Archive for the ‘vehicle’ Category

WE HAVE A BLEEDER

Posted in bahia de los muertos, bahia de los suenos, Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja fishing lures, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, cerralvo island, charters, circle hooks, Coronavirus Baja Mexico, crankbait, deep sea, donations, dorado, east cape, ecotourism, el nino, el sargento, espirito santo, fish, Fishing, fishing blogs, fishing hooks, Fishing lures, fishing packages, fishing reports, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tips, fishing tournaments, fishing trips, fishing videos, flyfishing, freediving, giant squid, historical, holidays in mexico, humboldt squid, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, jack crevalle, Jonathan Roldan, kids, kids fishing, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, la ventana, las arenas, light tackle, Living in Mexico, los barriles, marlin, Mexican, Mexican business, Mexican culture, mexican food, mexican food stands, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico Christmas, Mexico coronavirus Baja, Mexico economy, Mexico life, Mexico neighborhood, midriff islands, missions, outfitters, pack for a purpose, packages, packing, packing fish, panga, Panga Fishing, pargo, passport, planning, pompano, rental car, rentals, road trip, roosterfish, Salt Water Fishing, Salt water lures, San Jose del Cabo, saving money, Sea of Cortez, seafood, seri indians, sierra, spearfishing, sportfishing, squid fishing, storm, suitcases, taco, taco stand, Tailhunter International, techniques, testing facilities mexico airport, tiburon island, tourism, tours, transpeninsular highway, Travel, trolling tips, tuna, tuna tournament, Uncategorized, vacations, vehicle, wahoo, weather, Western Outdoor News, women fishing, yellowtail, tagged amberjack, bahia, Baja Mexico, beaches, billfish, bonito, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, Cerralvo Island, charter, coronavirus in Mexico, deep sea, diving, dog-tooth, dorado, east cape, eco tours, espirito santo island, family, fish, Fishing, fishing report, Fishing Techniques, fishing tips, fishing video, fly fishing, fly fishing. Spearfishing, Fubar Cocina Cantina, gray whales, grey whales, guide, holiday, igfa, inshore, jack crevalle, jill roldan, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, las arenas, light tackle, live bait, los barriles, marlin, mexican, mexico, muertos bay, offshore, outfitter, package, panga, pargo, pompano, rooster fish, sailfish, scuba, sea lions, sea of cortez, seabass, sierra, snorkeling, sportfishing, suenos bay, swimming, tailhunter restaurant, tuna, vacation, wahoo, whale sharks, whale watching, women, world records, yellowtail on November 1, 2021| Leave a Comment »

WE HAVE A BLEEDER

Originally Published the Week of Oct. 24, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

In the several decades that I’ve been writing fishing articles and columns for magazines and newspapers, I don’t think I’ve ever tackled this subject. I don’t know why. Maybe it’s because it’s just something I don’t think about much.

For what we do down here, it’s just not much of an issue.

However, it’s come up several times in the last few weeks with regards to our panga fleet here in La Paz.

One was a legitimate question about bleeding your catch.

Two of them were complaints of sorts from first-time anglers who had never fished in Mexico and had also never fished in a panga.

Let me explain.

The process if “bleeding” a fresh-caught fish can really be beneficial. It’s not that difficult to do, especially after you’ve done it a time or two.

It involves taking a catch just out’ve the water. While the fish is still flapping, quickly cut to it’s heart and the main artery right behind the gills. You let the heart pump out the blood. Easy.

All fish are a bit different, but you can Google up the specifics.

By, the way, I’m all for a quick dispatch of any catch. The quicker you do any of this, the better for the fish rather than let it flip around in a fish box, bucket, ice chest or kill bag.

But, it can be messy. I mean, “all-over-the-deck messy” especially for really dense muscled fish like a tuna or bonito for example.

Therefore, if you can, let the blood pump out while holding the fish over the side, if possible and practical. Or, hold it in or over your bait tank. If you can’t do either of those, at least do it away from everyone else.

And be prepared to clean off the deck rapidly.

Then, get the fish chilled on ice.

The whole idea, as explained to me by a marine biologist many years ago is that when a fish, or anything dies, it immediately begins to decompose. Makes sense. No vital organs are working anymore. Blood, nerves, brain function, etc. are all flat-lined.

Blood left in the fish is also logically decomposing.

By getting rid of the blood, you can really help improve the flavor of the meat by leaving you with cleaner and better tasting fillets.

That’s the theory. And it works!

The reality can sometimes be different which brings me back to the complaints I received this week.

When I worked on big private charter boats, it was relatively easy to bleed-out a fish. I was a deckhand.

Or there were other deckhands. Even if there was a lot of activity on the deck during a bite, usually someone could bleed fish.

Unless it was really crazy.

I’ve worked on party boats and multi-day charter boats and ultimately, you’re dealing with a lot of fishermen. There’s simply too much happening.

A bunch of folks are trying to catch fish. Fish are biting. Lines are all over the place. It’s frantic.

We’re tying hooks; gaffing fish; untangling lines; tossing bait; bagging and tagging fish…and more. It’s full-speed turbo.

There’s hardly time to take one person’s fish and bleed it in the middle of the chaos. It is what it is.

On a panga like we have here in La Paz, sometimes it’s possible to bleed a lone solitary fish. Sure. Let me get right to it.

Here’s the dilemma.

There’s one captain and there 2 or 3 anglers.

The captain is the one-stop, driver; guide; deckhand and navigator. He’s got his hands full. It’s kind of a small, efficient but ultimately croweded working platform.

The fishermen are out there to catch fish. The captain’s job is to facilitate that event.

Bites can happen in a frenzy. Two or three fishermen with bent rods and slinging fish in a small boat is fun and exciting and can be a blur of motion for the captain. However…

If he stops to gaff, cut and bleed a fish…

The whole process comes to a standstill.

He can’t re-rig your lines or the lines of your buddies.

He can’t be baiting hooks.

He can’t be untangling your backlash.

He can’t drive the boat.

Your buddies might be pulling in fish at the same time.

Or losing them.

The fish school could disappear.

It’s a pragmatic issue. The anglers need to weigh taking the time to bleed solo fish versus all the other things that can happen in the interim.

I think most would rather be catching fish than watching the school disappear.

Simple as that!

That’s my story!

Joanthan

Jonathan Roldan has been writing the Baja Column in Western Outdoor News since 2004. Along with his wife and fishing buddy, Jilly, they own and run the Tailhunter International Fishing Fleet in La Paz, Baja, Mexico http://www.tailhunter.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: jonathan@tailhunter.com

Or drop by the restaurant to say hi. It’s right on the La Paz waterfront!

Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International

Website:

www.tailhunter-international.com

Mexico Office: Tailhunter International, 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico

U.S. Mailing Address: Tailhunter International, 8030 La Mesa Blvd. #178, La Mesa CA 91942

Phones:
from USA : 626-638-3383
from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863
.

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

Tailhunter YouTube Video Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLvdHL_p4-OAu3HfiVzW0g

“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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CHANGING SEASONS

Posted in bahia de los suenos, Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja fishing lures, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, cerralvo island, charters, christmas, Coronavirus Baja Mexico, crankbait, deep sea, dorado, east cape, el nino, el sargento, espirito santo, fish, Fishing, fishing blogs, fishing hooks, Fishing lures, fishing packages, fishing reports, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tips, fishing tournaments, fishing trips, fishing videos, flyfishing, freediving, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, jack crevalle, Jonathan Roldan, kids fishing, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, la ventana, las arenas, light tackle, Living in Mexico, los barriles, luggage, marlin, Mexican, Mexican business, Mexican culture, mexican food, mexican food stands, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico Christmas, Mexico coronavirus Baja, Mexico economy, Mexico life, Mexico neighborhood, midriff islands, outfitters, packing, packing fish, panga, Panga Fishing, pargo, passport, pompano, road trip, roosterfish, Salt Water Fishing, Salt water lures, San Jose del Cabo, saving money, Sea of Cortez, seafood, sierra, speaking spanish, spearfishing, sportfishing, storm, suitcases, taco stand, Tailhunter International, trolling tips, tuna, tuna tournament, Uncategorized, vacations, vehicle, wahoo, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, women fishing, yellowtail, tagged amberjack, bahia, Baja Mexico, beaches, billfish, bonito, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, Cerralvo Island, charter, coronavirus in Mexico, deep sea, diving, dog-tooth, dorado, east cape, eco tours, espirito santo island, family, fish, Fishing, fishing report, Fishing Techniques, fishing tips, fishing video, fly fishing, fly fishing. Spearfishing, Fubar Cocina Cantina, gray whales, grey whales, guide, holiday, igfa, inshore, jack crevalle, jill roldan, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, las arenas, light tackle, live bait, los barriles, marlin, mexican, mexico, muertos bay, offshore, outfitter, package, panga, pargo, pompano, rooster fish, sailfish, scuba, sea lions, sea of cortez, seabass, sierra, snorkeling, sportfishing, suenos bay, swimming, tailhunter restaurant, tuna, vacation, wahoo, whale sharks, whale watching, women, world records, yellowtail on October 23, 2021| Leave a Comment »

CHANGING SEASONS

Originally Published the Week of Oct. 17, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

Having a fishing business down here, I could usually tell when the warm water season was cooling down. The signs are usually everywhere.

The kinds of fish start to change. Instead of warm water species like billfish, tuna, dorado, etc., we there are fewer in the counts. More inshore species acclimated to cooler waters like sierra, pargo, snapper, cabrilla and amberjack become more prevalent.

The winds from the north start to blow a little stronger and more consistently. The waters are choppier and cooler.

The sun is at a different angle and throws longer shadows around.

It sounds silly to the tourists, but we are starting to wear sweatshirts and long pants even though the temps are still in the high 70’s. Tourists are still running around in shorts and t-shirts. To us, it’s unequivocally cooler.

You can even tell by the types of visitors we’re getting.

Not quite so many folks from California or Arizona, Utah, Texas or Nevada.

Now, we’re getting more Canadians, Alaskans and folks from Oregon, Washington and the Dakotas. They don’t ask much about fishing or what they will catch. They just want to know if there will be sunshine.

Even if it’s a cool 70 degrees here, it’s still much warmer than what they’ve got back home so yes, the snowbirds are already showing up.

The crowds are definitely down.

Families are largely gone. Kids are back in school. Fishermen as well. Everyone’s getting ready for holidays back in the U.S. It’s a quieter time down here.

However, the biggest indicator of the changing seasons can be viewed by anyone driving around town. And it usually elicits a collective groan.

Christmas is already in the air here in Mexico.

Usually, in the U.S. we can generally figure it kicks in right after Thanksgiving.

Well, there’s no Thanksgiving holidays here in Mexico. Halloween is growing, but it’s a minor little kid thing mostly.

So, just about the end of September, here we go!

Stores are pushing aside merchandise and stocking rows and rows of toys. Those that don’t have the room, erect huge “TOY TENTS” in their parking lots.

Christmas decorations are already on the shelves as well. In fact, if you don’t purchase them now, there probably will not be any around by the beginning of December and the stores do not re-stock. Once they’re gone…they’re gone!

Christmas tree lots are also popping up in vacant lots and parking areas.

You can see where the fencing is being put in and banners advertising “Fresh Oregon Christmas Trees” are already being hung in anticipation of the arrival of trees in a few weeks.

They’ll be here by the beginning of November and folks will snap them up. Nothing like a fresh “Oregon Christmas Tree” in the living room. How you keep a tree fresh and fragrant for two months is beyond me.

I’m just not quite ready for this.

I know in a few weeks, shop owners will start painting elves and fake snow on storefronts. Somehow, it’s just not the same in Mexico seeing fake snow sprayed on things.

For most folks, the only snow they want to see is inside the rim of a margarita glass or when they pop an ice chest full of Pacifico or Dos Equis long-necks.

That’s my story!

Jonathan

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: jonathan@tailhunter.com

Or drop by the restaurant to say hi. It’s right on the La Paz waterfront!

Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International

Website:

www.tailhunter-international.com

Mexico Office: Tailhunter International, 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico

U.S. Mailing Address: Tailhunter International, 8030 La Mesa Blvd. #178, La Mesa CA 91942

Phones:
from USA : 626-638-3383
from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863
.

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

Tailhunter YouTube Video Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLvdHL_p4-OAu3HfiVzW0g

“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.”

Read Full Post »

CUTTING SOME SLACK

Posted in airlines, bahia de los muertos, bahia de los suenos, Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja fishing lures, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, cerralvo island, charters, circle hooks, Coronavirus Baja Mexico, crankbait, deep sea, Dehydration, dorado, east cape, el nino, el sargento, espirito santo, fish, Fishing, fishing blogs, fishing hooks, Fishing lures, fishing packages, fishing reports, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tips, fishing tournaments, fishing trips, fishing videos, flyfishing, freediving, giant squid, Heat stroke, holidays in mexico, hurricane, ice chests, inshore fishing, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, jack crevalle, Jonathan Roldan, kids, kids fishing, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, la ventana, las arenas, light tackle, Living in Mexico, los barriles, luggage, marlin, Mexican, Mexican business, Mexican culture, mexican food, mexican food stands, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico Christmas, Mexico coronavirus Baja, Mexico economy, Mexico life, Mexico neighborhood, midriff islands, outfitters, packing fish, panga, Panga Fishing, pargo, passport, pompano, rentals, road trip, roosterfish, Salt Water Fishing, Salt water lures, saving money, Sea of Cortez, seafood, seri indians, sierra, speaking spanish, spearfishing, sportfishing, squid fishing, storm, storms, suitcases, Sun stroke, taco, taco stand, Tailhunter International, techniques, testing facilities mexico airport, tiburon island, tourism, tours, transpeninsular highway, Travel, trolling tips, tuna, tuna tournament, Uncategorized, vacations, vehicle, wahoo, waterspouts, weather, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, women fishing, yellowtail, tagged amberjack, bahia, Baja Mexico, beaches, billfish, bonito, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, Cerralvo Island, charter, coronavirus in Mexico, deep sea, diving, dog-tooth, dorado, east cape, eco tours, espirito santo island, family, fish, Fishing, fishing report, Fishing Techniques, fishing tips, fishing video, fly fishing, fly fishing. Spearfishing, Fubar Cocina Cantina, gray whales, grey whales, guide, holiday, igfa, inshore, jack crevalle, jill roldan, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, las arenas, light tackle, live bait, los barriles, marlin, mexican, mexico, muertos bay, offshore, outfitter, package, panga, pargo, pompano, rooster fish, sailfish, scuba, sea lions, sea of cortez, seabass, sierra, snorkeling, sportfishing, suenos bay, swimming, tailhunter restaurant, tuna, vacation, wahoo, whale sharks, whale watching, women, world records, yellowtail on August 24, 2021| Leave a Comment »

CUTTING SOME SLACK

Originally Published the Week of Aug. 11, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

Current affairs here in Mexico…

At one restaurant, we sat down to a dirty table. All the other tables weren’t much better. We had to ask the waitress to wipe the table and she looked put out by the request.

At another restaurant, the waiter literally tossed the menus at us onto the table from about a foot away. Turned and walked away.

We’ve waited at other restaurants that we normally patronize and were left drumming our fingers on the table for meals that should not have taken THAT long. I mean, how long does it take to make two plates of fish tacos?

We’ve had clients tell us they went on some kind of booze cruise or some other kind of tour and find out it was delayed because “not enough crew members” or “they had to find another driver.”

We own several businesses here in Mexico and chatting with some other local business owners I guess we’ve got ourselves a labor shortage going on. Sort of like in the U.S., but somewhat different.

We thought it was just us.

For our restaurant it’s been more difficult than usual.

Can’t find a cook. Not enough waiters. We’re down a driver…again. The vegetable delivery guy quit again. The bakery won’t be bringing burger buns for 4 days because they’re short-handed.

We have advertisements all over social media, newspapers, school bulletin boards and other platforms.

Maybe 20 apply. 15 say they’ll be there for an interview.

Maybe 5 show up. Of those, we give 3 of them contracts.

Of the three…two of them actually show up for their first day of work.

One of the two never shows up.

One of the two quits after 2 days. The other one doesn’t show up after 5 days. No phone call. No notice. Just doesn’t show up.

Or the universal excuse, “I have to quit because my mother is sick in Guadalajara.” You have no idea how many times we’ve gotten something like this. Everyone’s parent gets sick in Guadalajara. Right up there with “My dog ate my homework.”

Other business owners are telling us the same thing.

Can’t find people to work.

But, it’s a bit different than in the U.S. where folks find it more economic to sit on the couch with the remote because they’re getting unemployment checks or stimulus checks.

Mexico doesn’t have that luxury. There’s no enemployment down here. Or stimulus checks.

For many folks you work or you don’t eat. So, why can’t we find workers?

Some of our co-business owners with the same issues told me some of it is simply cultural.

“Like the rest of the world, some people just got used to staying at home. If you can ‘get by’ without working, there’s no need to go to work.”

“Many people live together. Especially younger people. You find ‘youngsters’ in their 20’s and 30’s even with their own kids still living in the same house as mama and dad. No one gets kicked out. If mama will keep cooking and washing clothes, there is not much motivation to leave the house. They are spoiled,” is what one business owner said to me disdainfully.

“Some are just looking for the ‘perfect’ job. They have no particular skill or education, but if a job isn’t ‘perfect’ they do not stay and bounce from one menial job to the other.”

One of my amigos agreed, “Yes, if it seems too much like ‘work,’ they quit!”

By no means does this mean everyone has this work ethic. There are many many good hard workers to be found.

But, they are hard to come by .

Or they in such demand, they get snatched up having their pick of positions. And can also command higher pay.

However, with the pandemic rules changing weekly combined with the shortage of workers, service is inconsistent.

For example, the covid rules might say you’re allowed only 30% occupancy at a restaurant or hotel.

Keep in mind that you lost most of your staff last year when everything shut down so you’ve got almost a completely different staff.

Last year’s staff that you had for years. has moved on.

Then, they allow you to increase to 40% occupancy. You optimistically hire and train more people.

You teach them how to cook; wait tables; clean rooms; work at reception; drive shuttles…and with a smile!

Two weeks later, the government knocks everyone back to 30% occupancy.

Or, you you are not sell alcohol after 5 p.m. Or the beaches get closed again.

That pretty much kills all your evening dinner business. You have empty tables. You have empty hotel rooms. People cancel reservations and trips.

So, now you have to fire all the new people you just hired and trained.

Then, the restrictions change again.

And you just need bodies to work. Whoever you can get. Whoever is willing to work.

No real time to train properly. And no one knows how long that person will be working for you either voluntarily or involuntarily.

So, the guy making tacos, is still learning to fry a tortilla. He can’t remember if the fish plate gets beans on the side or rice. Or has never heard of meat “medium rare.” Cooked mean cooking until it’s done.

The guy making your margarita has never worked in a bar before. He thinks a margarita is tequila mixed with orange juice.

They waitress tells you she’s not sure what’s on the menu. She has actually been fired or quit her last 3 restaurant jobs. But, the restaurant owner was desperate to hire someone

The guy driving your shuttle tosses your luggage in the back and gets lost driving to your hotel. Takes 20 frustrating minutes to go 4 blocks.

That’s not to say they’re not trying. Under the circumstances. Seems like most of them are.

Everyone is just trying to get by. I have to remember to cut folks some slack and remember it’s not just us. Or us.

“Dog ate my homework and my mother is sick in Guadalajara.”

It’s just the times we live in now.

That’s my story!

Jonathan

______________

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: jonathan@tailhunter.com

Or drop by the restaurant to say hi. It’s right on the La Paz waterfront!

_____________

Jonathan Roldan’s

Tailhunter International

Website:

www.tailhunter-international.com

Mexico Office: Tailhunter International, 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico

U.S. Mailing Address: Tailhunter International, 8030 La Mesa Blvd. #178, La Mesa CA 91942

Phones:

from USA : 626-638-3383

from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863

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

Tailhunter YouTube Video Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLvdHL_p4-OAu3HfiVzW0g

“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.”

Read Full Post »

WHAT THEY SAY and WHAT WE REALLY SEE

Posted in airlines, bahia de los muertos, bahia de los suenos, Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja fishing lures, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, cerralvo, charters, circle hooks, deep sea, donations, dorado, driving, east cape, ecotourism, el nino, el sargento, espirito santo, family, Fishing, fishing blogs, fishing hooks, Fishing lures, fishing packages, fishing reports, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tips, fishing tournaments, fishing trips, fishing videos, flyfishing, freediving, giant squid, Heat stroke, holidays in mexico, humboldt squid, hurricanes, ice chests, inshore fishing, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, jack crevalle, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, la ventana, las arenas, light tackle, Living in Mexico, los barriles, marlin, Mexican, Mexican business, Mexican culture, mexican food, mexican food stands, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico coronavirus Baja, Mexico economy, Mexico life, Mexico neighborhood, midriff islands, missions, outfitters, pack for a purpose, packages, packing, packing fish, panga, Panga Fishing, pargo, passport, planning, pompano, rental car, rentals, road trip, roosterfish, Salt Water Fishing, Salt water lures, San Jose del Cabo, saving money, Sea of Cortez, seafood, sierra, speaking spanish, spearfishing, sportfishing, Sun stroke, taco, taco stand, Tailhunter International, testing facilities mexico airport, tourism, tours, transpeninsular highway, Travel, trolling tips, tuna, Tuna jackpot, Uncategorized, vacations, vehicle, wahoo, waterspouts, weather, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, women fishing, yellowtail, tagged amberjack, bahia, Baja Mexico, beaches, billfish, bonito, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, Cerralvo Island, charter, coronavirus in Mexico, deep sea, diving, dog-tooth, dorado, east cape, eco tours, espirito santo island, family, fish, Fishing, fishing report, Fishing Techniques, fishing tips, fishing video, fly fishing, fly fishing. Spearfishing, Fubar Cocina Cantina, gray whales, grey whales, guide, holiday, igfa, inshore, jack crevalle, jill roldan, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, las arenas, light tackle, live bait, los barriles, marlin, mexican, mexico, muertos bay, offshore, outfitter, package, panga, pargo, pompano, rooster fish, sailfish, scuba, sea lions, sea of cortez, seabass, sierra, snorkeling, sportfishing, suenos bay, swimming, tailhunter restaurant, tuna, vacation, wahoo, whale sharks, whale watching, women, world records, yellowtail on July 31, 2021| Leave a Comment »

Originally Published the Week of July 26, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

I probably get at least a half-dozen e-mails or phone calls about the rules and restrictions with Covid down here in Baja so I guess it’s time for a “point-counter-point” column about things.

Please keep in mind, I am in no way encouraging anyone to break or dis-respect the laws. These are merely observations and all of this can change week-to-week.

RULE: We are back to Level 5 Restrictions

Southern Baja is currently in a Level 5 (orange) for Covid restrictions and protocols. This was implemented about 3 weeks ago as a result of rising Covid infections.

REALITY: Everything is pretty much still open

Since March 2020, we’ve bounced back and forth through several levels of Orange, yellow, orange and back again. The current level was initiated several weeks ago via a government vote.

They vote on this every week. It could change by the time you are reading this.

In the current state, gyms, churches, concerts, theaters and social events (like parties and weddings) are closed. Classrooms have been closed since last March, but are set to re-open in August.

Everything else is open.

RULE: The Border Is Shut Down Again

Since last March, the border has been shut down to non-essential traffic.

REALITY: Welcome to Mexico. Please Bring Your Tourist Dollars!

The restrictions DO NOT apply to entry into Mexico via plane, train or boat. No one we know that has been driving has been turned away from the border if you give them an “essential” reason for entering.

Shopping? Sure. Fishing? That’s pretty important. Lunch in Ensenada? C’mon in. Visiting friends in Tijuana? You bet!

Believe me, Mexico wants and desperately needs U.S. travel money. They’re not stopping anyone.

RULE: Fishing Has Been Shut Down

REALITY: False! Jump on a boat!

Fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling and other water activities were deemed “essential” activities. Business as normal, folks

RULE: Restaurants and Hotels are Closed

REALITY: False again. But, they are all supposed to be at 30% occupancy

Unless closed for other reasons, hotels and restauratns are mostly all open.

With restaurants, I see them full all the time. Maybe tables got pushed further apart for social distancing. Occasionally, they might tell you that they’re “at capacity” so you go somewhere else if the restaurant manager is worried about an inspection.

Yes, some restaurants got fines or suspensions for blatantly ignoring the rules. Others (wink wink) never ever seem to get checked and pack folks in every night. Most tourists will mostly not notice. Eat like normal!

For the hotels, parking lots sure look pretty full to me. However, they are “supposed” to be at 30% occupancy. Down from 40% occupancy.

The reality is no one seems to be counting heads or beds.

People are pouring off planes. Everyone is flocking to Mexico. Airlines are packed. Plans have been made for months.

With the way the restrictions change almost weekly, no hotel is going to say, “I’m sorry, we’re now at 30%. So, 10% of you have to get back on the plane or go find a different hotel.”

Not gonna happen. If you have a reservation, come ahead!

RULE: No alcohol sold or consumed after 5 p.m…oh wait 8 p.m.

REALITY: Probably True

If you run into an empty restaurant, this is probably the biggest reason for it. Two weeks ago, it was at 5 p.m. No sales after 5 p.m.

Now, it’s 8 p.m.

Not sure what that had to do with reducing Covid in the first place. Not sure how changing it from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. has to do with reducing Covid.

You cannot buy it at the supermarket. At restaurants, you can’t have a bottle, a can or cocktail class at your table.

But, that’s the rule. Literally, a buzz kill.

That being said, just like I mentioned earlier, there’s some places that “strangely” never ever ever get checked. Most restaurants will do whatever they need trying to stay afloat. Desperate times.

In the last two weeks, my wife Jill and I have been at several restaurants that approached the curfew. Our server encouraged us about “last call.”

Then, we were served our drinks in red solo cups and a can of Coke or bottled water was placed on the table. It was served with a “wink and a smile.”

RULE: You Must Have a Negative Covid Test To Return to the U.S.

REALTY: Yes and No. Mostly Yes.

Since January of this year, you have to show evidence of a negative Covid test to come into the U.S. via plane. It has to be within 72-hours of the flight.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve been vaccinated.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve already had Covid.

But…It only applies to flying.

It only applies to INTERNATIONAL flights.

For instance, many S. Californians fly Volaris Air from Tijuana. They return via Volaris through Tijuana and walk across the border. Volaris is a DOMESTIC flight. Therefore, no testing is required.

The test takes only 15 minutes and you get results on your phone in less than an hour.

There are labs all over providing the services. Many hotels can set up services. There are labs at the airport as well. Very easy. Cost is $25-50 U.S. dollars.

RULE: You need to Quarantine

REALITY: Negative

You do not need to quarantine on either end of your trip.

If you happen to test positive while in Mexico, know that of the thousands that have been tested since January, only a miniscule amount have tested positive.

The reality is that there is very little Covid infection in the tourist sections. Sanitization is incredibly strict in the tourist zones. More strict that your town back home.

It has been that way since Baja opened up last year from lockdown.

The surge in Covid is in the inner-city areas where folks do not have the luxury of not working. There’s no unemployment or stimulus checks. If you don’t work, you and your family don’t eat.

Many people live in close quarters.

If you happen to test positive and show no symptoms, you simply take the test in two days. As soon as you test negative, you go home.

RULE: Beaches and Waterfronts are Closed

REALITY: Selective Closures

Where we live in La Paz, the main beaches and the waterfront get checked often and folks get chased off. As soon as the inspectors leave, folks go back onto the beach.

Down by the area of all the clubs and bars, it seems like business as usual, especially with locals. (Even with the limits on alcohol sales.)

In Cabo, I hear conflicting reports about the waterfront, but many tell me, it’s very much open in most cases. It’s not hardcore enforcement.

Others tell me there’s a noticeable lack of visitors and some operations are getting shut down.

Then again, there’s lots of beaches that no one can check because they are too remote. Where we are, everyone is flocking to the local islands to enjoy the beaches there. Pangas are doing a brisk traffic as water shuttles.

It’s just impossible to patrol several hundred miles of beaches.

Bottom line for all of this is that I don’t think it’s going to impinge much on your vacation.

UPDATE:

Since this article was published, there have been some changes! As anticipated, the government voted again.

Cabo San Lucas restrictions were reduced from a level 5 to a level 4.

La Paz and the rest of the states were kept at level 5.

However, strangely, it’s confusing because even though we here in La Paz are supposedly at Level 5:

Beaches were re-opened to 30% occupancy during the daytime hours
Restaurants were kept at 30% occupancy, but are now allowed to sell alcohol until 11 p.m.
The Malecon is open for “exercising” during day time hours.

That’s my story!

Jonathan

______________

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: jonathan@tailhunter.com

Or drop by the restaurant to say hi. It’s right on the La Paz waterfront!

_____________

Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International

Website:

www.tailhunter-internation al.com

Mexico Office: Tailhunter International, 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico

U.S. Mailing Address: Tailhunter International, 8030 La Mesa Blvd. #178, La Mesa CA 91942

Phones:
from USA : 626-638-3383
from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863
.

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

Tailhunter YouTube Video Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLvdHL_p4-OAu3HfiVzW0g

“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.”

Read Full Post »

AM I MISSING SOMETHING?

Posted in airlines, bahia de los muertos, bahia de los suenos, Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja fishing lures, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, camping, car, cerralvo, cerralvo island, charters, circle hooks, Coronavirus Baja Mexico, crankbait, deep sea, dorado, east cape, ecotourism, el nino, el sargento, espirito santo, family, farm-raised, first aid, fish, fish farming, fish pens, Fishing, fishing blogs, fishing hooks, Fishing lures, fishing packages, fishing reports, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tips, fishing tournaments, fishing trips, fishing videos, flyfishing, freediving, giant squid, Heat stroke, highway, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, jack crevalle, Jonathan Roldan, kids, kids fishing, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, la ventana, las arenas, light tackle, Living in Mexico, los barriles, luggage, marlin, Mexican, Mexican business, Mexican culture, mexican food, mexican food stands, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico Christmas, Mexico coronavirus Baja, Mexico economy, Mexico life, Mexico neighborhood, midriff islands, outfitters, pack for a purpose, packages, packing, packing fish, panga, Panga Fishing, pargo, passport, planning, pompano, rentals, road trip, roosterfish, Salt Water Fishing, Salt water lures, San Jose del Cabo, saving money, Sea of Cortez, seafood, seri indians, sierra, speaking spanish, spearfishing, sportfishing, squid fishing, storms, taco, taco stand, Tailhunter International, techniques, testing facilities mexico airport, tiburon island, tourism, tours, transpeninsular highway, Travel, trolling tips, tuna, Tuna jackpot, Uncategorized, vacations, vehicle, wahoo, waterspouts, weather, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, women fishing, yellowtail, tagged amberjack, bahia, Baja Mexico, beaches, billfish, bonito, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, Cerralvo Island, charter, coronavirus in Mexico, deep sea, diving, dog-tooth, dorado, east cape, eco tours, espirito santo island, family, fish, Fishing, fishing report, Fishing Techniques, fishing tips, fishing video, fly fishing, fly fishing. Spearfishing, Fubar Cocina Cantina, gray whales, grey whales, guide, holiday, igfa, inshore, jack crevalle, jill roldan, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, las arenas, light tackle, live bait, los barriles, marlin, mexican, mexico, muertos bay, offshore, outfitter, package, panga, pargo, pompano, rooster fish, sailfish, scuba, sea lions, sea of cortez, seabass, sierra, snorkeling, sportfishing, suenos bay, swimming, tailhunter restaurant, tuna, vacation, wahoo, whale sharks, whale watching, women, world records, yellowtail on July 25, 2021| Leave a Comment »

Originally Published the Week of July 18, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

AM I MISSING SOMETHING?

I was sitting in our restaurant the other day here in La Paz. It’s kind of a big multi-story eatery over-looking the waterfront. Sometimes, it’s nice to bring my laptop upstairs to work.

I get some fresh breezes and sunshine. I get to people-watch all the goings-on downstairs on the beach. And I get to visit with folks a bit too.

It’s also difficult avoiding a bit of eaves-dropping and observing.

So, there’s one table over there with a family of five. Mom and dad. Three kids. Two girls and one boy. Maybe ranging from 12 (the girl) to 9 (the youngest boy).

No one is talking. At least not what I would call talking.

All of them, mom and dad included, are all on their cellphones. Tapping.

I think some of them are actually communicating with each other via text on their phones rather than just looking up and saying something to the other family member.

The only conversation I hear is a comment about what they are reading, but loud enough for the rest of the table to hear…and comment. If anyone else is interested.

Random comments just thrown out there like playing cards on the table…

“I simply CANNOT believe it, Shelly broke up with Lance over the phone.”

“Did you see where Danny and Elaine are finally engaged?”

“Wait, hold on, I’m streaming the NBA finals and the Bucks are down by two”

Even when the food arrived or when one of my servers asked them something, there was merely a perfunctory one or two-word response before getting back to whatever was no that tiny screen.

Tap…tap…tap…thumbs flying. Somehow mastered the ability to eat and type at the same time.

But who am I to judge, right? There musta been some really important critical communication going on at that table. (“Joes’ family gets to go to Hawaii next month!” “Our neighbors got a new dog!” )

There was another family next to them.

Family of four. One girl. One boy.

Ages 10-12…maybe. Honest. Hard to tell.

She kinda dressed like a boy…torn jeans…cropped hair…baseball hat. He was dressed in lanky stovepipe pants that were pastel-colored with and hot pink t-shirt.

Mom and dad were very nice and conversant when I visited the table to make sure everything was OK.

Kids…hmmmm…

Never took their sunglasses off. Oozing attitude. Bored. Disaffected.

“Why are we here when we could be somewhere else?” unsaid behind the smirks.

One of the boys said, “Can you turn down the music? It bothers me.”

Said what he said and I was “dismissed” to go turn down the Jimmy Buffet music I had in the background.

No “please” or “thank you.”

Yessireee…right on it, young master.

Parents not affected by the attitude.

They had a hard time finding something on the menu for the boys.

“Are your chicken wings as good as Buffalo Wild Wings? That’s our favorite and that’s the only place we eat them. “

“Do you have more things on the menu to choose from? Mostly, you have Mexican food and I don’t like tortillas. Or cheese. Or beans.”

They eventually ordered plain hot dogs on buns and had two orange soda floats each and pretty much ate in silence. Like they couldn’t wait to get out and why’d mom and and dad drag us out here?

Sunglasses never came off. One kid never took his ear plugs outta his ears.

Down the other end. Dad and two boys. Young teens. I wasn’t quite sure if both were his sons, but it might have been a son with a chum along on the trip.

I got the impression this was an absentee dad. Maybe a divorce? Out to take his son out on a trip. Some bonding time.

I heard him talking to them about maybe some beach time. How about a snorkel trip to swim with the sealions? Or maybe do some fishing or kayaking!

Hot dang! We’ll have a great time, boys! What d’ya say?

He was really excited and trying hard to sell the activities.

The boys…pasty-white complexions that never go outside…and stylishly-gelled hair…

Wanted to know where they could get massages and a manicure and pedicure. And if the hotel had NETFLIX.

Dad was a bit crestfallen. Understandably.

Am I missing something? I had to ask myself. What’s going on?

This kinda stuff is not uncommon from what I see…almost daily.

I don’t think I’m missing anything.

I think THEY are missing something. The kids AND the parents. On so many levels.

I wanted them to get excited about the view of the ocean or the sunset or even an “OOOooo”and “Ahhhh…” over a dumb plate of nachos. Or the anticipation of jumping in the water or going fishing.

But no.

Yea…there’s a lot missing these days.

Maybe it’s just me. I’m old and old school. Not hip enough.

My wife Jill says I’m “outdated” because I still use e-mail and all our grown kids use Instagram and Tik Tok and Twitter and Whatsapp and…and…and..

Can’t keep up with all those social platforms. I miss plain conversation with my own family. Obviously, these families don’t miss it at all.

Yup! Life has just passed me by. But, I haven’t missed much. Just eavesdropping and watching the tables.

And taking it all in. And thinking with a smirk of my own.

That’s my story!

Jonathan

______________

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: jonathan@tailhunter.com

Or drop by the restaurant to say hi. It’s right on the La Paz waterfront!

_____________

Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International

Website:

www.tailhunter-international.com

Mexico Office: Tailhunter International, 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico

U.S. Mailing Address: Tailhunter International, 8030 La Mesa Blvd. #178, La Mesa CA 91942

Phones:
from USA : 626-638-3383
from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863
.

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

Tailhunter YouTube Video Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLvdHL_p4-OAu3HfiVzW0g

“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.”

Read Full Post »

TRAVEL TO MEXICO SOARS…Planes not so much!

Posted in airlines, bahia de los muertos, bahia de los suenos, Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja fishing lures, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, camping, cerralvo island, charity, charters, chubasco, Coronavirus Baja Mexico, crankbait, deep sea, dorado, east cape, ecotourism, el nino, el sargento, espirito santo, family, farm-raised, first aid, fish, fish farming, fish pens, Fishing, fishing blogs, fishing hooks, Fishing lures, fishing packages, fishing reports, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tips, fishing tournaments, fishing trips, fishing videos, flyfishing, freediving, Heat stroke, holidays in mexico, hurricane, ice chests, inshore fishing, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, jack crevalle, Jonathan Roldan, kids, kids fishing, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, la ventana, las arenas, Leisure, light tackle, Living in Mexico, los barriles, luggage, marlin, Mexican, Mexican business, Mexican culture, mexican food, mexican food stands, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico Christmas, Mexico coronavirus Baja, Mexico economy, Mexico life, Mexico neighborhood, midriff islands, outfitters, pack for a purpose, packages, packing, packing fish, panga, Panga Fishing, pargo, passport, planning, pompano, roosterfish, San Jose del Cabo, Sea of Cortez, seafood, seri indians, sierra, speaking spanish, spearfishing, sportfishing, squid fishing, storms, suitcases, taco, taco stand, Tailhunter International, techniques, testing facilities mexico airport, tiburon island, tourism, tours, Travel, trolling tips, tuna, Tuna jackpot, Uncategorized, vacations, vehicle, wahoo, weather, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, women fishing, yellowtail, tagged amberjack, bahia, Baja Mexico, beaches, billfish, bonito, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, Cerralvo Island, charter, coronavirus in Mexico, deep sea, diving, dog-tooth, dorado, east cape, eco tours, espirito santo island, family, fish, Fishing, fishing report, Fishing Techniques, fishing tips, fishing video, fly fishing, fly fishing. Spearfishing, Fubar Cocina Cantina, gray whales, grey whales, guide, holiday, igfa, inshore, jack crevalle, jill roldan, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, las arenas, light tackle, live bait, los barriles, marlin, mexican, mexico, muertos bay, offshore, outfitter, package, panga, pargo, pompano, rooster fish, sailfish, scuba, sea lions, sea of cortez, seabass, sierra, snorkeling, sportfishing, suenos bay, swimming, tailhunter restaurant, tuna, vacation, wahoo, whale sharks, whale watching, women, world records, yellowtail on July 10, 2021| Leave a Comment »

Mexico has become the go-to place for Americans as things open up. It’s an easy get-away. It’s economical. It’s easy to get home.

More Americans are choosing Mexico over the rest of the Covid-recovering world.

Travel to Mexico is booming in all the usual places. Cancun, Puerta Vallarta. Cozumel. Cabo San Lucas.

It might not be back to where it was pre-2020, but it’s surely trending that way. There are reports that flight travel, in general, is just about where it used to be.

Just one problem.

The airlines weren’t quite ready for it to boom back this much or this fast.

Therefore, just as summer travel is hitting it’s stride, travelers are finding there’s some disconcerting hurdles to straddle

Frankly, flights are getting delayed, changed and canceled with regularity. Most recently American Airlines, Southwest and others have been cancelling over 100 flights per day. This does not begin to count the flights that are changed, delayed or re-routed.

Insofar as my wife and I have dozens of clients per week flying here to La Paz to fish with our fleet, I would venture to say that at least 30% have had their flights changed…often several times from the original…and sometimes at the last minute.

Maybe 40% have delayed flights where they either had unexpected waits at the airport or while sitting on the plane.

Perhaps 10% have had their flights outright cancel. Arriving a day or two later than planned, this has created issues with losing hotel nights as well as activities such as fishing.

If a replacement flight can even be found. With many flights full, it’s not always a possibility. Also, not all airlines fly every day.

Going home to the U.S. has sometimes been an issue as well, although usually not as much.

A big problem has been with connecting flights. If one connecting flight is cancelled or extensively delayed, then there is no way for a passenger to make their next flight in a timely fashion.

To some degree, the airlines point to the spat of bad weather that has hit the U.S. since the beginning of the year.

However, not withstanding Mother Nature’s capricious whims, the bigger problem is a result of Covid.

Many airlines layed-off thousands of employees last year. Many employees were encouraged to accept retirement packages.

Now with travel zooming back, like many industries, there’s a shortage of employees.

Running an airlines is a little more complicated than teaching someone to flip burgers.

One doesn’t suddenly find or train flight attendants in the classified section. You can’t train a jet pilot overnight. Aircraft mechanics and maintenance personnel don’t attend a 1 week night-class to get certified. Ground crews can’t be found on Craig’s List.

So, it’s just one more thing to keep an eye out for.

There are several things you can do.

For one, don’t assume the airline is going to tell you about changes. Seems kinda logical and good business, but that’s not always the case.

I’ve had several clients who were never informed of changes until THE DAY of TRAVEL.

I’ve had several others who never found out until they were AT THE AIRPORT.

One was told, “Well…we’re sorry. We tried to call you yesterday and also sent an e-mail, but no one answered.” That’s right up there with “The check is in the mail.”

Do yourself a favor and check…constantly! Especially as the trip gets closer, don’t be the person who turns off their e-mails and instant messages the last day they leave the office. Be pro-active and avoid surprises.

Be prepared for the possibility of delay.

Bring a book. Bring your medications. Bring a jacket. If there’s a bunch of delays and your flight isn’t until the next day, just assume that any nearby hotel will be full or just not worth the hassle.

So, figure out what you’re gonna do for a few hours sitting in an airport chair or in the restaurant or bar.

One of those goofy neck pillows isn’t a bad idea. Even if you’re not having to spend time in the airport, if you’re stuck sitting on the tarmac in your plane for an extra hour or two, you’ll be grateful you had a neck pillow.

The biggest thing to do is something I have advocated for years.

It’s trip insurance. Google it up . There’s a zillion different companies and plans that will very economically insure pretty much anything on your vacation to missed flights; to missed kayak trips; to lost hotel nights or other plans .

A week has not gone by lately where I was not assisting one of our clients help file a claim for compensation because of an airline SNAFU.

Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

That’s my story!

Jonathan

______________

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: jonathan@tailhunter.com

Or drop by the restaurant to say hi. It’s right on the La Paz waterfront!

_____________

Jonathan Roldan’s

Tailhunter International

Website:

www.tailhunter-international.com

Mexico Office: Tailhunter International, 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico

U.S. Mailing Address: Tailhunter International, 8030 La Mesa Blvd. #178, La Mesa CA 91942

Phones:

from USA : 626-638-3383

from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863

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

Tailhunter YouTube Video Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLvdHL_p4-OAu3HfiVzW0g

“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.”

Read Full Post »

YOUR NEGLIGENCE ISN’T ALWAYS MY EMERGENCY

Posted in airlines, bahia de los muertos, bahia de los suenos, Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja fishing lures, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, cerralvo island, charters, Coronavirus Baja Mexico, crankbait, deep sea, dorado, east cape, ecotourism, el nino, el sargento, espirito santo, family, fish, Fishing, fishing blogs, fishing hooks, Fishing lures, fishing packages, fishing reports, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tips, fishing tournaments, fishing trips, fishing videos, flyfishing, freediving, holidays in mexico, hurricane, ice chests, inshore fishing, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, jack crevalle, Jonathan Roldan, kids, kids fishing, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, la ventana, las arenas, light tackle, Living in Mexico, los barriles, luggage, marlin, Mexican, Mexican business, Mexican culture, mexican food, mexican food stands, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico Christmas, Mexico coronavirus Baja, Mexico economy, Mexico life, Mexico neighborhood, midriff islands, outfitters, pack for a purpose, packages, packing, packing fish, panga, Panga Fishing, pargo, passport, planning, pompano, road trip, roosterfish, Salt Water Fishing, Salt water lures, San Jose del Cabo, Sea of Cortez, seafood, sierra, speaking spanish, spearfishing, sportfishing, storm, suitcases, taco, taco stand, Tailhunter International, testing facilities mexico airport, tiburon island, tourism, tours, Travel, trolling tips, tuna, tuna tournament, Uncategorized, vehicle, wahoo, waterspouts, weather, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, women fishing, yellowtail, tagged amberjack, bahia, Baja Mexico, beaches, billfish, bonito, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, Cerralvo Island, charter, coronavirus in Mexico, deep sea, diving, dog-tooth, dorado, east cape, eco tours, espirito santo island, family, fish, Fishing, fishing report, Fishing Techniques, fishing tips, fishing video, fly fishing, fly fishing. Spearfishing, Fubar Cocina Cantina, gray whales, grey whales, guide, holiday, igfa, inshore, jack crevalle, jill roldan, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, las arenas, light tackle, live bait, los barriles, marlin, mexican, mexico, muertos bay, offshore, outfitter, package, panga, pargo, pompano, rooster fish, sailfish, scuba, sea lions, sea of cortez, seabass, sierra, snorkeling, sportfishing, suenos bay, swimming, tailhunter restaurant, tuna, vacation, wahoo, whale sharks, whale watching, women, world records, yellowtail on June 24, 2021| Leave a Comment »

STUFF HAPPENS…SOMETIMES WE CAN FIX IT. SOMETIMES YOU GOTTA JUST BITE THE BULLET and MOVE ON.

YOUR NEGLIGENCE ISN’T ALWAYS MY EMERGENCY

Originally Published the Week of June 15, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

Over 3 decades of taking care of fishermen and travelers here in Baja, I’ve seen a lot of things.

Many things just cause me to scratch my head and say, “What were they thinking?”

I’m as guilty as the next person.

There are times for all of us when the unexpected occurs. We’re too busy or distracted or whatever…

…and we do something dumb. Something we normally would not have done or would not have happened under ordinary circumstances.

Accidents happen. Poop happens. Murphy’s Law punches us in the nose when we least expect.

But, then there are other times when I don’t scratch my head. It’s more like I throw up my arms and walk away.

What’s that saying?

“You can’t fix stupid.”

My wife, Jill, and I see hundreds of folks a year pass through and it’s a cavalcade of errors, foibles and guffaws on almost daily basis.

There’s the “everyday” things that could happen to anyone. Often easily rectified. Or at least, we can help with a resolution.

Someone forgets a phone charger. Luggage goes somewhere unintended. Someone forgets sunscreen or a hair dryer. A sweatshirt gets misplaced.

Someone has too much to drink. Or not enough (water!).

That’s just regular stuff. Maybe a small emergency for the client, but to us, it’s just another day at the office in paradise.

Then, there’s the larger stuff.

Things in the grand scheme of things that are important and maybe expensive losses, but ultimately, there’s a remedy. It’s just that for us, there’s not much we can personally do about it.

You forget the charger for your laptop or you forget your laptop completely.

You lose your passport. Or you forget your passport. You lose your money. You forget those expensive Maui Jim /Costa /Oakley sunglasses on the beach.

You show up the wrong day for your flight.

Simple accidents that can happen to anyone. Not much to do except move on. Take the loss and learn a lesson.

But, then there are the ridiculous, mind-numbing things people do that have us asking if people leave their brains at home when they go on vacation.

We can’t fix it. We can’t fix you.

There’s no magic wand that I possess. But these are things over the years that we’ve been asked to remedy.

We can’t help you get out’ve a ticket when you get drunk and you flip off a Mexican police officer. Or moon him. Or flash your boobs at him.

Or, you gave a cop “attitude” because you’re an American and you’re on vacation and it’s OK to have an open container in a rental car.

Your friend said it’s OK for tourists to drink-and-drive in Mexico. And the cop took your driver’s license AND gave you a ticket?

Wow. Imagine that!

No, we can’t find the taxi you climbed into in the middle of the night. You left your ipad, iphone or wallet in it. Telling me the cab driver was short, brown and wears a baseball hat doesn’t help us. Or that he has a mustache.

And here’s an eyebrow raiser…

Believe me, I don’t know what to do now that you tell me you forgot your colostomy bag at home. I have spare hooks and fishing line. As a habit, I do NOT have extra colostomy bags!

Or that you forgot your heart medication. Or you forgot your HIV meds.

Oh, they’re $600 here in Mexico? Really? No, I can’t get you a discount at the pharmacy. No, I will not use my credit card to help you out.

Oh, you forgot to bring any cash at all and you have no credit cards. And you want me to float you a loan so you can go partying. Only $2000 dollars. Yes, I’m sure you’re good for it. Yes, I know you’re my “Bro!”

Just stay in the room and watch Mexican soccer on TV.

And this happened once…

Your wife always packs your bags for you. And she forgot to pack extra underwear for you. And now you insist you CANNOT go fishing unless you have new underwear! You will NOT use your swimming shorts. I guess I can call you a taxi to take you to Walmart. Maybe…I’ll just let you suffer.

Here’s a dangerous one…

You met a local girl who became your “girlfriend” while you’ve been here. In an “error or judgement” somehow…someway you promised to bring her back to the states with you.

And she’s following you everywhere and her parents want to meet you? Will I go with you to meet them and explain things? Uh…I’m really busy.

And then…

Your last words were “hold my tequila” as you did a cannonball into the hotel pool. Unfortunately, it was the kiddie pool. And your dentures flew out and you busted a rib.

Or…

You tossed furniture out the hotel window and broke a mirror and lamp inside the room and tore up the plumbing in the shower. You can’t believe they’re throwing you out.

No, I can’t help you get a refund for the nights you missed or the fishing days you lost. Yes, I believe they gave you a choice of calling the police or leaving the hotel.

And a doozie…

OK, you went to a “gentleman’s club” last night. One of the “hostesses” there told you she’s really a grade schoolteacher back in Mazatlan. Poor thing is just working to make enough money to fly back there to her mom.

And you gave her your credit card to buy a plane ticket so she could stop working like this.

Today you find out your card is maxed. That’s how you were going to pay your rent? And you went back to the club today and there’s no one named “Maria” that works there?

You think you might have been tricked? Gosh. Wish I could help you.

NOT.

Some things just can’t be fixed.

That’s my story!

signature transparent JR 4-21

Jonathan

______________

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: jonathan@tailhunter.com

Or drop by the restaurant to say hi. It’s right on the La Paz waterfront!

_____________

Jonathan Roldan’s

Tailhunter International

Website:

www.tailhunter-international.com

Mexico Office: Tailhunter International, 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico

U.S. Mailing Address: Tailhunter International, 8030 La Mesa Blvd. #178, La Mesa CA 91942

Phones:

from USA : 626-638-3383

from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863

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

Tailhunter YouTube Video Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLvdHL_p4-OAu3HfiVzW0g

“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.”

Read Full Post »

SOMETHING IN THE WATER?

Posted in airlines, bahia de los muertos, bahia de los suenos, Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja fishing lures, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, cerralvo island, charters, circle hooks, Coronavirus Baja Mexico, crankbait, deep sea, dorado, east cape, ecotourism, el nino, el sargento, espirito santo, family, fish, fish farming, fish pens, Fishing, fishing blogs, fishing hooks, Fishing lures, fishing packages, fishing reports, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tips, fishing tournaments, fishing trips, fishing videos, flyfishing, freediving, giant squid, hurricanes, ice chests, inshore fishing, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, jack crevalle, Jonathan Roldan, kids, kids fishing, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, la ventana, las arenas, light tackle, Living in Mexico, los barriles, marlin, Mexican, Mexican business, Mexican culture, mexican food, mexican food stands, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico coronavirus Baja, Mexico economy, Mexico life, midriff islands, outfitters, packages, packing, packing fish, panga, Panga Fishing, pargo, passport, planning, pompano, road trip, roosterfish, Salt Water Fishing, Salt water lures, San Jose del Cabo, saving money, Sea of Cortez, seafood, sierra, speaking spanish, spearfishing, sportfishing, storm, storms, Tailhunter International, testing facilities mexico airport, tiburon island, tourism, tours, transpeninsular highway, Travel, trolling tips, tuna, Uncategorized, vacations, vehicle, wahoo, weather, Western Outdoor News, women fishing, yellowtail, tagged amberjack, bahia, Baja Mexico, beaches, billfish, bonito, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, Cerralvo Island, charter, coronavirus in Mexico, deep sea, diving, dog-tooth, dorado, east cape, eco tours, espirito santo island, family, fish, Fishing, fishing report, Fishing Techniques, fishing tips, fishing video, fly fishing, fly fishing. Spearfishing, Fubar Cocina Cantina, gray whales, grey whales, guide, holiday, igfa, inshore, jack crevalle, jill roldan, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, las arenas, light tackle, live bait, los barriles, marlin, mexican, mexico, muertos bay, offshore, outfitter, package, panga, pargo, pompano, rooster fish, sailfish, scuba, sea lions, sea of cortez, seabass, sierra, snorkeling, sportfishing, suenos bay, swimming, tailhunter restaurant, tuna, vacation, wahoo, whale sharks, whale watching, women, world records, yellowtail on May 30, 2021| Leave a Comment »

SOMETHING IN THE WATER?

Originally Published the Week of May 22, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

“I’ve never seen it like this before”

“I think this is what it must have been like back in the day.”

“This is almost eerie. Been coming for years and there’s something has definitely changed.”

“It’s like there’s something in the water.”

Quotes from a recent sci-fi thriller?

Nope.

FEELING A LITTLE MORE NORMAL AGAIN

Posted in airlines, bahia de los muertos, bahia de los suenos, Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja fishing lures, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, cerralvo island, charters, chubasco, circle hooks, Coronavirus Baja Mexico, crankbait, deep sea, dorado, east cape, ecotourism, el nino, el sargento, espirito santo, family, fish, fish farming, fish pens, Fishing, fishing blogs, fishing hooks, Fishing lures, fishing packages, fishing reports, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tips, fishing tournaments, fishing trips, fishing videos, flyfishing, freediving, holidays in mexico, humboldt squid, hurricane, hurricanes, ice chests, inshore fishing, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, jack crevalle, Jonathan Roldan, kids, kids fishing, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, la ventana, las arenas, light tackle, Living in Mexico, los barriles, luggage, marlin, Mexican, Mexican business, Mexican culture, mexican food, mexican food stands, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico Christmas, Mexico coronavirus Baja, Mexico economy, Mexico life, Mexico neighborhood, midriff islands, missions, outfitters, pack for a purpose, packages, packing, Panga Fishing, pargo, passport, pompano, rentals, road trip, roosterfish, Salt Water Fishing, Salt water lures, San Jose del Cabo, Sea of Cortez, sierra, speaking spanish, spearfishing, sportfishing, storm, suitcases, Sun stroke, sustainable, Tailhunter International, testing facilities mexico airport, tiburon island, tourism, tours, Travel, trolling tips, tuna, Tuna jackpot, tuna tournament, Uncategorized, vacations, vehicle, wahoo, waterspouts, weather, Western Outdoor News, women fishing, tagged amberjack, bahia, Baja Mexico, beaches, billfish, bonito, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, Cerralvo Island, charter, coronavirus in Mexico, deep sea, diving, dog-tooth, dorado, east cape, eco tours, espirito santo island, family, fish, Fishing, fishing report, Fishing Techniques, fishing tips, fishing video, fly fishing, fly fishing. Spearfishing, Fubar Cocina Cantina, gray whales, grey whales, guide, holiday, igfa, inshore, jack crevalle, jill roldan, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, las arenas, light tackle, live bait, los barriles, marlin, mexican, mexico, muertos bay, offshore, outfitter, package, panga, pargo, pompano, rooster fish, sailfish, scuba, sea lions, sea of cortez, seabass, sierra, snorkeling, sportfishing, suenos bay, swimming, tailhunter restaurant, tuna, vacation, wahoo, whale sharks, whale watching, women, world records, yellowtail on May 23, 2021| 1 Comment »

FEELING A LITTLE MORE NORMAL AGAIN

Originally Published the Week of May 17, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

The vibe just kinda just hit me this week.

I had to go down to Cabo San Lucas which is about 100 miles south of us where we live in La Paz. Had to take care of some business, but also check out the Cabo Airport.

I got stuck in traffic.

It’s been awhile since I’ve been stuck in traffic down here. I mean, not just slo-mo movement. I mean gridlock bumper-to-bumper stuff.

At the airport, to drop off folks, shuttle vans and taxis were triple-parked trying to let folks off at the curb. Inside the terminal lines snaked back-and-forth and up-and down.

It was a morass of people struggling to find their proper lines to check in for their flights as well as get their covid tests.

Picking folks up, the same thing. Chaos. People ready and anticipating a cold margarita and sunny vacations now stuck in lines. Buzz kill.

Like being a kid getting taken finally to Disneyland then realizing it’s a 2 hour line to get on your favorite ride.

From the time planes were landing, it was taking 1-2 hours for folks to get off the plane and get their luggage. Then, they had to navigate get through more snaking lines for immigration and finally customs and luggage x-rays.

It was another hour wait to get a rental car…if you’re lucky.

As my amigo and I sat in the car waiting for traffic, I looked at him and said, “I guess we’re back to normal.” And went back to drumming my fingers on the steering wheel.

And so it is. I guess we’re somewhat back to normal. At least it feels like it. The new normal? Maybe so.

There’s no doubt that Mexico, especially Baja, has become the #1 vacation target for Americans looking to get away…finally. Covid or no covid. Vaccine or no vaccine.

Mexico is close. A quick little plane ride.

There’s no quarantine. It’s economical. It’s a long weekend.

To many the culture is not so unfamiliar. It’s second nature to many Americans. It’s not like going to France or Italy or somewhere in Asia. And, getting back home is easy too.

Although Baja still has restrictions, truthfully, they are almost un-noticeable.

Sure, you still gotta wear a mask. It’s a requirement, but it feels very relaxed. No one is shaking a finger at you if you’re not wearing one.

And for sure, it’s rare that someone is going to remind the precious tourists with the American dollars to put on a mask.

As you walk around, you’ll know if you need to pull up your mask.

You will still have folks taking your temperature at some places. No big deal.

Admittedly, restaurants and hotels are supposed to only be at 40-50% occupancy.

But, I see hotel parking lots are full. Many restaurants are full and I sure don’t see many tables supposedly 6’ apart.

If the restrictions are being observed, it’s pretty loose. Or maybe no one is really checking that hard. Getting people working is too important.

Everyone is trying to make up for a devastating 2020, no doubt.

Those are just my own personal observations. A generality, if you will.

But, honestly, it’s exciting to feel the nice buzz in the air. A nice energy. Visitors are excited to be here.

Folks are excited to be working again. Locals are excited to have you. Businesses have open arms waiting for you.

Baja had it especially tough last year. I remember everything being closed. I remember night time curfews.

I remember only being allowed to have 2 persons in a car and everyone better have a mask on. I remember having to sanitize your shoes and feet before entering a business.

For Pete’sake, I remember when they cut off beer sales because brewing beer was a “non-essential activity.” Long lines and small riots ensued at convenience stores.

Toilet paper no problem, but cutting off beer in Mexico? That’s a real crisis.

I don’t miss any of that.

In an ironic bitter-sweet way, I will miss some things however. Not that I ever want to go back to 2020.

In a weird Twilight Zone kind of way, it was a peek at Mexico the way it was 30 or 40 years ago.

The ocean was empty and uncrowded.

The fish were ready and eager. There had been so little traffic on the water.

I had the beaches to myself.

At restaurants the service was crazy good. Waiters were falling all over themselves to wait on me. Few tables were occupied.

Hotels were almost giving away rooms to have you be there. You got the pool all to yourself. The jacuzzi didn’t have 20 kids diving in it.

The swim up bar was just you and the bartender. And he was anxious to have some company.

And traffic? What traffic? Roads were empty. The airport was empty.

Things moved at a much more leisurely pace.

I couldn’t wait for it all to end and it’s good to get back to some normalcy. Good to see people back working and visitors flocking back.

But, for awhile I got to see a different older Mexico. Just for awhile.

It’s like those movies where someone invents a time machine and goes back in time. Nice to visit, but you don’t wanna stay there too long!

It’s good to be back to business. Even if I’m stuck in traffic now and then.

That’s my story!

signature transparent JR 4-21

______________

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: jonathan@tailhunter.com

Or drop by the restaurant to say hi. It’s right on the La Paz waterfront!

_____________

Jonathan Roldan’s

Tailhunter International

Website:

www.tailhunter-international.com

Mexico Office: Tailhunter International, 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico

U.S. Mailing Address: Tailhunter International, 8030 La Mesa Blvd. #178, La Mesa CA 91942

Phones:

from USA : 626-638-3383

from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863

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

Tailhunter YouTube Video Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLvdHL_p4-OAu3HfiVzW0g

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

Read Full Post »

ADVENTURES IN DRIVING

Posted in airlines, bahia de los muertos, bahia de los suenos, Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja fishing lures, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, cerralvo island, charters, Coronavirus Baja Mexico, crankbait, deep sea, dorado, driving, east cape, ecotourism, el nino, el sargento, espirito santo, family, fish, Fishing, fishing blogs, fishing hooks, Fishing lures, fishing packages, fishing reports, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tips, fishing tournaments, fishing trips, fishing videos, flyfishing, freediving, giant squid, holidays in mexico, hurricanes, ice chests, inshore fishing, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, jack crevalle, Jonathan Roldan, kids, kids fishing, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, la ventana, las arenas, light tackle, Living in Mexico, los barriles, luggage, marlin, Mexican, Mexican business, Mexican culture, mexican food, mexican food stands, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico coronavirus Baja, Mexico economy, Mexico life, Mexico neighborhood, midriff islands, missions, outfitters, packages, packing fish, panga, Panga Fishing, pargo, passport, planning, pompano, rentals, roosterfish, Salt Water Fishing, Salt water lures, San Jose del Cabo, saving money, Sea of Cortez, sierra, spearfishing, sportfishing, squid fishing, storms, Sun stroke, Tailhunter International, testing facilities mexico airport, tourism, tours, Travel, trolling tips, tuna, Uncategorized, vacations, vehicle, wahoo, weather, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, women fishing, yellowtail, tagged amberjack, bahia, Baja Mexico, beaches, billfish, bonito, Cabo San Lucas, cabrilla, Cerralvo Island, charter, coronavirus in Mexico, deep sea, diving, dog-tooth, dorado, east cape, eco tours, espirito santo island, family, fish, Fishing, fishing report, Fishing Techniques, fishing tips, fishing video, fly fishing, fly fishing. Spearfishing, Fubar Cocina Cantina, gray whales, grey whales, guide, holiday, igfa, inshore, jack crevalle, jill roldan, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz, las arenas, light tackle, live bait, los barriles, marlin, mexican, mexico, muertos bay, offshore, outfitter, package, panga, pargo, pompano, rooster fish, sailfish, scuba, sea lions, sea of cortez, seabass, sierra, snorkeling, sportfishing, suenos bay, swimming, tailhunter restaurant, tuna, vacation, wahoo, whale sharks, whale watching, women, world records, yellowtail on May 13, 2021| 1 Comment »

man-in-car-accident

ADVENTURES IN DRIVING

Originally Published the Week of May 13, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

We’re gonna do a little “word association” test. Read the following words then close your eyes.

“MEXICAN DRIVERS”

I bet I can guess what went through your head after reading those words. All those “stereotypes” come flooding into your thoughts?

Just to be fair, stereotypes are stereotypes.

They’re a broad-brush painting that may-or-may-not have a lot of truth or fairness to it. But, after living in Mexico for almost 3 decades, the thoughts that flew through your brain probably weren’t too far off.

Listen, there’s bad drivers all over the world.

How many people did you call out under-your-breath on your last freeway commute home from work? Everyone slower than you was a “jerk.” Everyone faster than you was a “butthead.” Right?

I don’t want to say that Mexicans are bad drivers. But, I will say they drive “differently” and it behooves you to be a “better” driver because of it. In other words, CYA. . .”cover your backside” and drive defensively.

Why is that?

Well, a couple of things that happened recently might have coalesced my thoughts on the matter.

For one, I just realized that of our employees that “know” how to drive, most have no driver’s licenses. Some have NEVER had a license or have expired licenses. They just laugh.

When you need to get from Point A-to Point B for work, you do what you gotta do. Don’t need no license and don’t have time or money to get one!

As a foreigner, I never had to take a test to get a Mexican driver’s license. I never had to even prove that I could drive. I just had to fill out the paperwork.

I had to pay my money. And, like DMV’s everywhere, I had to stand in several long lines.

However, unlike say the DMV in the states, I found out that I could pay a proxy to stand in line for me. Yup. Pay for someone to stand in line for me!

I could go sit down; check my e-mails on my phone; buy a hot dog or a churro from one of the vendors inside the TRANSITO (DMV) office. My proxy calls me when it’s my turn to run up to the line.

He follows me to the next line. He tells me where I need to sign documents. He basically leads me by hand from one teller window or clerical office to the next. Nothing is done in one line.

It’s a good thing because the TRANSITO office is a small version of the floor of the NY stock exchange. It’s chaos incarnate.

Noisy. Little offices everywhere. Lines everywhere. Lines to nowhere. Confusing signs on the walls.

People milling and yelling and papers being shuffled. There’s no appointments. There’s no obvious order.

Paying a proxy a few bucks and a hot dog was well worth it. Turns out my guy was a police officer making a little money on the side. Tipping is appreciated.

Circling back, however, the point of my story is that to get a license you do NOT have to prove you can operate a moving vehicle.

Unlike, the U.S., however, you DO have to prove that you are “alive.”

I say that tongue-in-cheek because to get a license, you must submit to a blood test. Yes, a blood test. I don’t know why.

But, you go across the street to an approved “lab” and they take a blood test. Cost is about 20 bucks. You take your test results when you get your license.

That’s it. No driving test. No written test.

Painted outside the TRANSITO office there’s ariel-view street grid l painted on the asphalt/ concrete. . Kinda like Lego-land.

The streets area about 12-inches side. It has little streets and buildings painted there with parking spaces and stop signs and left-turn lanes and one-way streets.

I’m told that an examiner will take you through a “test” and let you WALK through the faux-streets. You get to show that you know when to stop and how to back up and how to make left turns.

You are not in a car.

You are in an “air-car” like playing “air-guitar.”

You are not in a vehicle. You turn our “air wheel” to make a turn. You shift gears in the air like when you were a kid. You step on the imaginary brakes.

Maybe you even have to make “vroom vroom” sounds as you drive around.

Like I said, I never had to take any kind of driving or written test to get my Mexican license.

However, I’ve had local friends who were given written exams. They were getting their driving licenses for the first time.

The tests are not open book. There is no book. There’s no manual.

If you know how to drive, it’s not because you took lessons. It’s because someone else, maybe with questionable skills shows YOU how to drive. The circle continues.

With the written tests, no one is monitoring the test takers. Apparently, you’re welcome to discuss questions with your neighbor test-taker.

Answer by committee. Everyone gets to agree on the right answer about when it’s OK to blow through a stop sign or not having to signal a left turn.

When, my wife, Jill went to get her motorcycle license so she could ride her scooter it was a good example. She panicked when she was given the written test in Spanish. Multiple choice.

To her great joy, about 5 other test-takers all gladly helped her. They not only interpreted the questions, but also gave her the correct answers!

She only missed 1 answer and later told me she didn’t understand half the questions. But, she did got her scooter license.

Two weeks later, she stopped riding the scooter because of all the “crazy drivers.” I’m glad she did!

Just saying…

That’s my story!

signature transparent JR 4-21

Jonathan

______________

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: jonathan@tailhunter.com

Or drop by the restaurant to say hi. It’s right on the La Paz waterfront!

_____________

Jonathan Roldan’s

Tailhunter International

Website:

www.tailhunter-international.com

Mexico Office: Tailhunter International, 755 Paseo Obregon, La Paz, Baja Sur, Mexico

U.S. Mailing Address: Tailhunter International, 8030 La Mesa Blvd. #178, La Mesa CA 91942

Phones:

from USA : 626-638-3383

from Mexico: 044-612-14-17863

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

Tailhunter YouTube Video Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBLvdHL_p4-OAu3HfiVzW0g

“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.”

Read Full Post »

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Jonathan has written for:

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Western Outdoor News Magazine
Pacific Coast Sportfishing
Discover Baja Magazine
Baja Life Magazine
The Log
Fish Taco Chronicles
Sportsman's Channel Magazine

His articles also appear in:

San Diego Union Newspaper
Los Angeles Times Newspaper
Sacramento Bee
San Francisco Chronicle
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That's My Story

Tailhunter International, La Paz, Baja Sur

Archive for the ‘vehicle’ Category

WE HAVE A BLEEDER

WE HAVE A BLEEDER

Originally Published the Week of Oct. 24, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

CHANGING SEASONS

CHANGING SEASONS

Originally Published the Week of Oct. 17, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

CUTTING SOME SLACK

CUTTING SOME SLACK

WHAT THEY SAY and WHAT WE REALLY SEE

AM I MISSING SOMETHING?

AM I MISSING SOMETHING?

TRAVEL TO MEXICO SOARS…Planes not so much!

YOUR NEGLIGENCE ISN’T ALWAYS MY EMERGENCY

YOUR NEGLIGENCE ISN’T ALWAYS MY EMERGENCY

SOMETHING IN THE WATER?

SOMETHING IN THE WATER?

FEELING A LITTLE MORE NORMAL AGAIN

FEELING A LITTLE MORE NORMAL AGAIN

ADVENTURES IN DRIVING

ADVENTURES IN DRIVING

Originally Published the Week of May 13, 2021 in Western Outdoor Publications

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