Fish Report
Semana Santa Fishing Frenzy: Prime Yellowtail Season in La Paz
by Baja Adventure Company
4-2-2024
(619) 955-6003
Website
La Paz experienced a bustling Semana Santa this week. Despite the chaos, everything eventually ran smoothly. The weather was decent, although a strong west wind mid-week brought temperatures down and made fishing a bit challenging for a couple of days.
Water temperatures are still in the low 70s, and the sun is shining once again. Visibility varies, with cleaner water pushing offshore, possibly indicating an early pelagic season. We’re in the prime of yellowtail season, and it shows. Most spots are teeming with fish, with deeper areas holding mixed sizes and shallows yielding bigger fish.
The word spread quickly, and many boats ventured out. On some days, dozens of boats crowded one spot, slowing down the bite. It’s definitely worth going out early and moving to other spots when the action slows down. We faced some north winds this week, but calmer days are ahead, and we’re hopeful the fishing will hold.
We didn’t have to go far, as the fishing was great just in front of Espiritu Santo Island. We caught barred snapper ranging from 10 to 15 pounds, yellowtail on the surface bite with live bait in the 35-pound range, and bottom jig yellowtail around 25 pounds. Large live bait worked well for surface fishing, while smaller live bait and jigs were effective for bottom fishing for groupers and yellowtails. Stickbaits were the ticket for the pargos.
The average air temperature was 62°F in the mornings and 75°F in the afternoon, with water still a bit chilly at 69°F. Dolphins frequently surrounded the boats while catching the big baits. Additionally, mahi-mahi (dorado) continue to make an appearance, adding to the excitement of the week.
For those seeking adventure further afield, the northern spots are teeming with yellowtail. Now is the perfect time to explore the islands north of La Paz, where you’ll find fewer crowds, an abundance of fish, and stunning scenery. Our liveaboard trips on the 41′ Riviera elevate this fishing experience. The basic package offers 3 full days of fishing and 4 nights’ accommodation for up to 4 anglers, all for a total cost of $6,500, or $1,625 per person. Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure.
For more information or to book your next trip, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] or give us a call at (619) 955 – 6003 from the US. And don’t forget to subscribe to our email list to get the latest reports delivered straight to your inbox every week. Here’s to tight lines and good times ahead!