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Viva Mexico! Celebrating Mexican Independence Day in Los Cabos

September 4, 2018 by 1 Comment

September is the hottest month in Los Cabos, and traditionally the heart of the cape cities’ low tourism

Cozumel, Mexico

season. The idea of “high” and “low” seasons has started to wane over the past few years due to rapid regional growth, increased international flights and a more consistent year-round flow of visitors. But some months are still better than others, and the busiest months tend to be when the largest and most representative local events are held.

Of the many food and wine festivals, arts fairs, fishing tournaments, and other signature fiestas held annually in Los Cabos, it is telling that none are held in September. October, on the other hand–the traditional start of high season–sees Sammy Hagar’s birthday bashes, four major fishing tournaments (including the world’s richest, Bisbee’s Black & Blue), and a weeklong culinary festival in San Jose del Cabo.

What a difference a month makes!

But hot and slow as it is, September does bring one headline event, a national holiday celebrated passionately across Mexico. So if you’re visiting Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo this month, keep an eye out for all the fireworks and festivities surrounding El Dia de la Independencia, or Independence Day. Officially, it’s honored on September 16, but the proclamations and partying begin the night before…and keep right on going.

Many U.S. visitors confuse Cinco de Mayo with Independence Day, but the two are markedly different, not only in terms of where they fall on the calendar, but in what they represent and mean to average citizens.

Cinco de Mayo recalls the heroic victory of the Mexican Army over occupying French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Despite its Mexican roots, the holiday was largely popularized on the U.S. West Coast. In Mexico, celebrations of Cinco de Mayo are few and far between, although bars in tourist areas like Los Cabos will dutifully offer a few “holiday specials” aimed at gringo revelers.

Independence Day, by contrast, is the major patriotic holiday, the Mexican equivalent of the 4th of July. The date itself honors what is now known as the Grito de Dolores, essentially a call to arms uttered by a priest named Miguel Hidalgo on the evening of September 15, and again the following morning in the year 1810.

By that time, Spain had been in control of Mexico for over 280 years…and since the day Hernan Cortez and his conquistadors toppled the island capital of Tenochtitlan in 1521, Spaniards had ruthlessly exploited the country for its abundant natural resources.

For a little more context…the year of Hidalgo’s immortal call to arms, 1810, coincided with the imperial reign of Napoleon, whose European wars and intrigues often produced far-reaching upheavals. For instance, French troops first occupied Spain in 1808, and soon afterwards Napoleon installed his brother as puppet ruler…a move that destabilized colonial governments throughout Latin America, and led directly to the independence movements spearheaded by Simon Bolivar and others.

Miguel Hidalgo was, in a sense, the Bolivar of Mexico, although his leadership in the rebellion that became the War of Mexican Independence was tragically short lived. Despite some early victories by his insurgent army, six months after his stirring grito–delivered in the small town of Dolores (now Dolores Hidalgo)–he was captured. Soon after that, he was executed. But the fight continued, and by 1821 Mexico had finally earned its freedom.

Thus, like Independence Day in the U.S., Independence Day in Mexico celebrates not the actual achievement of independence, but rather the symbolic birth of a new nation through the assertion of self-rule.

Contemporary celebrations of Independence Day in Mexico begin ceremoniously, with public officials–from the president to small town mayors–reenacting the grito at 11 p.m. on September 15. This reenactment always concludes with the same phrase, repeated three times: ¡Viva Mexico! ¡Viva Mexico! ¡Viva Mexico! There is then a symbolic bell ringing, followed by live music, traditional food and drink, and festive fireworks celebrations. The party is on!

Cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo each have their grito reenactments, with large parades the next morning, on September 16th. September visitors to Los Cabos in search of activities and entertainment are encouraged to seek out both, as they offer interesting glimpses of authentic Mexican culture.

For those whose interests run more to cervezas and margaritas, rest assured that virtually every local bar and restaurant offers some sort of patriotically themed drink special.

Just remember to raise your glass for a toast. ¡Viva Los Cabos! and ¡Viva Mexico!

by Chris Sands

  • Chris Sands is co-founder of CaboVivo, co-writer of Fodor’s Los Cabos travel guidebook, Editor at Baja.Ca, and a contributor to Forbes and USA Today, as well as other websites and publications. 

 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 courtesy of Virginiambe and Wikimedia Commons.

Upcoming Event Calendar

September

Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) – Sep. 16

October

Sammy Hagar Birthday Bashes at Cabo Wabo Cantina – Oct. 9, 11, 13

San Jose del Cabo Restaurant Week – Oct. 13 – 20

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 14 – 18

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 18 – 21

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 23 – 27

25th Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Oct. 28 – Nov. 10

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

November

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Life Luxe Jazz Experience at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica – Nov. 1 – 4

IRONMAN 70.3 Latin American Tri Club Championship – Nov. 4

Adidas Golf Invitational at Cabo del Sol – Nov. 6 – 11

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 7 – 10

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 14 – 18

Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day) – Nov. 20

Día de Acción de Gracias (Thanksgiving) – Nov. 22

 December

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

Virgin of Guadalupe Feast Day – Dec. 12

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January 2019

Día de los Tres Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

Los Cabos Pro-Am at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 14 – 18

February

Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine’s Day) – Feb. 14

March

Cabo Collegiate at Querencia – March 3 – 5

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Los Cabos Fishing Report – August 26, 2018

August 26, 2018 by Leave a Comment

August 26, 2018 

As Hurricane Lane is presently dangerously close to the Hawaii Islands, conditions locally in Los Cabos have remained calm, with no new tropical storm systems seen developing at this time. We still have another full five weeks of the normal tropical storm season, we are all hoping that no major storms approach Baja. Weather continues to be very warm, increased humidity as well, some afternoon rain squalls to the north of San Jose del Cabo, normal pattern for this latter part of summer. Minimal wind, primarily only slight afternoon breezes, moderate swells, always need to be careful along the shoreline during these summer months.

With continued reports of great fishing action coming out of Southern California for bluefin tuna, yellowtail, white seabass and as a result crowds are lighter than normal now in Los Cabos. Local fleets are now mainly concentrating their efforts on fishing grounds from the Gordo Banks, Iman and San Luis Banks. Anglers were using slabs of squid, sardinas, as well as skipjack and small tuna for baits. Iman and San Luis was the best place to find a nicer grade of yellowfin tuna, everyday these grounds are producing tuna to over 70 lb. No huge numbers, fish were also finicky and shy with the ever present boat pressure, but with patience and consistent drifting and chumming over these high spots there were good chances of hooking into yellowfin. The Gordo Banks produced mainly a smaller grade of tuna up to about 12. Lb. It is the time of year that we normally see the cow sized tuna appear on these famous grounds.

The Gordo Banks and on the grounds near Iman, there were several black marlin catches reported this week, these fish were hooked into while slow trolling larger rigged baits, the white skipjack proved especially effective, the fish that were landed weighed in the 200 to 300 lb. range.

Only a scattering of mostly smaller sized dorado were being found. Over last weekend and at the start of this week, there were wahoo being hooked into while trolling Rapalas and other lures on the normal grounds from Iman to San Luis, a handful of charters got into this action, with a couple of wahoo landed and others lost, these fish were in the 15 to 40 lb. class. As the week progressed this action faded out as some anglers did target this action but could not entice any strikes. The ocean temperature warmed this week, back up into the 81 to 87 degree range, too warm of water often will make species such as wahoo more lethargic, less active.

Bottom action was limited, most anglers were opting to target other surface species, though a few dogtooth snapper and amberjack were reported, as well as some red snapper, bonito, yellowfin snapper and cabrilla. Best chance for these fish was early in the day, using various baits, as well as opportunities using yo-yo jigs.

The combined panga fleets launching out of La Playita, Puerto Los Cabos Marina sent out approximately 57 charters for this week. Anglers reported a fish count of: 3 dogtooth snapper, 3 black marlin, 2 sailfish, 17 dorado, 7 wahoo, 96 yellowfin tuna, 14 bonito, 8 yellow snapper, 6 amberjack, 17 red snapper, 9 cabrilla (leopard grouper), 3 roosterfish and 42 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

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Los Cabos Fishing Report – August 19, 2018

August 19, 2018 by Leave a Comment

August 19, 2018

Last week we had a series of tropical storms develop and head off to the west, T.S. storm John did leave several inches of rain in our region, but no serious damage was felt. Things quieted way down this week, only Hurricane Lane is brewing now and is already far off to the west with no chance of making impact on the Baja Peninsula. There are still another six weeks or so for the Eastern Pacific storm season, we are all hoping that no major storms make direct landfall. Light to moderate crowds are now visiting the Los Cabos area, be prepared for warm and humid weather that is the normal pattern this time of year. There is now some heavier swell activity, be careful along the beach stretches, also more wind this week, swirling around from different directions, but it settled down over the weekend, never did keep the sportfishing fleets from reaching their normal grounds.

Anglers were using strips of squid and also this week the sardinas rebounded and on most days there were chances at obtaining the sardinas from fleets that found these schooling baitfish farther to the north, they were meeting charters on the fishing grounds. Always a better option to have both the squid and sardinas if possible, particularly when drift fishing for yellowfin tuna.

Yellowfin tuna was the most common gamefish being found, main area was centered on the Iman Bank, but some charters were scouting out the grounds such as San Luis and the Gordo Banks with mixed success. Drift fish while chumming was the most productive technique, others did well slow trolling chihuil baits, but they proved harder to obtain, also if you happened to jig up a bolito that was almost a guaranteed strike. Sizes on the yellowfin ranged from small footballs up to 80 lb., average daily catches varied from one or two, up to five or six, mixed in were bonito and skipjack. These tuna were still a bit finicky, striking best on 40 or 50 lb. leaders. There were some hungry aggressive sea lions getting their share of hooked up fish. The silky shark problem has diminished for the time being.

Very few dorado this past week, also noting to report on wahoo either. Bottom action was limited due to swift current, misc. snappers, pargo, amberjack, cabrilla, but no numbers to speak of, the highlight were a couple of nice 30 to 40 lb. class dogtooth snapper. These larger snapper were taken on the same tuna grounds while drift fishing baits near the surface.

Billfish was spotty and mainly found 10 miles or more offshore, a scattering of blue marlin hook ups while trolling lures, with a couple landed and released in the 200 lb. range, did hear of 300 b. blues caught out of Cab San Lucas, also we heard of at least one large black marlin that was hooked up near the Gordo Banks. A few sailfish and striped marlin also being encountered.

Inshore roosterfish and jack action has pretty stalled out, not much going on that and the schools of mullet have vanished as well, this is the normal pattern for these species, inshore always slows way down the later part of August and into the fall season.

The combined panga fleets launching out of La Playita, Puerto Los Cabos Marina sent out approximately 61 charters for this week. Anglers reported a fish count of: 2 dogtooth snapper, 2 sailfish, 2 striped marlin, 2 blue marlin, 15 dorado, 1 wahoo, 118 yellowfin tuna, 32 bonito, 3 surgeon fish, 7 yellow snapper, 4 amberjack, 13 red snapper,5 cabrilla (leopard grouper) and 55 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

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Los Cabos Fishing Report – August 12, 2018

August 12, 2018 by Leave a Comment

August 12, 2018

This past week was a very active time for tropical storm development. At one point early in the week there were four named systems tracking on westerly paths, in the direction off the Pacific. There was Hurricane Hector, a category four storm that ended up passing very close to Hawaii, there was Hurricane Kristy that stayed far enough off to the west of the Baja Peninsula and made no impact, then there was Ileana and John, they somewhat joined together and did pass within a couple hundred miles of the Southern Baja, bringing high oceans swells, several inches of rainfall, some isolated locations reported more, winds were not too strong, some 40 mph gusts, all Port activity was closed for a couple of days. The streets in Cabo San Lucas were flooded, but also are now quickly being cleaned up, basically very minimal damage and minor power outages were reported.

Schools of sardinas which had remained plentiful throughout most of the summer season were now scattered and for the most part unobtainable. Local fleets are now using slabs of squid, chunk bait of skipjack, some caballito and ballyhoo. This is the normal bait source for this latter part of the summer. Ocean water temperature is now in the 80 to 84 degree range.

The main center of fishing activity has been around the Iman Bank. Highlight has been the yellowfin tuna, drift fishing with strips of squid, or at times sardinas, when obtainable, this produced quality grade of yellowfin tuna up to 80 lb. No huge numbers, but nice quality, some lucky anglers had as many as four or five tuna, others were fortunate to land one, very strong fish and best chance of enticing a strike was on lighter leaders, which meant long fight times and higher percentage of lost fish.

Few dorado seen in recent days, in small schools of ones or twos, fish up to 15 lb. found mainly on the same grounds as were the tuna or billfish. A couple of wahoo also reported, on trolled Rapalas, yo-yo jigs and incidentally on strip bait while targeting tuna. Bottom action was spotty, some of the Eastern Pacific bonito, a few red snapper, cabrilla, yellow snapper, dogtooth snapper, amberjack and triggerfish.

Billfish action was spread out, a couple of sailfish, striped marlin and blue marlin being found, better action for this seemed to be towards Cabo San Lucas and out around the 1150 spot.

Inshore action usually slows down during this later period of summer, a chance at jack crevalle or late season roosterfish if you can obtain the preferred mullet baitfish.

The combined panga fleets launching out of La Playita, Puerto Los Cabos Marina sent out approximately 68 charters for this shortened week. Anglers reported a fish count of: 1 dogtooth snapper, 1 sailfish, 2 striped marlin, 2 wahoo, 15 dorado, 86 yellowfin tuna, 52 bonito, 9 yellow snapper, 3 amberjack, 8 red snapper, 9 cabrilla (leopard grouper), 1 dogtooth snapper and 28 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

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4 Unforgettable “Only in Cabo” Experiences Everyone Should Try at Least Once

August 1, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Every destination worth its salt offers at least a few signature experiences, adventures or indulgences that–whether through microclimate, accident of geography, or endemic flora and fauna–are only found there. That’s certainly true of Los Cabos. In fact, the hardest part of coming up with an “only in Cabo” checklist of amazing once-in-a-lifetime things to do, is figuring out where to start.

With that in mind, here are four unforgettable experiences every Los Cabos visitor should try at least once.

Marlin Fishing

The region’s charms have multiplied exponentially during the past 50 years, from pampering spas to championship-level golf courses, but fishing remains king. The charter boasts lining the Cabo San Lucas Marina are a testament to this fact. So too are the big-money fishing tournaments that draw anglers from around the world.

One doesn’t necessarily have to earn an over-sized check–literally and figuratively–to establish their local bona fides, although annual tournaments like Bisbee’s Black & Blue have turned more than a few fishermen into legends.

The real prize, however, is the experience itself. Imagine being strapped into the fighting chair on the aft-deck of a fishing boat, matching your strength and cunning against that of some truly incredible undersea creatures. The largest marlin ever caught off Cabo San Lucas weighed in at just over 1000 lbs., but even if you only get your hooks into one half that size, or a quarter of that size, you’ll have an adventure you can talk about for the rest of your life.

Blue, black and striped marlin all teem in the offshore waters, and game fishermen will also delight in reeling in delicious food fish like tuna and dorado (mahi-mahi).

Baja 1000 Style Off-Road Racing

The most famous sporting event in Baja is also the most famous off-road racing event in the world: the legendarily rugged Baja 1000. So devilish and dangerous was this annual off-road competition through the untamed heart of the peninsula–the most common route was a snaking trek from Ensenada to La Paz–that by the late 1960s and early 1970s it became a badge of honor, one that attracted Hollywood stars of the era like Paul Newman, Steve McQueen and James Garner. Even traditional motorsports stars like Indy 500 winner Parnelli Jones and 7-time NASCAR Cup champion Jimmie Johnson felt the need to try it, as if driving fast over paved roads wasn’t enough of a challenge.

Nowadays, you don’t have to commit to 1000 miles to experience the thrills and metaphorical chills of off-road driving in Baja. Numerous Los Cabos based activities companies offer dune buggy adventures across beach, desert and mountain terrains, and one local adventure provider even offers extended jaunts in actual Baja 1000 style race cars. As a matter of fact, they’ll even let you enter one of the regional SCORE sponsored races, and provide in-race communications and other technical support. All you need to enjoy this signature experience is plenty of nerve and a valid credit card number.

Swimming with Giants

The world’s youngest sea, the Sea of Cortez, is also one of the most vibrant, teeming with large sea life and colorful tableaus.  For a true once-in-a-lifetime, “only in Cabo” adventure, visitors can dive one of the oldest and largest living coral reefs in North America, at Cabo Pulmo on the Los Cabos municipality’s picturesque East Cape. Cabo Pulmo’s reef is part of a protected marine sanctuary with the highest concentration of marine life in the Sea of Cortez.

Offshore islands in the Revillagigedos chain–roughly 250 miles south of Cabo San Lucas–offers even more amazing encounters with large pelagic creatures like great white sharks and leaping dolphins and manta rays, but require week-long dive trips aboard specially equipped boats.

But for those who want to go really big, Baja California Sur’s capital city of La Paz is the premier place to swim side-by-side with whale sharks. There is no risk in swimming with these gentle giants, since they subsist solely on plankton. But they are big–the largest fish in the world, in fact–reaching up to 40 feet in length, and weighing as much as 47,000 pounds.

Living the Luxury Villa Lifestyle

Los Cabos is renowned for its luxurious hotels and resorts, each of which boasts its own incredible array of pampering amenities, from beachfront massages to tee times at some of the world best golf courses. To really live like a prince or princess in Los Cabos, however, there’s one more step up; one more rung to climb to reach the top of the ladder. That’s the luxury villa experience.

Lavishly appointed and stunningly situated, luxury villas may be found all along the golden shoreline of Los Cabos, from the spectacular properties that hug hill and cliff-sides high about Cabo San Lucas in the city’s ultra-exclusive Pedregal community – some of which, by the way, offer views of both the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean – to gated getaways in the heart of colonial style San Jose del Cabo, and sprawling, secluded  beachfront residences on the municipality’s gorgeous and lightly developed East Cape.

But it’s not just the billion dollar views that wow guests, it’s also the luxe amenities and available services. Imagine enjoying Champagne sunsets from the comfort of your infinity pool, looking out across miles of open ocean. Imagine freshly caught seafood prepared by your own private chef, or having a mobile massage service provide a romantic couples’ treatment beneath a shaded palapa. Imagine a place with enough bedrooms to accommodate your extended family, or a VIP group.

Live the luxury villa experience just once and you’ll understand why Los Cabos is a favorite vacation spot for celebrities and A-list actors.

Simply put, it doesn’t get any better than this; and in many cases, it’s surprisingly affordable.

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 courtesy of Los Cabos Villas.

 Upcoming Event Calendar

July

Stars and Stripes Golf & Fishing Tournament – June 28 – July 1

28th Annual Feria de la Pitahaya in Miraflores – July 13 – 15

East Cape Dorado Shootout Fishing Tournament – Jul. 21

12th Annual Mango Festival in Todos Santos – July 15, 22, 27 – 31

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 30 – Aug. 4

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Jul. 31 – Aug. 4

 August

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 30 – Aug. 4

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Jul. 31 – Aug. 4

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Fishing Tournament – Aug. 25

 September

Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) – Sep. 16

 October

Sammy Hagar Birthday Bashes at Cabo Wabo Cantina – Oct. 9, 11, 13

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 14 – 18

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 18 – 21

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 23 – 27

25th Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Oct. 28 – Nov. 10

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

 November

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Life Luxe Jazz Experience at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica – Nov. 1 – 4

IRONMAN 70.3 Latin American Tri Club Championship – Nov. 4

Adidas Golf Invitational at Cabo del Sol – Nov. 6 – 11

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 7 – 10

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 14 – 18

Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day) – Nov. 20

Día de Acción de Gracias (Thanksgiving) – Nov. 22

December

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

Virgin of Guadalupe Feast Day – Dec. 12

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

 January 2019

Día de los Tres Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

Los Cabos Pro-Am at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 14 – 18

 February

Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine’s Day) – Feb. 14

 March

Cabo Collegiate at Querencia – March 3 – 5

 

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Los Cabos Fishing Report July 29, 2018

July 29, 2018 by Leave a Comment

July 29, 2018

Ae we progress deeper into the summer season we are seeing limited numbers of tourists arriving, despite weather conditions being very tranquillo. No new tropical storms threatening for the near future. There was an increase in swell activity due to distant southern disturbances, also the wind picked up earlier in the week, mainly from the south, but swirling as well from the north and then out of the  east, once again by the weekend conditions calmed down. The wind had pushed in greener water, especially closer to shore, also cooled the water a few degrees. Though now the water is becoming bluer with each passing calm day, water temperatures is back up averaging 78 to 83 degrees.

Finding the live sardinas has been tougher this week, some days hardly any could be located, other days there were sufficient supplies. Caballito still have been readily available, though some morning the bait moved into netting range later than at first light. There were still options of mullet for bait as well, these seem to be working best for the roosterfish, which are still in the area, but this is now the later part of the season for these gamefish. Some anglers are starting to use strips of squid for targeting the yellowfin tuna, bought from local super markets, this always becomes another option this time of year when the sardinas do normally become much scarcer.

Targeting the yellowfin tuna seemed to be the most productive option. Main center of activity has been from the Gordo Banks to the Iman Bank. Good numbers of the smaller football sized tuna have moved onto to both grounds, ranging from a few pounds to about 15 lb., mixed in with black skipjack and the Eastern Pacific bonito. The best chance of hooking into a larger grade of yellowfin has been near the Iman Bank, everyday a handful of tuna in the 50 to 70 lb. have been accounted for, these fish were finicky, a couple of yellowfin much larger were seen and even hooked into, though were lost due to extended battles on lighter than ideal tackle, this because the tuna were hitting the lighter line more readily.

Not much happening off the bottom, besides the bonito, a scattered of red snapper and an occasional amberjack or cabrilla. Still lots of sharks hanging on these same fishing grounds, most of them appear to be silky, also some hammerhead.

After seeing good numbers of dorado last week, though most were smaller in size, this week they were much fewer, no particular area that they were more concentrated, best chance at a nicer sized dorado seemed to be further offshore where charters were targeting billfish. Marlin action was limited, though a couple of blue marlin in the 200 lb. class were accounted for, also a few late season striped marlin and a few sailfish.

The combined panga fleets launching out of La Playita, Puerto Los Cabos Marina sent out approximately 58 charters for this week. Anglers reported a fish count of:  3 sailfish, 3 striped marlin, 2 blue marlin, 2 wahoo, 22 dorado, 265 yellowfin tuna, 190 bonito, 6 yellow snapper, 14 red snapper, 9 cabrilla (leopard grouper), 4 amberjack, 55 roosterfish, 22 jack crevalle and 34 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

Filed Under: Cabo San Lucas Blog, Fishing Tagged With: , , , , ,

Hot Time in the Cape Cities: August Events in Los Cabos

July 25, 2018 by Leave a Comment

August is one of the slowest months of the year for events in Los Cabos, surpassed only by September, when the only events of note are related to Independence Day celebrations across Mexico. But even as cape cities Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo enter into the dog days of summer, there are still plenty of things to do.

In an area famed for its world-class water-based activities, August offers optimal conditions a number of signature pastimes. Snorkelers and divers, for example, will find nearly optimal conditions, thanks to warm water temperatures and excellent visibility. Surfers can take advantage of great seasonal conditions off beaches on the Sea of Cortez side of the municipality. And visiting anglers will find plenty of big-game action to get their hooks into, from tuna, wahoo and dorado to black, blue and striped marlin.

Fishing provides the bulk of the event focused action in August, with two major competitions on the calendar: Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore, the traditional kick-off to Bisbee’s seasonal trio of big-money, big-game fishing tournaments in Los Cabos; and the East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot, one of two local tournaments to give away to a brand new vehicle to its grand prize winner.

But professional tennis also makes an appearance, as the Los Cabos Open returns for its 3rd annual tournament.

Mifel Los Cabos Open of Tennis  (Jul. 30 to Aug. 4)

There are two ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) sponsored events held annually in Mexico:  the Mexican Open in Acapulco and the Los Cabos Open, which premiered in August 2016 at specially constructed facilities at Delmar International School, just outside of Cabo San Lucas.

The first tournament featured 13 of the world’s 50 best players, and was won by hard serving Croatian Ivo Karlovic, who defeated Spanish star Feliciano Lopez in the final. The match had historic dimensions, as it featured the oldest finalists in an ATP event since 1977. Last year, American Sam Querrey accomplished the rare Mexican Double, winning both the country’s professional tournaments.

In 2018, the Mifel and Cinemex sponsored event again welcomes 28 world-class singles players and 16 doubles specialists, competing for nearly $800,000 in prize money. Argentine player Juan Martin del Potro, currently ranked no. 4 in the world, and Lopez, a former French Open doubles champion who has also made a record 66 consecutive Grand Slam main draw appearances, are the headline attractions.

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore  (Jul. 31 to Aug.4)

The East Cape Offshore is the first of three Bisbee’s fishing tournaments that take place in Baja California Sur each year. The ECO is always first, and kicks off Bisbee’s 2018 series starting July 31st.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three qualifiers in marlin, tuna and dorado categories, with the awards celebration taking place afterwards at the Hotel Buena Vista.

Base entry for the event is $1500 per team, with additional fees for daily jackpots. Prize money is based on entry fees received, with 60% going to the billfish winners, and 20% each to top tuna and dorado anglers.

Tequila Tasting at Casa Calavera  (Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29)

Looking for a refreshing antidote to the late summer heat? Try tequila, or at least tequila tasting, courtesy of a new weekly series from standout San Jose del Cabo eatery Casa Calavera.

Casa Calavera, for the uninitiated, is a Day of the Dead themed restaurant that’s part of the new $150 million dollar entertainment district which premiered in February at Grand Mayan at Vidanta Los Cabos.

Casa Calavera’s tequila tastings take place every Wednesday from 12 to 9 p.m., and are described to guests by Casa Calavera’s in-house Maestro Tequilero,. They’re also paired with a rotating small plates menu.

There are four tasting options to choose from: Herradura (white, rested, aged) for $700 pesos, Fortaleza (white, rested, aged) for $850 pesos, Casa amigos (white, rested, aged) for $950 pesos, and the Premium Tequila Tasting for $1,300 pesos, which features the rare Clase Azul Plata, Don Julio 1942, Avion 44, and Reserva de la Familia.

 East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Tournament  (Aug. 25)

The rules are simple: the largest wahoo caught on Saturday, Aug. 25, will earn one lucky fisherman a new Volkswagen Golf and approximately $15,000 in cash.

Overall, there will be over $100,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs, including great raffle prizes, return trips, fishing, and much more. The entry fee is only $500 per team and includes dinner at the awards ceremony. Terrific prizes will be awarded for the top three teams that catch the largest wahoo.

There will also be prizes for the largest dorado and tuna, plus great drawing prizes of tackle, lures, rods, tackle boxes, gift certificates, and return trips to Van Wormer Resorts.

The awards dinner will be held at Hotel Palmas De Cortez in Los Barriles on the same Saturday, August 25th, at 7 p.m.

 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 courtesy of Van Wormer Resorts.

Upcoming Event Calendar

July

Stars and Stripes Golf & Fishing Tournament – June 28 – July 1

28th Annual Feria de la Pitahaya in Miraflores – July 13 – 15

East Cape Dorado Shootout Fishing Tournament – Jul. 21

12th Annual Mango Festival in Todos Santos – July 15, 22, 27 – 31

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 30 – Aug. 4

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Jul. 31 – Aug. 4

August

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 30 – Aug. 4

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Jul. 31 – Aug. 4

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Fishing Tournament – Aug. 25

September

Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) – Sep. 16

October

Sammy Hagar Birthday Bashes at Cabo Wabo Cantina – Oct. 9, 11, 13

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 14 – 18

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 18 – 21

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 23 – 27

25th Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Oct. 28 – Nov. 10

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

November

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Life Luxe Jazz Experience at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica – Nov. 1 – 4

IRONMAN 70.3 Latin American Tri Club Championship – Nov. 4

Adidas Golf Invitational at Cabo del Sol – Nov. 6 – 11

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 7 – 10

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 14 – 18

Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day) – Nov. 20

Día de Acción de Gracias (Thanksgiving) – Nov. 22

December

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

Virgin of Guadalupe Feast Day – Dec. 12

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January 2019

Día de los Tres Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

Los Cabos Pro-Am at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 14 – 18

February

Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine’s Day) – Feb. 14

March

Cabo Collegiate at Querencia – March 3 – 5

Filed Under: Cabo San Lucas Blog Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Los Cabos Fishing Report – July 22, 2018

July 22, 2018 by Leave a Comment

July 22, 2018

We saw a slight increase in visiting anglers this past week. Weather patterns were increasingly more tropical, with more cloud cover, but only some very minimal rainfall was felt, more humidity than anything else. No new storms brewing to the south at this time, mild surf conditions and very little wind. All this made for great ocean conditions for anglers, with water temperatures up in the 80 to 83 degree range through most of the region and even warmer currents lurking further offshore. Lot of baitfish now on the fishing grounds.

Anglers found sufficient supplies of bait near the marina area, mainly sardinas, caballito and mullet. Most of the fishing action has now been centered from the Gordo Banks to Iman, San Luis and north to Vinorama. Cleaner currents have improved the all-around action in recent days. Though the yellowfin tuna that are schooling near and Iman and San Luis Banks continue to be very finicky from day to day, though the tuna that are being hooked into are averaging in the 40 to 60 lb. class and there were at least a couple of larger tuna up to 120 lb. accounted for this past week. Some small football sized yellowfin tuna have also shown up, we have not seen those yet until now, perfect bait size for trolling after at a big black or blue marlin. We have heard the reports of black and blue marlin taken out of the East Cape and especially out of La Paz. On our grounds a couple of blue marlin in the 200 to 300 lb. class were reported. Some sailfish and striped marlin were also found on the same grounds,

The wahoo and dorado also became more active this week, dorado were found on the same tuna grounds, most of these on various baitfish, though they would strike lures as well. Sizes ranged up to 20 lb., though the majority were under ten pounds, please remember to release the smaller fish, especially the females, which are easily identified by there more rounded off forehead. Wahoo were striking trolled Rapalas near Iman, San Luis and Vinorama, no huge numbers, but at least we are seeing some of these elusive and highly sought after gamefish, sizes were respectable, averaging 30 to 40 lb.

Bottomfish was mainly jigging for red snapper and bonito off of Iman and San Luis, some days better than others, late in the season now for these fish. Hoping to see more amberjack and possibly dogtooth snapper show up. Only a handful of leopard grouper or broom tail grouper found.

Inshore action for roosterfish was becoming a bit more scattered, but some epic action for quality sized roosterfish to 70 lb. was found, particularly on the beach stretches towards Vinorama, but also off the local hotel zones as well. Mixed in were some hog sized jack crevalle and even a few out of season sierra. Best bait for roosters was live mullet

The combined panga fleets launching out of La Playita, Puerto Los Cabos Marina sent out approximately 74 charters for this week. Anglers reported a fish count of:  2 blue marlin, 5 sailfish, 7 striped marlin, 92 dorado, 132 yellowfin tuna, 9 wahoo,142 bonito, 12 yellow snapper, 75 red snapper, 19 cabrilla (leopard grouper), 2 amberjack, 68 roosterfish, 19 jack crevalle, 8 barred pargo, 5 surgeon fish, 8 sierra and 38 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

Filed Under: Cabo San Lucas Blog, Fishing Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Swing Time – When and Where to Find the Best Golf Tournaments in Los Cabos

July 18, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Los Cabos is famous for its big-game fishing tournaments, many of which feature enormous payouts and cash-rich jackpots. Golf can’t really compete, at least in terms of lucrative prize money, but Los Cabos does feature an impressive collection of tournaments that show off the region’s many seaside golfing glories.

And to be fair, the prize money at some of these events is enticing. Most of it, however, is earmarked for the professionals. The big lure for amateurs and flat-out duffers is the opportunity to play and compete on some of the most spectacular courses in the world. Golf Digest’s most recent ranking of the World’s 100 Greatest Courses, for example, included four from Los Cabos, including two – Querencia and Cabo del Sol’s Ocean Course – that play host to annual tournaments.

Here are the top local golf tournaments to keep in mind when making plans for your next trip to Los Cabos.

Adidas Golf Invitational at Cabo del Sol

Now on its third name, the 2018 version of this tournament is scheduled for November 6 – 11 at Cabo del Sol’s picturesque Ocean and Desert Courses in the Los Cabos tourist corridor. Originally called the TaylorMade Invitational, the tournament was renamed in 2016 in honor of the late Jim Flick, a PGA Professional and golf instructor for more than 50 years. Flick taught golf in 23 countries and worked with pros like Tom Lehman and Jack Nicklaus, with whom he founded the Nicklaus-Flick Golf Schools. The now Adidas sponsored tournament retains the pro-am format, with professionals competing for $100,000 over 72-holes of stroke play, and foursomes (featuring one professional and three amateurs) battling in handicap-adjusted best ball contests. Participants are hosted by the luxurious Grand Fiesta Americana, and the tournament helps to raise money for American military veterans.

Los Cabos Pro-Am Golf Tournament

Cabo del Sol’s acclaimed Jack Nicklaus designed Ocean and Tom Weiskopf sculpted Desert Courses also play host to the 11th annual Los Cabos Pro-Am, yet another of the region’s signature golf competitions. 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. The 2019 event will take place January 14 – 18.

Cabo Collegiate at Querencia

This is the one local event with restrictions, as entry is reserved for collegian golfers. The Cabo Collegiate was established in 201o as a three-day invitational tournament, and each year since it has welcomed a dozen or more NCAA Division I teams to compete at Tom Fazio’s masterful and muy exclusivo Querencia Golf Club. Next year’s competition at the beautiful and challenging private layout – currently ranked #97 of the World’s 100 Greatest Courses by Golf Digest – is slated for March 3 – 5, 2019. Oklahoma State University is the two-time defending champion.

Paws n’ Claws Golf Tournament

The biggest annual fundraiser for the Los Cabos Humane Society traditionally features a golf competition at one of Los Cabos’ many world-class courses, before concluding with a fundraising dinner at a premier local restaurant The gorgeous Jack Nicklaus’ designed Palmilla Golf Club has played host for the last two competitions, with 18-holes chosen from among its three 9-hole layouts (Ocean, Mountain and Arroyo courses). Also notable during the last two years: Acre Restaurant, one of the leaders of the local farm-to-table movement, has fired up the BBQ fixings to accompany the usual fundraising silent auction. No dates, course or dinner destination have been announced as yet for the 2019 event, but the Paws n’ Claws Tournament typically takes place in March or April.

Stars and Stripes Golf and Fishing Tournament

Stars and Stripes is more than just a golf and fishing tournament….it’s a complete lifestyle experience. Participants stay at the luxurious Hilton Los Cabos; play golf at some of the world’s best golf courses; go big-game sportfishing for dorado, wahoo, tuna, sailfish, swordfish, and black, blue and striped marlin; and enjoy beach days and spectacular live entertainment nightly (Sammy Hagar headlined in 2015). Youth focused charities are the big winners, though. In its 20+ years of existence, the tournament has raised over 26 million dollars for kids. Dates are yet to be determined for 2019, but keep some time free in late June, early July.

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 courtesy of Querencia Cabo Collegiate.

Upcoming Event Calendar

July

Stars and Stripes Golf & Fishing Tournament – June 28 – July 1

28th Annual Feria de la Pitahaya in Miraflores – July 13 – 15

East Cape Dorado Shootout Fishing Tournament – Jul. 21

12th Annual Mango Festival in Todos Santos – July 15, 22, 27 – 31

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 30 – Aug. 4

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Jul. 31 – Aug. 4

August

Los Cabos Open of Tennis – July 30 – Aug. 4

Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Fishing Tournament – Jul. 31 – Aug. 4

East Cape Gold Cup Wahoo Jackpot Fishing Tournament – Aug. 25

September

Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) – Sep. 16

October

Sammy Hagar Birthday Bashes at Cabo Wabo Cantina – Oct. 9, 11, 13

Los Cabos Billfish Tournament – Oct. 14 – 18

Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Fishing Tournament – Oct. 18 – 21

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Fishing Tournament – Oct. 23 – 27

25th Baja Ha-Ha Cruisers Rally – Oct. 28 – Nov. 10

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

November

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) – Oct. 31 – Nov. 2

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo – Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Life Luxe Jazz Experience at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica – Nov. 1 – 4

IRONMAN 70.3 Latin American Tri Club Championship – Nov. 4

Adidas Golf Invitational at Cabo del Sol – Nov. 6 – 11

WON Tuna Jackpot – Nov. 7 – 10

SCORE Baja 1000 – Nov. 14 – 18

Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day) – Nov. 20

Día de Acción de Gracias (Thanksgiving) – Nov. 22

December

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

Virgin of Guadalupe Feast Day – Dec. 12

Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – Dec. 24

Navidad (Christmas) – Dec. 25

Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) – Dec. 31

January 2019

Día de los Tres Reyes Magos – Jan. 6

Los Cabos Pro-Am at Cabo del Sol – Jan. 14 – 18

February

Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine’s Day) – Feb. 14

March

Cabo Collegiate at Querencia – March 3 – 5

Filed Under: Cabo Events, Cabo San Lucas Blog Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Los Cabos Fishing Report – July 15, 2018

July 15, 2018 by Leave a Comment

July 15, 2018

Crowds of tourists continued to be lighter than we might expect, though maybe the more serious anglers are waiting for the fish reports to improve. Tropical weather patterns remained very quiet, light ocean swells, high temperatures near 90 degrees, water temp now back up to 80 degrees, water is steadily cleaning, with no new storms seen developing on the horizon and extended forecast looking quiet for the next ten days, it all appears to be favorable for putting our summer season back on track.

Supplies of baitfish now included caballito, mullet, sardinas and a few moonfish in the mix. Most of this bait activity is found right in the marina channel area. With the variety of baitfish in this area there have been some amberjack being hooked into right offshore of the nearby marina jetty, of course the word travels fast and many locals are now taking advantage of this limited opportunity.

Offshore action was hit or miss, mostly just heading out deep, 10 to 30 miles out, looking for schools of porpoise, with hopes of finding yellowfin tuna. With water temperatures warming and clarity improving daily, we have seen the action for yellowfin tuna near San Luis Bank rebound. No big numbers yet, but every day we are seeing some tuna brought in that are averaging 50 to 70 lb., these fish have been striking on caballito, sardinas and some on yo-yo jigs. Many of the silky sharks were lurking on these same grounds, ready for any chance they can find at an easy meal. Most charters were doing well to land one of these quality yellowfin, though some were more fortunate and landed up to three tuna. Mixed on these grounds were red snapper (huachinango), bonito, sailfish and striped marlin. With water clarity looking much better anglers reported seeing free swimming wahoo on these gronds as well, maybe if the water does not become too warm these fish will also start to bite.

Along the shoreline there were still some trophy sized roosterfish found, best bait for these fish seemed to be live mullet. Please remember to release these trophy roosterfish, as this fishery is becoming more fragile with each passing season and it is very important to preserve this species for future generations.

Only a scattered of smaller sized dorado seen this past week, with improving ocean conditions we should start to see some larger fish show up. Later in the month of July and through the rest of the summer is known for big fish season.

The combined panga fleets launching out of La Playita, Puerto Los Cabos Marina sent out approximately 58 charters for this week. Anglers reported a fish count of:  4 sailfish, 11 striped marlin, 16 dorado, 55 yellowfin tuna, 158 bonito, 5 yellow snapper, 164 red snapper, 7 cabrilla (leopard grouper), 11 amberjack, 12 roosterfish, 3 barred pargo, 4 sierra and 36 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

Filed Under: Cabo San Lucas Blog, Fishing Tagged With: , , , , ,
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