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“T.M.I” (Too Much Information)

Posted in Baja Fishing, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, tagged baja, baja fishing, Baja Mexico, billfish, Cerralvo Island, charter, dorado, Espiritu Santo Island, expatriates in mexico, Fishing, fishing charters, Fishing Techniques, fishing tricks, gringos in mexico, international, jonathan, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, Light Tackle Fishing, living in Mexico, mexican, mexican business, mexican culture, mexican life, mexican vacations, mexico, mexico life, panga, Panga Fishing, roldan, sea of cortez, sea of cortez fishing, tailhunter, Tailhunter International, tuna, vacations, western outdoor news on April 16, 2012| Leave a Comment »

Opening one screen leads to another and another. In the quest for information on the "information super highway" one is often subjected to frequent sig-alert traffic jams!

“T.M.I” (Too Much Information!)

Originally Published the Week of April 18, 2012 in Western Outdoor News

In the current lingo of the internet and texting, most teenagers can tell you what “TMI” means. “ Too much information.” More than I need.

When I got married a few years ago to Jilly, I wanted to surprise her for our honeymoon (no wise cracks, guys!). So I told her I was sagely going to handle the honeymoon arrangements especially after all the work she had done for the massive wedding. She rolled her eyes a bit and laughed. She had her hands full anyway and she gamely expressed confidence in my stellar organizational abilities. In all fairness, I could’ve set up a camping trip or a Motel 6 and she’s still would have gone along cheerfully.

What she didn’t know was that I was secretly going to extend our honeymoon for extra days. Some things she didn’t expect. Some things NOT in the budget… Some ritzy hotel! Spa! Restaurants! Only doing this once so might as well shoot for the moon. The credit card was empty at the time. (ha!)

So, I hit the internet. Now, this was only 3 years ago. The last time I booked a really big deal was back in the day when I reached into dad’s car and grabbed the Auto Club Catalog. Remember those? Dog-eared and coffee stained. It was the” bible” when you went on a family trip.

But because this was so special, I needed to know everything about everything. Bad move!

Before long, I had two laptops opened plus my desktop computer. I had multiple screens opened on each one…Trip Advisor….Yelp…Facebook…My Space…Yahoo…Google…

I had review after review. Link upon link. Photo libraries. Experts reviews. Some agreed. Many conflicted. Who had the best hotel? Ocean view? Spa? Restaurants nearby? Brunch? Room service?

Wait, that one looks good, but two other reviews said the place had bad service. But another 10 reviews say it’s great. This other hotel has ocean-views, but their restaurant has bad reviews and they say it’s noisy. This other one looks good, but it’s not walking distance to anything and they charge an extra 40 bucks to park which could have fooled me.

OK…this resort has a spa discount package but only on weekdays. That won’t work. This one has great rates…darnit…only during off-season. This one looks great! Call them now…”What? You’re already sold out???” (gnashing of teeth). Delete delete delete!

And the restaurants…OK…that one has 500 good reviews but 60 bad ones. This one has live music and great seafood, but it says don’t go on weekend because it has too many tourists in them. This other one is famous and has been there for years, but the last few reviews are terrible!

I was doing this all in the middle of the night too so that I could hide this from Jill. Before long, I was going crazy! Eyes were going buggy looking at so many websites and reviews and photos. INFORMATION OVERLOAD! TILT! TILT!

But, you know…it’s your honeymoon. You want everything “just right.” As it turned out, after 4 fretful nights, I finally just pulled the trigger and made my best-informed-decisions and all turned out well. My lovely bride was all smiles and I saved the fledgling marriage! She didn’t cut-and-run. Whew…

It used to be so easy for Baja as well.

In fact, the least amount of planning seemed to be the typical modus operendi. You called the guys. You got the station wagon or van. In went some clothes. In went the surfboards and fishing rods. A cooler. A copious amount of junk food procured from the first 7-11 on the road…Doritos…check…Jerky…check…Oreos…check…oops…run back in and get beer and Cokes. A box of cassettes or 8 tracks.

You had destination in mind. You headed sort of in THAT direction. Again…the Auto Club Map and book in the glove box. Maybe a copy of Gene Kira’s the “Baja Catch” on the dashboard and some faxed copies of the surf report.

You’d figure out the rest “on the fly.” Maybe you’d camp. Maybe all sleep in the car. Maybe all of you piled into some little Mexican beach motel.

It was THAT easy. You knew it would work itself out. The important thing was that you were GOING! Not where you were going so much as the thrill of knowing you were on a road trip together to the BAJA! You all piled out’ve work on Friday and picked all the buddies up along the way.

Nowadays, the information super-highway has, in many ways complicated things as much as made it easier.

There is so much out there, that it’s impossible to filter! Our own website must be 40 pages large, but that’s because it has to be large to compete with everyone else out there. It’s a necessary evil.

And it’s hard to de-code everything. It’s easy to hide that a certain hotel is 30 miles away from town or that another is actually built next to a cement plant. The photos always look GREAT on the internet.

Likewise, what does the word “rustic” mean when used to describe a hotel? That could mean charming Mexican artisan décor or it could mean the air-conditioning system is powered by two gerbils running in a wheel. Or “close to the beach?” How close is” close?” Walking distance. For who?

After all that, sometimes it’s just easier to ask someone who has been there. Assuming you truest their opinion. But often… Word-of –mouth sometimes trumps technology.

But, I miss the old days. Pass the Doritos and pop some Rolling Stones in the 8-track…

We’ll get there when we get there.

_____________________________

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!

_______________________

That’s our story

Jonathan and Jilly

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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“How Deep is ‘Deep Sea’ Fishing?

Posted in Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tournaments, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexican, Mexican culture, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico life, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Sea of Cortez, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, tagged baja, baja fishing, Baja Mexico, billfish, Cerralvo Island, charter, dorado, Espiritu Santo Island, expatriates in mexico, Fishing, fishing charters, Fishing Techniques, fishing tricks, gringos in mexico, holidays in Mexico, international, jonathan, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, Light Tackle Fishing, living in Mexico, mexican, mexican business, mexican culture, mexican life, mexican retirement, mexican vacations, mexico, Mexico tourism, panga, Panga Fishing, roldan, sea of cortez, sea of cortez fishing, tailhunter, Tailhunter International, tuna, vacations, western outdoor news on March 31, 2012| Leave a Comment »

Nice people sometimes ask the craziest questions. It's hard to believe some of the funny and nutty questions and comments we get.

“HOW DEEP IS ‘DEEP SEA’ FISHING?”

Originally Published the Week of April 4, 2012, in Western Outdoor News

Every year, after we do all our promotional shows across the Western U.S., I like to compile some of the funny questions and comments I heard during the past 3 months. Folks approach our booth to talk and ask us questions and we literally see speak to hundreds of anglers and hunters at each show over the 4 or 5 day period. Over the years, there have been some doozies…

“What’s the best day of the week to catch a blue marlin?”

“How come everyone in Mexico speaks Spanish?”

“It’s called ‘Baja California’ but I can’t find Baja on a map of California!”

Stuff like that.

Sometimes we roll our eyes. Sometimes we have to ask the to repeat the question because we can’t believe what we just heard!

Sometimes, it’s awfully hard to choke back a laugh or be a wise-guy (more my nature) and fire back a quick smart-aleck response…especially after talking to hundreds of persons at each show and hearing so many questions over and over!

But, we’re professionals! Ha!

And we have to remind ourselves that these are truly and honestly sincere and generally intelligent folk. I’m just as guilty of not having my brain and mouth in synch. You be the judge! Sometimes, there’s just NO answer to some of these questions and comments!

Almost every conversation starts up with someone walking up to our counter and firing the opening line…

“Where you out’ve?” (even tho’ the words LA PAZ MEXICO are plastered all over the booth! )

And then it starts…

“Is that near Cancun?”

“Is that near Tijuana? I took a picture there once with a donkey painted up like a zebra!”

And this little exchange…

“You don’t look Mexican. Did you learn your English from missionaries?”

(“Sir, I’m actually from Hawaii,” I responded)

“Really? Are you selling fishing trips in Hawaii?”

“Do they speak Spanish in Hawaii?”

“So, in Hawaii, did you learn English from the missionaries?”

“Hey, do you know my friend in Cabo San Lucas? His name is Jose. He’s short like you with black hair and mustache. Everyone knows Jose!” (I’m sure he’s in my rolodex!)

“So, is fishing any good where you’re at?” (Nope…that’s why I’m selling fishing trips at a FISHING show and there’s pictures of FISH all over my booth!)

“I knew a guy once that got Montezuma’s revenge from drinking the water in Mexico. Will that happen to me? What will happen if I get Montezuma’s?”

“When do the salmon run in Baja? I hear you get some good ones and they’re not like the salmon in Alaska!” (I guess not!)

“I was told Mexican ranchers raise little goats so they can get cheese and breed with them and have babies. Is that true?” (Can you repeat that one more time again, Sir?)

“Can my wife walk across the border to Loreto to go shopping?” (Oh sure…if she can walk about 500 miles!)

“I heard you can’t drive an American car to Mexico because American speedometers show miles-per-hour and in Mexico they don’t have miles…only kilometers. Mexican cars have kilometers on their dashboards. So, Mexican cars cannot be driven in the U.S. either.” (Someone has been eating the brownies with the little green flecks in them again!)

“My wife doesn’t like the sun can she stay in the room the whole time?”

“Can I scuba dive without air tanks?”

“How deep is ‘deep sea’ fishing?”

“I’ve never fished in the ocean before. What happens when the fish pulls me out’ve the boat? Will sharks eat me? I watch “Shark Week” all the time on TV and I know what happens to people who get in the ocean.”

“I was in prison once and can’t get a passport. Will they still let me come fishing where you’re at?” (They might let you out of the U.S., but you’re gonna have a big problem trying to get back in!”)

“Last time we were in Mexico it was really windy! What can you do about the wind?” (Well, let me just wave my magic wand over the earth and sky for you!)

“Are you positive you’re not selling fishing trips to Hawaii?

By the time you read this, I’ll be home in La Paz! Thanks to everyone who came out to say hi to us over the last 3 months. WON readers are EVERYWHERE! There’s no such thing as a dumb question. But…You never know when you may end up as part of a story!

That’s our story…

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

.
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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“DIFFERENTLY THE SAME”

Posted in Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tournaments, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexican, Mexican culture, Mexico, Mexico life, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Sea of Cortez, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, yellowtail, tagged baja fishing, Baja Mexico, billfish, Cerralvo Island, charter, dorado, Espiritu Santo Island, expatriates in mexico, Fishing, fishing charters, Fishing Techniques, fishing tricks, gringos in mexico, holidays in Mexico, international, jonathan, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, Light Tackle Fishing, living in Mexico, marilin, mexican, mexican business, mexican culture, mexican life, mexican retirement, mexican vacations, mexico, mexico life, panga, Panga Fishing, roldan, sailfish, sea of cortez, sea of cortez fishing, tailhunter, Tailhunter International, tuna, vacations, western outdoor news, Women fishing on March 5, 2012| Leave a Comment »

Only two guys who've fished together for awhile like Captain Jorge and Steve would mug like this. Just two guys fishing together!

DIFFERENTLY THE SAME!

Originally Published the Week of March 8, 2012 in Western Outdoor News

I’m just saying. I think the world might just be a better place if we all just did a little more fishing. It might solve a few problems, or at least not have so many.

Nations and, even neighbors, are pulled-apart by such complicated issues as religion, culture, politics and language or such silly stuff as, “I hate the music that jerk plays! ”

There are simply countless reasons NOT to like each other. So many reasons to polarize us all. I’m as guilty as the next person. I probably let a person’s differences jump out at me more often than they should.

But put two knuckleheaded guys as dissimilar as night and day in a boat… keep some fishing rods handy… and give them the mutally-advantageous goal of trying to fool an animal with a brain the size of a pea…

And it’s amazing to watch what develops. I see it happen all the time.

One guy speaks Spanish. One English.

One knows how to run a fishing boat. One knows how to run a million-dollar company.

One has 3 kids and lives in a cinderblock home with a tin roof and a chicken or two in the yard. The other has 1 ex-wife, two mortgages and rents a roof-top condo on the west side.

One has spent 30 years learning the waters that provide his livelihood and survival.

One has two advanced university degrees.

One can fix a Mercury outboard or Chevy engine with duct tape and a butter knife.

One can do Power Point presentations before a Board of Directors.

One makes the best goat-meat barbecue in his neighborhood.

One makes a mean happy hour martini.

In any other context, there’s hardly a single reason for these two guys to care a wit about the other. But, put them in a fishing boat…

And they get along just fine!

All the disparate petty things that pull drive us apart or keep us from getting to know each seem to take 2^nd chair to the overall goal of putting a dumb fish in the boat!

Language barriers are overcome with the simple universal communication of a smile or a laugh.

Often, both guys try extra hard to actually LISTEN more carefully and WATCH more closely. They SPEAK more carefully and simply to each other…even in their own languages, because they really WANT to be understood!

We have smart phones, Facebook, Twitter, Google and Skype…all the technology in the world, but we’ve forgotten the skills of LISTENING, WATCHING and SPEAKING SIMPLY! Two guys in a boat wanting to catch a fish will resort to animated and creative hand gestures to make themselves understood!

At the end of the day…smiles…and maybe a photo or two…and a handshake. Both understand “Gracias” and “Thank you.”

“Tomorrow” says one.

“Manana!” says the other.

By the next day, more grins on the beach as they meet to go out. The captain pulls out a little foil packet of grilled fish burritos that his wife made for the client and wants to share.

“Delicious! exclaims the client surprisedly.

“Delcio-SO!” confirms the captain proudly with a grin.

“Hey, Spanish and English are almost the same!” says the client through another mouthful of burrito.

“Si!…Yes!” replies the smiling Captain

“Good…uh…BIEN” laughs the client.

“Correc-TO!” confirms the Captain as he revs the motor.

The client rummages through his bag and pulls out a box of juice to share with the captain. Gratefully accepted. Smiles and nods.

And they head out for another day of fishing.

…and the language barriers start to diminish. And with each passing hour, the other barriers don’t matter. They never really did.

At the end of the day, the client “thinks” he understands that the Captain has a younger son who likes baseball. Both have daughters about the same age. The Captain now knows the client likes the N.Y. Yankees (Captain likes the Red Sox) and the client lives in San Diego. They both think politicians in both countries are the same…idiots! Laughs.

And so it goes. At the end of the day, more handshakes and photos. More smiles. The client gives the captain some lures as a gift. His eyes light-up gratefully!

“Mil Gracias!…Mucho thank you’s” says the captain grasping the precious lures.

“Thank YOU very much” answers the client pointing at the captain “…Gracias gracias, mi amigo!”

And then the next year, the client comes back.

Hands clasp. And there are big grins and smiles and anticipation of another great time on the water.

The fisherman shows photos of his kids on his cell phone and photos from the last trip! The captains smiles proudly looking at the photos. Using hand gestures and simple words he demonstrates that his kids have grown “this much…” He uses another hand gesture to happily say his wife has another baby coming!

And every year it grows…3, 4, …7…10 years of fishing together. And it’s no longer captains and client. A friendship grows. And not a hint of politics…or religion…or cultural differences. And they learn from each other.

He’s become a better fisherman and learned to love barbecued goat and fish jerky and how to catch his own bait.

The captain has picked up quite a bit of English and has enjoyed bagels and cream cheese. His son has a new baseball glove and a N.Y. Yankees ballcap. The captain proudly uses a new reel from a place called “Cabelas.”

Oh…and over the years, they just happen to catch a few fish too. But it never seemed to be as important or as fun as just two guys hanging out.

Yup…the world might be a bit better if everyone just went fishing. We’re so differently the same.

That’s my story!

Jonathan

__________________________

Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International
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://www.tailhunter-international.com/fishreport.htm

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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“JUST ONE MORE TRIP!”

Posted in Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tournaments, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexican, Mexican Independence Day, Mexico, Mexico life, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Sea of Cortez, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, women fishing, tagged baja, baja fishing, Baja Mexico, billfish, Cerralvo Island, charter, dorado, Espiritu Santo Island, expatriates in mexico, Fishing, fishing charters, Fishing Techniques, fishing tricks, gringos in mexico, holidays in Mexico, international, jonathan, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, Light Tackle Fishing, living in Mexico, mexican, mexican culture, mexican life, mexican retirement, mexican vacations, mexico, mexico life, panga, Panga Fishing, roldan, sea of cortez, sea of cortez fishing, tailhunter, Tailhunter International, tuna, vacations, western outdoor news on February 6, 2012| 2 Comments »

The curious statue of the old man in the paperboat staring out to see on the La Paz malecon waterfront.

“JUST ONE MORE TRIP…”

Originally Published In Western Outdoor News the Week of Feb. 8, 2012

To any of us who work in the sportfishing industry where our livelihood is dependent on the seasonal whims of nature, there are often some pretty rough times. Especially these days when things are complicated even moreso by economics, politics, plus changing social and ecological interests, there’s many a night when folks in our industry bang ourselves on the head. Why do we do it? There’s gotta be an easier way to make a living.

Well, a few months ago, I got a thought-provoking e-mail from Peter, a long-time WON reader. Here’s what he wrote:

“I’m 75 years old now. I started fishing when I was 11 years old. Fishing with a drop line from the old Santa Monica Pier. Fishing for perch, smelt and mackerel with the old drop line was the beginning. For my 12th birthday I got a 7’ rod and a Penn reel.”

“I lived about 12 miles from the ocean and soon found me and my 7- foot rod were not welcome on the street car that ran along Venice Blvd to Santa Monica. So I made the trip on my bicycle riding 12 miles each way with my 7-foot rod etc. I soon graduated from the pier to fishing from a Fishing Barge in the bay and then to 1/2 day boats fishing for Halibut, Bass and Barracuda.”

“I dreamed of the day when I would be 16-years-old and able to drive south to San Diego and get on the San Diego Boats to fish for Tuna and Yellowtail. “

“In the late 70’s, I started fishing on the Long Range Boats. My first trip was a 4- day on the Royal Polaris. I was hooked on long range. Over the next 25 years I fished most of the long range boats from San Diego.”

“Things were different for me then. I was working and earning a decent wage. Fuel and boat fares were much cheaper. I could afford to take 2, 3 or 4 trips a year.”

“ Now, I am 75-years-old, living on my modest social security income. Fuel and boat fares are pretty much beyond my means. My last long range trip was 5 years ago. My tackle is, by today’s standards, pretty much obsolete. I still read the fishing reports in WON and on the internet and dream of going out for the tuna and yellowtail again. “

Maybe sometime… One more trip… The others will look at the old guy with the old gear and chuckle…. But I don’t think the fish will know the difference… anyway, I hope not.”

“Oh yes… I have also fished the East Cape and La Paz (long before Tailhunter was there) All great memories.. and lots of fish stories..

“One more trip…”

There’s a most intriguing statute out on the waterfront of La Paz in front of the now-closed Hotel Los Arcos.

It’s weathered and the copper patina is showing through after many years of sun, salt and sand. It’s on a pedestal on the busy malecon thoroughfare. It’s a bit larger than life-size depicting a curious old man staring out to sea.

He’s in shorts. Like little school-boy shorts. But around his waist is a giant paperboat…the kind you made as a kid. Perched on his head is a duplicate paper hat. Even in the worn statuary, there appears a glimmer in his eye and a clear grin on his weathered face. With one hand, he is shading his eyes against the sun.

What’s he looking for? What’s he waiting for?

I’ve never been good at interpreting art. I either get it or I don’t. Just me. I never got this statue either.

But, then I got Peter’s e-mail.

As someone who’s been fishing a long long time, I’ve been blessed with more time on the water than I could have ever hoped for. But, as with all anglers, I think I might be at the point where I have more fishing behind me than ahead of me. It’s life. It’s just the way it is. A time is coming when I won’t be able to go out anymore.

But what memories! Like what Peter wrote. There were so many good days that you remember with a smile. And, despite the advance in years on our bodies, spirits and souls, who of us wouldn’t like to have back some of those carefree days of paper boats and school-boy shorts?

At least for me, when I get some of those insane days when things are crazy and we wonder why we do what we do, I’m gonna pull out Peter’s e-mail and remind myself.

What we do, if we work in this industry, is create smiles and memories. One of our “just-another-day-on-the-job” is someone else’s lifetime memory. Like Peter and his 7-foot rod taking the streetcar to fish. . .His first long range trip of foray into Mexico. We are very privileged.

I understand the old man statue now.

As Peter wrote, “I dream of going out for tuna and yellowtail again. . .Maybe sometime… One more trip… The others will look at the old guy with the old gear and chuckle…. But I don’t think the fish will know the difference… anyway, I hope not.”

Just one more trip.

___________________________

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

.
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.”

Read Full Post »

“WINTER MAX FISHING”

Posted in Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexican, Mexico, Mexico life, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Sea of Cortez, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, women fishing, tagged baja, baja fishing, Baja Mexico, billfish, Cerralvo Island, charter, dorado, Espiritu Santo Island, expatriates in mexico, Fishing, fishing charters, Fishing Techniques, fishing tricks, gringos in mexico, holidays in Mexico, international, jonathan, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, Light Tackle Fishing, living in Mexico, marilin, marlin, mexican, mexican business, mexican culture, mexican life, mexican retirement, mexican vacations, mexico, panga, Panga Fishing, roldan, sailfish, sea of cortez fishing, tailhunter, Tailhunter International, tuna, vacations, western outdoor news, Women fishing on January 23, 2012| Leave a Comment »

A ittle planning before heading out is not a bad idea!

“WINTER MAX FISHING”

Originally Published in Western Outdoor Publications the Week of January 26, 2012

I might be committing a bit of heresy. Fishing can be crap in the winter. OK, I said it. But, hold on. Before I’m ex-communicated from the fishing brotherhood, let me explain.

We’re doing all these fishing and hunting fishing shows and expos for the next three months. Just finished Denver and, by the time you’re reading this, we’ll have just finished the ISE show in Sacramento and are on our way to the Seattle area for the next show. These expos are great. It’s an incredible opportunity to chat with old amigos and folks interested in coming to fish in Baja.

But, so often, I hear:

“We’ve fished down in Mexico 3 times and didn’t catch a thing.”

“Long boat ride. Just trolled all day.”

“Five trips and no marlin. No tuna.”

“They always lie and tell us there’s a lot of fish but we never get much. Really disappointing.”

Then, I ask them, “What time of year did you go fishing?”

So often I hear, “Uh, December.”

“Christmas”

“January”

“Winter time.”

I kinda shake my head. I can certainly understand when I speak to these good folks who live in the frozen, wet, cold winters of Montana, Colorado, Alaska, Canada and Washington. There’s a definite need to toss off the down jackets and thermals and bolt as fast you can to the land of flip-flops and margarita! If you’ve ever spent any time in these beautiful places, there’s only so much you can take until you crave some sunshine and Vitamin D.

But just cuz the sun is shining south of the border doesn’t necessarily mean the fish are biting. At least not ALL the fish!

Sure, the brochures and websites all look good with all those pretty fish and sunny beaches, but so often, folks fail to check whether those gamefish species are biting during their vacation. Just ask! Or they fail to take a look at fish reports (like those in Western Outdoor News) or online reports.

Although you really never know what you might hook when you fish in Baja, historically, most species run during particular seasons. Just like anything else and everywhere else on earth, there’s a time for the whales to migrate; a time for the salmon run; for geese to fly south and yes…for marlin, dorado and tuna to show up as well!

Very often tourists will book a boat and just tell the captain, “We want to catch a marlin” or “Let’s go for tuna!”

The Mexican captain and crew, anxious to please, and understandably sometimes lacking the ability properly verbalize other alternatives, fire up the engines and off they go with a shrug and as much enthusiasm as they can muster. If it’s a good day, the captain is a hero. If it’s a bad day, he’s a goat.

The better option would have been for the clients to ask what’s biting (no matter what time of year!) and pursuing those species or just letting the captain fish.

Give the green light. Tell him you want some action. (It’s an easy word in Spanish…”accion!”)

Most captains I’ve known over the years that are worth their salt and lime don’t want to go on a long boat ride anymore than you. Pragmatically, why burn the gas for nothing? Believe me, they want to catch fish as much as you do! When our own captains in our fleet hear the word “accion,” I usually see big smiles and hear an enthusiastic, “Vamonos!” (Let’s go!”)

Especially, for Mexican winter-time fishing, when there can be so many variables in wind, current, tides and fish, find out what’s going on and do a little research before booking your trip. It will be worth your effort. Maybe you’ll find out it’s better to go another time; change your fishing strategies or even go somewhere else!

The Baja is 1000 miles long with about 2000 miles of coastline and bordering two different oceans. What’s biting in Cabo isn’t the same as what’s biting in Mulege. What they’re catching in Ensenada or off Cedros Island isn’t the same as the catches in Bahia de Los Angeles. Common sense!

I often get prospective clients telling us, they are coming in the winter and “I want to catch a marlin.” Or, “I’ve never caught a dorado.”

I’ve found it’s better to possibly lose the booking and be up front. Better to have a happy satisfied client than disappointing a client that had unrealistic expectations.

So, I tell them when the optimal time would be to catch the fish they are looking for or, if their vacations are already set, I make sure to give them realistic expectations for what they are most likely to encounter.

For instance in winter it might be cabrilla…pargo…snapper…sierra…jack crevalle…bonito…yellowtail…etc. I also throw in the kind of weather and ocean conditions that might arise as well. Of course, Baja being Baja and the fish gods often being fickle, if they do catch some trophy blue water fish, expectations have been exceeded. We’re suddenly heroes and my captain is the best thing since the invention of the tortilla.

But, lacking that, I encourage folks to ask what’s biting and be flexible about the fishing as the best way to avoid disappointment. Nothing is ever guaranteed in fishing, but plan your fishing as carefully as you plan your hotel and the rest of your vacation and you’ll max your vacation memories.

_________________

Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International

TAILHUNTER FISHING FLEET #1 Rated on Trip Advisor

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

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MEXICO ECONOMICS AT GROUND ZERO

Posted in Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Cabo San Lucas, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tournaments, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexican, Mexico, Mexico life, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Sea of Cortez, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, tagged baja, baja fishing, expatriates in mexico, gringos in mexico, international, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz, living in Mexico, mexican, mexican business, mexican life, mexican retirement, mexican vacations, mexico, mexico life, tailhunter, Tailhunter International, vacations, western outdoor news on January 9, 2012| Leave a Comment »

Another business locked and up for rent...

MEXICAN ECONOMY AT GROUND ZERO

Originally Published in Western Outdoor News the Week of January 10, 2012

Just before the holidays, I took a little hike into downtown La Paz to go pick up some gear I needed from one of the local hardware stores. During the frenzy of the fishing season, I don’t often get a chance to get out let alone take a walk down the waterfront and into town.

Seriously, in the course of about 8 months of craziness, walking about 8 blocks might as well be a cross-country excursion. There’s just no time to go strolling when you’re going full turbo shuttling folks to and from airports; shoving pangas off the beach; packing fish; tracking down a piece of luggage or trying to figure out who doesn’t want salsa in their lunch burritos for the next day fishing!

Anyway, my walk got a little depressing.

Old Juancito’s little taco stand had closed. I think it has been on that corner over 30 years.

The little French place had a “SE RENTA” (for rent) plastered over shuttered windows. In fact, I counted 4 restaurants that had closed as I walked along. It included some pretty fancy places too.

The little neighborhood department store had the equivalent of a “Going out of Business Sale.”

One little Bed and Breakfast had a “For Sale” sign stuck out front and it was clearly no longer open for business.

I got hailed by Jose Luis, driving a taxi. He stopped to wish me Feliz Navidad.

“Why are you driving a taxi?” I asked.

“Our shoe store had to close,” he said sadly. “My family has owned that store for 23 years, but there is not enough business so I am driving a taxi. But, it is not much better. I have had only one trip for 50 pesos (5 bucks) in 3 days.”

I get asked a lot if the downturn in the U.S. economy has affected us in Baja. Most folks are touring visitors so they only see 3, 5 or 7 day chunks of life through the picture-perfect postcard perspective of a hotel or timeshare where superficially, all looks rosy. It’s vacation! It’ supposed to look like a postcard.

However, I can’t think of too many places or too many people that have not been affected by the crunch anywhere on the planet…at least not in my circle of friends or places I know. As the dollar goes, the rest of the world goes as well.

I know of at least five big multi-million dollar real-estate projects around La Paz that will never be completed; have gone bankrupt; or are simply languishing vacant stoically waiting for the relentless Baja desert to do what it has been doing for ages…re-claim them to the weeds, sand and dry winds.

I can’t speak for the rest of Mexico or even the rest of Baja, but I can’t imagine it’s too much better. I think because in Southern Baja, so much of the economy is based on disposable income whether it involved tourism, real estate investments; vacation homes and land speculation, it may have taken a longer time for the economics to crash, but it may take even longer to recover.

It’s a trickle-down effect. You can point the finger at the economy; fear of swine flu or nervousness of drug violence. But the triple whammy effect is the same.

If the fishermen aren’t coming down with their buddies and families; if people aren’t buying land or condos; if cruise ships aren’t dropping anchor; if vacation homes aren’t getting constructed; then no one is buying gas. Fewer people are eating out. No one is shopping for t-shirts and trinkets. Fewer margaritas are getting ordered.

Whether you walk some of the business streets of La Paz or the marina in Cabo San Lucas, the commonality of boarded shops or “for rent” signs is unmistakable. Those that are open have restricted hours; have cut back on staff; or changed other aspects of doing business.

I kid you not. Parts of the once-bustling waterfront/ marina district around Cabo are a virtual ghost town at times.

As one prominent well-known cantina owner told me, “In 30 years of operation in Cabo, I have never seen it this bad.”

At our own restaurant/ bar in La Paz, I get a constant stream of job applications from skilled chefs that worked 20 years in a big-chain hotel; or waiters who spent an entire career waiting on the rich and famous now asking if we have a dishwasher position open. Anything.

One La Paz restaurant manager told me that on one single day, they sold “just one beer.”

Another usually bustling eatery told me they had just one dinner table all evening. For three days, they didn’t have a single patron.

I get regular inquiries from fishing captains asking if I have any positions in my own fleet because they’ve not had a single trip in 1, 2 . . .3 months.

As one of my local friends told me, “When times got rough in the past, I have cousins who would sneak north across the border for a few weeks and make good money. Wash some dishes. Dig some ditches. But now, even in the U.S. there’s no jobs. The whole world struggles.”

So, yes, our little slice of Mexico is going through a rough patch. I wish there were some answers.

That’s my story

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

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.
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“WINTER OBSERVATIONS FROM BAJA”

Posted in Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, kids, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexican, Mexico, Mexico Christmas, Mexico life, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Sea of Cortez, Tailhunter International, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, tagged baja, baja fishing, Baja Mexico, billfish, Cerralvo Island, charter, dorado, Espiritu Santo Island, expatriates in mexico, Fishing, fishing charters, gringos in mexico, holidays in Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, Light Tackle Fishing, living in Mexico, mexican, mexican culture, mexican life, mexican retirement, mexican vacations, Mexico Christmas, panga, Panga Fishing, roldan, sea of cortez, sea of cortez fishing, tailhunter, Tailhunter International, tuna, vacations, western outdoor news on December 26, 2011| Leave a Comment »

A quiet winter evening on the La Paz waterfront

La Paz' busiest intersection on the watefront...no parking issues!

A quiet winter game of the Mexican verson of "BINGO" in the town square downtown.

WINTER OBSERVATIONS FROM BAJA

Originally published the week of December 29, 2011

I pulled the hood of my sweatshirt a little more snuggly against my neck as the cool ocean breeze was starting to send a few chilly evening fingers down my back. As I walked down the old boulevard, I smiled at others also out for an evening stroll. Long pants. Hands stuffed in down jackets for warmth. Girls wearing furry boots. Guys covering their heads with watch-style pull down stretch hats to cover ears against the blustery night.

Everyone you pass has a nod and a smile all somewhat grinning about being so bundled up. It’s an inside local joke. In addition to my hoodie, I’m wearing thermals, my Levis and my hiking boots with actual socks! Quite a divergence from the flip-flops that adorn my feet the majority of the year.

Despite all the sunny palm-tree travel posters and brochures, yes, Baja does get winter. And yes, it does get “cold.” For us in La Paz, that means down to about the mid-50’s at night.

Relatively speaking, that translates to about a “3-dog-night” up in Alaska where the frigid evenings are judged by how many dogs one must sleep with to keep warm.

The few tourists, mostly snow-birds escaping places that really ARE cold like Canada, New York and Montana, continue to stroll in shorts and loud Hawaiian shirts and laugh to hear us talk about using drinking hot cocoa and “electric blankets” and staying in-doors at night because it’s too cold to go out!

For the visitors that normally come down to enjoy the warmer months, it’s sometimes a shock that the sun isn’t always out or that everyone isn’t down at the beach or out drinking margaritas on the terraza or fishing or how windy it can be!

I remember a few years back a guy wanted to build his dream boutique hotel on one of our beaches. He had been a visitor for many years enjoying the sun, sand, fishing and diving for many years of summers. He finally had all his papers in order. He purchased the beach-front land and got the work crew to break ground…in December!

Revelation! The winds howled. Scaffolds blew over. Sand and concrete scattered. Half-the-days, the work crew couldn’t work. The owner had never spent any winters in Baja! He thought it was 90 degrees and sunny year-round. But in winter…No fishing. Very few tourists. After two months of futility, he packed it up.

But, it’s a nice time to be in Baja. It’s a time, many of our anglers and regulars don’t get to normally see since most fishermen visit the Baja from March to November.

Yes, it can be windy and (for us) chilly too! But, generally, the sun is out and there’s a certain tranquility that descends on each place from the desert to the beaches and from the smallest pueblo to even the larger tourist cities. There’s even a word for it “tranquilo.” (calm or quiet). And it’s a good way to describe it.

The sun light is different. It’s more subdued and the days are shorter although the days can be brilliant as a winter day. Beaches are relatively empty. So are the streets.

Don’t be surprised to find you have a store or restaurant all to yourself to enjoy the full attention of the staff. There just aren’t that many tourists around!

If you thought Mexican “manana” was a leisurely pace, try “manana” in the winter! There’s no urgency. There’s no “prisa” (hurry). Lo que sea! (Whatever!).

No one’s rushing around for office parties; setting up the electric Santa on the roof; cookie bakes; midnight sales; Christmas cards; parking lot crushes…”Calmate” (Take it easy) is the attitude. No stress. No underwear-bunching is allowed! You will never be late and there’s no such thing as a cocktail dress or an ugly Christmas sweater. Imagine that!

It can take some getting used to for folks that move down here.

Gringos get frustrated because we’re used to the frantic pace of Christmas and the holidays. Here, the “holidays” start about mid-November and go until after the feast of the Three Kings in January. So, no sense in getting frustrated. No one is real motivated to get much done so you just roll with it!

People sometimes don’t leave their homes. People don’t go to their offices. For about a month, government and municipal employees barely work or are on hiatus with diminished staffs (sounds like a lot of government offices, doesn’t it!). So, if you need anything “official” done, forget it.

If you need to rush or get something done RIGHT NOW…wait until February!

It’s not a bad way to look at things no matter where you’re spending your holidays.

Take it down a notch. Park your sled and give the elves and reindeer the day off. Whether you’re eating menudo or Aunt Mary’s cheese log with crackers, take the time to enjoy the moments. Savor your family and friends. Tomorrow can wait. Put it off until February like we do in Mexico!

Best to you and yours for many blessings now and in the coming year! And thanks too for reading my two-cents columns all year long too! Cheers!

That’s our story…

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

.
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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“SALSA de PAVO!”

Posted in Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexican, Mexico, Mexico life, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Sea of Cortez, Tailhunter International, Uncategorized, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, tagged baja, baja fishing, Baja Mexico, Cerralvo Island, charter, dorado, Espiritu Santo Island, expatriates in mexico, Fishing, fishing charters, Fishing Techniques, fishing tricks, gringos in mexico, holidays in Mexico, international, jonathan, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, Light Tackle Fishing, mexican, mexican business, mexican culture, mexican life, mexican retirement, mexican vacations, mexico life, panga, Panga Fishing, roldan, sea of cortez, sea of cortez fishing, tailhunter, Tailhunter International, vacations, western outdoor news on November 27, 2011| 1 Comment »

CUSTOMS AND HOLIDAYS ARE CHANGING IN MEXICO

“SALSA DE PAVO”

Originally published the week of December 1, 2011 in Western Outdoor News

I’ve spent almost 2 decades now here in Baja and it’s interesting watching certain things evolve. Thanksgiving…an inherently American holiday…is one of them.

Years ago, it seemed that I had to explain the holiday to locals, but when you mention a “Day of Thanks” (Dia de Gracias), all would nod with an understanding smile. An oft-heard phrase to punctuate a sentence in normal conversation is “Gracias a Dios.” (Thank the Lord). It’s not made to underscore a feeling of exasperation as in English where you might hear, ” Thank God, I didn’t forget to turn off the stove!”

Instead, in Spanish, it’s a sincere form of gratitude even if not necessarily religious. Like folks automatically saying “bless you” after someone sneezes. In Mexico, “gracias a Dios” is said with a smile, with no frustrated rolling -of -the -eyes towards the heavens.

For example…

“How are you?”

“I am fine, thank the Lord.”

How’s work going?

“Great. Everything is super. Thank God.”

But, I would get quizzical looks when trying to explain the American version of Thanksgiving. Crazy gringos. Watch football all day. Eat turkey and gravy. Take a long nap. Watch more football. Eat more turkey. Take another nap!

However, as the years have gone by, the “holiday” of “Gracias a Dios” has permeated Mexican life, at least here in La Paz. It’s gotten a foothold.

Perhaps it’s because so many tourists from the U.S. show up and seem to be looking for “holiday turkey meals.” So, more tourist restaurants cater to it. You will find places actually offering “American Turkey Dinner.” . (Frankly if I’m a tourist visiting in Mexico, that LAST thing I want is turkey! Show ME the tacos and enchiladas!)

These days, I do find more locals not only acknowledging Thanksgiving, but also celebrating it on their own way. While there is no “official” day of Thanksgiving in Mexico, a day of giving thanks and having the family together is wonderful growing concept.
see more whole turkeys popping up in the frozen food section of the markets. I actually found canned cranberry sauce and I see now that they sell stuffing mix!

I hear families tell me of getting together for dinner during the holidays and looking forward to “Pavo estilo Norteamericano.” (polite way to say “gringo turkey”) It’s almost the new rage. It’s not grilled. It’s not barbecued. It’s roasted in an oven. It’s served with bread, not tortillas. Mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes not Spanish rice!

I still have trouble explaining “gravy.” I have to call it “salsa de pavo” (turkey sauce), but I’ m sure it loses something in translation!

“Salsa” in Mexico simpsly means “sauce.”

A strange brown sauce that you scoop over potatoes and yams draws looks of confusion from my Mexican amigos. “Que haces?” (You do WHAT to your turkey?)

Still, old traditions still happily linger. Like so many Mexican holidays, I hear about families still lining up at the dinner table for tamales along with their turkey. Thankfully, it’s a tradition that is difficult to change. Moms, aunties and grandmas still gather for all-night tamale-making parties to make the flavorful stuffed dinner treats using old family recipes. It’s quite an undertaking.

However, with families so busy, it’s more convenient to order and buy them. This time of year, tamale vendors pop up on street corners with vats of the steaming delicacy wrapped in traditional corn husk.

That incredible savory fragrance of pork, chicken, beef or chili with cheese (rajas con queso) tamales seems to permeate the air this time of year and door-to-door tamale vendors walk the streets either selling directly or taking orders for the holidays.

“Si, amigo! Claro que si. Servicio a su domicilio!” (Yes, my friend. You bet we have home delivery!)

Either way, some things are universal no matter how you celebrate. After the big feed, you still want to take the long siesta! Whether you lie on the couch in front of the TV…sprawl on the carpet by the fireplace…or snooze in a hammock under a Baja palm tree… some things don’t change! Gracias a Dios!

Hope you and yours have a safe and happy holiday season!

______________________________________________________

Jonathan Roldan’s Tailhunter International

TAILHUNTER FISHING FLEET #1 Rated in La Paz on Trip Advisor

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

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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

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“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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“SOMEDAY IS ALREADY HERE!”

Posted in Baja, Baja Fishing, Baja Life, Baja Mexico Fishing, Baja Rockfish, Cabo San Lucas, Fishing, Fishing Tackle and Techniques, Fishing techniques, fishing tournaments, holidays in mexico, inshore fishing in Baja Mexico, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz Fishing, Living in Mexico, Mexican, Mexico, Mexico life, Panga Fishing, Salt Water Fishing, Sea of Cortez, Tailhunter International, Tuna jackpot, tuna tournament, Western Outdoor News, Western Outdoor Publications, tagged baja, baja fishing, Baja Mexico, billfish, Cabo San Lucas, Cerralvo Island, charter, dorado, Espiritu Santo Island, expatriates in mexico, fishing charters, Fishing Techniques, fishing tricks, gringos in mexico, holidays in Mexico, inspiration, jonathan, Jonathan Roldan, La Paz, La Paz Fishing, Light Tackle Fishing, living in Mexico, marlin, mexican, mexican business, mexican culture, mexican life, mexican retirement, mexican vacations, mexico, mexico life, panga, Panga Fishing, roldan, sea of cortez, sea of cortez fishing, tailhunter, Tailhunter International, tuna, tuna jackpot, tuna tournament, vacations, western outdoor news on November 13, 2011| Leave a Comment »

Five hours...214 pounds on 60 pound test line...one leg...alot of heart!

Big check aside, there was a larger story behind the win at the Western Outdoor News Tuna Jackpot Tournament in Cabo San Lucas

SOMEDAY IS ALREADY HERE

Originally Published in Western Outdoor News the Week of Nov. 17, 2011

If you’re in the travel / fishing business like we are, you get alot of ” We’ll get out your way someday!” or “One of these days, we have to try doing something like that!”

You smile. You nod. That’s great. Sure thing.

This past week, my wife, Jill and I spent a great time working with the wacky crazy fun crew of Western Outdoor News at the 13th Annual Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot. Imagine throwing a five -day party for about 600 of your best friends.

It’s alot of work, but far outweighed by the smiles and fun. With over 100 teams from around world participating, how can you go wrong with a tournament that has the motto, “FISH HARD! PARTY HARDER!”

Ringmaster and WON Editor Pat McDonell pulls out all the stops as tournament director to make sure everyone has a good time. The best thing is that you see so many of the same faces every year. Many participants tell us this is sometimes the ONLY fishing they do all year and look forward to ONLY fishing in this event…because it’s such a kick.

This year, Jill worked the papers and stats helping to keep the tournament central booth manned and everyone straight. I thought I had the “easy” job of working the weigh scale with Pat.

Not so. There were alot of fish to weigh! It was pretty crazy. Drama right to the end. As it turned out, it was historic! More fish were weighed than ever. There were so many fish over 100 pounds, let alone the bigger slugs. (23 fish over 100 pounds and 3 over 200 pounds). I was pretty much covered with fish goo by the end of the day.

And there was the winner…214 pounds of tuna muscle. And it was worth almost 37 grand in prize money. Yay!

It’s quite a story.

Oroville Henseler fought this thug fish for almost FIVE hours. He was a FIRST TIME angler. When we saw his rod and reel, it almost looked like a rental rod. No fancy upgrades. No two-speed gears. No aircraft precision. It was a simple out-of-the-box Penn 6/0 reel. His rod…I dunno…a no-name-brand from what I can tell. Better suited for 20-pound dorado than 200- pound gorilla tuna. Granted, he had 150-pound Seagaur leader, but his mainline… only 60 -pound mono!

He refused to pass off the rod for all five hours. He wouldn’t hear of it. Imagine dangling a 200-pound refrigerator over the side of a building on a string and hanging onto it…for five grueling hours in the Baja sun on a rolling boat. That’s manning-up on a fish!

But that’s not the story…the real story. The winning story.

See, Oroville Henseler came all the way out from Springtown, Pennsylvania. Yes, THAT hotbed of ocean-fishing. Oroville had never fished in a big-time tournament. Heck, he hadn’t even been ocean fishing before.

Six months ago, he never imagined himself standing on the winner stage with a big fat check in one hand and his wife, Cindy, holding his other hand and holding back tears of her own.

You see, about 6 months ago, Oroville Henseler from Springtown was more concerned with staying alive and maybe walking again. He had lost his leg in an industrial accident when his shoelace got entangled in a machine. Surgery was unable to save his leg.

Fitted with a prosthetic leg, he had one of those life-changing experiences you hear about.

As the story is told, just two weeks before the tournament, he decided to go. A big -time tournament was on his new “bucket list” and he said no more “what if…” moments in his life. He plopped down the credit card and stepped up.

As he stood up there in the lights accepting the roaring congratulations and applause from more than 600 people, politicians and dignitaries at the awards banquet at the Cabo marina, he was choked up. I could see his eyes tearing up. His metal bionic leg sticking out from a pair of jeans shorts. A Kodak moment of moments.

Winning. It’s not about the money. It’s about saying “No more somedays.” There might not be time for “someday.” Someday is already here.

That’s our story!

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

.
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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“FIVE STAR AS IT GETS!”

CHOICES...CHOICES...on the Baja road trip!

It may not look fancy, but sometimes the rougher the road, the prettier the "gem" at the end of the trail!

You'll probably never see this on Trip Advisor, but it doesn't mean it's not a great stay! It doesn't say "hot water." It says "running water!" Oh...and the also "weld!"

FIVE STAR AS IT GETS!

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

Don’t get me wrong. I like being pampered as much as the next guy when I go on vacation and stay at a hotel. There’s nothing wrong with room service; a great restaurant; a spa; fluffy robes and a (OK…I admit it)…a mint on my pillow and cookies!

Surely, I’ve stayed in some of the best in Baja…Hotel Cabo San Lucas, The Finesterra, Plaza Las Glorias, Palmas de Cortez, Spa Buenavista among so many great resort properties and enjoyed them all tremendously.

But that’s not usually how I roll. I WISH we could do that all the time, but that’s just not very economical.

But, especially in pre-internet days 15 or 20 years ago. . . In the days before all those sites like Trip Advisor and Yelp and other websites arose to dissect every aspect of every resort from the size of the pool to the softness of the toilet paper and the fragrance of the shampoo; there weren’t many resources to finding a place to lay your head.

There was always the dog-eared dusty copy of dad’s Auto Club guide in the glove box or under the seat and that was about it if you were road-tripping down the Baja.

In those early days when I would routinely drive up and down the often-lonely-always-bumpy Baja several times a year, some of those were the best stays I ever had.

There were three kinds of nights.

Sleep in the car or truck on the side of the road curled up under the steering wheel.

Pull over in the dark. Camp on the side of the road or beach. Never quite sure where you pitched your tent until you woke up the next day.

Or…

Really “splurge” and find some road sign as the sun goes down. Take a chance that “Clean rooms. Cheap Rooms Hot Showers. Comida Rica” (good food) really meant what it said.

Cheap rooms sometimes meant “economical.” Sometimes, it meant exactly what it said…CHEAP! Single light bulb hanging from the ceiling with a pull-chain. Threadbare towels the size of a dishtowel. . Worn mattress on top of a concrete slab and a TV with rabbit ears made of a clothes hangar.

But those were the exception. More often than not, off the road and to the left meant finding a little Baja gem. They still exist. The scenario didn’t differ.

Sun going low. Too many hours driving in the shimmering dessert heat with the Jimmy Buffet cassette tape getting pretty old. Junk food wrappers on the floor. Reading the road signs for miles. Rusty, sun-baked, poorly-lettered or hand-lettered attempts to look attractive nailed onto any fence post, tree, or any vertical piece of wood.

Casa Maria Palapa and Campground 5 km.

El Sol Beach Hotel 3 km.

Hotel Bahia Hernan Cortez 1.5 km.

Perhaps not grammatically correct but lots of credit for effort.

“Hot Chowers and Gude Fud”

I would eventually be forced to make a choice prompted by tired eyes and diminishing light. Down the road and to the left. Often down a dirt or gravel washboard. Sometimes parting a herd of goats or rousting the lazy dog.

And the trees would open and there it would be.

Often on the beach. Often only one or two other cars and a well-used hotel pick up truck in the parking lot and lit by yellow bug lights illuminating concrete walls, terra cotta tiles, and a palapa roof.

Lots of tangled bouganvillia vines climbing the old columns and up the terraces. Maybe an old fountain in the brick courtyard. Maybe not. But the savory smell of grilling corn tortillas and searing meat coming from somewhere. The faint sound of an old mariachi tune off an 8-track or the sound of a TV playing a soccer team carries over the early evening air.

Family owned and happy to see you with big smiles. As you check in, family pictures on the walls. A cheap Baja calendar over the check-in desk. Mama happily checks you in.

Lo siento, Senor! No credit cards, but rooms are $15 U.S. Will that be OK?

It’s a deal. Papa comes in “Bienvenidos, Amigo! (Welcome!) and helps with your luggage to a clean little room . Daughter brings fresh towels again with a shy welcoming smile. This will do. There’s a fuschia-colored flower in a glass on the nightstand. Nice touch.

I follow that wonderful aroma that caught me as I came in. Down to the little 3-table -cafe on the concrete slab overlooking the beach. Pacifico Beer poster on the wall next to a faded picture of a bullfight.

In the soft yellow bug lights, there’s a dry-yellowed dorado taxidermied on the wall and some shark jaws dangling from a decorative old fishing net tacked nearby. The soccer game flickers from an old black and white TV.

The plastic Corona Beer tables match, but the silverware and plates don’t. Grandma in the back frying something good. She sees you and smiles.

There’s no menus. Grandson comes out and tells you what they are serving that night. And treats you like you’re a guest in their home. Which you are!

Tomato salad (from their own garden)

Homemade Rice and beans

Grandmas corn tortillas and green tomatillo salsa

Grilled Lobster tail (proudly caught by their cousin that morning on the reef who doubles as the gardner)

Flan

…for eight dollars.

Is that OK, he asks awkwardly as if he regrets charging a house guest. “Es bueno?”

“Claro” (Of course) I smile back.

He brightens and eagerly heads to the kitchen.

A Baja feast. And of course, ice cold beer. Heaven. Smiling grandson brings the beer.

I lean back in the chair kick off my flip-flops and let my feet rest on the cool concrete. Beer so cold the icy liquid burns the road dust at the back of my throat. Sigh. Slow exhale. Inhale the salty beach air. Ahhhhh… And watch the sun go down on the Sea of Cortez.

It’s as Five Star as any person ever needs.

That’s my story!

Jonathan

_________________________________________

Jonathan Roldan’s
Tailhunter International

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“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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Jonathan has written for:

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Fish Taco Chronicles
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Posts Tagged ‘mexican’

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Jonathan Roldan’s Tailhunter International

TAILHUNTER FISHING FLEET #1 Rated in La Paz on Trip Advisor

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

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FIVE STAR AS IT GETS!

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