The Legacy of Baja’s Off-Road Past Lives on in the NORRA Mexican 1000

Los Cabos has been consciously rebranded as a luxury destination in recent years, welcoming iconic luxury brands like Waldorf Astoria, Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton and Nobu, and increasingly spotlighting its wealth of pampering spas, championship golf courses and world-class cuisine.

That’s the Los Cabos of today, a place of both beautiful beaches and exclusive high-end amenities.

But as anyone who is a long-time visitor to the area can attest, it wasn’t always this way.

During the 1960s and 1970s, when cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo were developing as tourist destinations, there were very few resorts in the region and a limited array of amenities. The peninsular highway connecting Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas wasn’t completed until 1973; the Cabo San Lucas Marina wasn’t finished until the early 1980s; and the first 18-hole golf courses didn’t appear until Jack Nicklaus arrived on the scene in the early 1990s.

It was still a spectacular destination, mind you, but one marked by a more rugged beauty and a more rugged disposition. Back then, people typically came to Los Cabos (a name that wasn’t even invented until 1981) for one of two reasons: to fish or to race.

Well, there was actually a third. Hollywood stars like John Wayne and Bing Crosby used to fly into nearby Santiago to go white-winged dove hunting. But mainly there was fishing and there was off-road racing. People came to the region to bag a marlin or to test their nerves in one of the most challenging races on the planet. The latter would be the famed Baja 1000, which for over 50 years now has been the standard bearer for its sport.

The roots of this legendary race are important because there are now two 1000 mile races that take place each year in Baja, the second being the NORRA Mexican 1000. It’s held every April while the SCORE Baja 1000 is always run in November.

NORRA and SCORE. Those are the two signature off-road sanctioning bodies in Baja and their history is a fascinating one, because at varying times both have been associated with the Baja 1000.

Here’s how it happened:

When Baja’s off-road endurance challenge premiered in 1967–as a race from Tijuana to La Paz–it was under the auspices of the National Off-Road Racing Association, formed the year before by a group of racing enthusiasts led by Ed Pearlman and Don Francisco. It was Francisco, a veteran of the Carrera Panamericana, that flew all around Baja to chart a viable course for the first race, Pearlman who handled press and promotion. This was the beginning of the Baja 1000.

NORRA backed out of the race following the OPEC Oil Crisis in 1973, and there was no race at all in 1974. In 1975, eager to continue the tradition, Baja California governor Milton Castellanos convinced promoter Mickey Thompson and his SCORE (Southern California Off-Road Enterprises) organization to take over the race, which they did in 1975. The Baja 1000 has been run under the SCORE banner ever since.

But it was the first few years under NORRA that set the standard for modern off-road racing, and drew celebrity contestants like Indy 500 winner Parnelli Jones, as well as Hollywood movie stars like James Garner and Steve McQueen.

In order to honor that heritage, NORRA restarted the Mexican 1000 in 2010 as a fun, vintage-style rally race. Dubbed “The Happiest Race on Earth,” the current version of the Mexican 1000 features a mix of restored motorcycles, cars and trucks from the glory era of the Baja 1000, as well as modern desert rally cars. Classes are divided by eras to keep it fun and competitive for all, with high-speed off-road stages linked by controlled-speed highway portions.

There are eight technology eras or classes for this year’s race, for instance, including Pioneer (1967 – 1975), Legend (1976 – 1982), Challenger (1983 – 1988), Vintage (1989 – 1997), Historic (older than 1997) and Evolution (modern vehicles), as well as motorcycles/ATVs and modified stock vehicles.

The 11th edition of the NORRA Mexican 1000 will take place April 17th to the 24th, with a traditional race course that starts in Ensenada and then winds down the peninsula through San Felipe, Guerrero Negro, Bahia de Los Angeles, Loreto, and La Paz before concluding with a finish line fiesta and awards ceremony in San Jose del Cabo.

But don’t let that 11 fool you. NORRA has been a force in Baja off-road racing for well over 50 years.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  NORRA Mexican 1000

Upcoming Events Calendar

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 1 – 8

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 7 – 9

Los Cabos Half Marathon – Feb. 9

Biker Week Los Cabos – Feb. 13 – 17

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Mar. 8

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – May 7, 14, 21, 28

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – June 4, 11, 18, 25

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – Date Not Yet Announced

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24 – 28

July

Pitahayas Harvest Fair in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 20 – 25

Mango Festival in Todos Santos – Dates Not Yet Announced

August

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore – Aug. 4 – 8

 

 

Transformed! Iconic Los Cabos Golf Course Gets New Look, New Name

When Golf Digest recently picked the best courses in each country, golf-rich Mexico merited 15 mentions. Ten of them, not surprisingly, were in Los Cabos; which has, over the course of the last 25 years, become a mecca for destination golfers.

The man most responsible for this golf boom on the southernmost rim of the Baja California peninsula is undoubtedly Jack Nicklaus, legendary winner of 18 major championships and designer of six championship level loops locally; including early 1990s masterpieces at Palmilla and Cabo del Sol that effectively put Los Cabos on the golfing map.

Nicklaus’ Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol has been ranked among the world’s 100 best courses for each of the last 15 years, and remains one of the most iconic local golfing experiences, albeit with a fresh new look and a fresh new name for 2020.

These changes were necessitated by a real estate development at Cabo del Sol, which will include a luxury residential community called the Cove Club, as well as both a Four Seasons Resort and Residences and a 162-room Park Hyatt property. Both branded resort properties are expected to open in 2022.

Although two ocean holes had to be rerouted at the newly minted Cove Club course, Nicklaus worked closely with the Cabo del Sol team to maintain the high golfing standards.

“We were given the challenge to redesign the golf course to meet their needs, but at the same time maintain the global status the Ocean Course has enjoyed for over 25 years,” Nicklaus said. “The developers needed to take a couple of holes off the ocean, and my responsibility was to preserve the quality of the golf course. I think we have done that in a very satisfactory way. We still have great ocean views, and we still have four holes on the ocean.”

These holes trace a rugged coastline marked by granite outcrops and golden beaches lapped by the Sea of Cortez. Nearly 80,000 plants, trees and shrubs, ranging from bougainvillea and coco palms to palo blanco and purple lantana, have been planted to beautify the layout.

Strategic nuances have been introduced and overall playability enhanced on the refurbished course. For example, the new Rooster Fish (kids) tees total 4,451 yards and invite family-friendly outings. In addition to full-service comfort stations on both nines, an Airstream trailer parked on the beach behind the fifth green offers Mexican specialties and ice-cold refreshments.

Among the new holes crafted by Nicklaus is the short par-3 7th, which was tucked into recreated dunes a stone’s throw from the beach. Faced into the prevailing breeze, this oceanfront hole offers two different angles of attack from a wishbone-like set of tees. The target is a raised green defended front and back by deep bunkers with rolled-down grass faces. As is true throughout the remodeled layout, these new-look bunkers are filled with bright white sand that provides a strong visual contrast to the emerald green turf and turquoise-blue sea.

To make way for a new entryway to the resort community, a new par-4 9th hole was built in a corridor adjacent to the previous ninth hole. The new creation, robust at 461 yards from the tips, mimics the original with its broad saddled fairway but has more dramatic flair in its fairway and greenside bunkering.

At the west end of the course is the Cove Club, a luxury residential community currently under development. With the old 17th hole converted to a beach club, Nicklaus designed a new ridge-to-ridge par-3 17th hole, which drops from a set of elevated tees to a well-defended green backdropped by the sea.

The previous 16th hole, a stirring downhill par-4 that plunges 100 feet down the side of a mountain, has been recast as the 18th hole. “We moved the green a little closer to the ocean and dropped it down to create a spectacular finishing hole,” Nicklaus stated. The peninsula-style green, guarded to the left by an unusual U-shaped bunker with a view portal to the sea, clings to a cliff and appears to float on the ocean. Stretching to 455 yards from the Cove tees, the revised 18th hole immediately takes its place among the finest finishing holes in Los Cabos.

The Cove Club will close for additional modifications at a future date and will reopen as a private club. The Tom Weiskopf-designed Desert Course at Cabo del Sol, also slated to undergo future design changes, will remain a public-access resort venue.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com , or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Cove Club

Upcoming Events Calendar

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 12 – 16

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 15 – 19

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

Whale Watching Season – January through April 15th

 February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 1 – 8

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 7 – 9

Los Cabos Half Marathon – Feb. 9

Biker Week Los Cabos – Feb. 13 – 17

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Mar. 8

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – May 7, 14, 21, 28

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – June 4, 11, 18, 25

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – Date Not Yet Announced

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24 – 28

 

 

Romance, Music and Dance – Previewing the 8th Annual San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend and Valentine’s Day in Los Cabos

Los Cabos is one of the world’s great romantic destinations, offering not only gorgeous beaches and year-round sunshine, but an abundance of soothing spas, pampering amenities and luxurious cliff side rental villas.

And the attractions don’t stop there. Local restaurants also do their part for visiting couples, showcasing spectacular seaside views as well as multi-course dinners with tasting menus that make frequent use of Valentine’s Day favorites like Champagne and chocolates.

But the event most singularly associated with Valentine’s Day in Los Cabos isn’t any dinner, but rather San Jose Jazz Weekend.

Although one might not necessarily associate the improvisational musical form with romance, this annual event–the 8th edition of which will be held February 14th and 15th in San Jose del Cabo–has all the tried and true ingredients for a romantic evening in paradise, from seductive saxophones and swaying palm trees to harmonies so captivating those in attendance are often compelled to get up and dance the night away under starry tropical skies.

Set at Plaza del Pescador, one of the city’s premier shopping and dining meccas, San Jose Jazz Weekend takes place Friday and Saturday nights, from 5 to 11 p.m., and in past years has drawn upwards of 5,000 attendees.

Why not? After all, Jazz Weekend also has that extra ingredient so treasured by budget-conscious travelers. It’s free.

As one might imagine, Latin jazz is a particular focus for the event and over past years a virtual who’s who of world-class performers have appeared. This year’s schedule has yet to be unveiled, so stay tuned for upcoming announcements. And if your tastes run more to rock n’ roll than jazz–Latin or otherwise –make sure to stop in at Rock n’ Brews. Founded by KISS stars Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, the locally based location of this food and lifestyle brand is located at Plaza del Pescador and has its own live music schedule.

For those interested in a little pre-Valentine’s Day romance, San Jose del Cabo’s long-running Thursday night Art Walk offers a nice lead-in, as gallery owners in the downtown Distrito de Arte stay open late to show off their latest artists and exhibitions.

It’s not just the galleries that offer aesthetic stimulation, however, but also unique neighborhood setting. The cobblestone streets of the historic Art District are filled with wandering musicians and performers, while street artists and local craftsmen and women lay out their creations for all to admire. Local architectural monuments like City Hall and the old Catholic Church (Parroquia San Jose), meanwhile, are aglow with colorful lighting.

And lest one think Cabo San Lucas is oblivious to the spirit of St. Valentine, the other cape city has its own share of romantic attractions; most notably, the sunset dinner cruise offered by Caborey. This triple-decked catamaran takes couples for a guided tour of the half-mile Land’s End headland–including up-close looks at The Arch and Lover’s Beach – and after a gourmet multi-course meal, puts on a Las Vegas style floorshow with Latin American singing and dancing, headlined by a sultry Argentine tango.

Still not romantic enough? How about horseback rides along a secluded beach or carriage rides that take you to and from your favorite Valentine’s Day dinner locale? That’s the specialty of Cuadra San Francisco, a Tourist Corridor based stable with close to 50 horses and expertly-trained staff.

Too slow? Then we recommend renting a Harley-Davidson for Biker Week Los Cabos. The four-day get-together and road trip run to Loreto and back takes place over Valentine’s Day weekend, with rentals available from the Harley Davidson shop in the marina boardwalk based Puerto Paraiso shopping mall.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com , or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  San Jose Jazz weekend

Upcoming Events Calendar

January

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 12 – 16

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 15 – 19

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

Whale Watching Season – January through April 15th

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 1 – 8

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 7 – 9

Los Cabos Half Marathon – Feb. 9

Biker Week Los Cabos – Feb. 13 – 17

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Mar. 8

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

Warren Hill’s Los Cabos Jazz Festival – April 30 – May 3

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – May 7, 14, 21, 28

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – June 4, 11, 18, 25

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – Date Not Yet Announced

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24 – 28

 

 

New Year, New Fiestas: January Events in Los Cabos

January marks the height of high tourist season in Los Cabos, as well as the height of whale watching season; meaning many of the world’s largest and most magnificent creatures can be seen up-close on daily tours guided by area activities providers.

But it’s not just the whales that make January special. The first month of the new year also sees the return of two important regional cultural showcases in the weekly Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo and the Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos, plus iconic southern Baja sporting competitions such as the Los Cabos Pro-Am golf tournament and the La Ventana Classic (a windsports competition that draws some of the West Coast’s best windsurfers and kiteboarders).

San Jose del Cabo Art Walk – January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

The historic Distrito del Arte in San Jose del Cabo takes center stage each Thursday evening during high tourist season–November through June–when residents and visitors alike are invited to stroll its cobblestone streets and peruse the many eclectic fine arts galleries. Art Walk hours are 5 to 9 p.m., when the neighborhood comes alive with wine, cheese and guided tours, as well as colorful street artists and strolling mariachis.

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament – January 12 – 16

The most notable golf tournament in a region famed for its spectacular courses returns January 12 – 16, 2020, as Cabo del Sol’s Ocean and Desert Courses play host to the 12th annual Los Cabos Pro-Am. Stay and play packages for the tournament include five days and four nights of accommodation at the Sheraton Grand Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort, as well as three rounds at the participating courses, plus an invitation to the opening and closing cocktail parties, and daily breakfast at one of Hacienda del Mar’s excellent onsite restaurants. Overall team prizes are another lure for amateurs.

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – January 15 – 19

Former R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck pioneered jam culture in Todos Santos with this annual music festival, which brought in high-profile musicians for performances at the landmark Hotel California, as well as the town’s picturesque main plaza. Buck’s festival went on hiatus after he made some controversial comments about local politics at the 2016 event, but the music lives on. The freshly minted Tropic of Cancer Concert Series premiered in 2017, and is still going strong for its fourth iteration in 2020 with an all-star lineup headlined by Joan Osborne, Radio Free Honduras, Susto, Cordovas, Holy Spirits, Elizabeth Cook, La Victoria and The Charities.

La Ventana Classic – January 16 – 20

Baja California Sur boasts world-class conditions for a number of water-based activities: fishing, of course, but also surfing, sailing, diving, kayaking and, seasonally at least, windsports. Each winter, when strong El Norte winds blow down the Sea of Cortés, picturesque East Cape communities like Los Barriles and La Ventana become meccas for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts. Now that Los Barriles has ended its annual Lord of the Wind Showdown, the La Ventana’s “Classic” has become the premier regional competition, with windsurfers, kiteboarders and SUP (stand up paddleboarding) enthusiasts battling the breezes to earn cash and glory in various categories. This year’s event is scheduled for Jan. 16 – 20, with proceeds earmarked to benefit local schools. Mountain bike races have also been added to the event.

Whale Watching Season – Month-long

Each winter some 5,000 to 10,000 blue, gray, humpback and other whales migrate from their arctic feeding grounds to breed in the shallow water coves and inlets of beautiful Baja California Sur. In this regard these leviathans of the deep are very much like the snowbirds who flock to cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo to escape frigid winter temperatures in the U.S. and Canada. The only real difference–aside from the obvious anatomical ones–is one of scale. The longest mammalian migration ever recorded was in 2014, when a gray whale dubbed Varvara traveled over 14,000 miles round-trip from Russia to Cabo San Lucas. Humpbacks, however, are the most commonly seen species in Los Cabos waters during whale watching season, which officially stretches from December 15th to April 15th.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com, or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  La Ventana Classic

Upcoming Events Calendar

January

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 12 – 16

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 15 – 19

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

Whale Watching Season – January through April 15th

 February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 1 – 8

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 7 – 9

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Feb. 14 – 15

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

20th Annual Baja Hog Rally – Feb. 20 – 24

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Mar. 26 – 29

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

May

485th Foundation Festival in La Paz – May 3 – 5

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – May 7, 14, 21, 28

El Dia de la Madre – May 10

Gastrovino Food & Wine Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

White Party at ME Cabo/Blue Marlin Ibiza – Date Not Yet Announced

June

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – June 4, 11, 18, 25

7th Cabo Summer Slam/Pelagic Triple Crown of Fishing Tournament – June 11 – 13

Los Cabos Open of Surf – Dates Not Yet Announced

Fiesta de la Musica in San Jose del Cabo – Date Not Yet Announced

24th Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament – June 24 – 28

 

 

Los Cabos Fishing Report – December 8, 2019

December 8, 2019

Noticeable lighter crowds of visitors arriving, after Thanksgiving we do normally see a decline of anglers, as people now are beginning to prepare for  the Christmas Holidays, now just around the corner. Weather patterns did finally stabilize and this week we saw much calmer ocean conditions, no crazy rain fall, mostly clear sunny skies, temperatures into the low 80s, really an ideal climate for this time of year.

Ocean actually warmed back up a couple of degrees, averaging about 80 degrees now. Bait situation is that sardinas are scarce out of San Jose del Cabo, now being found schooling near Cabo San Lucas, makes it tough to have to back track so far. So local fleets are mainly relying on caballito, ballyhoo, slabs of squid and if fortunate enough to find some chihuil, they proved the best for wahoo. Some mackerel started to appear now off of the Hotel Zone, still not consistent from day to day, as water temps cool some more, we expect more of these mackerel and sardineta will move in.

Over all anglers found the bite to be tougher to start the week, mainly due to north wind, though later in the week the wind laid down, water cleared up and bite was good for yellowfin tuna, wahoo and dorado. Most of the action was from Gordo Banks, Cardon, La Fortuna and off of Punta Gorda. Best action was on bait, some having to be worked for, especially the chihuil, they proved to be the candy for wahoo. The Gordo Banks produced yellowfin tuna up over 200 lb., larger fish lost, though numbers were not great, but with patience and persistent effort there were some quality fish. Strips of squid, small skipjack, chihuil and caballito all produced.

Wahoo action picked up, trolling live baits was best, fish up to over 45 lb., though some were taken on Repalas. Dorado were mixed in on the same grounds, but scattered, up close to 20 lb. Unusual to find some roosterfish action further offshore while trolling for dorado and wahoo, nice sized fish to 30 lb. Also a couple of yellowtail, one was an impressive 38 lb. and there was a 70 lb. amberjack, they were taken while chunk fishing for tuna on the Gordo Banks. If weather holds it looks like very promising opportunities for the rest of the month. So things are improving after recent rain squalls, landscape is a lush green, plenty of warm sunshine and great fishing.

Billfish was limited off of San Jose deal Cabo, a scattering of striped marlin and a couple small blues. Still better marlin action now on the Pacific. More whales are now being seen with each passing day, it will be peak season coming up for these migrating mammals. Sea lions, manta rays, porpoise, turtles and of course some sharks, which have been taking their share of the tuna catch, have added to entertainment.

The combined sportfishing fleet launching out of the panga area from Puerto Los Cabos Marina sent out an estimated 82 charters for the week and anglers reported an approximate fish count of: 2 blue marlin, 2 striped marlin, 66 dorado, 98 yellowfin tuna, 56 wahoo, 4 yellow snapper, 5 cabrilla, 16 bonito, 6 sierra, 9 roosterfish, 5 baqueta, 3 surgeonfish, 2 yellowtail, 3 amberjack, 2 pompano and 30 triggerfish.

Good Fishing, Eric

GORDO BANKS PANGAS

Eric Brictson / Operator

619 488-1859

Los Cabos (624) 142-1147

e-mail:gordobanks@yahoo.com

WWW.GORDOBANKS.COM

Holiday Spirits! 3 Drinks to Try During the Christmas Season in Cabo

Spending the holiday season in Los Cabos has many advantages. For starters, there’s no snow, no ice, no sleet, no freezing winds. Instead, there is only sunshine, perfect for lazy days in a hammock at the nearest playa.

But it’s not just beautiful weather and luxurious beachfront resorts that make Los Cabos a savvy choice as a holiday getaway. There are also many charming cultural traditions that accompany the Christmas season in Mexico, among which are a trio of delicious drinks indelibly associated with seasonal celebrations.

The names may not be familiar, but all three are heartily recommended for yuletide toasts.

Noche Buena

Ice-cold Coronas are perfect for a day at the beach. But what beer goes with Christmas in Cabo?

That would be Noche Buena, a dark bock-style lager produced seasonally (October through December) by Cerveceria Cuahtemoc Moctezuma, the brewery behind such iconic Mexican beer brands as Dos Equis, Tecate, Sol, Carta Blanca, Indio and Bohemia (under whose imprint Noche Buena is issued).

Noche Buena is instantly recognizable to beer lovers by its label, which features red and green poinsettia, a flower linked in both name and color palette with Christmas. Poinsettia in Spanish, you see, is known as Nochebuena, as is Christmas Eve. Thus the beer, both in its distribution and imagery, is inextricably tied to the holiday season.

It’s also instantly recognizable by its taste, thanks to rich distinctive notes of malt, caramel and chocolate.

Although Cuahtemoc Moctezuma has been a subsidiary of Heineken International since 2010, Noche Buena is no longer exported to the U.S. So if you want to enjoy this outstanding seasonal brew, you’ll have to spend the holidays in Mexico, preferably in Los Cabos.

Rompope

How many potent alcoholic beverages have been invented by nuns? Just one that we know of: rompope.

This eggnog style sipper is said to have been invented by 17th century sisters at the Santa Clara convent in Puebla, and to this day the Santa Clara brand remains the most popular among national consumers.

Rompope is so beloved in Mexico that it is used as a flavor in candy and gelato, but the rum-spiked holiday drink remains the most iconic offering (although unlike Noche Buena, you don’t have to wait for the holiday season to buy it). It’s available year-round in stores, and can be served either room temperature or slightly chilled.

A rompope based cocktail called the monjita (“little nun”) was famously invented in Cabo San Lucas, and consists of a slightly chilled serving of rompope topped with a floater of coffee-flavored Kahlua.

It’s delicious.

Ponche Navideño

Christmas punch is a concept that seemingly knows no national boundaries. In Sweden, they call it glogg, an onamatopoetic name that mimics the sounds the spicy mulled wine makes as it slides down one’s throat. In Mexico, the name–ponche navideño–is much more straightforward. It means exactly what it is, a warm Christmas punch. And it does pack one, especially if you’re adding adult-friendly regional ingredients like tequila or mezcal.

At heart, though, this is a fruit based punch, and the fruits–particularly tejocotes–give it its unmistakable flavor. Tejocotes are sourced from a uniquely Mexican species of hawthorn trees that was only recently made legal for export to the U.S., although Americans are unlikely to find them (or try them) anywhere except Mexican holiday and Day of the Dead celebrations (when they’re popular as offerings to returning spirits).

Add apples, guavas, hibiscus flowers and cinnamon to your tejocote base, boil with water and cane sugar, spike with tequila or mezcal, and you’re ready to salute the season, Cabo style.

Better yet, let someone else make it for you, and deliver it straight to your hammock. You are on vacation, after all.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com,  or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.                                                                                            

Photo credit:  Rompope Santa Clara

Upcoming Events Calendar

November

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Nov. 1 – 2

Pelagic Rock Star Tuna Tournament – Nov. 1 – 3

Ironman Los Cabos 70.3 Half-Triathlon – Nov. 3

Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Nov. 3 – 16

21st WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 6 – 9

Luxe Life Los Cabos Jazz Experience – Nov. 7 – 11

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28

Los Cabos Film Festival – Nov. 13 – 17

52nd Annual Baja 1000 – Nov. 19 – 24

Sabor a Cabo International Food & Wine Festival – Nov. 30

 December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26

Sabor a Cabo Rural Tasting – Dec. 8

Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Official Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 12 – 16

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 15 – 19

La Ventana Classic – Jan 16 – 20

 February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 1 – 8

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 7 – 9

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Dates Not Yet Announced

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

20th Annual Baja Hog Rally – Feb. 20 – 24

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

 

Los Cabos Fishing Report – November 17, 2019

November 17, 2019

Large crowds of anglers continue to arrive, as the peak fall season will be winding down in a couple of weeks. Weather patterns have been abnormally unpredictable, with winds out of the north increasing, creating choppy seas. Presently we are following development and forecast for Tropical Storm Raymond, which is expected to bring significant rainfall to Southern Baja, strong winds and has forced Port Closure for at least Sunday, most likely Monday as well. Also the annual local Wahoo tournament was canceled and rescheduled for Dec. 15. Looks as though by Monday mid-day this rare late season topical system will pass to the north and dissipate rapidly. Water temperature averaging 80 degree through much of the region.

Sportfishing fleets are covering all directions, most local fleets are now working the grounds from the Gordo Banks to Vinorama. Bait vendors are selling caballito, limited sardinas, ballyhoo and slabs of squid, on the Pacific there are schools of mackerel, the next month is when these baitfish start to move towards the sea of Cortez. Most common target species now have been yellowfin tuna, wahoo, dorado and billfish, more marlin action now towards Cabo San Lucas.

The yellowfin tuna action had vanished off of the areas north of Gordo, especially near San Luis Bank. This week there were once again a quality grade of tuna to over 100 lb, was found on local grounds, including one 240 lb. cow Friday afternoon, no big numbers, but everyday a handful are being brought in, with many others being lost. Bite was sporadic, some fish hooked early, then dead action for hours, but maybe later they go on another bite. Most all of these yellowfin were striking on strips of squid, lots of chum needed to keep making continued drifts. Some charters had as many as three or four tuna, most felt lucky to have one. Also some smaller football sized tuna found with sardinas or hoochies, scattered bite though.

This week we saw more dorado than previously, though more dorado were being found towards Cabo San Lucas and the Pacific, where we heard of some bulls to 30 lb., the dorado off of San Jose del Cabo have been mainly under ten pounds. Wahoo action continued to be more consistent near Vinorama, though this bite slowed during passing of recent full moon, fish still being seen, but more finicky, best chances have been on slow trolled baits, such as caballito, skipjack or chihuil. A few fish also striking on Rapalas, but not as many lure strikes as we traditionally would expect. In recent days charters were doing well to land a wahoo or two, the fish brought in were weighing up to 45 lb. An occasional striped marlin or sailfish were hooked on these same grounds as where the wahoo, tuna, dorado were encountered.

With the windier conditions and combined currents, not a whole lot of bottom action going on, mainly triggerfish, we did see more of the bonito showing, a few red snapper and an odd leopard grouper or barred pargo.

The combined sportfishing fleet launching out of the panga area from Puerto Los Cabos Marina sent out an estimated 134 charters for the week and anglers reported an approximate fish count of: 1 blue marlin, 4 striped marlin, 28 dorado, 44 yellowfin tuna, 45 wahoo, 10 yellow snapper, 5 barred pargo, 4 leopard grouper, 3 amberjack, 48 Mexican bonito, 8 yellow snapper, 6 sierra, 12 roosterfish, 2 surgeon fish, 8 golden eyed tilefish and 35 triggerfish.

Good Fishing, Eric

GORDO BANKS PANGAS

Eric Brictson / Operator

619 488-1859

Los Cabos (624) 142-1147

e-mail:gordobanks@yahoo.com

WWW.GORDOBANKS.COM

A Season to Remember: Whale Watching in Los Cabos

Some things in Los Cabos you can always count on. There will always be sunshine, beautiful beaches and great fishing, no matter what time of year you visit. Other notable attractions, however, can only be enjoyed during a specific season. Such is the case with whale watching season, when many of the world’s largest creatures leave their arctic summer feeding grounds to migrate to winter breeding grounds around Baja California Sur.

Whale watching season in Los Cabos officially starts on December 15th and continues for three months until March 15th. That’s a 90-day window for what amounts to a bucket list opportunity: the chance to get up-close with leviathans whose size and power almost defies description.

Everything about whale watching season in Los Cabos is larger than life. Even the migration is magnificent. In fact, the longest migration in recorded history involves a gray whale–dubbed Varvara by scientists –who in 2015 completed a 14,000-mile round-trip journey from Russia to Cabo San Lucas. Not bad for a nine-year-old.

But such long-distance travels are almost commonplace among the 5,000 to 10,000 whales that visit the southern shores of Baja California Sur each winter. Los Cabos itself is rarely the destination, but rather a transit zone. Gray whales favor Ojo de Liebre or Magdalena Bay on the Pacific Coast for their breeding activities, while humpbacks and other species continue on into the Sea of Cortez.

Visitors to Los Cabos during whale watching season often spy these transiting cetaceans from their resorts, sometimes even from local golf courses. But by far the best way to see them, and to get as close as possible, is by embarking on Zodiac boats tours. These high-speed inflatables have enough power to allow their captains to spot whale spume and anticipate where the next breach will occur. Some local adventure companies even offer hydrophones, so that in addition to the sight of these magnificent creatures, guests can also listen to their incredible “songs,” a form of language so complex scientists are still working to achieve an even rudimentary understanding.

No whales breach more spectacularly than humpbacks, and as luck would have it humpbacks are by far the most commonly sighted species in Los Cabos. But they’re not the only species by any means. Orcas are sometimes sighted, as are sperm and even blue whales, the latter being the largest creature ever to existed on Earth.

Those are rare occurrences, however. Humpbacks, on the other hand, are seen daily during whale watching season in Los Cabos, and they rarely fail to put on a show. Breaching is their most breathtaking maneuver–a move some scientists speculate is to rid themselves of barnacles, although honestly they might just be showing off.

Wouldn’t you if you weighed 60,000 pounds, the average weight of an adult humpback?

Some other fun facts about humpbacks:  The average life expectancy is 45 to 50 years, and they are enormously intelligent, possessing a “spindle” neuron in their cerebral cortex that exists only in whales, dolphins, humans and great apes. The smartest whales, however, are sperm whales, who have brains five times the size of humans.

Gray whales, the second most commonly sighted whale species in local waters, live an average of 70 years. So if Varvara’s trip from Russia to Cabo San Lucas is her normal migration and she does it every year of her life, she will have traveled approximately 980,000 miles.

Yet more proof of the high intelligence of whales, since no distance is too far to travel if it means you get to spend the winter in Cabo!

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com,    or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Photo credit:  Cabo Adventures

Upcoming Events Calendar

November

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Nov. 1 – 2

Pelagic Rock Star Tuna Tournament – Nov. 1 – 3

Ironman Los Cabos 70.3 Half-Triathlon – Nov. 3

Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Nov. 3 – 16

21st WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 6 – 9

Luxe Life Los Cabos Jazz Experience – Nov. 7 – 11

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28

Los Cabos Film Festival – Nov. 13 – 17

52nd Annual Baja 1000 – Nov. 19 – 24

Sabor a Cabo International Food & Wine Festival – Nov. 30

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26

Sabor a Cabo Rural Tasting – Dec. 8

Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Official Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 12 – 16

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 15 – 19

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 1 – 8

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 7 – 9

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Dates Not Yet Announced

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

20th Annual Baja Hog Rally – Feb. 20 – 24

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

March

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

 

The Ultimate Upgrade: 3 Reasons to Choose Vacation Rentals in Los Cabos Over Resorts for Your Next Destination Getaway Experience

Few places in the world can match Los Cabos when it comes to destination attractions. From year-round sunshine and glorious golden sand beaches to world-class fishing, diving, wining and dining, and pampering luxury, cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo have everything one could possibly want for an unforgettable vacation experience.

As might be expected, the vast majority of the three million people who annually visit this sun-splashed paradise on the southernmost rim of the Baja California peninsula stay in one of the region’s superb collection of seaside resorts. And they are superb. But here’s the thing…

There is an even better option, one that promises more luxury, more privacy, more spectacular one-of-a-kind amenities, and in many cases–remarkably–a more affordable alternative to the traditional resort vacation. It’s an amazing option, and one more and more people are beginning to discover and take advantage of to enhance their destination getaway experience.

Yes, we’re talking about vacation rentals in Los Cabos, be they chic beachfront condos or cliff-hugging luxury villas with jaw-dropping Pacific Ocean vistas.

With that in mind, here are three reasons to choose vacation rentals in Los Cabos over resorts for your next visit to paradise.

More Luxury

Prefer your vacation accommodations to be expansive, elegantly appointed, with breathtaking views from virtually every vantage point? Of course. Everyone does.

Well, there’s no comparison when it comes to vacation rentals in Los Cabos versus resort rooms or even suites.

For starters, vacation rentals are much bigger, often staggeringly so. The gold standard are the luxury villas that are perched high above Cabo San Lucas in the Land’s End city’s exclusive gated Pedregal neighborhood. Long the province of movie stars and captains of industry, these villas are mansion-like in size and scope, with manicured grounds, exquisite design and décor, high-end amenities like jacuzzis and home theaters, as well as horizon-stretching ocean views from every corner of the property.

Amazingly, these magnificent villas are often a more affordable week-long option than upscale resorts for families, couples traveling together, or groups like bachelorette or wedding parties.

That’s also the case, naturally, for penthouse and other scenically set condos and rental homes throughout the Capes Region. More modest in size if not luxurious amenities, these properties often compare favorably to resorts’ room rates for singles and couples.

More Privacy

In addition to capital “L” luxury, vacation rentals also offer a degree of privacy well beyond that offered by even the most intimate and exclusive local resorts. There are no lines for buffet breakfasts, no crowded swimming pools or beaches, no shared locker rooms for massages or spa experiences.

Your “vacation rental in Los Cabos” is solely reserved for you and you alone (and of course that special someone, or your chosen travel companions). If you want to skinny dip in the pool or jacuzzi, or enjoy a romantic sunset dinner on the terrace, there’s no one to pry, eavesdrop or otherwise impinge upon the intimacy of the experience. Privacy is total and absolute.

In essence, you’re living the life of a local rather than that of a tourist, and you’re doing so with the same amount of privacy you’d expect in your own home.

More Amenities

Almost all the things you would expect from a first-class resort are available in Los Cabos vacation rentals: from muy comfortable accommodations to swimming pools, palm-shaded hammocks, beach access, bottomless margaritas, and on-call concierge service.

And the few that aren’t can easily be arranged. Ready for a poolside massage or a dinner party for you and a few of your closest local friends? Mobile spas and private chefs are only a phone call away, and perfectly willing to tailor their offerings to your personal preferences.

Plus, of course, there are the luxurious residential amenities found in any coastal manse, from state-of-the-art kitchens and palapa-topped bbq stations to fully equipped business and fitness centers.

That’s the advantage of vacation rentals in Los Cabos, and it’s one no resort–regardless of reputation or service–can ever come close to matching. Call it the ultimate upgrade (from memorable to unforgettable), and by all means consider it for your next relaxing getaway to always sunny Los Cabos.

For more information about events, activities and villa rentals in Los Cabos, call us TOLL FREE at 1-888-655-4548, visit www.LosCabosVillas.com or email us at Info@LosCabosVillas.com.

Upcoming Events Calendar

November

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Nov. 1 – 2

Pelagic Rock Star Tuna Tournament – Nov. 1 – 3

Ironman Los Cabos 70.3 Half-Triathlon – Nov. 3

Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Nov. 3 – 16

21st WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 6 – 9

Luxe Life Los Cabos Jazz Experience – Nov. 7 – 11

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28

Los Cabos Film Festival – Nov. 13 – 17

52nd Annual Baja 1000 – Nov. 19 – 24

Sabor a Cabo International Food & Wine Festival – Nov. 30

 

December

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26

Sabor a Cabo Rural Tasting – Dec. 8

Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe – Dec. 12

Official Start of Whale Watching Season – Dec. 15

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

 

January

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 12 – 16

Tropic of Cancer Concert Series in Todos Santos – Jan. 15 – 19

 

February

Todos Santos Writers Workshop – Feb. 1 – 8

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27

Todos Santos Artists’ Open Studios Tour – Feb. 7 – 9

San Jose del Cabo Jazz Weekend – Dates Not Yet Announced

Rock Fest in Cabo San Lucas – Feb. 15

20th Annual Baja Hog Rally – Feb. 20 – 24

Carnaval in La Paz – Feb. 20 – 25

 

March

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26

Baja Shakespeare Festival – Mar. 6 – 8, 11 – 14

East Cape Arts Festival – Mar. 15

Todos Santos Film Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

El Triunfo Arts & Crafts Festival – Dates Not Yet Announced

Sabores de Baja in Miraflores – Dates Not Yet Announced

April

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Semana Santa – Apr. 5 – 11

NORRA Mexican 1000 – Apr. 17 – 24

Gala de Danza at Viceroy Los Cabos – Dates Not Yet Announced

Los Cabos Fishing Report – November 3, 2019

November 3, 2019

Fall season is now at its peak, as scores of anglers are arriving daily, many of them now preparing for tournaments, including the WON Tuna Jackpot scheduled for this coming week. This Sunday is the Los Cabos Iron Man event, which means many streets and Hwy. closures, adding to already congested logistics or trying to get anywhere. Fall weather patterns started off calm this week, before the north winds picked back up mid-week, even had one day where there was light scattered rainfall. Ocean water temperature ranged 80 to 84 degrees with moderate swells and at times swift currents.

Always heavy pressure this time of year on local bait resources, we are now seeing a combination of sardinas, slabs of squid, caballito, ballyhoo and some skippers able to find chihuil. Surprisingly supplies are holding up better than we would imagine, will be interesting to see how supplies hold through this month.

Charters are scouting out all directions, most local sportfishing fleets are fishing grounds from the Gordo Banks, Iman, San Luis and as far north as Vinorama.  Action has been spread out and changing from day to day, as to where the bite is best. Early week the best action proved to be for wahoo near Vinorama, finding the chihuil baitfish was the secret to success, not always easy to obtain these candy baits, more of a super panga deal, on certain high spots with specialized rigs. Not many wahoo were striking the trolled lures at this time, best chances were on slow trolled trap hooked baits and early morning before too many boats congregated. The wahoo were averaged in the 25 to 35 lb. class. High boats brought in five, other one, two or three, of course many other were lost for the normal wahoo reasons.

Dorado remained scarce and scattered, only seeing one or two fish for all groups of charter’s per day, we heard of more numbers on the Pacific, but even there the dorado were not nearly as numerous as previous months. More marlin appeared, even in the direction off of San Jose del, though the billfish were much more active towards Cabo San Lucas and on the Pacific. We even had some sailfish and at least one 180 lb. class blue marlin was accounted for. With the warmer water there are still chances at the larger sized black and blue marlin.

Yellowfin tuna were elusive, being targeted on San Luis Banks, as wells as Gordo Banks, though very few were actually landed this week, most of the tuna we did see were in the 60 to 90 lb. range, a few smaller 10 to 20 lb. These yellowfin hit a wide variety pf baits, not on lures, Drift fishing with squid or using chihuil and live skipjack produced strikes. Heavy pressure, combined with lots of nature food source, swift currents, now have these fish skittish and finicky, of course on any given day they could become more aggressive, they are definitely still yellowfin through the area.

Not much off the bottom, triggerfish, bonito, smaller sized snapper and cabrilla were the most common, swift currents have not helped that action at all.

Along the shoreline there were good numbers of juvenile roosterfish, which should always be released, also some early season sierra and jack crevalle in the mix.

The combined sportfishing fleet launching out of the panga area from Puerto Los Cabos Marina sent out an estimated 140 charters for the week and anglers reported an approximate fish count of: 1 blue marlin, 2 sailfish, 14 striped marlin, 18 yellowfin tuna, 11 dorado, 52 wahoo, 4 barred pargo, 10 leopard grouper, 38 Mexican bonito, 8 yellow snapper, 2 dogtooth snapper, 8 sierra, 6 Pacific golden eyed tilefish, 4 rainbow runner, 4 jack crevalle, 24 roosterfish and 25 triggerfish.

Good Fishing, Eric

GORDO BANKS PANGAS

Eric Brictson / Operator

619 488-1859

Los Cabos (624) 142-1147

e-mail:gordobanks@yahoo.com

WWW.GORDOBANKS.COM