That’s Fishin’- November 2019
Welcome to the November installment of That’s Fishin’ in what has historically been one of the best months of the year for Fishing out of the Marina Pez Vela here in Quepolandia. If you are visiting us from overseas, a warm welcome to the area—you have chosen a great time to go fishing with us!
OFFSHORE FISHING
Expect some excellent Blue Marlin fishing during day trips fishing 20-35 miles Offshore. The Marlin fishing we experienced during November 2018 was better than any other month of the year for Offshore day charters with lots of fish in the 150-250lb range and a few larger fish up to 400lbs. Every year plays out a little differently and I look forward to seeing how November fishes this year.
November is a transition month where we see the last of the seasonal rains before our dry season commences which lasts until April. After the heaviest of our rains during September and October, the weed/debris lines that form at the current breaks Offshore should be in great condition during early November which is sure to provide some incredible Dorado (Mahi Mahi) fishing. The great thing about this style of fishing is that the bite is very often only 8-12 miles Offshore making these perfect family trips when the Dorado bite is on just a short run from the Marina. Full day charters are required when in search of Marlin, Sailfish and Tuna but when the Dorado bite is on, some great fishing can be possible during half day trips also. Dorado at this time of year typically average in the 15-20lb range with frequent 40lb plus fish and the odd beast up to 60-70lb.
Sailfish will also be possible during Offshore trips and expect Sailfish numbers to improve as we move into December before the bite typically peaks between January and March when Sailfish gather here in large numbers. The end of the year also sees some great opportunities for some big Yellow Fin Tuna. We catch lots of Tuna in the 20-50lb range but 100lb plus fish are common also with the odd Wicked Tuna worthy monster hitting the decks.
INSHORE FISHING
After a traditionally slow period for Inshore fishing during the seasonal rains, this all changes in November when the water clarity Inshore starts to improve and the shoals of baitfish move back in. Expect some great Roosterfishing at our local rock locations where fish average in the 20-25lb range. The rocks at Naranjo can produce some huge fish and you have a real chance of a 50-90lb fish during Roosterfish charters out of Quepos. Jacks, Mackerel, Snappers, Barracudas and more are all possible when fishing the rocks and Snook typically make an appearance at the Rivermouths during November with the Parrita, Naranjo, Savegre and Baru rivermouths all well worth a try if Snook is your target. Livebaiting is the preferred method for successful Inshore fishing with Sardines, Lookdowns, Blue Runners, and Goggle Eyes being the preferred baits but some great sport can also be enjoyed with topwater lures and vertical jigging.
ROOSTERFISH SATELLITE TAGGING PROGRAM
Another successful Roosterfish Satellite tagging program took place from the Marina Pez Vela during October with a simply fantastic team of people getting together in the name of science and research to help better understand and protect one of Central America’s most important fish species. Two Satellite tags were deployed into Roosterfish and we look forward to receiving the data of the study in the months ahead. A huge thanks to Los Gatos, Gray Fishtag Research, Marina Pez Vela, Southernmost Apparel, FECOP and all others involved the project including the boats that donated their time and effort, Mirse Azul, Double Nickle, Chloe Frijole, Los Gatos, Amy’s Dream & Big Eye. It was great to have Capt. Keith Colburn of the boat WIZARD from TV’s Deadliest Catch here in Quepos to support the study, with lots of Quepeños enjoying getting to meet Keith & the photo opportunity!
THE DORADO DERBY IS UPON US!
November 16th sees the DORADO DERBY back for its second year here at the Marina Pez Vela where Anglers will fish a 1-day shoot out style tournament in search of the heaviest Dorado. This event is just $250 per team to enter making it one of the most accessible tournaments held in Costa Rica. 52lbs was the largest Dorado last year—what will it take to claim top honours during this year’s event? Come down and join us from 4pm on Nov 16th for the weigh in and after party at the Marina to find out! All are welcome and there are still a few boats available to charter for the event if you would like to get involved yourself, check out marinapezvelatournaments.com or simply drop me a line for more details.
TOURNAMENT DATES
The dates are now set for the 2019/20 Marina Pez Vela Tournament calendar for what is set to be our biggest tournament season ever! These events are guaranteed to be a blast and are open to all, we would love to see you there! Check out the full details at: marinapezvelatournaments.com
November 16, 2019 Dorado Derby
January 11-12, 2020 Pelagic Rockstar
February 21-22, 2020 The Pescadora Billfish Championship (Ladies Only!)
March 7, 2020 Roosterfish Rodeo (NEW!)
March 20-21, 2020 Quepos Billfish Cup
April 17-18, 2020 Marina Pez Vela Open
April 20-23, 2020 Offshore World Championships
May 23-24, 2010 Pelagic Pura Vida Inshore Classic & Kids tournament!
Tight Lines & I would love to hear from you if you would like to go fishing! Benn Gilmour, Jackpot Sport Fishing Marina Pez Vela, Quepos Cell: 8458 4997 [email protected] jackpotsportfishing.com