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CAN’T GO WRONG BAJA PRIMER

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, fishing tournaments, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexico life, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, women fishing, tagged , , , , , , , , , , on August 7, 2011| Leave a Comment »

Look past stereotypes. A smile is a smile in any language!

CAN’T GO WRONG BAJA PRIMER

Originally Published in Western Outdoor News the Week of Aug. 10, 2011

Been down here long enough and had several thousand folks pass through our care either directly or indirectly here in Baja.  Over the years, I’ve compiled a list of things that you can do that will always work no matter what.  What got me started many years ago was listening to two gringos talking on the beach.

 

“I’m really disappointed in Mexico.   The golf course here is not even close to being as good as Pebble Beach!”  (how many are THAT good?)

 

“We were fishing and the boat didn’t even have an electronic fish finder on it.  We caught fish, but it’s like fishing in the stone ages down here.”

 

Y’know, sometimes expectations are just a little too high.  Folks forget.  This is still the Baja.  Until a few years ago, things we take for granted like electricity, running water, phones and ice were non-existent in many places, let alone complaining because you can’t find a McDonald’s for the kids. 

 

Anyway, here’s my two-cents primer on things that are 100 percent guaranteed if you plan to visit us:

 

  • Never forget you’re a guest here.  Act accordingly as if you were visiting a friend or neighbor and you will never go wrong.
  • Stereotypes work both ways.  You are consciously or sub-consciously judging your hosts as Mexicans. It’s inevitable.  You are also being judged as a guest American.  Americans are also stereotyped.  Remember, you’re being watched and judged.  Be an ambassador of goodwill.
  • No one will every laugh at you for trying to speak the language.  It’s appreciated.  By the same token, don’t get impatient if a local doesn’t speak or understand English as fast as you would like.
  • “Please” and “Thank you” in any language is always understood.
  • An unspoken smile or a laugh is a powerful communicator
  • A dollar left on a dresser of your hotel room or pressed into a palm for a small favor goes further than any dollar you ever spent
  • You will never go wrong eating at a place that has a crowd or a line around it.  It’s worth the wait. 
  •  Make a friend forever by complimenting someone’s child or asking about their family.  Ask to see a photo. 
  • Shopping is always better the further you get away from the tourist areas. 
  • Never be afraid to negotiate.  It’s expected.  It’s fun.  It never hurts to ask if there is a lower price for anything…from taxi cabs to day tours and from margarita glassware to blankets.  If they say “no” smile.  If  they say “yes” smile even bigger! 
  • Ask a taxi driver to “show you HIS favorite places.” Or take you to HIS favorite restaurant or where the locals go or eat.  Often you will discover things you would never find in the travel brochures.
  • Even if you get a bargain, tip nicely.  You’ll be remembered.
  • Take a photo of someone and, if there’s any way, give them a copy.  They will treasure it and you always.  We take photos for granted.   We have thousands of photos of ourselves.  Many folks down here have their photo i.d. and sometimes not even that.
  • Tell your captain you just want to catch fish.  He really wants to.  Let him do his job.  Try tipping AHEAD OF time or showing him his tip ahead of time.  See what magic that works!
  • Our throw-aways are someone’s treasure.  A used t-shirt.  Old fishing line. Some hooks.   A worn baseball hat.  A out-of-fashion pair of shoes or slippers. Hand them off with a smile.  Get a smile in return.
  • Don’t be afraid or too lazy to walk through a park,  beach or shopping area where families are gathered. 
  • Visit a local bookstore or listen to some local music.
  • No matter how much of a hurry you think you are in, stop and sit.  Watch and listen.  Absorb. Revel in the slower pace, even for just a moment.  You’ll be amazed.  Don’t forget that you might not be passing this way again, even if you’re rushing to catch the glass-bottom boat tour or the mariachi dinner show.  Those will always be there.  That  magnificent sunset over the Sea of Cortez might not.

That’s my story!

Jonathan

  ________________________________________

.

Jonathan Roldan has been writing the Baja Column in Western Outdoor News since 2004.  Along with his wife, Jill, they own and run the Tailhunter International Fishing Fleet in La Paz, Baja, Mexico  www.tailhunter-international.com.  They also run their Tailhunter Restaurant Bar on the famous La Paz malecon waterfront.  If you’d like to contact him directly, his e-mail is riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com  or drop by the restaurant to say hi!           

___________________________________________

 

 Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International

 

TAILHUNTER FISHING FLEET #1 Rated on Trip Advisor

TAILHUNTER RESTAURANT BAR #1 Rated in La Paz on Trip Advisor

 

Now follow us on FACEBOOK TOO

 
Website: www.tailhunter-international.com
U.S. Office: 3319 White Cloud Drive, Suite A, Hacienda Hts. CA 91745
Mexico Office: 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico
Phones:
from USA : 626-638-3383
from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863

.
Tailhunter Weekly Fishing Report:
http://fishreport.jonathanroldan.com/

Tailhunter YouTube Videos:
http://www.youtube.com/user/pangapirate

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THEY CALLED ME “MR. JONATHAN”

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, holidays in mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on May 29, 2011| Leave a Comment »

THEY CALLED ME “MR. JONATHAN”

Originally published in Western Outdoor News the Week of June 3, 2011

You get only one chance at this.

Doing what we do here in La Paz running a fishing business and restaurant, we get to watch alot of folks.

For example…

Several days ago here in La Paz,  a family of five arrived to stay at the hotel we live at here in town.  Mom and dad; a younger boy; an older girl and a young teenage boy.  “Family vacation” time.

But, other than the time I saw them pile out’ve the airport shuttle into the hotel lobby, that was the last time I’ve seen them together.  Dad’s snorkeling.  Mom’s at the spa.  One kid sits in the lounge with headsets to an iPod.  The younger one seems glued to some electronic hand-held game.  The teen just wanders around looking lost and bored.  I don’t think I’ve even seen them eat together.

And then there’s this other family. . .

For the past few days, Outdoor TV host, Chad Schearer has been filming for his popular Outdoor Channel TV show, “Shoot Straight.” http://www.shootstraighttv.com/index.php   .

Usually, Chad can be found with a rifle or bow in hand traversing the world with a camera following him around or perhaps you’ve seen him at the hundreds of seminars or speaking engagements he’s done around the country.

He’s an outfitter and guide to stars and celebrities.  I don’t have the space to  list all his accomplishments and despite his resume, he’s about as soft-spoken and easy-going as it gets.  But I think his biggest and proudest accomplishments might be his family.

You see, he travels with his family.  His wife, Marsha, is a licensed ouftitter, guide and hunter herself. She rolls camera when Chad is stalking a grizzly bear with a blackpowder rifle or drawing his bow on an African antelope.  She also home schools two great kids…10-year-old Walker and 8-year-old Wyatt.  They all hunt.  They all fish.  Being from Montana, they’re a little bit like “Little House on the Prarie” family.

The four of them along with Chad’s mom and dad have been fishing with us for the better part of the week to film their TV show.  Three generations who not only vacation together, but genuinely like each other.

How refreshing to hear youngsters address their parents with, “Yes, Ma’am” and “Yes, Sir.”  Not like robotic recruits in boot camp or boarding school, but out of genuine respect.  I’m called “Mr. Jonathan.”  They call my wife, “Ms. Jill.”

Among the family I hear “thank you” and “please” and their enthusiasm and smiles are infectious to everyone around them.  And selflessness.

I hear them say things like, “I’m going to put my rod down now because I’d like my brother to have a chance to catch a fish and I already caught a big one.”  Or, “I need to remind grandpa to drink enough water so he doesn’t get too hot.”

After the older brother caught a big dorado, he came up to me un-solicited and said, “Thanks for helping me catch that fish.  It was great!”  And he held out his fist to give me a knuckle bump.  Just like that.  Thanking ME for helping him catch a fish? Wow.

During one of the few downtimes when the fish gave us a break, Chad and I both mentioned our childhoods and how our  respective parents didn’t have much but made a point of getting us outside and into the outdoors.

It’s a common thread we share with many of our fellow brothers and sisters who love the outdoors. It started with our parents who lovingly “kicked or dragged us away and out of the house and stuck around to actually share the experience with us until it grew on us. If you’re reading this in Western Outdoor News, my blog or some other outdoor publication,  you understand.  You already have an interest in the outdoors.

We’re losing a generation of kids to the “distractions” of electronic toys, technology and social networking where we “tweet”, “twitter,” “my space” and “facebook” even our own family members instead of just stepping outside with each other.  I’m just as guilty.

Your kid might not especially like fishing or hunting, but find something outside that doesn’t involve being plugged-in or battery operated.  You get one chance with each other.  That’s it.  We pass this way once with the ones we love…our parents..our kids…our friends.   Thanks to the Schearer family, I’m reminded that my name isn’t “dude” or “bro.”  It’s “Mr. Jonathan.”  I liked how that sounded. Especially from a 10-year-old.

_______________________________________

Jonathan Roldan has been writing the Baja Column in Western Outdoor News since 2004.  Along with his wife, Jill, they own and run the Tailhunter International Fishing Fleet in La Paz, Baja, Mexico  www.tailhunter-international.com.  They also run their Tailhunter Restaurant Bar on the famous La Paz malecon waterfront.  If you’d like to contact him directly, his e-mail is riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com  or drop by the restaurant to say hi!

Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International

 

TAILHUNTER FISHING FLEET #1 Rated on Trip Advisor

TAILHUNTER RESTAURANT BAR #1 Rated in La Paz on Trip Advisor

 

Now follow us on FACEBOOK TOO

 
Website: www.tailhunter-international.com
U.S. Office: 3319 White Cloud Drive, Suite A, Hacienda Hts. CA 91745
Mexico Office: 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico
Phones:
from USA : 626-638-3383
from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863

.
Tailhunter Weekly Fishing Report:
http://fishreport.jonathanroldan.com/

Tailhunter YouTube Videos:
http://www.youtube.com/user/pangapirate


“When your life finally flashes before your eyes, you will have only moments to regret all the things in life you never had the courage to try.”

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One Man’s Cat Food…Is Not a Bad Dinner!

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, fishing tournaments, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Sun stroke, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on April 30, 2011| Leave a Comment »

Often it ends up in the garden under the rose bushes or turned into cat food, but the bonito can actually be good eating if you know what to look for! (note the belly has no markings to distinguish it from the lesser tasting skipjack).

“One Man’s Cat Food…Is Not A Bad Dinner”

 
Originally published in Western Outdoor News the Week of May 4, 2011
 

You say Po-TAY-toe.  I say poe-TAH-toe.  Semantics can screw with you.

One man’s bonito is another man’s skipjack and is another man’s catfood and another man’s gourmet dinner!

It was a number of years ago that I was sitting with a group of fishermen in a little  palm-frond palapa bar/restaurant just north…or south of Loreto.  Details are fuzzy.   I remember the beer was chilly.  The sandy floor between my toes felt good and we were all a little wind and sunburned from a good day on the water.  A little fishing.  A little diving.  Some stupid pull-my-finger horseplay between fellow goofballs.

We sat in those scuffed -white -plastic chairs with the beer logo that every Mexican beer company gives to every restaurant with the equally scuffed-up white plastic table.  No matter.  We were hungry and ordered up some fish tacos and a plate of “filete al mojo de ajo” (grilled fish with garlic.)

It arrived on mis-matched plastic plates and served with bent forks but the tortillas were warm; the salsa spicy and the beer so cold that “smoke” came out the mouth  when popped open.  And the fish could not have tasted better!  RIQUISIMO!

We wolfed down taco after taco and plate after plate.  Shoveled it in like chipmunks stuffing our cheeks!  Lime juice squirted all over.

Then someone asked the waiter… “Que clase de pescado es? Tan sabrosa!” (What kind of fish is this?  It’s delicious!”

The waiter said with a smile…”BONITO!”

AAACK!!!!

Six guys nearly hurled and choked in unison!  Everyone stopped eating to look up and at each other. Salsa dripping from fingers and corners of mouths. More than one eye-brow arched.

Bonito?  You gotta be kidding me!  We’re eating junk fish?  Isn’t that the stuff we throw away?  Give to the cats?  Put in the garden for fertilizer?  Man…if it is…that’s danged good!

Just another chapter in my enlightenment of Mexican fish! Another fish “epiphany” as it were.

 Just as I had come to enjoy eating such fish like triggerfish and sierra mackerel over the years after thinking they were also “junk fish,” I got schooled about bonito.

Highly-prized as a sport fish, but much maligned as table fare, it’s easy to get confused.  Many of us who grew up or did any fishing on the Pacific Coast came to stereotype bonito as a throw-away species. Catch a ton, but throw them back or give them away!

But, in Mexico the lines get blurred.  Everyone runs into species confusion.  Everyone calls the tuna-look-alike-fish that has trips on it a “bonito.” But, in reality, they’re usually talking about two kinds of fish…black skipjack and real bonito!

They look very identical.  Both are hard-charging members of the tuna family and if you didn’t know better, you’d think they were tuna.  They grow to about 8-12 pounds but fight like 20 pounders. 

Easily caught on live bait, lures, trolled feathers…they’re not real fussy.  Fun at first but after-awhile, if you’re really trying to catch something else like dorado or real tuna, they’re pests!

But that’s the rub.

Most captains will say “bonito” and immediately the stigma is attached.  They make no distinction between bonito and skipjack.  So, the gringo  anglers just toss the fish back and get increasingly frustrated. 

However, a good captain knows the distinction. 

Skipjack have dots or stripes on their silver/white bellies.  Meat is dark red and frankly terrible eating. 

On the other hand, bonito have no marks on their bellies. They have white/silver bellies.   Meat is not only light color, but if bled quickly and all dark meat and blood lines are removed, will fool many into thinking they are eating tuna!

So next time, take a closer look before tossing your “bonito” back !  Or convince your buddy that you really do want those bonito he planned to throw away!  Remember, yesterdays “junk fish” is often today’s dinner. 

 Just remember the prices at your local seafood restaurant for such “junk fish” as …catfish…whitefish…shark…mackerel (yes mackerel!)…tilapia (in Hawaii, they used to bring in tilapia to eat the sewage and mosquitos in the irrigation canals for the sugar cane fields!) Now they call them “African Perch” at 2o bucks a plate.  Believe it or not…even albacore was considered a “throwaway” fish at the turn of the century!

As for us eating that day on the beach…we were just hungry!  Dos mas platos por favor!  (two more plates please!) And more tortillas!

_______________________________________

            Jonathan Roldan has been writing the Baja Column in Western Outdoor News since 2004.  Along with his wife, Jill, they own and run the Tailhunter International Fishing Fleet in La Paz, Baja, Mexico  www.tailhunter-international.com.  They also run their Tailhunter Restaurant Bar on the famous La Paz malecon waterfront.  If you’d like to contact him directly, his e-mail is riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com  or drop by the restaurant to say hi!           

Jonathan

Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International

 

TAILHUNTER FISHING FLEET #1 Rated on Trip Advisor

TAILHUNTER RESTAURANT BAR #1 Rated in La Paz on Trip Advisor

 

Now follow us on FACEBOOK TOO

 
Website: www.tailhunter-international.com
U.S. Office: 3319 White Cloud Drive, Suite A, Hacienda Hts. CA 91745
Mexico Office: 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico
Phones:
from USA : 626-638-3383
from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863

.
Tailhunter Weekly Fishing Report:
http://fishreport.jonathanroldan.com/

Tailhunter YouTube Videos:
http://www.youtube.com/user/pangapirate


“When your life finally flashes before your eyes, you will have only moments to regret all the things in life you never had the courage to try.”

 

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Originally Published the Week of April 20, 2011 in Western Outdoor News

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on April 15, 2011| Leave a Comment »

Just a "sample" of some of the electronic clutter I realized I was carrying with me. This doesnt include the cables, chargers, waterproof bags and cases!

SEDUCED BY TECHNOLOGY!

Originally Published the Week of April 20, 2011 in Western Outdoor News

 

As many of us do, before a day of fishing we “tackle twitch.” 

My routine usually means emptying my tackle box and re-packing things.  Hooks here.  Lures there.  Feathers in the case.  Leader material in that section.  Line up all the blue lures there and the silver lures in that compartment.  Then, stand back.  Look.  Change them all around again.  My wife says it’s the man’s equivalent to a woman arranging her shoes in her closet.

Lately, however, I have a special section in my tackle bag.  For gadgets and gizmos.  Mexican cell phone.  Regular cell phone.  U.S. blackberry.  Digital camera. Mini-marine radio.  GPS.   Underwater mini-video cam. Ipod with earphones and mini-speaker system. (waterproof naturally).

 

Of course with all the proper cases and cords. Extra batteries. extra memory cards.  Plus the proper cases to keep them dry.  I even have a mini-solar panel to charge them all up if, heaven forbid, I get washed up on some Baja beach and there’s no hotel in walking distance!

 

This last week while “tackle twitching” I loaded up and hefted it on my shoulder. Holy caballito…that’s danged heavy!  Do I really need this stuff?

 

I set it down off my aching shoulder then remembered…”Hey, what about my new iPad? Can’t forget that either!

 

Hmmmm…that would be “chingon” to be out there on the panga and be able to check the weather; scan satellite water images from Terrafin and even…hehehehe…watch youtube; check who’s writing to me on Facebook; look at sports; read the new novel I just downloaded.  Maybe even work on my next column!  My brain nuerons tingled and toyed with the idea.  Wow.  Love it.

 

 But wait a minute…that means another set of plugs…waterproof bomb-proof case…blah blah blah…

 

I sighed.  Where was I going to put this?  Carry an extra backpack?  Oh duh…uh…this is a fishing trip.  When will I have time to use all this stuff?  When I’m working on the water, my hands are full.  Who am I kidding? So, I started unpacking. Don’t need the solar panel (what the heck was I thinking?)  Don’t need three cell phones.  That’s what voice-mail is for.  Leave the iPod and all it’s attachments.  I’d rather have some good conversation and there’s no sweeter music than a fishing reel that suddenly goes off humming to a big fish.

 

Ditch the iPad idea.  I can check the weather by simply looking up and seeing the sun. OK, got it.  It’s gonna be a sunny day!  I don’t need more information than that. I don’t need ten satellites and an HD screen to tell me that.   Simple. If it’s windy, put my windbreaker back on.  If it’s rainy…well…it doesn’t rain in Baja anyway.

 

GPS…I guess we can leave that too.  It’s not like we’re going 100 miles offshore.  The fish are in 30 feet of water about 1/2 a mile down the beach from where we park the car.  I don’t need way points to get back to the car! I can still see the car from the panga!

 

 After doing that…wow…it was ALMOST like fishing again!

 

I have to remember to leave more of the junk at home.  In it’s time and place, this is all useful and great to have.  But no matter how small the gadget it still comes with wires, cables, cases, chargers…all the accessories.  SO MUCH not needed to have a great day on the water!

 

 Look up.  Enjoy the sunshine.  Hear the rush of the water as the boat moves.  The hum of the motor.  The smell of the salt.  The taste of the cold beer and a bag of tortillas chips passed around. See some smiles.  Hear some jokes.  Tell some stories.  Feel the fiberglass and wood vibrating under your feet.  Listen for the clicker to go off!

 

 Back to basics.  It’s pretty simple. Low technology. 

 _______________________________________

 

Jonathan Roldan has been writing the Baja Column in Western Outdoor News since 2004.  Along with his wife, Jill, they own and run the Tailhunter International Fishing Fleet in La Paz, Baja, Mexico  www.tailhunter-international.com.  They also run their Tailhunter Restaurant Bar on the famous La Paz malecon waterfront.  If you’d like to contact him directly, his e-mail is riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com  or drop by the restaurant to say hi!           

 

 

 

 

 

 Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International

 

 

 

TAILHUNTER FISHING FLEET #1 Rated on Trip Advisor

 

TAILHUNTER RESTAURANT BAR #1 Rated in La Paz on Trip Advisor

 

 Now follow us on FACEBOOK TOO

 

 

 

Website: www.tailhunter-international.com
U.S. Office: 3319 White Cloud Drive, Suite A, Hacienda Hts. CA 91745
Mexico Office: 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico
Phones:
from USA : 626-638-3383
from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863

 

Tailhunter Weekly Fishing Report:
http://fishreport.jonathanroldan.com/

 

Tailhunter YouTube Videos:
http://www.youtube.com/user/pangapirate

 


“When your life finally flashes before your eyes, you will have only moments to regret all the things in life you never had the courage to try.”

 

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Originally Published in Western Outdoor News the Week of March 24, 2011

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, holidays in mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on March 20, 2011| 6 Comments »

It's not all fun-and-games on the road. This year there was a darker sadder side.

ARE YOU TALKING TO…ME?

Originally Published the Week of March 24, 2011 in Western Outdoor News

I’ve been writing this column since 2004 for Western Outdoor News.  I like to write an informative column.  I like to have fun and write feel-good stuff.   I mean…this is fishing, right?  It’s a kid’s sport.  I’ve always tried not to take it too seriously. 

I surely have tried to avoid being too controversial or inflamatory although, it’s impossible to please all the people all the time. Oh well.  Agree or disagree or agree to disagree.  That’s fine.

I’ve had to sit on this particular column for a few weeks.  My initial reaction was to put fingers to keyboard and just fire this out.  But, my wife Jill, who’s smarter than me, told me to hold onto it for awhile.  I spoke to one of my competitors, but someone I respect alot, David Jones of the Fisherman’s Fleet in La Paz.  He said to sit on it for awhile too. 

So, I did.  Until now.  It’s sad actually.

Since Dec. 31st, my wife and I have been “on the road” doing our usual promotional tour at some of the biggest fishing and hunting shows on the west coast.  We’ve driven 11,000 miles and crossed about a dozen states with our booth doing shows in Denver, Phoenix, Portland, Boise, Long Beach, Sacramento, Billings and more…talked to hundreds and maybe thousands of fishermen. 

We do this every year.  Sure, we promote our own fishing operation in La Paz, but consider ourselves ambassadors for the city; for Baja; for Mexico as well.  In the same way as Americans living in Mexico, we try to be ambassadors on behalf of Americans as well. 

I’ve been doing this almost 16 years.  I’ve been in the fishing industry for close to 25 years.  I’ve probably done close to 200 shows each 3-5 days long.  I’ve made dozens of public appearances and taught seminars for clubs, groups, and associations.  It’s been great.  Love it!  Life on the road talking fishing…how does it get better than that?

But this past year is the first time ever, we’ve run into problems…

By now,  must be living under a rock if you didn’t know that Mexico has some serious problems with violence.   Big problems.  But, like the U.S., it’s a big country.  It’s not everywhere.  It’s not everyone.  It’s not specifically directed at tourists. 

OK, I get it.  I’m not naive.  I know there’s exceptions.  But I’ve also lived and worked in Washington, D.C., New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles.  Everyone has crime problems.  (Most of which, by the way, have higher crime stats than Mexico City!)

As any of our compadres from other outfitters, hotel owners,  tour operators or charter boats will attest at  these shows, we are constantly answering questions about whether it’s safe to take the family to Baja.  Are the cartels in Loreto?  What are the chances we’ll get robbed by druggies in East Cape or kidnapped in Cabo?  How many people are dying daily in La Paz?  If we drive to San Quintin or San Felipe to go fishing, are the banditos waiting to carjack us?

We do our best to give responsible informed answers. It’s not easy for little mom and pop operations like us to compete against CNN or every local newspaper that screams about anarchy  across the border for every single act of violence.  I get it.   People are concerned.  They’re nervous. 

We arm ourselves with statistics.  We remind people that 20-second sound bites on the evening news can hardly give the “whole story.”  We ask people to see beyond the newspaper headlines.  Read the rest of the article. 

Do their own research.  Talk to their friends who have visited Mexico recently.  Most will tell you they never felt threatened or unsafe…certainly no more than walking through the darkest spots in American cities.

But, folks are scared.  Yes, I get it.  Hell, I would be too if my emotions were only based on doses of headline news.  I’m a former radio and TV reporter.  I know how it works.

But this is the first time during our travels that I’ve had fear manifest itself against us.

I won’t give the names of the cities, but it happened in almost ALL the cities.  It happened at least once and several times more than once in each city.   And the first time it happened, it was hard to believe.

A couple came up to the side of our booth and said it to my wife…It came from the side of their mouths too, but loud enough to hear…

“How did they let people like YOU in OUR show?”

They didn’t wait for a response and we could hardly believe we heard it.  We’re they talking to us?  Me?  You?  What did they mean by “people like us?”

OK, I’m short and brown and funny looking.  Born in the U.S. Got a law degree and everything.  My wife… pretty brilliant red-headed firebrand San Diegan go-getter. 

We were sure they were talking to us.  But why? Tried to blow it off. Whatever.

But, it didn’t stop.  There were those with the snide remarks from the side of their mouths that wouldn’t come directly up to us to tell us what they meant.  They’d stand to the sides.

“What are people like YOU doing here?”  But they said it loud enough for us to hear it.  The stings got deeper.

There were those who came right up.  Made a bee-line right up to the counter and got in my face. 

“They should just KILL all YOU people right now!!!  Just wipe out all people like you!” 

Whoa! Sir!  Just hold it right there.  Let’s talk about this.  Are you talking to me?

Some would just walk away swearing.  Some would continue with the vitriol. 

“Your whole country is full of nothing but scum and we’d be better off just eliminating the whole place!”  They would jab a finger directly in my face or pound my counter with a fist. 

Most times, you just try to tell the person to kindly move on down the aisle.  Surely, I was never going to convince these folks to ever come fishing with little old us.  Their minds were pretty much made up about “us.” Didn’t even want to discuss it.

Others wanted to confront us.  My wife got upset several times. Folks, please don’t say that to my wife.

 I’m about as confrontational as a teddy bear.  I can and will get in someone’s face physically or verbally if pushed.  I know how.  But why?  Sir, please don’t jab your finger two inches from my face.   You don’t want to do that.  My fists would clench by my sides. I’m gritting my teeth.

Several times, I will admit she had to tell me to back down or other people visiting at the booth had to tell me to,  “Let it go.”  or  “That guy is a jerk.” Even they were shaking their heads in disbelief.

But that was the confusing part.  Who is this “US” that these people were so angry with?  And why “US?” 

Why is some guy dressed like Wyoming ranch hand or a mist-soaked coast from Washington or  the perfect west-side  tanned couple in Santa Monica angry with US that they would come up to say those things  as if we had personally offended them?  Who me?

What did WE do to THEM?  Or even on a broader scale, what had Mexico or a Mexican personally done to them to raise that level of hate or fright?

One or two incidents happen.  You blow it off.  Later, Dude.  Sorry, you feel that way.

 But, it actually happened several times per show.  Ten shows. Even ran into one small town where we were refused service. (But that’s another story!)

The more it happened, the angrier I got.  I just wanted them to stop for a moment and think about what they were saying.  Come back here!  Why do you feel that way? Why are you so angry?  I just saw you walk all the way down the aisle to tell me to go to hell. You want to punch me in the nose.  Then you walk away shaking with anger.

You’re scared. I know why. 

I’m scared  too. Not of you.  I’m scared because of how you feel about me. That’s sad.

We just wanted to invite you to go fishing with us. 

_________________________

Jonathan Roldan has been writing the Baja Column in Western Outdoor News since 2004.  Along with his wife, Jill, they own and run the Tailhunter International Fishing Fleet in La Paz, Baja, Mexico  www.tailhunter-international.com.  They also run their Tailhunter Restaurant Bar on the famous La Paz malecon waterfront.  If you’d like to contact him directly, his e-mail is riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com  or drop by the restaurant to say hi!           

         

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GLOBAL (TRAVEL) WARMING – Impressions from the Road (originally published week of January 18, 2010 Western Outdoor News)

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, fishing tournaments, holidays in mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexican Independence Day, Panga Fishing, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on January 16, 2011| Leave a Comment »

Jill interviewed by TV camera crew in Denver. Interest in travel again seems to be on the rise.

“GLOBAL (Travel) WARMING”  – Impressions from the Road

 

Originally Published the Week of January 15, 2011 in Western Outdoor

 

             As I write this, we’re about as far from the sunny skies and warm waters of La Paz as can be.  Whereas,  the only ice I see all year is inside the rim of a frosty margarita glass, I’m currently in freezing Billings, Montana for the Great Rockies Sport Show.  With wind-chill the other night it was MINUS 20 below zero. 

            In the last 2 weeks we’ve driven from California to Nevada, Arizona, Utah,  Colorado (for the Denver ISE show) then Wyoming and now Montana.  In the teeth of winter.  In two weeks it has been above freezing only 3 days.  More than half the days were single digits or chillingly double digit sub-zero weather.   It’s the kind of chill that’s so cold it “burns” when it touches exposed skin.

            But standing for several days in our booth for two shows and talking to not only the prospective folks stopping by to chat but also with other vendors and outfitters selling trips from S. Africa, Mexico, Canada, S. America and  Antartica, as well as fishing, hunting and camping gear,  other things are warming up.

            After several years of decline, I would have to say that the shows are very well attended.  Even moreso, the “interest factor” among attendees is high.  The past several years, we heard alot of people coming to the booths talking about the “economy” or sadly worried about their jobs or having lost their jobs.

            “Not this year.”

            “Just came to kill some time at the show.  Can’t really travel right now.”

            “I can barely afford a t-shirt and a hot dog right these days”

            These were the types of thing we were hearing the past few show seasons.  Tough times.

            But this year it seems a bit different.  Other outfitters are telling us that sales are up.  People are actually booking trips at the shows.  People are actually planning vacations again!  There’s a good healthy optimistic buzz in the big show halls!

            Either folks are pulling through the tough times or have re-adjusted things.  Maybe they can’t afford the hunting trip to the Kenya, but the deer hunt in Wyoming is affordable.  The 7 days fly-in fishing trip to Chile isn’t in the books, but a 5 day trip to fish dorado in Mexico is in the budget.  Two week expeditions to Nepal are out, but 1 week in Alaska might work.

            Sure, there’s alot of people still hurting.  No doubt.  But I think folks are still realizing that they need to take vacations and still need time with the family and how important that is. 

            As one guy told me, “I still have vacation time coming and if I stay home, I’ll only have to mow the lawn and paint the fence.  What kind of vacation is that?”

            As another  lady simply put it to me, “We’ve pulled in our belts a bit, but overall, we’re just not going to participate in any economic slowdown.  We still want to enjoy life.”

            Amen!

            As for coming to Mexico, we’ve definitely got more interest.  As mentioned, economically, I think folks are seeing Mexico as a still-affordable get-away. 

            But, they’ve also come to some common sense too.

            The whole “swine flu” care has come and gone and most folks logically have concluded that you had about as great a chance of getting it at home as in travelling to Mexico…if at all.   I haven’t fielded a swine-flu question in over a year compared to the early days when every 3 e-mails and phone calls asked if people were dropping in the streets!  (Maybe from too many tequilas, but not from swine flu!).

            As for the crime, there’s no doubt there’s serious trouble in Mexico.  But, I think travelers got wise.  The smart ones read beyond the screaming headlines and 20 second sound-bites.  They realize that the violent crimes are only in certain areas.  That tourists are NOT specifically  targeted (tourists are the goose that lays the golden eggs) and that you’re maybe even more safe in some areas of Mexico than back in the U.S. 

            For example:  Mexico City’s homicide rate of 8 per 100,000 persons is surprisingly low.  Washington D.C. has a murder rate of 24 per 100,000.  New Orleans has a rate of 52.  Almost 300 people were murdered in Los Angeles last year.  That doesn’t even include other violent crimes like rape, robbery and assault.  That doesn’t make those U.S. cities patently  unsafe, but you know there’s places in everyone’s home town you just don’t go to!

            Hundreds of thousands of people a day cross the border alone at Tijuana/San Diego every day.  Not a thing happens.  Just another day.  Thousands more fly in for vacations.  Not a thing happens, except a great vacation. 

            I think things are warming up. It’s gonna be a good year!  There’s reason for optimism.  I just wish the snow would go away!

_________________________

Jonathan Roldan has been writing the Baja Column for Western Outdoor News since 2004.  He and his wife, Jill, live in La Paz, Baja, Mexico where they own and operate the Tailhunter International Sportfishing Fleet and the Tailhunter Restaurant Bar on the historic La Paz waterfront.   www.tailhunter-international.com You can reach Jonathan directly at riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com or stop by the restaurant and say hi.

  

 

  

 

 

 

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JACKS or BETTER! Originally published the week of Jan. 5, 2011 in Western Outdoor News

Posted in Uncategorized on January 2, 2011| Leave a Comment »

Amberjack "Pez Fuerte" like this can get over 100 pounds!

Pompano are delicious eating and hard fighters often found close to shore near where sandy beaches drop into deeper water

They don't taste very good, but pound-for-pound you may not find a more aggressive tough fish than the jack crevalle ("toro") that sometimes show up in schools of hundreds.

Probably the most popular member of the jack family in Baja is the "Jurel" (yellowtail) famous for it's difficult personality and great eating.

Perhaps the most exotic of the jacks, the roosterfish is highly prized and can be found in relatively shallow water and get over 100 pounds. Not such good eating, but incredibly powerful when hooked!

Rainbow runners look like miniature yellowtail and have the same feisty disposition.

JACKS or BETTER!

Originally Published the Week of Dec. 4, 2011 in Western Outdoor News

                As a family, the jacks have to be one of the feistiest of critters.  They’re DNA programmed to have attitude.  That’s just the way they come from the factory. 

                During the colder winter months in the Baja, especially mid-to-southern Baja and especially in the Sea of Cortez they’re a great target species.  These are the months when you actually need to wear a sweatshirt or jacket on the water; winds can be nasty enough to keep you close to shore and you actually have to think twice before jumping into the water or sticking your hand into the ice chest to grab an icy beer.  Well…maybe not that last one…

                But, it’s sometimes not the most clement weather and usually not the stuff you see in the fishing and travel brochures posted by the Board of Tourism.  Seas are sometimes not so flat as in the photos.  That bikini girl in the promotional photos is in jeans at the bar with a windbreaker.  More people are in the warm jacuzzi than the pool and locals are bundled up in thick jackets instead of board shorts and t-shirts. (much to the amusement of tourists from Minnesota and New York!).

                Likewise, contrary to the brochures, it’s also probably not the most optimal times for the “glamour” species like sailfish, marlin, tuna, dorado and wahoo.  It’s not impossible and it depends where you are, but the likelihood of encountering these species drops precipitously during the cooler months.

                In fact, sometimes conditions mandate staying close to shore or even on the beach making it near impossible to jump on those species.

                That’s why the members of the  jack family are just a great treat.  I’m referring to jack crevalle, pompano, cocineros, rainbow runners and, of course, the big boy cousins like yellowtail, amberjack and roosterfish.

                 They’re often found close to shore.  They can be encountered in shallow water near land, along beaches, and over reefs…even the largest of the species.   They’re not picky eaters and will eat both bait and artificials.  They have attitude and will often strike just “because” even tho’ they’re not feeding. 

                Further…they love structure so you can even find some of the species in marinas, near breakwaters, etc. just outside your hotel door.  Best of all, they fight like fish with a chip-on-their-shoulders and often dash right towards the very structure that shelters them and puts the angler at a disadvantage. 

                The “smaller species” like the jack crevalle, pompano, rainbow runners, cocineros and school-sized roosterfish are a light tackle or flyrodders dream.  Close to shore and  often found in hungry schools, you can fish these with a light spinning, casting or flyrod.

                But, there’s also the danger of being “undergunned” as well.  Jack crevalle will go up to 30 pounds and even a 10-pounder will fight like a fish many times it’s size.  Roosterfish in the 40-80 pound class are not uncommon in Baja. 

                Even a 1 pound cocinero on a trout rod will give you second-thoughts.  Being close-to-shore or in the proximity of structure such as rocks, pilings and docks and reefs gives the fish even more of an edge against you and increasing the challenge.

                Also,  if you’re in the mid-to-upper regions of the Baja, the winter months are great for slugger yellowtail up to 40 pounds.  Areas such as Mulege, Santa Rosalia, Loreto, Bahia Magdalena, Cedros Island, Bahia de Los Angeles and even as far south as La Paz, can be great yellowtail fisheries. 

                The same areas can hold the bigger-cousin amberjack up to 100 pounds also.  Forget the light gear, bring the heavy artillery.  An amberjack or yellowtail taken deep with bait or hooked on a jig or throwing iron is like hooking a small underwater freight train.  And their first instinct is to bust you off back in the rocks too!

                Bottom line, don’t be put-off by winter fishing if the pretty-boy fish aren’t around.  Jacks more than make up for it and because crowds are down, you often have the entire honey-hole all to yourself.

___________________________

Jonathan Roldan has been writing the Baja Column for Western Outdoor News since 2004.  He lives with his wife Jilly and together they own and operate the Tailhunter Fishing Fleet in La Paz, Baja, Mexico www.tailhunter-international.com and also run the Tailhunter Restaurant Bar on the historic La Paz malecon waterfront.  Stop in and say hi or contact him directly at www.tailhunter-international.com

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“Just shut up for a moment…”

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Dehydration, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, fishing tournaments, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications on November 21, 2010| 4 Comments »

 

       

JUST SHUT UP FOR A MOMENT. ..

Originally Published the Week of Nov. 24, 2010 in Western Outdoor News

           Having spent almost 2 decades here now in Baja, I have experienced some incredible adventures.  But some of my best experiences have happened when absolutely nothing is happening. I’ll explain.

            So often, when we have visitors or clients here, there’s a mad rush to be here…do that…experience this…cram as much excitement into a vacation as possible.  I get it.  I love it.  I’m the same way myself.  When you’re \in the tourist industry like us, it’s not bad for business either.  No complaints!

            But some of the most rewarding times have been when we just crank it down a notch from super amp down to slo-mo.

            A perfect example is when we SCUBA dive.  Everyone is in a rush to get in the water.  See the mantas.  See the sharks.  Explore. Jump in!    Get from point A to point B and go “Diver Dan” on us.

            I often tell my folks, that at some point they will see me simply stop.  I explain that “this is not a race.”  It’s supposed to be fun.  I will simply stop swimming and let myself sink to the bottom and either kneel or lie there.  And I want them to do the same.

            I get some blank and questioning looks.

            But amazing things happen when we all shut up and slow down. It’s like that both above and below the water. 

            Look up.  Watch the slow ascent of bubbles to the surface.  Stop moving.  Fish suddenly don’t view us a huge threatening shapes.  They come out to investigate.  They swim close.  Schools swirl around us.  Little sea eels poke their curious heads out of the sand that we normally would not have seen.  Coral comes alive. A sea turtle comes to check us out. A sealion pup darts playfully in and out of the divers.  We’re now IN the big aquarium and it’s a wonderful show.

            I look around and even through the dive masks I can see smiling eyes!

            When I lived on the East Cape, I would sometimes take a few of the hotel guests up in the hills just to step away from the lights; the tequila shots and hooting at the bar. 

            One nice thing about Baja.  A few steps away and you’re out in the frontier wilderness.

            We’d walk up the hills just a few hundred yards up a path I knew well.  At the top of a hill, everyone would look back down from the darkness on the hotel lights and take a breath.  But, I would tell everyone, don’t look down…look up!

            And there would be a collective gasp of surprise!

            Zillions of stars…constellations…galaxies…shooting stars…an unimaginable  light show that could never be experienced unless you were up and away from the bustle. Other than some “oohs” and “ahhh” and alot of pointing into the night sky, not much else needed to be said.  An unforgettable experience found in silence.

            Sometimes when I’m guiding, I will do the same thing.  Stop the danged boat.  Look. Listen. Put down the beer cans, boys.

            Shhhh… Look at the birds.   See the ripples there.  Flat spots and current lines.   Water colors.  Those ripples are really nervous water with bait being pushed just below the surface.  Was that a jumper? Look closely.  Is that structure below us?

             Let’s just top chasing the fish and stop for a moment.  Let’s read the signs.  Throw some bait and let the fish come to us for once.  And, if not, enjoy the moment.  The noisy world will return soon enough when we rev up the motor again.

            Even in rowdy Cabo San Lucas a few weeks ago. After one of those days packed with activities and social events and parties related to the Western Outdoor News Tuna Jackpot, I stepped out onto our little patio behind our hotel room on the marina.   It was 2 a.m. in the morning.

            And it was a quiet you don’t often experience in Cabo.  No blaring disco music.  No hawkers on the sidewalk.  The yacht motors were idle.  The tour boats were all moored.  The outboards were all asleep for once.  The marina lights were beautiful and except for the sound of rigging occasionally pinging a mast from the sway of a boat, Cabo San Lucas was incredibly serene…a description not often associated with fast-paced Cabo.

            In a few hours, it would all return to a behive, but for that moment, I pulled out a patio chair and just sat and listened.  And sighed.  And imagined what it used to be like before we brought all the noise to Mexico and grateful to find a little slice of Baja serenity. They are few and far between and it’s too bad we have to actually search it out these days.

___________________

Jonathan Roldan has been a columnist for Western Outdoor News and editor since 2004. He lives with his wife, Jill, in La Paz , Baja Mexico where they own and operate the Tailhunter Sportfishing Fleet as well as the Tailhunter Restaurant Bar on the historic La Paz waterfront.  www.tailhunter-international.com.   is their website.  If you’d like to reach Jonathan, his e-mail is riplipboy@tailhunter-international.com

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“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 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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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

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