western Outdoor News since 2006.  He lives with his wife Jill in La Paz where they run the Tailhunter International Fishing Fleet since 1996 and also own and run the Tailhunter Restaurant and FUBAR Cantina.  wwww.tailhunter-international.com  You can reach him directly via e-mail at riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com

 

Read Full Post »

VIEW FROM THE OTHER SIDE! July 31, 2010

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on July 31, 2010| Leave a Comment »

There are alot of reasons some guys catch fish and others don't. Sometimes it's just an unlucky day. That happens. But sometimes there are other factors. There are two sides to every story!

VIEW FROM THE OTHER SIDE

Originally Published in Western Outdoor News the Week of Aug. 4, 2010

Since the mid-90’s, I’ve been getting people out fishing down here in Baja.  I’d have to say we’ve had several thousand people entrust a day or more of their vacations to us to catching some fish.

We do catch fish.  Thankfully, the fish-rich waters of Baja sure makes that easier and people have a good time.  They come year-after-year.

Fairly or unfairly, we often get all the credit when the fish jump in the boat but conversely we also feel the pain of our clients (or get blamed) when the fish don’t cooperate.

Frankly, nothing gets me scratching my head harder or knots up my gut more than the folks who don’t do as well as the others.  I think any outfitter, guide or person who works in a charter operation worth their salt feels the same way. 

All things being equal with conditions, gear, boats, etc. for whatever reason, someone gets a big goose-egg.  The only boat that doesn’t catch fish.  I hate seeing those long faces.  I take it personally. 

We like success.  A good day on the water means happy customers. 

At the end of the day, I love hearing the excited success stories.  Nothing better than a customer who can’t stop gushing or finish a sentence because they are so excited.

“…and then this HUGE  fish came up and…”

“…but I grabbed my rod which started to…”

“…and I thought to myself, but my heart began to…

“…best day I’ve ever…” 

Don’t get me wrong, I’ll take a high-five over a kick in the butt anyday.  I mean,  I KNOW how all the other anglers caught their fish.  But…I’m more intrigued and sometimes worried about the angler who did NOT catch fish, especially when everyone else had a banner day.

I think Michael Jordan might have once said, that he made the game-winning basket many times in his career, but the shots he missed were the ones that he remembered and tormented him the most.

For us it’s the same way.  I love seeing the smiles and knuckle-bumps, but it’s the guy with the dis-spirited face, that bothers me the most.  Everyone caught fish and there’s one or two guys that just missed out.

I always try to talk to the clients.  Find out what happened.  Sometimes, folks are pretty surly when they don’t catch fish, but most times they’ll talk.

There’s a million stories.  Bad bait.  Too much current.  Not enough current.  Too warm.  Too cold.  Full moon.  Green water.  Bad captain.  Whatever…

The good thing about fishing in Baja is that, folks rarely have a bunch of bad days.  More often than not, a bad day can just as easily be followed by world-class explosive days. Then suddenly amazingly, the world is a bright and shiny place again for the aggrieved fisherman.

But, on the bad days, I have always made it a point to talk to my captain about a bad fishing day as well.   I want to hear their side of the stories. 

Sometimes it’s just “one of those days.”  Even the best captains and anglers have a bad day.  But, have you ever wondered what the captains thought?

Here’s some captains comments I’ve heard over the years…

“No patience.”

“Too many toys. Too much gear. Wanted to use them all.”

“Wants to fish their own way or the way they caught fish in Puerto Vallarta”

“Too many ‘captains’ in the boat.”

“Hard to fight a fish with a beer can in one hand.”

“Does not want have any help.”

“Wanted to do too many things in one day.”

“Wanted to fish for a fish that isn’t here this time of year.”

“Trying too hard.  Too serious.”

“Too many people in the boat.”

“Wanted me to watch their kids AND run the boat AND catch fish”

“Won’t get out of the chair.”

“Too anxious.”

“Girlfriend spent day yelling at him.”

“Did not want to spend the money to buy bait. Said it was too expensive.”

“Expected fish to be in the same spot as last year.”

“Spent the whole time in the cabin eating/ sleeping/ blending drinks”

“Hungover.”

“Spent the day throwing up and got angry for not catching fish.”

“Had too many rods.  Could barely walk around the boat.”

“Thinks he knows more than the captain.”

“Didn’t wake up on time and started late.”  / “Wanted to go in too early.”

“Doesn’t follow the fish.”

“Insisted on tying his own bad knots.”

Two sides to every story!  I tend to take both sides with a grain-of-salt when the captain AND the client have contrary stories and figure the truth lay somewhere in the middle.  But, again, the good thing is that in Baja, tomorrow is always a whole ‘nother day!

 _____________________

Jonathan Roldan has been the Baja Editor and columnist for Western Outdoor News and Publications since 2004.  He and his wife, Jill, own and operate Tailhunter International fishing in La Paz since the mid-90’s as well as the Tailhunter Restaurant and FUBAR Cantina.  Jonathan can be reached via e-mail at riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com

Read Full Post »

BAD FISH!

Posted in Baja Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, tagged , , , , , , on July 2, 2010| Leave a Comment »

SAILFISH READY FOR RELEASE!

BAD FISH!

Originally published in Western Outdoor News the Week of July 6, 2010

We’ve certainly come a long way in the years since I started working down here in the mid-90’s.  I hate to admit it, but I’m a slave to technology. 

Back “in the day” when I was an attorney, I refused to buy a cell phone.  Well, in those days, it was the genesis of the cell phone rage and “portable” and “car phones” were big cumbersome things.  But, I would have none of that.

Now, here I am running a fishing business, a bar, a  restaurant and I have 3 cell phones, 3 computers and any other techno-gizmo that can help me be faster, more accurate and more productive.

So…now, I can even  sit out on the water with my Blackberry.  Ho-hum. Roll my eyes.

And in between tying rigs for clients; gaffing fish; or other boat-like things, I’m tapping away with my thumbs.  The world is at my fingertips and conversely, I can no longer escape from the world either.

“Hey Jonathan, how’s the fishing?”

“Can I book a group of 10 in two weeks?”

“What’s the best place to eat tacos in La Paz?”

“So, are you on the water right now? ”

I gaff a fish…I answer an e-mail.  I tie a hook…I answer an e-mail. More often than not, my response is, “I’m on a boat and the client has the fish up next to the boat.  I gotta go!  Will write you more later!” At least, I’m prompt!

A few minutes later, I  might check the funny response.”Jonathan, I hate you.  I’m in my office cubicle/ traffic/ board meeting/ etc.  right now.  I really hate you that you’re on the water! Wish I was there!”

Keeps it fun!

But a couple of weeks ago, in response to a client asking me how the fishing was going, I told him that I had a 13-year-old boy tied onto his first marlin and having a blast.

“Is it a good marlin?” asked the client.

Rather pre-occupied at the moment, I guess I read the text message too literally.

“What do you mean a ‘good’ marlin?” I tapped back as I helped coach the youngster pull on the big fish.

“Well, some marlin are better than others!” he responded.  “Is it big?  A blue? A striped marlin?”  A small marlin?”  That’s what I mean by asking if it’s a ‘good’ fish.”

Oh, uh…..I guess I had been concentrating on the job at hand. I had taken the question too literally.

It was a searing mid-day sun dripping down on us the way only the Baja sun can melt around you .  Thick as syrup.  Water rays blazing up in reflection.  We were soaked in sweat and that was nothing compared to the young boy grimacing and pulling like the world depended on him getting this big fish.  Flushed with excitement, sunburn and strain.  Arms getting a bit shaky.  T-shirt smudge stained with salt and perspiration.

“Breathe!  Take a breath!” I would laughingly instruct.  “Let the rod and reel do the work for you!”

He’d just look at me and give a tight-lipped smile. Trying hard to concentrate.  Small sensation of panic each time the fish pulled out more line than he was reeling in.  I could read his silent screaming pleading thoughts…”oh no…not again…c’mon…my arms hurt…oh please oh please…I can’t turn the handle…I’m so thirsty…I am NOT going to lose…oh not again…stop…please stop.”

It was nothing compared to the look on dad’s face.  Beaming. Ten feet tall.

 Son’s first fish.  Father and son trip.  That’s MY boy.  C’mon son.  You can do it.  There you go.  Don’t give up.  A little harder.  Keep the rod tip up.  Oh please oh please let him catch this fish. Atta boy! 

He wants to hard to help.  But knows he can’t.  Knows his boy is hurting, but that’s part of it…the ritual.  Doesn’t dare think about the alternative of disappointment. Doesn’t want to over-coach and confuse the kid.  Doesn’t want to jinx it.  He’s biting his own lip.  C’mon son. C’mon.  You can do it!

I can hear it all.  I can see it all. But I’m really the only one doing any talking.  But, I can read all the emotions. 

A drawn-out agonizing battle.

And then it’s here.  Oh my!!! What a catch.  What a fish.  Look at the colors!  What elation and exhaustion.  Kid is ready to drop.  Arms are limp and trembling.  He can’t believe it. Dad yelling more than the kid. Hugging and high-fiving the tired arms of his son. 

“Wow, Son!…that’s gonna taste so good!  Let’s take some photos.  Let’s get a mount. Wait until mom and your sister see this!  Get the gaff.”

“Dad’, let’s release this.  It’s a beautiful fish.  It fought well.  I want to let it go.  Is that OK?”   says the son quietly.

Silence.  A pause.  A breath.  We all look around.  “Are you sure?  This is a lifetime fish.  Your first.”

“Yea dad…it’s tired.  I’m tired.  Let’s let it go.”

“Of course, son. You bet.” says Dad quietly.

And the fish swims away after a gentle release.  And the father looks at the son. Son at father.  Not sure who is prouder.

I get on my blackberry.  I begin to tap tap tap.

“There’s no such thing as a bad fish. They are all good fish. Some are just better than others. We’re headed back to the beach now.  I have something much better than a marlin in the panga right now. Out.”

Jonathan Roldan has been the Baja Editor for Western Outdoor News since 2004.  He lives with his wife, Jill, in La Paz, Baja Sur where they run their fishing operation www.tailhunter-international.com since the mid-90’s as well as the Tailhunter Restaurant Bar on the historic La Paz waterfront.  He can be reached directly via e-mail at riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com

Read Full Post »

YOU DON’T SAY! (originally published in Western Outdoor News the week of June 22, 2010

Posted in Baja Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on June 18, 2010| Leave a Comment »

If you hang around tourist areas, it's amazing some of the things that pass for "fact" if you do a little eavesdropping. It can be pretty amusing. The docks and beaches of Cabo San Lucas are ideal for a little fun!

YOU DON’T SAY!

(Things overheard from tourists!)

Originally Published the Week of June 22, 2010 in Western Outdoor News

You know…if you hang out on the docks or beaches where tourists gather long enough, you hear some really interesting and funny things from  folks.  You can’t help but eavesdrop, laugh and shake your head! 

Here’s a list of some things I’ve heard over the years.  And the most entertaining thing is that they are usually spoken with so much ” expert conviction” by the person saying it as he explains it to the others. Best part is the folks listening to these comments nodding like they totally understood and there had been a great revelation! 

“Really? ”

“You don’t say!”

 “I NEVER knew that!”

Imagine a guy in polyester shorts and black socks with black shoes or sandals talking. Tourist map in hand.  Camera around neck.  Faux-leather man-purse (murse)/fanny pack around the waist with “Members Only” on it.  Sometimes, just off the cruise ship or part of a tour group. He’s read all the tourist brochures so he’s the “authority” of the group. You get the idea. But you may not get the logic of some of these wacky statements:

1.  FROM THE FISHING EXPERT – Now THAT’s a fish-slaying machine!  Look at the “booms” on the back.  Those are for catching marlin and really big fish.  (He was pointing to the lifeboat davits on a small cruise ship)

2.  PANGAS vs. BONGOS – I hear that they catch fish in “BONGOS”. That’s what they call those small Mexican fishing boats.  The guys who captain Bongos are called  “Bongo-deros.”

3.  REAL AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FOOD – We ate at  REAL Mexican restaurant where they had the BEST hamburger I have ever had!

4.  THEY USE DIFFERENT COWS – I would never eat a steak in Mexico.  Have you seen the skinny cows on the side of the road?  Eat the beef tacos instead.  The smaller chunks for tacos come from smaller cows.

5.  TRANSFORMATION – It’s OK to use ice cubes in your drinks, just don’t drink the water once the ice melts in your glass.   Once ice turns to water, it’s not safe. 

6.  IT’S LOGICAL – The reason you get tanned more quickly here in the Mexico is because it’s closer to the equator, not because it’s hotter.

7.  SO BEER IS MADE FROM…? – Mexican beer tastes better because they don’t use water to make Mexican beer since it never rains in Mexico.

8.  FROM EXPERIENCE – Tequila is made from dehydrated worms that live in blue agave trees.  That’s why some companies put a worm in the bottom of the bottle to remind you of the ingredients.  Drinking tequila with lime kills the bacteria that might be in it because lime has acid in it.

9.  TELL IT TO THE OFFICER –  In Mexico, it’s OK to drive faster than the speed limit because everyone is always late.  

10.  MANANA MANANA –  In Mexico, everyone drives slower because it’s OK to be late for everything.  No one is in a hurry.

11.  THEY ALL HAVE POINTY NOSES – Cabo San Lucas catches more swordfish than any place else in the world (don’t know the difference between sailfish, swordfish, marlin).

12.  GETS CROWDED WITH THE SALMON – Dorado are fish that swim up rivers in Canada then migrate to Mexico which is why they are such colorful fish.  In Canada they are only grey and silver.

13. WORLD HISTORY REVISED –  Baja California once use to be part of California, but the missionaries from Spain gave it back to the Aztecs who were then conquered by Columbus when he discovered the new world. 

14. SURIVIVAL OF THE FITTEST –  Marlin have long “noses” so that they can battle other marlin underwater for food and swim faster which fall off every year and grow back like deer antlers.

15. VACATION VALUE –  Vacation days are longer in Mexico because everyone moves at a slower pace

17.  SEE IF YOU FOLLOW THIS – Everyone speaks Spanish in Mexico because Mexico was once ruled by France until Pancho Villa liberated it for the Mexicans but gave California back to the United States.

18.  DAVY CROCKETT IS WINCING – Cinco de Mayo is when Mexico won the battle of the Alamo in Veracruz.

This is why I like to keep a little pad and paper always handy!

That’s my story!

Jonathan

Jonathan Roldan is the the regular columnist and co-Baja editor for Western Outdoor News.  He and his wife Jill have run the Tailhunter Fishing Fleet since the mid-90’s and own the Tailhunter Restaurant and FUBAR Cantina in La Paz.  www.tailhunter-international.com  He can be reached directly at riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com

Read Full Post »

Posted in Baja Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on May 8, 2010| Leave a Comment »

It comes in all makes and models and can be confusing but the growth of it's popularity can't be understated! But do you really need it?

TO FLURO OR NOT TO FLURO!

 

Originally Published in Western Outdoor News the Week of May 12, 2010

              It used to be “back-in-the-day” when I was a kid that honestly, my day of fishing back in Hawaii involved a thin bamboo cane pole (no reel!); a rusty hook I sharpened on the driveway; a 10-cent bit of shrimp and a thin piece of string or even white thread if I could steal some from my grandma’s sewing box! (Oh the luxury!)

            And I would be happy as a dog in a forest of fire-hydrants all-day-long!  And I caught fish too. 

            All of us kids fished like that.  I’d climb out my window early in the morning so as not to wake the family and my buddy next door would climb out his window and actually shimmy down the drainpipe onto his garage roof.  With bait and cane pole over our shoulders, we’d trudge barefoot down the gravel road to the beach and fish all day long.

            The one defining difference in our fishing was the line!  If one of us happened to have squirreled-away or outright stole a bit of that white thread, it made all the difference in the world to what we would catch or, if we would catch much of anything at all.  (I don’t think I knew mono existed until I was about 10 years-old).

            Anyway, fast forward to the here-and-now. 

            It’s gotten a bit more complicated and sophisticated…not to mention alot more expensive than the days of my bamboo pole and rusty hooks. 

            And lines.  Where do we start?  Clear, blue, green, grey, pink, red, chartreuse (do real men use “chartreuse” fishing lines?) and on-and-on.  And that’s just the monofilament.

            Then, there’s braided lines and co-polymer lines.  But the one that seems funniest to me is flurocarbon.  It’s been around awhile, but it seems to have taken awhile to get a toe-hold here in Baja, especially among captains and crews.

            When many captains up and down the Baja coast fish like their papa’s did and his papa before him, there’s often resistance to new technology, e.g. circle hooks; spreader bars; teasers, etc.

            After all, if it aint’ broke don’t fix it and if their dad’s caught tuna a certain way, why mess up a good thing?

            Flurocarbon line looks like regular mono but it has the properties of being supposedly invisible underwater.  In a nutshell.  I don’t know.  Shrug.  I’m no scientist.    I can see it, but apparently fish can’t.  I’ve been a believer for years.

            Especially in outlying  Baja areas where technology comes slowly, it’s making believers out of many Baja captains and crews as well. 

            The thing is, it’s so darned expensive down here and often hard to get, even for tackle stores that it’s almost like a drug transaction sometimes.  As I’ve walked along some docks and beaches, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked, “Pssst, amigo, do you have any fluro? Falta poquito favor.” (I just need a little please!)

            To many captains, a bit of fluro leader is sometimes the difference between catching fish and catching ALOT of fish!

            So, should you bring some down on your next trip?  Yes and no.

            As I said, even back in the states, it’s not cheap.  You definitely don’t want to fill a whole reel with the stuff.  Not only will it cost alot, but first, you don’t really need that much. 

            Second, although it’s supposedly invisible under the water, it tends to be stiffer and much more brittle than regular mono.  That means it breaks easier.  To me, it means that my baits might not swim as naturally, if it has to drag a 100 yards of stiff line behind it. 

            You also have to be careful.  Knot-tying can sometimes be a bit more difficult, especially on the heavier fluro.  Because it can be stiffer, make sure the knot is properly cinched. 

            Personally, I prefer it just as leader material.  A few yards will do ya.  After all, if it’s supposedly invisible underwater, then I really only need to cover the part that’s actually UNDER the water near the fish, right?  I don’t need a zillion yards of fluro on my reel.  A few yards as leader does me fine.

            Secondly, since the lack of visibility is utmost, I don’t much have need for it on my trolling lines or when using jigs or iron.  In my head, when a fish strikes a moving lure, it’s a reaction strike.  It’s actually moving in to whack the offering.  That thing is MOVING! 

             Unlike fishing a drifted bait, where a fish might check it out for a bit and line visibility might make a huge difference, I don’t think it makes much difference with a trolled jig  or lure that’s cast and retrieved.  The beauty of fluro is that it’s invisible ergo use it when visibility is actually a factor. 

            Lastly, it makes a great parting gift to your skipper or deckhand.  Watch him light up when you hand him your leftover spool. Por favor!          

 That’s my story

Jonathan

*Jonathan Roldan is the Baja Editor and Columnist with Western Outdoor News since 2004.  He lives in La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico with his wife, Jilly, where they run their fishing fleet www.tailhunter-international.com and the Tailhunter Bar Restaurant http://www.tailhunter-international.com/tailhunter-bar-and-fubar-cantina.htm.  You can reach him directly at riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com

Read Full Post »

« Newer Posts