Report from Venezuela [Archive] - Saltwater Fishing Forums

Nick_Fuegi

02-09-2005, 06:00 PM

Phil,

I'll eagerly await your reports. Good luck and I hope it stays calm for you. Thanks.

Dave, I have indeed booked through Rick Alvarez after doing a MASSIVE amount of homework (many months). It's more expensive, but I worked out that maybe the local guys would say anything to get my business when they yold me about the "163kg yellowfin" they just caught and the 800kg sixgill shark! (163kg is way over the Venezuelan YFT record). I was surprised to find that they had no photos available of either of these awesome fish. Especially the YFT which at "163"kg must have been weighed. ;)

Rick Alvarez of Southfishing aka Quest Global Angling Adventures was very helpful as you would expect. I gather from reading many articles on this site and from our correspondence that he is a very experienced angler.

Anyway, the extra I paid to book through Rick certainly gives me confidence in the boat and crew. We'll just have to see about the fishing. If Phil and I both blank like Willy did, that would be a shame. I've done everything I can in terms of moon phase, time at which the moon will be overhead, season, boat and crew, it's all up to Venezuela now. Fingers X'd.

If one doesn't catch a thing, it's easy to end up wishing one had caught nothing with a cheaper operator. ;)

One thing that does worry me, is that it is obvious from all reports that the area was all but totally destroyed by the mud-slides and never rebuilt. Some of the main hotels remain closed. Caraballeda isn't even on many maps anymore. However, anyone you speak to will tell you the area has fully recovered. I'm not going to that area for the scenery, but it's a worry when you're told everything has fully recovered when it has not. Makes you wonder if the fishing is as good as people say.

Anyway, good luck to all those fishing Venezuela. Post your results here and link to any photos.

Congrats to Willy for starting what is surely the most informative thread for a while. Sorry you didn't have a good time. Console yourself with the idea that if there is a regular problem, you will be the one that outed it.

On the other hand, if Venezuela is as good as people say and you were just unlucky, surely Phil or I will be able to clear it up soon and defend the legendary reputation Venezuela has attracted.

Adam

02-10-2005, 06:00 PM

I have fished Venezuela twice since 2001. I booked through South Fishing both times. The first trip (3 days fishing) we released 2 blues, 8 whites, and 8 sailfish). Our hook-up rate sucked because I let my mom try and hook her own fish.

The second trip was also 3 days. We released 1 blue and 15 whites. Again our hook-up rate was diminished because of novice anglers.

On both trips we had a wonderful time both at the dock and at local establishments. The worst thing that happened to us on either trip was having to leave. I am going back in the fall.

If you go, book with people who know that they are doing. If Paul Ivey or Jimmy Grant is still fishing down there, book with one of them. They will catch you fish.

Tight lines,
Adam

Nick_Fuegi

02-10-2005, 06:00 PM

Thanks for the confidence boost. You know when you've been planning and looking forward to a trip for a long time and you hear something negative, it can really give you a scare. I've got fish on the brain at the moment and am climbing the walls waiting for this trip. It's great to hear that you've had good results. 5.66 billfish/day *released* and you missed a lot of shots? WOW! Sounds like you were fishing in the fall though by the number of whiteys and sails? (and the fact you're going again in the fall;) I sure hope we get numbers like yours in March! Good luck on your forthcoming trip.

Tony

02-11-2005, 06:00 PM

Booked a trip the last weekend of March, did a bunch of homework also (thank William S. Rice). Took the cheaper route, rolled the dice and booked locally with someone who was recommended. Keeping my fingers crossed, hope we get a real fishing trip and not just a cruise. Already counting the days! Thanks everyone.

Tony

02-11-2005, 06:00 PM

Oops, sorry, William R. Rice.

middleton_rutledge

02-13-2005, 06:00 PM

Sounds like alot of complaints from Venezuela. It was a pretty hard last time I was there..whites, sails and blues swimming in the spread and not to mention the beautiful women walking around. I caught plenty of whites with frayed line and freezer burned ballyhoo...when there hungary, they are hungary. Who told you to go in February? That is the worst month and Gigi is is the cheapest charter boat, althouh it won the Shootout in 2004 with Jimmy Grant at the helm. Try Venezuela in April, September or October. You will have better luck I promise you. I would jump on a plane and go to Costa Rica. The marlin bite is hot up north. We went 2 for 5 on blues out of Tamarindo last week. My friends caught 81 sails out of Los Suenos a couple of weeks ago.

giantbluemarlin

02-14-2005, 06:00 PM

Just heard about the record rain and foods last week in Vargas state (state where all the fishing's done). Many homeless etc. I'm told there is major damage to transport links again.

Hope it hasn't wrecked Phil's trip too.

Middleton, that's great info. One question: Why's Feb the worst month?

Wade_McArthur

02-15-2005, 06:00 PM

Here's some more notes on Venezuela from my trip last September.
1. The Gigi IV is not the cheapest although it is pretty cheap. It's a 35' Bertram and there are some much smaller boats around.
2. The bait was not top quality, although it was not freezer burned either.
3. I was satisfied with my trip. I booked through a local guy, Nani Handelman. His website is: www.venezuelamarlinsafari.com.ve/.
4. I was there right after one of the first hurricanes they had really experienced in years. The fishing was supposedly a little slow although I saw more marlin in a day than I had in the rest of my life. Hooking them proved a little difficult but we caught and lost our share. The small dorado proved a little annoying at times.
5. Carraballeda is indeed a rough looking place. There are a lot of abandoned hotels although the Hotel Gran Caribe is reopened and appears to be a luxury class hotel and we stayed at a very simple but nice resort club called the Club Puerto Azul. I felt very safe there because it was gated with very good security and there was no reason to leave the club. Restaurants, bars, bowling alleys, and a ************************ were all on site. There was also some entertaining fishing to be had from shore there for some kind of snapper and small barracuda. It's not for everybody, there are no phones or T.V.s in the suites.
If anyone has any questions, e-mail me at wademcarthur@hotmail.com.

Nick_Fuegi

02-15-2005, 06:00 PM

Aaargghhh! I hope it's ok to travel. I'm flying out next week!

Anyone heard any news?

Nick

Per

02-16-2005, 06:00 PM

Nick
A quick message , I have just arrived in the Macuto/La Guaira area after a spot of bonefishing in Los Roques and can tell you that the rain has stopped and the roads have been cleared , you should be okay ..
Will post next week.

Nick_Fuegi

02-16-2005, 06:00 PM

Thanks Phil.

I'm leaving on the last Friday of the month, so any report before then would be much appreciated. I'm not actually fishing until the middle of next month, but I probably won't have access to the web between departure and fishing. Maybe we can compare notes when I'm back?

middleton_rutledge

02-17-2005, 06:00 PM

Wade,

My good friend went last February and fished with Dave Noling on the Affinity. The only released a few sailfish in 3 days.I heard from other fisherman in Venezuela that Feb. was a very slow month even though the bite can turn on there at an given time. I talked to Rick Alvarez yesterday and La Guarimba released 1 blue and 2 sails a couple of days ago. That is pretty good,but about average there.In early April of 2004, the blue marlin bite really rutned on with boats getting 6 to 10 shots a day.One day last year Affinity raised 15 blues. It seems like alot of people are let down when they go to Venezuela on shoestring budgets and think that they are going to have top of the line shimano equipment, a 50 fish ballyhoo dredge, and a catered lunch on board at noon. It is not like that, especially if you book a local charter boat for $800-900 dollars. If you want that, book a American charter boat for $1200 to $1400 a day. However, when you book the big expensive boat with all the gear and comfort, it is the local boats that catch all of the fish with their beat up tackle, frayed lines, old bait and local knowledge.

Mid

Nick_Fuegi

02-17-2005, 06:00 PM

Mid,

Good info. Thanks.

That's fishing! You don't always win however you play it. ;)

I initially tried to book with Dave Noling, but he's moved on to Costa Rica. I tried Desi Zenar next, but Rick Alvarez came back with a good package and I've heard good things around here about trips booked through Rick. I won't know for sure if the decision to go upmarket was the right one until I'm back next month, but I'm feeling pretty confident. My fishing buddy *really* wanted to go the budget route, but in the end I managed to persuade him that we might be better off stretching the budget this time and playing safe. If I'm wrong, I'm gonna look pretty stupid and my buddy probably won't want to go on another trip with me for a while! (Like never!)
I can't wait to get out there and give it my best shot. As long as the crew try everything they can, in the right areas (and I know these guys will do that), it's just a matter of whether the fish are there and whether I can whip 'em. I know I can whip 'em! So, we'll just have to wait and see if they're there.

I wonder how Phil's trip is going. -Well I hope.

Ballyhoo

02-19-2005, 06:00 PM

Guys, here is my contribution. My buddy and I fished on Gigi 4 last April for 6 days prior to going to los roques for the bones. First day raised 14 blues - caught 4. For the trip we raised about 50 blues, hooked 15 and landed 12. The tackle was in decent shape and the ballyhoo were renewed daily. The big American boats slightly outfished us (they have the electronics and the speed to reach the fish)but at less than half the price I was happy. I'm going back same time this year. Carrabaleda is not attractive (compared to resorts such as Cabo and the Keys)and poverty seems rife - I would not walk about at night. That said, the Ole Caribe hotel is excellent - good food & decent bar so there is no need to go out anyway. As far as the recent rains go this has swept some debris into the sea so this should attract the dorado and the blues will follow. Does anyone know if longliners are permitted to fish the banks? (I suspect they are not supposed to but they do).

giantbluemarlin

02-19-2005, 06:00 PM

What you say about longliners is very worrying indeed. I believe the area is supposed to be protected from that kind of pressure. If longliners do operate there it's no wonder people sometimes struggle to catch. Imagine fishing a day or two after ten thousand or so baited hooks have been deployed. It would only take a couple of longliners to do that. If one gets away with it, you can bet many more will try.

Anyone know who that sort of thing should be reported to if you see it happening? Any contact details for people's reference?

BTW Good point about the debris and dorado.

Dave

Ballyhoo

02-19-2005, 06:00 PM

Dave, you are right. When I was there our last day was slower- that was a few days after first seeing a longliner. The boat I observed looked local - it was to small to have make a long distance trip. Don't know how many hooks they would fish but it is worth noting that all the fished raised by us that day were within quarter of a mile of where it was sitting! By the way, one of the reasons why there is so little info available on recent sportfishing catches is that the local longliners are said to use such information to their advantage. Be warned!

middleton_rutledge

02-20-2005, 06:00 PM

Nick,

Good luck. It is definitely hit or miss, but if there is anywhere that you want to have your baits in the water, it is there. I have been going down there for the last 5 years for Rick's Tournament and have fished on most of those boats..Big Y, Joropo, La Guarimba, Gigi IV, Post Haste, Budman, Sharon, Affintiy..etc. I have caught alot of fish on some of them and I have had bad days on some of them. As I said earlier, April is usually a great month for blue marlin. August, September and October are very good for whites, sails and frequently blues.
I am going down there for the La Guaira Shootout 2005 in late April. Catchem up and give us a report when you get back.

Mid

Nick_Fuegi

02-20-2005, 06:00 PM

Thanks Mid,

Will do.

Regards,

Nick

Per

02-20-2005, 06:00 PM

Nick
I have today returned from Venezuela.
I spent 2 very contrasting days on a local boat called Salitre a 38 bertram.
Day 1 we went 3 for 6 on blues plus a sailfish . Day 2 the weather was shocking , it poured on and off all day and I am told it has not stopped since I left.
We only got 1 shot and the weather was dark with very low visibility.
I was in the area 2 days before I was actually able to organise the trips because I did not want to fish with just anybody . Of the local 'budget or reasonably' priced boats I have fished with Joropo and Guarimba in the past and had heard that Salitre was quite good too. I also watch some of the catch reports coming in from Venezuela on 'inthebite.com' , they are detailed and often tell you what's been caught by boat so that really helps ..
I can confrim that the guys on Salitre were keen and active , there was loads of fresh looking ballyhoo and they were always busy rigging baits , changing teasers and checking that baits were not washed out. Like most of them , the selection of rods and reels is very limited so if you go this route bring some of your favourites.
The boats are in reasonable condition , they are not as fast as top line US charters but you'll get a reasonably long day . I have always found that the crews speak very little if any English so the communication is poor on that front , dont expect great chit chat !!or great food at lunchtime.
If you have a limited time window then booking through an agency is the safest bet because trying to set it up on the spot is time consuming and challenging if you dont speak Spanish . Once you have been once or twice and if you wish to return then you can make your contacts and deals for the next time.
You dont need to spend $1500 a day to catch billfish , if you have the means and are used to fishing on those kind of boats then great !It comes down to what you are used to and what you expect , some of us grew up chartering in Africa and Pacific Mexico and the local 'budget' boats in Venez seem pretty good after some of those !!!
The blue season is Feb-May and I think that Mar/Apr are regarded as being the best for blues. During my stay most of boats were getting 2-4 shots a day and quite a few sails thrown in.
You need to check the rain situation, if it continues the roads may become difficult to pass again ..
I would recommend staying the Ole Caribe, it has little atmosphere but you can get breakfast early and the facilities and taxi service from there is good. The Eduard is more basic , you wont get breakfast early and they dont have their own taxis.
The area is a mess, there is nothing to do after fishing , you'll be staying in and eating/drinking at the hotel. The ************************s are high security and there really is a feel of being cut off from a pretty poor and desperate reality around you .
The fishing is still hot but dont bring the partners or non angling friends , if you do send them to Los Roques ,they are stunning !
Tight lines Nick ,I await your report .
Phil

Nick_Fuegi

02-20-2005, 06:00 PM

I'm sorry to hear about the weather but congratulations on the 3/6 day. That must have been pretty exciting.

This thread is by far the most helpful I've seen in a long time and will go a long way towards helping people make their decisions about a trip to Venezuela.

I'm booked with an American boat, and will be staying at Hotel Eduards, so we will have reports from all angles! I wish this thread had been posted before I did all the homework. It would have saved me many hours. ;)

I'm starting my journey late on Thursday night and I'll be back mid March. The four days fishing are just after the new moon. Expect a report around the 17th.

Just two more questions for you Phil.

1:What were the seas like? I hear it's rough all year and 6' is "calm" at this time of year.

2: What size were the blues you were running into?

Ok then one more:) Any YFT reported by anyone?

Thanks again,

Nick

Kevin_Llinas

02-20-2005, 06:00 PM

I run a charter fishing operation out of La Guaira and can tell you that the fishing is great. I have been sending numerous folks down there and they have a great time. If anyone wants more information, please feel free to contact me. Venezuela may have some issues, but the fishing is great, the people are wonderful. I will be happy to answer questions to any conerns anyone may have about traveling to Venezuela. I am planning on a trip in mid March.

juan

02-20-2005, 06:00 PM

hi. i am capitan and owner of a venezulan boat name tropical Pleasure its a 32 hatteras. the bites in la guaira was a little slow the past weeks but is going better this week the blue marlin its arriving and have many sailfish, so no matter what people say stay coming. and in la gauira bank Its also great for daylight swordfishing for multiples bites also in la guaira bank wahoo dolphin an yelowfin tunawhat keep you busy.

Per

02-21-2005, 06:00 PM

Hi Nick
Sea conditions where generally quite good this time at 2/3 ft only. However , speaking from my experiences in the 90's you would do well to prepare yourself for some sloppy seas , I remember many 5/8 ft days.
The blues generally run 100-300lbs , I would imagine that 80/90% fall into this category , of course they pull out a few bigger fish too. Mine on this trip were 150/200/350 with the latter being the biggest I have taken there or seen caught whilst being onboard.
They are perfect for 50 stand up seas allowing , but take your own if you are chartering local boats they use mostly conventional length rods.

enzo

02-21-2005, 06:00 PM

hi folks. I'm 1st. mate at Local Charter Boat "TROPICAL PLEASURE" in La Guaira. For many years now, I've had the pleasure to meet, attend and fish with local as well as foreing fishermen that leave amazed with the sport they encounter when fishing venezuelan waters. It is a shame that some folks had a bad experience while fishing here but one thing I can assure is that we can provide the best crews and boats available in the caribbean area. Actually our country, specially the Vargas State (where most operators are based) have been battered by heavy rains which remembered the landslides of about 5 years now. but fishing has been great on this early months surrendering fair numbers of blues and yft, as well as daylight swordfishing which is on its prime!. to give tou a shot, this weekend we went 1/1 blue (200lbs)+ 1/2 sword (220 lbs), and 1/3 blue (150 lbs) + 2/5 sails (avg 55lbs). in addition some boats landed yft (180lbs) and reports that wahoo and dolphin were biting in a freenzy. but as all stories have two sides, there are good and bad news to it. the bad news are that still the situation with the rains remains for a week or so, having the locals very concerned about safety and supplies, but on the other hand, it is compensated by the warmth of the crews and population that will take you where the fish are, making you forget all of the above and to concentrate on having the trip of a lifetime!! for those who are booked, have a good time here and for those planning to come down, pls do not hesitate and pack yr gear. We are waitting for you!!!

02-21-2005, 06:00 PM

I've got a strong interest in fly fishing for white marlin. Are there any Venezuela boats/captains that are particulary experienced in fly fishing techniques?

bubba

02-21-2005, 06:00 PM

My son and two other friends went last April ('04) for three days. We stayed at Mango ************************ and had a wonderful time and had great food and good laughs. At the time, Dave Noling was still there, Desi, and Jimmy Grant were there too. We had a boat break on the first morning but got in and fished w/Dave for half day and got 2 blues (+/-250). The next day we fished w/a local and did equally well. The third day we fished w/Desi on the Big Y and had 2 more blues for a total of 6 in 2 1/2 days plus a sail. When blue fishing you cannot expect to catch them every time...that's why they call it fishing instead of catching. Anyone going there to catch fish knows that. Desi is a good captain, Jimmy Grant always catches fish (except when his boat breaks). By the way, I hear he has a new boat this year but I do not know where he is fishing. It seems to me that whth "everybody" leaving Venezuela and going to Costa Rica that the fishing in Venezueal should be very cool since much pressure is gone. By the way, my understanding about the longliners is they are owned my one of the generales of the Army. Probably not going to get much back-talk from the local charter guys. I have been twice and had a great time each trip and am planning to go again. Remember, you get what you pay for.

mikey_t

02-22-2005, 06:00 PM

Thanks everyone! My brother and I are doing our first trip to Macuto on 3/8 and expecting the unexpected. reading this board has been great...good news...bad news...and everything else in between. We're staying at the Ole Caribe and planning of fishing 4/5 days while we're there (one day for R&R). Will let you know what happens.

enzo

02-27-2005, 06:00 PM

Hi folks.... just to share the great weekend action with you. Onboard "Tropical Pleasure" we had 3/6 blues + 2/5 sails on saturday and 3/5 blues on sunday. On sunday "Mare-Mare" had a Grans Slam + wahoo + dolphin and missed (broke line) YFT. Lots of blues were seen and bite to various PGYC fleet vssls which indicates that things are going wild at La Guaira on these days. Water is changing (in temperature and conditions)as cold fronts and currents begin to hit these Venezuelan coasts. Hope to have a good season this year!

Andrew

03-05-2005, 06:00 PM

I caught 8 yellowfins Tunas and bonitos yesterday. It was wonderful. Come to Venezuela and try by yourself not what other people said.

I watched some salifish and marlins jumping.

The fishing couple weekes before was very bad because the floods and rain, But now it's getting much better.

If you need any contact call and ask for: Freddy Mateu: 58+212+9927182 or his son: Alejandro Mateu 58+212+4129946007

Warren_Brantley

03-08-2005, 06:00 PM

I have fished La Guaira in July (sails, swords, whites), Sept./Oct. (the same and a slam), January (very slow/whites), and February (blues and some sloppy days; too many dorado, some wahoo; sails about). I agree with comments posted on the condition of the country. (But as a kid I remember the best fishing was often in poor rural areas with mud and mosquitos.) Unlike Cabo, you are at a disadvantage if you do not speak Spanish. You do not wander around town unaccompanied. But I come for the fishing, not the shopping and each trip provided billfish and blues were in the spread almost daily; though not always feeding. To cut to the chase, I'm not back until October but my kid is going down March 12th for 5 days. Anyone catching blues? You just want your kids to have fun. He's been before. Tight Lines everyone. WB

Andrew

03-08-2005, 06:00 PM

I read all the messages posted. I find it ironic that the topic started with such a negative report about a destination that produces some of the best and most varied billfishing on the planet year after year.
I have fished La Guaira at least once a year for the past ten. Some years I have fished in the fall for whites while others in the spring for the blues, and then some years I've fished both seasons. Naturally, not every trip has produced the same great results but all of my trips have been good. I too have tried different levels of service through the years using some of the well known local boats like Guarimba and Joropo, as well as some of the visiting U.S. boats. I attribute a good part of my success, especially at the beginning, to having been fortunate in hooking up with Rick Alvarez, originally when he presided Coral Way Tours, later with South Fishing, and now with Fishquest Global Angling. As Nick mentions in his comments, he is a very experienced angler and has stayed on top of the changing ins and outs of the Venezuela fishing scene through the years. I don't know who is left at South Fishing that could ever possibly fill his shoes but knowing Rick is now at Fishquest makes my choice simple. I'm dissapointed that I will not be able to make it to his tournament this April, the La Guaira Shootout, that is always such a well organized event backed up by great blue marlin fishing.

Alberto_Correia

03-08-2005, 06:00 PM

Phil,
A friend tell me about the information you write about Eduard's Hotel. I am Alberto Correia Operation Manager - part owner of the hotel. For your information, we serve breakfast from 6:00am every morning and we have a taxi company. Also we have two new Mercedes Benz air condition vans with 16 seats for airport transport. We have many fishermen stay with us every month. We have many tournament functions and parties here during the La Guaira Shootout Tournament and the Super Slam Tournament. Maybe somebody give you wrong information about our hotel.
Thank you,
AC

Phil

03-09-2005, 06:00 PM

Mr Correia
Perhaps you have started serving breakfast at 6am in the last few weeks ...This would explain why when I stayed at your hotel in late February breakfast was only being served from 07:30 . This is what YOUR staff in YOUR hotel told me when I checked in and again the following day when I came down at 07:00 to find the restaurant closed and nobody but your receptionist around . In the Ole Caribe I found the the breakfast buffer ready and waiting at the same hour .
This was my experience I have nothing else upon which to base my comments.

Middleton_Rutledge

03-09-2005, 06:00 PM

If you are thinking about going to Venezuela and need expert advice on what to expect, what boats are available, where to stay, updated fishing reports and complete fishing packages, call Rick Alvarez at 888-891-3474(fish) or go to www.FishQuest.com..BOTTOM LINE!

Rick Alvarez used to work at South Fishing, but has now joined Quest Global Angling as of last year.He has no affiliation with South Fishing anymore.

Rick is having his 1st Annual Solera Open this year in Venezuela. The dates are 4/26 to 5/1 2005. It will be a "who's who," with some of the best international crews and anglers.

This tournament will be held in place of the La Guaira Shootout which has been successfully run by Rick for the last 10 years.In fact, Rick has run one of the most succesfull billfish tournaments in the world for the last 11 years and has the numbers to back it up.

Personally, I have known Rick for 6 years and have been involved with the La Guaira Shootout for the last 5 years. Anyone who has been fishing for a very long knows him. He is very reputable, bilinqual and knows Venezuela fishing better than anyone.If you want the best and most experienced outfitter to book a trip for you, just call him.He will be more than glad to help you out.

Middleton

Andrew

03-09-2005, 06:00 PM

Middleton,
The Solera Open is the La Guaira Shootout. The full name of the tournament as it appears in all publications is the 'Solera Open International La Guaira Billfish Shootout' and the ads I've seen in the magazines read 11th annual. Again, I'm sorry I will have to miss the tournament.
Andrew

middleton_rutledge

03-10-2005, 06:00 PM

Andrew,

My mistake. It is the Solera Open/La Guaira Shootout. For some reason, I thought that Rick changed it to just the Solera Open. Anyway, sorry you cannot make it. I hope the bite turns on for us. I will email a report when I get back.

Mid

Eduardo_Nieto-Willett

03-12-2005, 06:00 PM

Hello Guys wait and you will see CALYPSO FISHERMANS LODGE will be opening on mid July 2005, this unique Lodge has been designed for fishermen.
10 rooms 2 suites Swiming Pool ecxellent restaurant and more. The charter boats never have been in oue narket before, ranging from 33 to 58 Ft well mainatined and equiped with experienced crews. Wait and see, some more information to calypso44@hotmail.com
Ed

Eduardo_Nieto-Willett

03-12-2005, 06:00 PM

" Nowdays, I often hear older captains, mates and anglers complaining that younger anglers and crews have lost the skills needed before lures came on the scene " Marlin June/July 2002

Anonymous

03-12-2005, 06:00 PM

Warren_Brantley

03-12-2005, 06:00 PM

Spring break: Day one (3/13), Richard Allen of Alabama catches his first blue marlin on his first day of billfishing. (Richard is age 20 and normally goes to Alaska.) Blue is caught on a bare ballyhoo, Penn 30T/tuna stick, fought standup and takes 1 hour and 45 minutes to subdue. Good work Richard, wireman Jeb Brantley and everyone on GIGI-IV. WB

enzo

03-13-2005, 06:00 PM

Great week for blues. some boats got two digit numbers on blue bites. On TROPICAL PLASURE we went 2/5 on Sat and 1/4 on Sun. Some FYT still around mixed with some sails. Conditions are grat for blues and hope to increase activity for the Solera Open.

Warren_Brantley

03-13-2005, 06:00 PM

Most boats should be in port now; if not shortly. If anyone knows Monday blues caught on Courtesan Two, Budman, Joropo, GiGi-IV, and Lady Farah (Hey you Venezuelan captains and charters!!) please post. I've got some friends out hunting blues this week. Want to see how they are doing. (Wish I was with them!)Thanks. WB

Warren_Brantley

03-13-2005, 06:00 PM

Jeb Brantley (age 19) wires another blue for Richard Allen and catches two himself on Monday. All fish in the 175 to 225 pound range. I still do not know how the other boats came out. (Jeb is working on his Royal Slam of all billfish species and has caught 5 of the 9 recognized.) So, the fishing seems to be OK by our standards. Tight lines. WB

Eduardo_Nieto_Willett

03-14-2005, 06:00 PM

The Blues are here, in abundance just north of Playa Grande Yachting club.
It is getting really hot.

mikey_t

03-14-2005, 06:00 PM

made it back and loved it. Fished on the Guarimba II. 4 days fishing....boated 2 blue (100 kilo range), lost 2 blue, completely missed about 4 other blue. Sailfish...lost 2 and missed 2 others. Numerous wahoo and dorado when we weren't focused on the billfish. Great time...great crew...great country and people....definitely would love to do it again!!!

Warren_Brantley

03-16-2005, 06:00 PM

Day three, for Jeb Brantley and Richard Allen, produce many dorado and wahoo. The boys spend the evening in Caracas relaxing. Day four Jeb wires a 250 pound Blue for Richard, caught on 30 pound test, standup, on a 30 wide. In the Yacht Club the boys seek tarpon and snook, but no luck. They are out there trolling the mounts as I write. Tight lines. WB

Anonymous

03-16-2005, 06:00 PM

Eduardo_Nieto_Willett

03-16-2005, 06:00 PM

Hey folks, why dont we start talking fair about everything we do.

Eduardo_Nieto-Willett

03-18-2005, 06:00 PM

Anonymous

03-19-2005, 06:00 PM

Anonymous

03-19-2005, 06:00 PM

Warren_Brantley

03-19-2005, 06:00 PM

Five Blues made for a good five days of fun on GIGI-IV. Jeb Brantley and Richard Allen had great meals in Caracas, at Alejandro's K-Rol, at the Caraballeda Yacht Club, and the diner at the public ************************. Venezuela, like the US, has its good and bad points. We have been to Venezuela 36 days, for five trips, since July '04 and find the people, food, mountains and fishing to our liking. We don't catch fish every day but we catch many more than we do in the States. We put in the research, the planning, the days trolling, the time away from home, and the money; in our quest for billfish.

For those of you in search of the perfect place, a "paradise", a perfect world; no inconveniences; and daily marlin........ good luck! For those of you in search of potentially great fishing.....just go at the right time and fish five days or more. There are a lot of fine Venezuelan and American charter services. We DO fish GIGI-IV and have an individual IGFA grand slam of two swords, a white, and two sails on September 28th. We DO look forward to each trip back to the country. We also fish LADY FARAH and have caught blues, whites, sails and swords. And we do see the 0 to 10 boats out there fishing with us. Fewer boats is FINE with us. That's more fish for us!!

To our friends, captains and crew: Daniel, Miguel, Alejandro, Cesar, Gustavo, Papa, Poulya, Ely, Lu, Carlos, Jose Luis, others whose names we do not know, thanks for another fine trip. To Nani Handelman, the Captain/owner of our berths on "Diablo" we will see you soon. Thanks my friend, may your new computer do its job!!

Until next time. Mahalo......we're off to Kona!! Capt. Warren Brantley (334-279-8570 USA evenings after 7:00 PM Central Time) if you want to talk about the fishing prospects in Venezuela.

Tight Lines and remember.......has not been one billfish caught (yet) with a keyboard, a mouse, a Pentium Processor, and a computer screen. WB

Anonymous

03-22-2005, 06:00 PM

C'mon nick! how was your trip? The suspense is killing me. Oh yea, I almost forgot about willy. We never did hear from him again, did we? Anyway, I am willing to bet it was pretty good.

Anonymous

03-27-2005, 05:00 PM

nick,

you are killing me. c'mon.

Nick_Fuegi

03-27-2005, 05:00 PM

Sorry for the delay guys, I've been contemplating my trip and what to say/not to say. I decided to just tell it how I see it and hope people take it the right way.

Well, where to start???

The fishing – 4 days a couple of days after the new moon with the moon overhead at mid-late pm. ENE winds at about 12-15kts the whole time. Should have been almost perfect.
Day 1
Saw some huge YFT’s jumping (up to 300lb). Hooked one but he pulled the hook after stripping half the line from the 80W without stopping (he was still going). Did not see a billfish. Caught two small wahoo and lost a big one. Felt unlucky and had high hopes for day 2 as a big YFT is as good as a small marlin to me anyday.
Day 2
Saw about 8 marlin and hooked one that got tail wrapped and broke the 80lb line due partly to poor angler technique and line wear. (not me in chair;). Didn’t get any other marlin in the spread though. Caught three 35lb dorado. Felt really unlucky and was determined to turn things around on day three.
Day 3
Skunked!!! That’s the first time I’ve been skunked in bluewater fishing. Saw about 7 marlin including a 500lber cruising on the surface with it’s tail out. Could not get them to eat. Sancocho’d one fish. Felt pretty down and hoped for a miracle on day 4.
Day 4
Weird day. It was like there wasn’t a fish in the sea. No bonitos, no nothing. No birds, nothing. Got two blues in the spread that came from no-where and disappeared without touching anything. I knew we were seriously desperate after lunch when I saw an improvised coke-can teaser in the water alongside two dredges and the witchdoctor. I think everyone had given-up on this trip except the skipper and at about 17:55, just before we were going to pull in the lines and admit defeat, with the sun almost on the horizon, the shout of “Azul!” amazed us all into a state of excited disbelief. The blue was teased, a rigged ballyhoo dropped back and it was hooked on the 30. 25 mins of surprisingly hard stand-up work later turned up a little blue of about 130lb that was hooked in the right shoulder. That explained why it was so hard to keep the line on the reel!

So, we narrowly avoided a second skunking, and got our blue for the trip at the last gasp. It was a miracle marlin. Congratulations to the skipper and crew for exemplary perseverance. Interestingly, that is one fish we would not have caught on a circle hook. Having said that, putting a hook in it’s shoulder is not how I’d have wanted to do it and I hope it survived the injury. The fish was released for the local long-liners and gill-netters, and maybe even one of the other charter boats to kill later on.

THAT’S FISHING!

Let’s look at the numbers.
We were on the water at 09:30ish (+/- half an hour) and pulled the lines in at about 18:00 each day. We caught 6 fish in about 32hours trolling. That’s 1 fish for every 5 hours and 20 minutes – and that includes the fish at the very last gasp that was foul hooked (although it had eaten the bait and the hook had moved during the fight - scratch on cheek proved that too). Now that is slow fishing and five of those six fish were not of our target species (blues/yft). In my opinion, we were very unlucky indeed. On another trip with the same opportunities, we could have had a boat-full of HUGE YFT’s, about half a dozen blues including a 500lber, a big wahoo (which we lost) and those three nice dorado. Unfortunately that didn’t happen and I recorded my first total skunking for a day in the blue-water and nearly did two in a row.

It seems to me that the locals (all types of fishermen) do not really fish the La Guaira Bank any more if they can avoid it. They seem to fish off the powerplant which discharges warm water (as well as the large plume of dark grey smoke into the sky – pretty much the first thing you see as you fly into Venezuela). This warm water from the plant seems to have concentrated the bait and therefore the predators into that small area. Many operators are unwilling to burn fuel looking elsewhere for fish (not ours I’m pleased to say). However, every night these fish come under incredible pressure from local long-liners and even gill-netters. Yes, I said gill-netters (thunder crack sound effect). As we fished so late, we saw these boats heading out at dusk. You could count around 20 with your own eyes each night, so I don’t know what the total number fishing each night is, but it’s high. I dread to think how many marlin must be killed each day/night there. I heard stories from local charter operators and other fishermen about the local fish market having huge numbers of marlin and sailfish for sale. I did not have time in my remaining schedule to visit and photograph it for myself though. I am not even sure if I would dare after finding out about the way the fishing is run. I don’t know how so many illegal boats are operating in such a small area so blatantly, but it is a real worry for the future of that fishery and any other fisheries on the migration route of these same marlin.

To add to this sorry tale, I saw several marlin and at least one sailfish killed by other charter boats over the four days. It seems to me that most boats kill their catch and sell it and almost no-one uses circle hooks.

Would I recommend Venezuela as a holiday destination? Definitely. Los Llanos, Amazonas (peacock bass fishing) and the Andes are all great. Much of the northern coast is a total dump in my opinion. Many of the areas destroyed by the ’99 floods have not been rebuilt at all and many areas were affected again by the recent rains (early 2005). - As Phil said in his recent report.

Would I recommend Venezuela as a fishing destination? Well, the crew of my boat were the hardest working I have fished with (six countries) and delivered the goods in the end despite terrible luck. There is great potential in Venezuela, but if the culture doesn’t change and/or action isn’t taken to conserve those marlin, Venezuela’s reputation as a dream fishing destination may suffer serious damage. The seas in March were between 5 and 8 feet each day of our trip. Some people would say that’s "not rough" and I got through without any sickness pills etc and didn't feel bad. However, I was glad of the 53’ boat and would not have wanted to be out in some of the smaller boats I saw being bashed around a couple of days. People who are suseptible to sea-sickness or like to drink a lot, may well have struggled. I think Venezuela still offers a great place to get your first blue or as destination for light tackle marlin fishing/fly fishing.

I would definitely go back and give Venezuela another chance. However, for me to go back a third time the fishing would have to be better next time. The northern coast is just not a nice enough place to go for average fishing.

My trip was booked through Rick Alvarez at Fishquest and he did a great job. The boat was the Courtesan Too a 53’ Hatteras and it was fine. It’s a bit long in the tooth but makes a good fishing platform. The tackle was satisfactory, some sticky rollers and some hooks could have been slightly sharper but nothing major. The bait was ok, but needs to be brought in from some distance away because the mud-slides have covered the bottom with silt and there are very few mullet/ballyhoo left in the area of the ************************s. In fact, flying-fish made our most successful bait. The crew were the hardest working I’ve seen in terms of the hours they put in, and they were pretty good technically. The skipper was excellent and I felt for him. He couldn’t have worked any harder for us and I’m sure our bad luck hurt him as much as it did me. A pleasant, polite and interesting guy too. I learnt a lot from Capt Hiram. He could use circle hooks though. ;)
The hotel was nice (hotel Eduards) but the staff were the worst of any hotel I have stayed at anywhere in the world (hotels of any standard including huts in the jungle in Thailand and even the indigenous villagers at the jungle camps in Amazonas). The hotel staff failed to organise the transfer from the airport, failed to get us back to the airport on the last day, were slow and inefficient generally and in fact seemed really quite rude. That is true of all staff from receptionists, to waiters, maids and so on. Service at meals was non-existent. Laundry was almost impossible to get done and sometimes no clean towels were provided. Whilst none of this really bothers me, my fishing buddy likes snappy service and felt they should not claim to be a 4* hotel with service like that. If you need/insist on polite or efficient service, look elsewhere. As I said, the rooms and hotel in general were in good repair and really quite pleasant. Having knocked the staff, they may for all I know be excellent in relation to the other hotels in the area, but it was certainly the worst run hotel I can imagine – so I doubt it. Some things were really just plain weird, like when one of us ordered ravioli and they took 25 minutes just to come back and say that they didn’t even have it! We than had to reorder and wait another 40 mins for the food. When it rains, it pours! ;)

To sum up Venezuela: Beautiful place being rapidly destroyed for minerals and oil. The fishing has good potential but major problems with illegal long-liners are not helping. Many local charter boats kill marlin too. I don’t believe the fishery can support the pressure and that may well explain the lacklustre reports on this thread. Everyone I spoke to in Venezuela thought so too.

I hope this helps anyone thinking of a trip to Venezuela. Please post your future results and opinions here as a service to your fellow anglers.

Nick_Fuegi

03-27-2005, 05:00 PM

We fished from beyond the North East corner of the bank right down to a couple of miles West of the power plant. YFT's were out on the edge of the bank, but all but one marlin (that we saw) were off the power plant. Up to 24 boats (weekend) working the area off the power plant for about 10 fish between them over two days. Only saw a couple of other boats out on the bank. Every day we ended up off the power plant as there was nothing better going on elsewhere and we couldn't find the YFT's/get them to bite.

All the longliners seem to head out to the powerplant area too, but they'd probably show up wherever the fleet was finding fish.

There were fish there (off the powerplant) although no concentrated bait was showing on the surface. We saw a few flying fish and marlin on the surface and a few boats hooked/landed billfish.

Certainly, the marlin were not crazy for our baits, teasers, or plastics. Not sure whether that means they're full, shy, or just aren't feeding though! Doh! Can't even be sure whether they were deep, or just being lazy on the surface.

We tried trolling lures, baits, baits with skirts, we tried faster, slower, deeper etc, with lots of teasers, without lots of teasers (in case they were scaring the fish - big teasers and small fish) etc.

Didn't try for swords as it was lumpy and we hadn't caught any marlin/yft. The skipper was willing to do it though and on reflection we probably should have tried it on the afternoon of day three.

Anonymous

03-28-2005, 05:00 PM

Nick,

Good report. Sorry the fishing was not very good. Next time you go, I bet that you will catch alot. The fish are there most of the time.

I have seen the long lines that local fisherman put out. You have to dodge and weave their nets on the way in and out.We released a good blue marlin there at the Power Plant 2 years ago. I have not seen anyone kill a billfish there(other than a swordfish), but I am sure that it happens.I do no think that billfish conservation is high on Hugo Chavez'priorities.Last time I checked he was buying 100,000 AK-47's and having Castro over for some gin and juice.

Imagine how many boats and fisherman would be fishing in Venezuela, if there was a Four Seasons Hotel, 4 golf courses and a Hooters restaurant. It would be scary. I am glad there is not, but I will hold my breath...it might be on the way. There are already enough boats and plenty of very good local fisherman.

I am headed down there at the end of next month for the La Guaira Shootout/Solera Open. Hopefully the marlin will show up. Rick has had alot of success with his tournament there. I will post a report here when I get back.

Mid

Anonymous

03-28-2005, 05:00 PM

mid,
ther is a hooters and i might add the waitress staff is looking incredible! ther are golf clubs, two of which are world class, and as far as a four seasons hotel, i am not sure but caracas has many excellent five star hotels. the long liners and drift-net fisherman are always a concern, however there fishing presure around the la guaria bank are minimal. you obiously never have fished in brasil, panama or perhaps costa rica. As far as chavez, he is a jack-ass but for our sake the politics and fishing do not mix at all. you are correct about the few boats. that is a bonous

Warren_Brantley

03-28-2005, 05:00 PM

OK, for those who are not happy with Venezuela here is an alternative place to fish. Plenty of 5 star hotels, you do not have to learn Spanish, and I've heard the baits and gear are top notch. I am sure that Hooters, golf clubs and Marguritavilles abound. I bet you don't even have to worry about drinking the water!

February reports from the "Hawaii Fishing News" (April 2005, Volume 31, Number 3) for one area note: "Fifty-five blues were hooked (they mean caught), and 34 were tagged and released," continuing "a total of 101 spearfish were caught, and 40 were released," (rest made it on the coals)and "there were a lot of striped marlin: 62 were weighed in, and 36 were released." That is under the "kona Seawatch" page 35; just got it in the mail yesterday. It's Kona of course. Oh, by the way, like Venezuela, and some other places, they do eat some of the billfish. Spearfish apparently are highly rated barbecue. (Shame on me but I'd like to taste one.)

There are so many places to go billfi-$$-hing that if one place is offensive to the senses one does not have to go back. I for one am looking forward to Kona (the above report) for a week plus at the end of May. And I will be back in Venezuela for two weeks in October; maybe longer. I just love billfishing; use local captains and boats; minimize any emotions regarding inconveniences; and try to optimize my experience. Oh, I've gone a day without getting a billfish too. Didn't kill me. That's fishing. Went right back after them the next day.

I think some folks have lost the sense of adventure that originally was an integral part of our fine sport. Just some thoughts. If you do not like one place, there is a whole world to pick from; fly over and try a different fishery. The world is dynamic and the conveniences of one era may not exist a few months or years later (look at Thailand right now). I personally would like to be offshore trolling Placer de la Guaira in the morning. Tight lines and screaming reels. WB

pedro_salazar

03-28-2005, 05:00 PM

warren brantley,

your input is very deep however your world fishing ventures seem shallow. you need not look any further than venezuela. simply, it is the best in the world. period. however "variety is the spice of life." that is your choice. the topic on this fourm subject is after all Venezuela. (not hawaii)

Anonymous

03-29-2005, 05:00 PM

Anonymous,

Thanks for your input. Sorry I missed the Hooters Restaurant and golf courses. I was busy catching marlin out of Portofino for the 6th year in a row.I travel to Venezuela to fish, not to be pampered in some nice hotel with spa treatments and a golf range.I can fly to Europe or Mexico to have that in a skinny minute with alot less hassles. As for golf courses, I have not played in Venezuela. I am a member a 5 champion courses in the US, which I play frequently.I prefer to travel with fishing rods and surfboards, instead of golf clubs. As for Costa Rica, I just got back for the 8th year in a row.The fishing is great in Costa Rica, the surfing is better, and most of the houses are not surrounded in razor wire, padlocks and chains. Like Columbia, Costa Rica and Venezuela they all have long line problems.That is common knowledge and which has been reiterated time and time again. I will be fishing in Venezuela twice this year, and I plan on going back every year, because it is the best billifish fishery in the world as far as I am concerned. My intent was to not be critical of Venezuela. I was just stating the fact, that unlike many other emerging countries in other parts of the world, Venezuela does not have alot of ************************/Resorts that meet the high expectations of traveling westerners.As soon as those amnenities become readily available, there will be a huge surge in fisherman to Venezuela. I believe that alot of people would agree with me.Neverless, it will not deter me from continuing to go.

Mid

Nick_Fuegi

03-29-2005, 05:00 PM

Let's start another thread for Hawaiian fishing and another for best golf courses and accommodation.

This thread is about Venezuela. It's fishing, culture etc.

I didn't want to start an advertorial for other areas, or areas with great hotels/golf courses. All that was happening here was a report of my findings from one trip to Venezuela.

If everyone that goes to Venezuela posts here, everyone that goes to Hawaii posts on their own thread and everyone that plays golf posts on a golf thread, people can visit whichever thread interests them and learn from it.

That way we will end up with a resource that helps people get into a sport that is in decline.

I suppose it depends how blatently self promoting the Hawaiian thread is. Hawaii is a perfect example of why billfish need to be conserved in Venezuela... Fished out.

Nick

Andrew

03-30-2005, 05:00 PM

Gentlemen,
It is my understanding as a result of recent conversations with Rick Alvarez, that there is a strong movement at the state level (the State of Vargas where La Guaira is located) to declare the La Guaira Bank and surrounding areas a National Park, where all commercial fishing would be banned. The Governor of Vargas and the Mayor of Vargas have both been presented with translated copies of the economic impact studies conducted by Texas A & M University for Puerto Rico, Mexico and Costa Rica, and with the help of some influential media people, the National Park iea may be brought to the legislature before year's end.
Venezuela has a number of "protected" National Parks throughout its territory, so the concept is not new.
Let's hope that the group promoting this idea follows through until the area is declared and ultimately protected.
Andrew

enzo

03-31-2005, 05:00 PM

C'MON GUYS!!!! LESS TALKING - MORE FISHING!!!! THAT'S WHAT ALL IS ABOUT. WE, THE LOCALS, ARE VERY CONCERN AND APPRECIATE YOUR COMMENTS OF THE GOOD AND BADS OF OUR COUNTRY, BUT THE ONLY WAY TO FIND IT OUT IS BEING HERE. HEY!!! THERE ARE FOLKS THAT ONLY CONCENTRATE IN FISHING AS THEIR PRIMARY GOAL AND COMMODITIES AND SURROUNDINGS ARE SECOND WHEN CHOOSING THEIR FISHING DESTINATION. WE ARE AWARE THAT THINGS GOT MESSED UP SINCE THE LANDSLIDES AND THAT THE GILLNETTERS PRESSURE OVER THE STOCKS ARE DECREASING NUMBERS ON THE SPORTIG CATCH BUT AS PER THE COMPARISON WITH HAWAII AND THE ISSUE OF THE GOLF COURSES, ETC.. ETC.. WE SHOULD SAY THAT OUR COUNTRY HAS LOT TO OFFER TO VISITORS AND THAT AS WELL AS OTHER COUNTRIES HAS GOOD ACCOMODATIONS WITH BAD SERVICE - GREAT SIGHTSEEN BUT LACK OF PROPPER FACILITIES TO RECREATE ON THE SPARE TIME - ETC.. ETC..
MY FINAL WORD ON THIS ISSUE IS>

IF YOU BELIEVE IN THE NUMBERS AND EXPERIENCES TOLD OVER THE YEARS, YOU STILL HAVE LA GUAIRA - VENEZUELA AS ONE OF THE TOP 5 DESTINATIONS "FOR FISHING" IN THE WORLD. PERIOD!!
SO GET YR STUFF READY, LEARN SOME MORE WITH OTHERS WHO "FISHED" HERE BEFORE, COME DOWN AND "FISH".. THEN YOU WILL DRAW YR CONCLUSIONS WHEN RETURNING HOME AND YOU CAN COMPARE WITH OTHER "FISHING DESTINATIONS" YOU'VE MIGHT VISITED IN THE PAST. THEN-AND-ONLY THEN, YOU'LL BE ABLE TO SAY (FISHINGWISE) IF WHAT VENEZUELA HAS TO OFFER ISN'T WHAT YOU EXPECTED OR NOT. UNTIL THEN: JUST TALK!

Wade_McArthur

03-31-2005, 05:00 PM

Well . . .
I'm going back to Venezuela on October 23 to fish 5 days. I requested the GIGI IV and specifically asked for Gustavo and Cesar as the crew, exactly the same way we did it last time. I am confident that fishing will be as good as last time, and hopefully better.

Wade

Alan_Brightman

04-05-2005, 06:00 PM

Fished LaGuaira 1-4 April 2005, booked trip with B&B, stayed at Portofino Resort, fished on the Big Y, Great trip, great fishing (Marlin, Dorado, tuna) great food, clean rooms, great capt and crew. It was our first time and meet and exceeded all expectations.

Capt._Hioram_Concepcion

04-05-2005, 06:00 PM

I am very sorry you had a terrible experience in Venezuela.I don't know who you went with but It sure wasn't on the "Courtesan Too". "Nick thanks for the complements" I have had the good fortune to fish in many of the worlds best places. Venezulea is better than most evan on a bad day.Politics aside Venezuela is the best!.Yes they are killing alot of fish down here Charter boats included. But if they have to choose between eating marlin and starving you make the choice. We on the Courtesan Too do not kill billfish. Because I do not depend on my income from charters I work all over as the owner of VIP YACHT SERVICES. thats how the Courtesan Too stays in Venezuela.You want to save more Billfish come down and charter boats here. lets prove they are worth more alive and released than back at the dock.
Fishing report April 1,2&4Raised 11 BLue Marlin,9 Whites, 6 Sailfish.Released 1 Blue,2 Whites and caught serveral nice Dorado.
Note:saw over 30 Billfish near 54/10 north and west of the La Gauira Bank.the Bait ball was about 3-5 acers and 150' deep. Fishing should improve on the dark side of the moon.
tight lines and keep the faith.
from Capt. Hiram Concepcion

Fernando_A_Scull

04-05-2005, 06:00 PM

As a Venezuelan educated in the states and in London, and owner of a sportfishing boat in Caraballeda have read comments with disbelief...in summary, yes Venezuela suffered landslides and is recovering, but the fishing is 80% of the time great !!! This guys just a bad day, could happen anywhere. My captain is Gustavo Urbina, and he sometimes goes out on charters with mate CESAR,on other boats as I don´t rent, call them both and you´ll have a good time, Gustavo´s mobile is + 58 414 240 60 85, speaks spanish...or e-mail me for advice...scullfa@willis.com

D._Beeckman

04-06-2005, 06:00 PM

We fished Venezuela in March of this year and I would echo some of what is said on this board.
Macuto is certainly not a place for those who want to run around after a day of fishing sampling the local flavor because of the bad luck that area has had over the past several years. Still I see signs of life returning to the area and maybe someday.... But again what is the real reason to go to the area in the first place? Fishing of course!
We were set up by South fishing and Henry Miller did a pretty good job although he can be slow in communicating. We stayed at the Mango ************************ and fished on the Big Y captained by Desi Zenar. We fished three days- 2 consecutive days a day off another day and one more day off. The first day was a tuna fest as we caught 4 from 80lb to 200lb yellow fins. We lost three including a monster at the end of the day that we fought for 45 min before it snapped the steel leader and slipped away. When we got back to the ************************ the dock had another 10 pretty hefty yellow fins caught by Bubba Carters boat. The second day was a bit slow as we pulled in another two large yellow fin. We watched as Bubba Carter's people hooked into a blue marlin and hoped for more luck with the bills but the water was pretty green from the previous weeks rains and mud slides and the Marlin just were not biting. Our third day saw little luck-a small sail and another yellow fin (chilled on the boat for cutting into the best sushi I had ever tasted). Desi was never shy about using gas as he would go full throttle to any place he thought might find fish. The crew of the big Y were excellent. Westy, the first mate had recently arrived from his home in St Thomas to fish with Desi. Our second mate, a local that we only knew as "winne the pooh" was a tireless worker never sitting down, always ready. We all agreed that we would return to Venezuela to fish. I would say that one of the best elements of the trip was the experience at the Mango ************************. We were cared for by all as if we were royalty. The meals (included) were top notch and eating was a true communal occurrence where we could talk fishing and whatever with the other guests and crews whose fishing tales and stories in general were as entertaining a time as I had ever had. The food would come as long as you were willing to eat it and after dinner you could sit and read, check your email on the house computer or best of all wander down to the dock and sit with the crews and guests and listen to even more stories, smoke a cigar and imbibe in a bit of the local rum and beer (Bubba Carter-if you ever get out of the fishing business and want your own stand up comic show I'm sure you can easily get it-thanks for all the laughs). Roberto and crew at the Mango are the best! Thanks luis for providing this special place. Our off days were spend doing a bit of sight seeing and Jon (of JonJac services) will get you any where you want to go with complete competence. All and all, a darn good time was had. I would only caution that you should book with a competent service like South fishing or Rick Alvarez when going the first time. Try to book into the Mango ************************ and you will not be disappointed. Once you are there you will be able to talk directly with the captains and crews and find out what's what and if you go again, as we will, you can make direct plans.

Todd

04-07-2005, 06:00 PM

Do you allow fly fisherman on your charters? If so, what's the best way to contact you? If not, can you recommend a boat? Thanks

Capt._Hioram_Concepcion

04-07-2005, 06:00 PM

you can contact me to Charter the Coutesan TOO via email or book through Rick Alverez and Fish Quest.
Note : I do not accept booking through SOUTH FISHING any longer
Tight Lines and Keep the Faith
Capt. HiramConcepcion

enzo

04-10-2005, 06:00 PM

Hi, we are back!
Over this weekend, Playa Grande Yachting Club held it's Annual Blue Marlin Tournament. On Sat 9th, only 4 blues were released but among the 12 boats in it saw pretty numbers of them but "sancochos" and missed were the common factor. Tuna was present too, which gave fishermen lots to worry about since most of them were fishing with 20's and 30's lbs lines and the fish were in the range of 150 to 200 lbs. On Sun 10th. things got very slow in the morning until the feeding tuna and porpoises worked over the marling fishing grounds. Some boats had tuna strikes, only to land one that topped the scale at 205 lbs (on the TEASER on 50 lbs test line). Eventhough only 4 blues were released that day, great numbers were seen on the feeding pod mixed with sails and whites. The water conditions were great for tuna but sloppy for marling since it is still greenish and in some areas very lurky. Hope with this oncomming moon change will improve the biting for the SOLERA OPEN!
Until then, keep lines tight!
for more info pls drop us a line to:
tropicalpleasure@hotmail.com

viva_venezuela

04-26-2005, 06:00 PM

viva venezuela!

BLADE

05-01-2005, 06:00 PM

I JUST GOT BACK FROM VENEZUELA, I HAD A GOOD TIME, NOT LOTS TO DO, BUT FISH.
THATS ALL YOU WHAT TO GO FOR ANYWAYS, THE FISHING. HAD SOME BLUES COME UP 6 A DAY AT THE LEAST, NOT TO BAD, RELEASED 3 TO 4 DAILY.

middleton_rutledge

05-01-2005, 06:00 PM

Just got back from 6 days in Venezuela.The fishing was extremely slow for the La Guaira/Solera Shootout(April 25-May 1)this year. 20 boats released 49 billfish in 3 days of fishing. I believe there were 25 blues, 20 sails and 4 whites give or take a few fish. Joropo won with 3 blues and 1 sail. Four Seasons came in 2nd and Another Weekend was 3rd. The bite just never materialized even though the weather was beautiful. As usual Rick Alavarez put on a very well organized tournament and everyone had a great time even though the fish would not cooperate.I am looking forward to going back in the fall. Hope the fishing picks up on the next trip.

Linwood

05-12-2005, 06:00 PM

Good to hear the good fishing reports coming out of Venezuela.The best thing anyone can do when visiting abroad is to be sober minded:Not drunk enough to lose your judgement;someone is always willing to take advantage of a drunkard.Rumor has it that the new regime is not going to take over all private enterprise anyway.Like the damage from the recent hurricane,you might not be able to tell anything has happened within a couple of years.TIGHT LINES.

Rick_Alvarez

05-30-2005, 06:00 PM

Don’t forget—coming up in just a few short months is the all-release VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL SUPER SLAM being held In La Guaira September 21-25, 2005. This event is also a qualifying event for the Rolex/IGFA Tournament of Champions. Teams have already started to register and book charter boats. Visit www.intlbillfishtourns.com for registration information or call our offices:
Miami: 305-213-5521, fax 305-471-9643
Venezuela 58-212-951-6725, fax 58-212- 951-5706.

If you’re interested in observing call Michelle Zelones at 561-310-FISH (3474) or email bluefin1@adelphia.net.

For charter boat, hotel and airfare information contact FishQuest Sportfishing Adventures toll free in the U.S. 888-891-FISH (3474), www.fishquest.com.

Mike

06-02-2005, 06:00 PM

Just go, You will love it!! Food, people, fishing ect.. I have been all over the world and day in and day out Venezuela is in the top. If you have not had bad days fishing then you are one lucky son of a gun!! I heard Jimmy Grant is bringing a boat there this summer. I have always done well with him. I heard was going to be at Mango ************************.

Don_Bohannon

06-06-2005, 06:00 PM

Exotic outdoor adventures is now back in business. The casa Margullia has been remodeled and we will depart from the dock at casa Marguillia. Things have improved in the area and much more is coming.

Exotic_Outdoor_Adventures

06-06-2005, 06:00 PM

If you want good boats, service use us to book your trip. over 10 years in Venezuela. We know the boats and no one beats our host Elias

Rick_Alvarez

07-26-2005, 06:00 PM

Greetings everybody,
Only two months to go before the VENEZUELAN INTERNATIONAL SUPER SLAM, and things are starting to shape up. Lots of visiting boats are scheduled to arrive from the U.S., Puerto Rico and Aruba to participate in the tournament, a good number of charter boats have already been booked by visiting teams for the event, add to that the usual contingent of 10 or 12 local private boats, and we should have a very well attended tournament.
To make it easy for you to register you can register online at our website www.intlbillfishtourns.com.
We can still use a few more observers, so if you’re up to the task please contact Observer Coordinator, Michelle Zelones, at bluefin@usa.com, or call her at 561 310-3473.

We look forward to the pleasure of your company at the Super Slam. Good Fishing,

Rick Alvarez

Warren_Brantley

08-01-2005, 06:00 PM

I've been in touch a few times each week with Capt. Handelman and he reports the sword bite has been good with one charter this past Friday catching three swords, along with a sailfish. The prior day that same charter had two white marlin and some dorado. (These are the same fellows who caught the 835 pound black marlin off Puntal Sal, Peru in April.) The blue marlin bite is slow; typical for this time of the year.

There will be some notable changes for available slips and local charters at Portofino around the area of the Caraballeda Golf and Yacht Club. The government has sold/leased the Public ************************ along with the adjacent Macuta Sheraton (deserted since the time of the 1999 Flood). Boats at the Public ************************ have to be moved to other locations by mid-month. Upgrades in the ************************, road and the hotel are eagerly anticipated. German investors had been expressed interest in the property earlier this year but as of now I do not know who purchased the ************************, waterfront and hotel; or their plans.

Transportation to and from local hotels and the airport continues uninterrupted. The hurricanes which skirted the area brought wind but no rain or mud slides. No new precautions are noted for the highway leading to the Caraballeda/Portofino/Macuto areas; although the low road to Port Azul was closed earlier due to a mud slide.

Mr. West's extended waterfront property across from the Yacht Club reportedly has a new owner, name unknown. This has not been confirmed as final. If developed this could result in not only in refurbished condominiums but 300 plus meters of boat slips if so developed. This would be a welcomed addition to visiting fisherman or those displaced by the closing of the Public ************************.

Long line boats are still noted in front of the Caracas Airport in the prime fishing areas for marlin. These lines kill everything. Net boats continue to be a profound problem further offshore; harvesting on average 240 marlin a night; killing 1500 marlin in a period of 1-2 nights during late March. One day it is hoped that Venezuela, like Panama, and other countries will ban all net boats.

The tuna bite has subsided, just after a massive yellowfin was caught on GIGI-IV (which took 6 hours to fight in succesfully). This was followed by large schools of dorado, with the sail bite remaining strong, the white marlin bite remaining steady (1-2 a day caught per boat), and the blue bite slow as one would expect in July.

With all this said, the area still has some of the premier marlin fishing waters in the Atlantic with an October white marlin bite that is unsurpassed. And the country still has issues, though these do not diminish the catches of those of us who venture there. Tight lines. WGB

Warren_Brantley

09-15-2005, 06:00 PM

Reports from friends in Venezuela have noted a more robust than normal blue marlin catch for the past month. Following large schools of bonitas have been yellowfin tuna and the blues. A catch this past week on "Lady Farah" resulted in a 660# blue caught on a 50 Wide Penn by the boat's owner Lu. (He lost a possible grander later in the week when the line parted.) Not since the mid 1990s, when an 1109 pound blue was caught on "Diablo" (after 5 hours), have the bigger blues been so abundant.

Two fellows on "GiGi-IV" spent 5 hours successfully fighting a 240 pound yellowfin on a 50 Wide. So with bigger fish mixed in with the smaller blues and whites we will be prepared. On September 29th we are breaking out the 80 Wides for our 12 days of offshore pursuits.

The bite on sails, whites and swords has been steady with no changes in the bite pattern or locations over La Guaira Banks. "Gigi IV" has had at least one grand slam this month. There also has been one day where four swords were caught. Down here we do it "day time/deep drop" with dead baits and bright lights at 1500 feet.

With the whites increasing in numbers, in late September through early December, those of us who will be offshore over the next two months should have plenty of opportunities. For those not accustomed to this type of fishery it is not unusual to hook up on two or more white marlin at the same time. And five on at one time is not unheard of. For white marlin, the October La Guaira bite is unsurpassed.

A review of the area shows no new warnings posted by the U.S. or Venezuelan Embassies despite Rev. Pat Roberts remarks. The highway from Caracas Airport to Caraballeda over to the Port Azul Yacht Club remains open. Normal precautions are advised. The weather is within the norm for this time of the year. If going take plenty of sunscreen and powdered Gatorade. Highs are in the mid-90s daily in October and there is hardly any humidity. Seas should be flat to 2 feet, with an afternoon breeze of 5 knots from the East.

So best of luck to those heading South to Portofino, Macuto, Caraballeda, Port Azul and the Caraballeda Yacht Club. And for those of you back in the states and elsewhere......well for a week or so we won't be thinking about you; just a Cuban Cigar, a Spanish speaking crew hunting marlin, before having a Venezuelan beer on the ride to port at sunset. Tight lines. WGB

Wade_McArthur

09-16-2005, 06:00 PM

So best of luck to those heading South to Portofino, Macuto, Caraballeda, Port Azul and the Caraballeda Yacht Club. And for those of you back in the states and elsewhere......well for a week or so we won't be thinking about you; just a Cuban Cigar, a Spanish speaking crew hunting marlin, before having a Venezuelan beer on the ride to port at sunset. Tight lines. WGB

Well spoken Warren. I'll be there a few weeks after you. Tell everyone down there hello for me.

Mike_Mathews

09-18-2005, 06:00 PM

I returned last week from fishing aboard the Joropo for three days. Managed some tuna, four sailfish, a white and a nice blue marlin. The boat crew and the folks from John/Jack(sp?)Tours were great. The people of Venezuala were all courteous and friendly. The only problem I had was the language barrier, and that's my fault. Signed up for a Spanish class Friday. I can't wait to go back next year.

Warren_Brantley

09-18-2005, 06:00 PM

I will be in Venezuela for the next few weeks starting next Wednesday. With my charter folks down there I plan to address the need for translators who speak English. The idea is to have one go on the fishing trip with you. Unlike most of the hot spots for marlin in the world (Cabo for example), hardly a lick of English is spoken. I think it would make the offshore experience more appealing and more productive. I have already e-mailed my contact at the ************************ about this. I will let you know what I do or do not accomplish. Tight lines. WGB

Don_Bohannon

09-20-2005, 06:00 PM

Just wanted to let the readers know that the La Casa Margullia has been remolded and now accepting boats and fishermen. The facilities can be seen by going to www.eoav.com.

Warren_Brantley

09-25-2005, 06:00 PM

As of September 25th at 3:46 PM (with lines in at 5:00 PM) the count stood at 171 billfish for the 26 boats participating in the Venezuela Grand Slam Tournament. This included three boat grand slams. No reported spearfish or swords. (Most of these fellows are after blues, whites and sails). The blue bite continues more robust than usual. And they had the first rain in 3 months yesterday so the weather has cooled off a bit. Tight lines. I'm headed to Caraballeda. WGB

Jeff_"ducttape"_Morrow

10-08-2005, 06:00 PM

I'm chomping at the bit to experience my first trip to Venezuela through Exotic Outdoor Adventures (www.eoav.com). My two fishing buddies have fished with them at least 10 times and have amazing stories of fantastic fishing. I've fished Guatemala for 3 years for Sails on fly and have been very successful. The poverty there is much worst than Venezuela, yet the people are friendly, helpful and kind. I was catching 14 sailfish a day on a 13 weight fly rod and quite frankly didn't care about having 5 star quality service at the hotel---just a clean place to sleep. The prospect of catching a white marlin on a fly rod is (to my way of thinking)is one of the most exciting forms of fishing. I start fishing Oct 26, 2005 and will report back. I bet you I will have some great news! --Jeff "ducttape" Morrow jeff@jeffersonmorrow.com

Wade_McArthur

10-10-2005, 06:00 PM

Have fun down there Jeff, I'll get down there on the evening of the 23rd and will fish 5 days, probably on the GIGI IV but maybe on Diablo.

Mart

10-11-2005, 06:00 PM

Hi there,

In 3 weeks we are going to fish from La Guaira with the Salitre, a 38 betram. Does any one have experience with this boat and its crew? Are the rods and reels reliable or is it better to take my own gear? Is the crew flexible, helpful and friendly?
Do they speak english to some extent?
I like to hear reaction from people who fished with this boat and crew.

grreting,

mart.

Paul_Stritter

10-24-2005, 06:00 PM

Just came back from 4 days fishing in Venezuela on Lady Farah - good boat - 36´Striker, nice crew. Cought 2 blue, 1 white, 2 dorado, 1 wahoo. Lost nice broadbill right at boatside. Everything was arranged by Nani Handelman, very helpful and friendly!

Mart

10-25-2005, 06:00 PM

Dear Paul,

Good to hear you caught some interesting fish and had a lot of strikes. Iám going to fish for 5 days next week from monday till friday. I really like to know what the weather conditions were like when you were fishing. Please inform me!

Jah Greetings,

mart.

Warren_Brantley

10-27-2005, 06:00 PM

Late October weather,

It will be 92 to 95 degree F when you are fishing. No humidity. Partly cloudy to almost no clouds by mid-day. Chance of rain less than 5%. Seas flat to less than 2 feet. Wind 5 to 8 knots from due East may cause a cross chop some days making it a little bouncy; nothing bad. Carry sun screen and take along some powdered Gatordade. Blues seem as common as whites right now. Sails are bunched up about 2 miles offshore feeding on small albacore and bonita, with other sails sporadically spreadout primarily west of the fishing grounds. Swords are hard to find and running smaller than usual with some pup swords being brought up for release.

This is an excellent blue bite for October, the best in years. It's an equal split of rat blues of 100 pounds and those going over 200 pounds. Expect lots of Sancochos from bite offs. Oh, watch out for the male scam artists wearing white shirts and blue pants at the Caracas airport (ask to see a badge if someone approaches you). Delta says they are in cahoots with the police. Military police in the airport have been walking in front of Americans, making them stop, and then stepping to one side. This seems to be specific targeting and is an annoyance. The airport is complete with embarkation and debarkation being very quick. Go catch some bills!!! WGB

Anonymous

10-28-2005, 06:00 PM

The post above is bullshit. This Warren Brantly dude does not know what he is talking about. NOBODY is being harassed at the airport by military personal. All is fine here as it always has been in the past.

Jeff_"ducttape"_Morrow

10-30-2005, 06:00 PM

Just returned to Florida from Venezuela fishing with Exotic Outdoor Adventures (based in Atlanta) expertly run by Elias Dib and Don Bohannon. Three days fishing resulted in 3 white marlin, 1 blue marlin, 4 dolphin, & 1 wahoo. Incredible expert mate named Pedro on "Magic Dolphin" (who had fished St. Thomas, Dominican Republic, etc for years) showed expert skill. We had absolutely no problem at the airport or anywhere else thanks to the expert guidance of (the soon to be famous in fishing circles) ELIS DIB. They are half the price of Southfishing destinations there. Their web site is www.eoav.com -- We received excellent service and excellent fishing. We understand that they are planning a great tournament next March for blues and September for whites. -------Jeff "ducttape" Morrow

Wade_McArthur

11-02-2005, 06:00 PM

I also just returned from Venezuela. A friend and I fished 5 days on Lady Farah and the trip was set up by Nani Handelman. The first three days were great, the last two saw plenty of white, but lots of bite offs. Total tally for 5 days was 2 blues and 4 whites. Couldn't seem to put a hook into a sail but didn't see many either. The swordfhishing is very slow.
As far as the airport, I'll have to agree with Warren on that one, there's nothing dangerous going on just annoying. Stay away from the guys with blue shirts and black pants, and the military guys won't stop you, just flex their muscles a little bit. I was harrassed just a little coming out of the baggage claim area the evening we got there. As far as "anonymous's" claim that no one is being harrassed in the airport, that's baloney. Post your name and position and maybe you'll have some credibility.
Like I said, there's nothing dangerous going on, just annoying in an almost humorous way.

I saw someone mentioned fishing on Magic Dolphin. The mate that works Lady Farah is a brother of the mate on Magic Dolphin. Rafael is on Lady Farah. He has been fishing for 25 years and is quite the captain in his own right. Very knowledgable.

Wade McArthur

Anonymous

11-02-2005, 06:00 PM

Again, as was stated before, no military personal are harassing any gringo fisherman. The guys in the blue shirts are only asking you if you need change for your dollars. they will give you a better rate than the official rate and they are not trying to scam you. They are just trying to make a hustle so they can make a little money. just say no thanks. Venezuela is not Cancun and there is no tourist mentality. Just be polite and mind to yourselves, go fishing, have fun and you will never have any problems.

Mart

11-16-2005, 06:00 PM

Mart

11-16-2005, 06:00 PM

Mart

11-16-2005, 06:00 PM

Hi there fishing amigos,

Stayed in Ole Caribe (was ok). Fished 5 days from monday till friday. We didnot take bananas with us, but our results were very poor. The sea was quite rocky (5 to 6 knots whole week). We fished the banks with 5 other boats (group of 18 fisherman): at average only 1 bill per person for the whole week! Just before we left home we got a phonecall that our boat Salitre had had fire/made watter/was out of business for 4 months. The other boats we fished with did not meet the expectations we were promised and used to. We shared a boat with the 2 of us. Had 10 strikes (3 blues, 4 whites, 2 sails) only released 2. I was very lucky to catch my first blue, it was estimated at 350 pounds, caught it on 30 pounds gear, so no complaining for me after all (because this year I really wanted to catch a blue marlin over 200 pounds after some ashhole american boat had cut through my line while a marlin like that was on in Mexico earlier this year in april).

But my fishmate, who have caught very big marlin all over the world released only one sail. That's a big shame to our opinion for such a good fishing spot as Venezuela. Oh, we caught 2 little barracuda, 2 little tuny and baitfish, but we came for the bills. You do not count strikes from fish that give no sport and which you are not fishing for to my opinion.

Sorry, our boats/captains/deckhands were not as good and skilled as we experienced before. Our first boat lost its site windows by a big wave. So we had to get back early. We changed the last 3 days for a boat that was more heavy (better for the circumstances) but quite old and very slow.

The second week I went on holiday with my lady to the inlands of Venezuela. Canaima, Kavak, Gran Sabana and Bolivar. We had a wonderful time and met very friendly people. Venezuela and most of its people are fantastic!!!

Fishing (from holland with our contacts) and traveling by little aeroplanes were very expensive, but worthwhile. In 2 or 3 years we will be back, but we will arrange things otherwise. For less money, renting for sure the good boats/crews. Some people say 'that's fishing'. We think 'it's all about organization and having reliable professional contacts'.

Mart

11-16-2005, 06:00 PM

Because to our opinion our agent let us down we will not mention the names of boats and people that dissappointed us big time. They only tried to make a living but they were just not as skilled as we are used to. But make sure when you go to have VERY GOOD DECKHANDS. Because hooking well only 2 out of 10 is not so professional to my opinion. 1 to 3 is the normal rate at average I suppose.

We have been travelling around the world and experienced crazy things. In all big cities all around the world you have some fucked up people (what would you do if you can not feed your children or you live without a roof above your head). The fucked up people bother tourists as much as locals (nobody bothered us by the way, but we were careful).

Just shut your windows and doors when driving trough La Guaira and Caracas. And don't go walking alone outside when dark. Don't were juwels, watches, and to much money on you in public. Than you could have bad luck and you could be robbed. This is the same in certain areas in big cities all over the world.

I don't mind military people or police man around. They can save/help you when things should go wrong. And when they see tourist entering the country with big bazooka rodcases offcourse they are curious whats in it.

And people that approach you when you arrive at the airport, what else is new, ofcourse, it is their office! We are from Holland. People who know for sure they can provide us with number 1 boats and crews for acceptable prices for the next time may contact me. Surely, we will come back in the next 3 years or so, but first we go fish other hotspots in the world.

Conclusion: We love Venezuela and its people, we had a very slow fishing week and had some bad luck, though to my opinion it is one of the best spots in the world for catching sail, white and blue in the same period. We will be back.

So long,

Mart.

Capt._Hioram_Concepcion

11-16-2005, 06:00 PM

HI Mark ,sorry you couldn't hook your own fish. I agree with you If your Mates are going to hook fish for there customers they sould do better than 2 for 10. Especialy with all the practice you get Off La Guiara. I'm sure you will have better luck next time.
Please contact me at CaptHiC@aol.com

yo_mamma

11-16-2005, 06:00 PM

If you want something done right, do it yourself.

Warren_Brantley

01-26-2006, 06:00 PM

A Warden (Embassy) Message has been issued to inform persons traveling to and residing in Venezuela that the country’s Ministry of Infrastructure has indefinitely closed the first bridge on the Caracas-La Guaira highway (viaduct collapsed). The highway is the principal link between Caracas and Maiquetia Simon Bolivar International Airport (CCS), as well as between Caracas and the country’s principal seaport, La Guiara.

Due to concerns regarding the safety and security of the alternative routes,(very narrow unlit mountain roads passing through isolated areas) precautions should be taken. {The U.S. Embassy has determined that Embassy employees and their dependents must restrict their time on the roads to daylight hours. Use of official vehicles will also be required.}

Major delays, in excess of two hours, are expected between Caracas and the Maiquetia Simon Bolivar International Airport.

Travelers in and out of Venezuela should consult with their charter agents and/or airlines regarding possible changes in schedules.

For those of you (like me) heading down for the March/April Blue Marlin run this is something we have to take into account. WGB

Capt._Warren_Brantley

01-27-2006, 06:00 PM

UPDATE: And a good one.

The closed road is between the airport and Caracas. The road to LaGuaira is open. With the road problem being the other side of the airport there are fewer locals fishing, coming to Caraballeda, and using Port Azul. All is fine. The blues are averaging 100 kilos, sails and whites are in and yellowfin are thicker than even last year. Sounds like all is normal. WGB

Anonymous

01-29-2006, 06:00 PM

"For less money, renting for sure the good boats/crews"

You're not gonna get more for less, it just doesn't happen. My good friends just returned from the all inclusive Mango ************************ where they spent three days catching four Blues and 13 sails. It's not a cheap trip, but it is far less expensive comparison wise to Bermuda or Dominican Republic.

Anonymous

01-30-2006, 06:00 PM

Once again the post made by Warren Brantly on issues about fishing in Venezuela is BULLSHIT! It is true that the Caracas-La Guaria highway is closed and an alternative route is necessary to go to Caracas. However when visiting anglers come to Venezuela to fish offshore or the interior of the country, the highway situation as NO effect WHAT SO EVER on your trip. The international and national airport is in the coastal town of Maiquetia. All of the ************************s and hotel accomidations along the coast are 100% completly accesable. Again, the bridge situation to Caracas DOES NOT and WILL NOT effect your fishing trip at all.

Two American boats combined this past weekend caught and released TWELVE blue marlins, one white marlin, and fourteen sails. One of the boats had fifteen shots on blues in two days! The other boat raised over thirty sails in two days. One local boat, GUARIMBA, caught on Friday 12 sails and one white marlin. They pulled the hooks on a blue for the grand slam.

Wade_McArthur

01-30-2006, 06:00 PM

Mr. doesn't have a name,

I think you should read Warren's comments again. He clearly stated that the road between the airport and the port is open. Read, "won't affect your fishing trip" And if the main road between La Guaria and Caracas is closed, I have to believe that there are fewer people coming from Caracas on the weekends. So, my question is: Which part of that was "bullshit". Post your name, it will lend more credibility to your statements.
Also, I don't doubt that the fishing is heating up, it's getting to be that time of year.

Thanks for your imput anyway and feel free to e-mail me with any additional questions you may have.

Wade McArthur

Warren_Brantley

01-30-2006, 06:00 PM

Ignore the diatribe - Credible information follows as always.

Repairs on the viaduct should be complete in 27 days according to Capt. Handelman in Caraballeda. The US Embassy website gives precautions for anyone traveling the mountain roads going to or coming from Caracus.

This in NO WAY impedes the traffic flow from CCS to the boats at LaGuaira. Where..... the blue marlin bite is especially good for February. Yellow fin are still thick, sails are thick for this time of the year, and Nani reports this is the second year in a row that the whites (which normally migrate to Brazil) HAVE NOT done so. So there is a fair white marlin bite going on. No word on the sword bite; hopefully it has picked up.

Mr. Lu who owns "Lady Farah" has blown a motor so repairs are underway. No report of other boats in dry dock that are day to day charters. It has been quiet at Port Azul and the Caraballeda ************************ (which means a great time to go billfishing!!).

Delta as per March 2nd will be changing its flight times to anyone who has already booked with them out of Atlanta (ATL); or will be booking. They are charging a $150 fee to change schedules! The flights out of ATL to CCS now leave at midnight and arrive at 5:10 AM instead of the normal evening arrival. Flights on Delta from CCS to ATL will depart late morning. Some of us added days to our March pilgrimage and discovered the changes Saturday.

Credibility (truthfulness).... As one who fishes La Guaira more than 30 days each year I try to provide accurate, unbiased information for those of you who go to this location. Many of us (me too) travel throughout the world to Venezuela, Panama, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Kona, Mexico, Cabo, Fort Lauderdale, the Gulf Coast, etc. year to year pursuing billfish. I and we do catch spearfish, marlin, sails and swordfish. We are experienced and we do not fish JUST ONE PLACE. We also take our families so it is imperative that we stay abreast of annoyances, impediments, dangers or new situations in each location. So I monitor these through my travel, friends, embassies, and our fishing/charter friends living at those locations. We (I and Wade; many others) are experienced and I do not lie. To be fair to MARLIN MAGAZINE I do not advertise the e-mail address of my charter agent. Lots of folks set up charters for La Guaira. I do not set up charters; I fish. I stay at a local ************************ and use Ven boats. You can listen to the truth if you read my updates. Or you can pay attention to emotional expletives. Which in all honesty are amusing.

I am Capt. Warren G. Brantley PhD and I do catch billfish; all over the world!! My kids do and my grandson will soon (Go Tli!!!) Take it for what it's worth.

Simply spending our dollars in the safe pursuit of billfish internationally. Tight lines and screaming reels!!!!! WGB

Jim

02-09-2006, 06:00 PM

seven blue marlin reported , Rompemar in caraballeda. Just what we want!!

bc1

02-21-2006, 06:00 PM

Just wanted to post the trip I took Jan 22nd-29th 2006 to Laguira....We caught 3 Blue Marlin the first day and ended up with over 10 Blues and 4 Sail fish for the week.....The fishing was good for the end of January......what is all this fuss about there not being any fish to catch in Venezuela.......The fishing will only improve over the next weeks and months....and the place was as safe as it has ever been The airport is new and was a snap to clear Customs.....I have a friend with a 60ft custom sportfisher down there if anyone needs a good safe boat to fish on give me a call. Great food at the Cristal Mar restaurant...try the fried Snapper and the shark bites were great.
SF 314-322-4255

Wade_McArthur

02-23-2006, 06:00 PM

I just read on msn that Chavez has suspended or will suspend a lot of the U.S. air service to Venezuela. I have to believe that will negatively impact our ability to get down there. Delta, Continental, and American all fly down there. 2 will cut off completely, the 3rd will be reduced. I hate the fact that the Chavez / Bush pissing match could impact my fishing vacations.

Capt._Warren_Brantley

02-23-2006, 06:00 PM

As of 4:57 PM (my time) the US has posted NO warnings on their website in regards to Venezuela. The US Embassay Site only has posted the warning for the road washed out going to Caracas. Delta has posted no changes other than those implemented 2-3 weeks ago where they fly in at sunrise and back out around 10 or 11:00 AM. Maybe it will hold out until this fine blue marlin run is over. Wonder what "anonymous" has to say......... Regards, WGB

Capt._Warren_Brantley

03-02-2006, 06:00 PM

Venezuela — "Venezuelan authorities have delayed (put off for 30 days) a ban on flights by most U.S. airlines to the South American country until March 30th to allow talks with carriers (Continental, Delta, etc.) on the restrictions."

Note: This was going to go into effect March 1st. So those of us going down for the March Blue Marlin run should have little problem. Too many blues would be nice.............!!!!

Tight lines and screaming reels to all. WGB

Venezuela's National Aviation Institute said in a weekend statement on its Web site that the measure was pushed back for a month after the airlines protested the sudden announcement.

Nick_Fuegi

03-12-2006, 06:00 PM

So? What happened?

No news about this tournament anywhere that I can find. No updates on daily catches...
I've been itching to find out what's been going on. Anyone know the results?

How many boats/fish?

Nick

Capt._Warren_Brantley

03-13-2006, 06:00 PM

Capt._Warren_Brantley

03-13-2006, 06:00 PM

Capt._Warren_Brantley

03-13-2006, 06:00 PM

Nick_Fuegi

03-14-2006, 06:00 PM

Sorry... I'm confused.

Warren, are you directing me to read the travel updates?

I'm aware of the viaduct and flight restrictions (and the suspension thereof). - Great info BTW - nice work.

However, I'm not sure if/how this affected the tournament. In theory, if the flights are running and the roads are open in the appropriate direction, it shouldn't have...

Am I missing something here? Are there other travel updates I've not seen? Link?

Otherwise, someone must know the tourney results?
Sorry if I got my wires crossed.

Regards,

Nick

Capt._Warren_Brantley

03-14-2006, 06:00 PM

Nick,
I cannot find the tournament anywhere. I believe it was cancelled.

The travel updates were from the US Travel Registration website but were the normal precautions to take in and around the airport, on roads, with money, etc. mainly information for anyone new going down for the first time. They would not load due to an error; probably too long.

No road problems to the ************************s and I'm arriving Friday for 5 days offshore. The viaduct is still out on the way to Caracas.

A few Ven boats are out of service because the head mechanic got murdered in Caracas 3 weeks ago. So 3 to 5 Ven boats are out of service or stuck in drydock. I heard they were Lady Farah and Marapuchi (sp?) and some others; that is subject to confirmation.

YFT are in with daily catches. Blues are in with daily catches. So the bite looks to be good. I've heard no reports of bad seas, mudslides on the way to Macuto or Port Azul, or other problems. So................

It's time to go fishing!!! WGB

Capt._Hioram_Concepcion

03-14-2006, 06:00 PM

the Tpournament wasn't canceled

17 boats entered
80 fish released 71 blue Marlin
1st. place Release
2nd. place Adenalina
3rd. place Mojito

My Boat (Courtesan Too )stayed at the Dock > my daughter in the hospital so I stayed in the States.
Congadulations to everyone that fished and to the observers..
Capt. Hiram Concepcion
"Courtesan Too" 53' Hatteras

Capt._Hioram_Concepcion

03-14-2006, 06:00 PM

Capt._Warren_Brantley

03-14-2006, 06:00 PM

Appreicate the tournament results. The bite looks to have been quite good. Best of luck with your daughter's hospitalization; may it all turn out just fine. Regards, WGB

Nick_Fuegi

03-14-2006, 06:00 PM

Thanks HiC!
Glad it wasn't cancelled. Was starting to think it must have been. Was it four days fishing? Did everyone fish every day?

Assuming that's the case, then one blue realeased/boat/day is not bad at all.

It's almost a year to the day since you got me a marlin. Thanks again for that too. Woulda given my left nut for one blue/day on that trip! ;)

Man I miss Venezuela (despite the various problems).

Will be back one day.
Have a great '06.
I hope your daughter recovers asap.
Nick

P.S. Don't know how many anglers have been to Venezuela without also checking out the mountains, Llanos, Amazonas etc. IMO if you don't, you are missing out big-time. Take a rod and 100% deet to Amazonas. Watch out though, A trip there can turn you into a radical environmentalist overnight. (It's that good and it's being destroyed that fast). Enjoy it while it's there!

Nick_Fuegi

03-15-2006, 06:00 PM

Nick_Fuegi

03-15-2006, 06:00 PM

Noted it was a three day event so (before I get flamed;) 1.4 fish/boat/day is even better.

Now we just need someone clever and original to ask which part of the fish the .4 was! lol.

Nick

Mart

03-15-2006, 06:00 PM

Nick, do you want to bet your right nut on that? Hahaha.

Hope the fish is still active when we go there early October. And, Nick is right, besides fishing visit the inlands. Gran Sabana by exemple is an unique site in the world. And the people really welcome you over there. No fussing and fighting, no looting and shooting, no hustling, just beautiful surroundings and peaceful people.

Wish you all Screaming reels (but only if you release them as well)!

anonymous

03-15-2006, 06:00 PM

Again, Warren Brantley s report is BULLSHIT!

Capt._Warren_Brantley

03-16-2006, 06:00 PM

Senorita Anonymous,

Hah!

Your language is rather nasty for a woman. Did anyone every teach you manners and: (1)to tell the truth, (2)cursing is a sign of ignorance and (3) to assume responsibility for your words and actions. Obviously not.

I have no time for such trivialites. I will be offshore the next five days solo fishing in Venezuela for blue marlin. Good day amigos and good luck. WGB

"anonymousita"

03-16-2006, 06:00 PM

When you posted before that you "believed the tournament was cancelled" and you mentioned that "the head mechanic got murdered in Caracas."

Those such statements are completely "hearsay" and have NO credit or foundatuion at all!

In one of your post last year for example you mentioned that a boat named "Diablo" caught a 1109lb blue marlin. Never, ever in Venezuela has there been a 1100lb blue caught. Two fish over one thousand pounds have been harvested by sport fisherman. One by ronnie hamlin in the 80s and one in 94 by dr rubean jean, neither caught abord the "diablo." Also, your longline reports are laughable.

Therefore your reports are bullshit. We are happy that you come here to fish, but please post on your fishing expierences and not on rumors.

We live here and have for many years. You,I believe started coming here in 2004. that really is not important, but please stop posting "bullshit."

"anonymousita"

03-16-2006, 06:00 PM

I want to wish you good luck with the fishing. It has been slow for the last five days. However as you know things here can change very fast.

Mart

03-19-2006, 06:00 PM

@anonymousita

Dear Anonymousita, you say earlier reports about longliners are ‘bullshit. You seem to know what is really going on out there. Please tell us, to your opinion, the true story about the commercial fishing for billfish (netting, longliners, whatever other means in killing billfish for a living) in Venezuela.

Respect to all! (especially the billfish)

marlinhunter2

03-21-2006, 06:00 PM

FYI - The viaduct connector fell down the other day. New construction isn't scheduled until next year, so the alternate route will still be used until then.

When Hugo stops ranting, then I'll pay attention. Otherwise I'll continue to fish in Venezuela with some very nice local folks.

Since the tournament the fish have turned on. Seems whenever there's a tournament the fish find another hobby.

Wade_McArthur

03-24-2006, 06:00 PM

I'll try to get some pictures of the longliners next time I'm in Venezuela and see if I can post them here. I can assure you that they're there.

As far as the big marlin caught on Diablo years ago, I've seen the picture and it certainly appears to be true. I also can't figure out why the captain would have lied to me about it.

Anonymous: Is your grasp of the english language poor and you don't know how to communicate any other way than using the word "bulls**t" on this forum? If so, e-mail me and I would be more than happy to help you express yourself differently. That would keep the forum more professional and more educational. Traditionally, the use of curse words in everyday conversation is a sign of ignorance. Let me know if you would like my help in learning the language better.

Wade McArthur

Free_money_for_clever_charte

03-27-2006, 05:00 PM

Free_money_for_clever_charte

03-27-2006, 05:00 PM

Free_money_for_clever_charte

03-27-2006, 05:00 PM

damn_internal_server_errors!

03-27-2006, 05:00 PM

damn_internal_server_errors!

03-27-2006, 05:00 PM

In relation to a few recent posts.

1: I've seen a LOT of longliners going out each night from Carabelleda. I've aso seen a lot of recreational boats (the majority) killing their billfish. I saw about a dozen billfish gaffed and only one released. This might not be the story in tournaments, but the rest of the time I expect it is the way things are. Unless I witnessed some freak behaviour by everyone fishing the week I was there last - unlikely!

2: Check out http://www.venezuelamarlinsafari.com.ve/facts.htm

Shows Diablo's grander caught by "the Binder's".

I've spoken to Capt Handelmann of the Diablo and was put off fishing with him partly by a lack of Spanish on my part and English on his part. Partly by his claims of daily YFT catches - all of which seemed to be world record size (according to the figures provided in emails). I thought that it just couldn't be true - I'm used to avoiding operators that want to treat me like a tourist.
Having said that, the first day I spent on the water in Venezuela with my chosen operator, I saw a lot of jumbo YFTs jumping (300lb) and hooked one. It pulled the hook after stripping a lot line off an 80W in seconds on its first run. So the big YFT were there after all. Maybe we are too suspicious sometimes. Possibly as a result of dealing with two-faced business partners all day at work!

damn_internal_server_errors!

03-27-2006, 05:00 PM

Having said THAT. Big game anglers often have good reason to be suspicious. Sadly, many charter operators treat their clients like morons. Once bitten twice shy is the cliche. It's no wonder that when people pay thousands of dollars for a trip; they compare what they get pretty darn closely with what they were told they were paying for. You could say it's another case of a few bad apples souring the barrel. But, once rot has caught hold it is near impossible to remove the bad apples and save the barrel. There are a lot of false promises in fishing. Particularly when dream fish are concerned.
If you consider that there are less and less fish and the same number of operators looking for a share of a dwindling market with a few individuals monopolising the bookings, maybe things need a shake-up?
The industry needs to stop killing the fish, actually start tagging them, do everything possible to stop illegal commercials, avoid lying to clients and set up websites that allow direct contact. All this is common sense for the top operators, but there are probably a lot of operators that might find a big difference between these ideas and how they actually run their business.
Most importantly, every operator needs their OWN website in Spanish AND English with a callendar showing available dates, rates and special deals! They also need a map showing EXACTLY where the accommodation is in relation to the ************************ AND the "office". Having to deal with a middleman is also complete and utter crap. Increasingly so as the years pass. It's 2006! What excuse is there for a client not being able to securely book a few days fishing direct with the operator online in five minutes without paying a parasite middleman?!
Nobody can claim that having their own websire would mean spending time turning away business. That's down to design. If you are booked up, it can say so on the home-page AND on the callendar AND when someone tries to make a booking enquiry. Customers should be able to contact operators directly to ask any questions and to check you are still there before they pay their several thousand dollars. Considering the sums involved and modern tech, there is no excuse for not getting back to the client PDQ yet in my experience, this doesn't happen. How come automated out of office reply emails saying when and who'll be in touch don't work for charter operators that expect to be paid $5k+/contract but an unemployed student can set them up on their free hotmail account no problem?! Time for fishing to work a little smarter. Using middlemen is not smart. They simply take a cut, inflating the price and doing nothing that a very basic website couldn't do 100x better. Killing billfish is not smart as it (rightly) galvanises opinion against sport-fishing in general. Having clients watch illegal longliners going out every night is not smart as the clients wonder whether to visit a place which allows this and support its economy at all. Lying to clients is just plain stupid in any business.
All my best fishing trips around the world in price AND catch-rate have been booked direct with the operator.
Why can't all fishing operations in Venezuela have websites just like this: http://www.mrmarlin.com/index.htm ?
The cost would be far less than the price of one charter! It's not a case of "Can't afford to do it". It's a case of can't afford NOT to do it!
Even that site could be better still. If I type "Marlin fishing charter +venezuela book online" into google, I want to see some of your websites!
Try that search on google and see why people struggle to come fishing. Pretend you're a potential new customer from overseas with $15k for marlin fishing burning a hole in your pocket. You can't spend it in Venezuela if you try! If you could, you'd be treated to the sight of longliners and rec boats killing billfish...
Rant over! ;)

Sport_Participant

03-28-2006, 05:00 PM

BRAVO!!!!
TRUE!!!!!
ACCURATE!!!!!
THANK YOU!!!!!!!

Mart

03-28-2006, 05:00 PM

Very true words. I do my bookings via the internet as well and hate heaven stories while the fishing is very slow. So start being fair about what a fisherman can expect. It is about the average catches, not the once in a lifetime catch.

I am the director/owner of an advertising agency which designs and builds websites. We would like it very much to build websites for the gaming industry. I like the fishing and sea life a lot, we make our own very professional pictures (jumping billfish) as well.

You are welcome to approach us for designing/building your handsome and practical website, which is good for your business and in return for the fish as well. We know very well how to design a very effective website for Big Game companies. And we have an open mind for trade off arrangements (designing versus fishing).

So if you are interested, please send us an email. We have our business in Holland, but distance is not the problem.

Nick_Fuegi

03-28-2006, 05:00 PM

Check out new thread: http://www.marlinmag.com/forum.jsp?ID=558167
"Venezuela marlin fishing. Links to Websites"

I also agree with the post about websites. It was really hard work finding info about Venezuela billfishing when I organised my trip. This thread wasn't even around then! The post about websites gave me a great idea...
Let's post all the links we know.

I've started a new thread under "Destinations" entitled "Venezuela marlin fishing. Links to websites" and posted all the active links I know.

Please take a look and post any links you know of. Now it should be a lot easier for people to go fishing in Venezuela! ;)

Also, here's a link about the Viaduct issue.
http://www.conapri.org/english/ArticleDetailIV.asp?articleid=227631&CategoryId2=15277

Nick

Nick_Fuegi

03-29-2006, 05:00 PM

Well, nobody has come up with any more links other than those I posted myself. So I guess that means that if you want to fish Venezuela you have about five options and some of those are out of date.

There must be more?! C'mon! Post 'em!

Nick

Warren_Brantley

03-29-2006, 05:00 PM

I only use Capt. Nani Handelman's charter Service at:
http://www.venezuelamarlinsafari.com.ve/

I have been pleased with accomodations, that he speaks some English and that his kids and mine hang out together when I go down. I do not use the other guys; more than satisfied with Nani. A very colorful person reminiscent of Don Quixote; also has a wireless laptop on DIABLO that I got him and a cell phone where I can call him from the states or my kids from Venezuela. Nani lives on his boat at the Caraballeda Yacht Club and is not an American Charter middle man; although he is a Venezuelan Charter Service. WGB

Wade_McArthur

03-30-2006, 05:00 PM

I've used Nani also. He has several choices in accomodations and he is very interesting guy and he tends to go the extra mile for you, ie: taking you to dinner, showing you some sights in the afternoons, etc.

Warren_Brantley

04-03-2006, 06:00 PM

Warren_Brantley

04-03-2006, 06:00 PM

Warren_Brantley

04-03-2006, 06:00 PM

Airport problems no longer exist at CCS for embarking or debarking. I got through Customs in less than 10 minutes upon arriving and leaving. Airport is complete with some great shops and cafes. The exchange rate is fixed.

The US/Ven airport service on Delta and Continental has been extended through April 25th. I found the security precautions to be no different than those in the states. It appears this will be resolved. By the way Canada Air is flying in.

Many US anglers canceled coming down in March and only about a half dozen or fewer private US boats were at Portofino. But there are plenty of Ven boats available. 'Lady Farah' lies idle with a blown motor and 'Marypuchy' is undergoing a major rebuild. I plan to invite Lu, the owner of 'Lady Farah' to fish with me next time down; bilingual and great to have onboard.

The bite continues to be normal for blues and for YFT; if you have the muscle. Some sails are about. Swords are very slow and the whites will move back in later. Some folks have hit the jackpot this year on blues with 3 to 7 fish days recorded; though Mr. Stewart Campbell's 22 blues in one day probably will stand as the bench mark for eternity. I still believe the average of one blue a day tagged to be the norm at present. Most days there are only 2 boats fishing. Lots of big Dorado around. Saturday and Sundays more folks are out.

The one or two longline boats (wooden skiffs) continue to be there day and night (that's how we find where the whites and sailfish are guys!!!). I was told at my first visit a few years ago that 24 net boats operate well offshore every week of the month except during a full moon. They have 250 billfish kills a week on average. Again this was told to me by my charter agent; ain't making it up. If you have a problem with this go talk to Nani and do not accuse me of "BS". By the way the Ven Captains HATE that these boats are out there. WGB

Regards to all. WGB

Warren_Brantley

04-03-2006, 06:00 PM

Continuing:

I ate several evenings at the 'Cafe in a Boat' (I do not know the Venezuelan name: Large Green Parrot something) down at the old Public ************************ at the end of the road past Mango ************************ (where's your sign guys?) and the Caraballeda Yacht Club. Food is great there and the place has user friendly army security guards at the gate as you enter. Carry a pack of cigarettes to toss them when you leave and it will help ease there boredom. They are in their late teens/early twenties and carry no weapons. Great friends, atmosphere, snapper, and dorado here!! Also that road has been patched and is in great shape; no mud and no pot holes. Wish they had street lights.

I still do not know how one drives at night: few street signs, few stop lights, no street lights except at the airport, and with many vehicles having their lights off (including commercial buses). But it works for them!! I have yet to see a wreck. If going DO NOT rent a car unless you get a burial policy with it. This ain't US driving!!!! Have your charter agent or B & B pick you up at the airport and take you back.

We went to the Subway one night and had a great meal with sandwiches for the next day. Awfully friendly folks in town. I'm seeing lots of road improvements, some building construction, but much of it only partially finished.

Marguillidas (pardon the misspelling) at the end of the ************************ road had no one staying there. I've stayed there before and it is fine, affordable, very safe, and you can catch snook from your doorway. Some new boats there. Did not see your boat there 'Courtesan II' where are you moored at? Hope your daughter is out of the hospital and doing well.

In my past 7 trips this has been my smoothest. 5 fishing days seems to work for me. Just take normal precautions, use a reputable charter service, leave the driving to them, carry travel insurance, and enjoy the beauty of the mountains and the ocean.

Also, the political rhetoric is solely between the politicians. This in no way affects the courtesy of the people or how you are treated. I imagine France and other countries who had oil fields taken under Imminent Domain this week will have harsh words for the authorties there also. I'm not into politics. I'm into catching billfish.

Generously spending American dollars abroad in the pursuit of Billfi$$$hing!! And this IS the place for the Atlantic blues!!!

Regards to all. WGB

Nick_Fuegi

04-03-2006, 06:00 PM

Warren, I am reliably informed that one can be "fast-tracked" through customs. You are a very experienced angler and traveller and have been to Ven more than most. I wondered if you take advantage of the "fast-track process"? ;)

I know that if I were in your position with your experience, I would get through customs in 10 mins too. Is it like that for everyone now? What's changed?

I gather they opened a new arrivals area last June. Is this the reason for the improvement? A year ago I had to wait in line about 2h at the airport and missed a connecting flight as a result. Also, all the toilets were closed due to some water problem. So you had hundreds of people in line for hours after long flights and no toilets! Screaming kids, collapsing elderly people etc. Not pretty.

Nick

Warren_Brantley

04-03-2006, 06:00 PM

In the past it took forever!!

The place is finished so no construction and has great AC; so no humidity. I go through regular customs; just another guy dropping in for some fishing. Seemed to be fewer flights with fewer passengers, thus fewer folks to process. No long lines due to numerous booths with agents ready to speed one through. I did not have to wait for luggage as I have learned to pack 5 days worth of clothes, Sampo fighting vest, gloves, etc. into my carry on bag. Baggage inspection was minimal as I was incoming. I look harmless except for some billfish tattoos.

On debarkation they examined luggage carefully but quickly; just like in the states; along with the x-ray. No military policy and only one "service provider" offering to fill out forms for a price. Different fellow from last time; at the wall across from where one enters the Delta area at the east end of the airport. He was polite, not pushy. Also one of the two airline issued entry forms is now in duplicate or triplicate and you use the same one leaving that you use entering. So fewer forms to fill out. It is much more efficient than Atlanta (ATL)(major long walks) and Los Angelos (LAX)(which is a nightmare) but again it's a small airport. VERY user friendly. I like it but that's just my opinion.

I shall be back in September. WGB

Warren_Brantley

04-03-2006, 06:00 PM

Great website from the New York Times with news specifically for Venezuela (in English); make it a Favorite like I did.

http://topics.nytimes.com/top/news/international/countriesandterritories/venezuela/index.html?inline=nyt-geo

Regards, tight lines/screaming reels! WGB

Nick_Fuegi

04-03-2006, 06:00 PM

Good info Warren. Whilst wondering how come your experience was so different to mine, I had a look on the web for opinions on Simon Bolivar airport. Seems that all the European flights arrive around the same time of day; resulting in the long lines I experienced. - Even after the new arrivals area was opened. So, perhaps it is nothing to do with the country, or the airport, but just the transatlantic airlines all getting there at once.

The source of my info is here: http://www.airlinequality.com/Airports/Airport_forum/ccs.htm

Suppose the top tip would be:
If you fly from Europe, get the earliest arrival time you can.

Amazing how much info this thread has turned up. Must be more tips in this thread about billfishing in Venezuela than anywhere else on the net. In a way, its a shame that the industry couldn't put this info together for the customers.
It's understandable that many operators (in any fishery) are tight lipped generally. It's because they don't want to lie, and they can't tell people that they should fish with someone else, somewhere else and/or at a different time of year/month etc.
If someone wants to spend their money in July, you don't tell them to come back in September! Better to keep quiet and "accentuate the positives" and "forget about the negatives". Trouble with this is that anglers are not stupid and get fed up with getting a skewed picture of the fishing. I suppose industry politics stops a lot of objective info getting out. After all, almost every article written has some backsctratching behind it somewhere along the line. Thankfully, the web is breaking that down and via forums like this, anglers now know what they can/should actually expect from any given location at any given time. (Even though interested parties occasionally derail threads with industry propaganda).
The more info there is about a location, the more balanced the argument is for an anglers choice of location. The more balanced the argument and the more reliable the info, the more confident anglers can be about spending their money.

More anglers need to post details of their experience (good or bad)
of any fishery. What helps recreational fishermen, helps recreational fishing imho.

Accurate, balanced and detailed info always helps and has long been in short supply.

Nick

George_Woodward

04-04-2006, 06:00 PM

http://vcrisis.com/index.php?content=about_vcrisis

George_Woodward

04-04-2006, 06:00 PM

Nick, there are far many more worse airports than Maiquetia. Among them are San Jose, Costa Rica and Belize City, Belize. There are just too many US carriers in countries that did not need additional airlift. What has happened is that the foreign carriers have upgraded their planes, but are forced into horrible schedules.

I flew up the other day from Costa Rica on a three year old aircraft, while US carriers were using a 17yr old piece of junk. I got a hot meal, a few cervazas and I didn't pay an extra dime for it. My flight was early, their flight an hour late on account of equipment problems.

But back to Caracas. Many carriers are using Valencia airport - a dinky little airstrip west of CCS and adding on an extra two hours drive time to town.

Rick_Alvarez

04-10-2006, 06:00 PM

IT WAS 'TEAM RELEASE' ALL THE WAY AT THE SOLERA OPEN INTERNATIONAL LA GUAIRA BILLFISH SHOOTOUT

La Guaira, Venezuela, March 12th, 2006 - Anglers Jaime Riveiro, Luis
Millan Jr and David Benzaken, fishing aboard the 51' Riviera, Release,
with Captain Luis 'Loro' Millan jumped out to an early lead on day one
with four blue marlin and never looked back during the prestigious all
release Solera Open International La Guaira Billfish Shootout held in La
Guaira March 7th thru 12th. By the end of the third and final day,
Team Release had amassed a total of 4,700 points with nine blue marlin
plus one sailfish releases in the three days of competition marking the
first time in its twelve year history that the Shootout is won by a
local Venezuelan team.

Despite strong challenges on day 3 from the local anglers aboard Adelina
who released 3 blues and 2 sails on the final day placing them second in
the overall team standings with a final tally of 3,400 points and the
Puerto Rican team aboard Mojito who scored a thousand points on day
three to finish third with a total of 3,000 points for the 6 blues they
released during the event, Team Release managed to hold on comfortably
even though they only caught one blue on that last day.

The blue marlin action in this year's Solera Open Shootout was fast and
furious where every tournament boat, without exception, competing with
the official tournament line Sufix Supreme released at least two blues
during the tournament, for a final per boat average of almost five
blues. This is the second best per boat blue marlin average in the
history of the 12 year old event and is only exceeded by the 6.4 blues
per boat average recorded in the record breaking 1999 Shootout when a
total of 256 blues were released in 3 days aboard 40 boats.

In the individual angler category there was another first for Venezuela
with one of their favorite sons taking top honors for the first time in
Shootout history. Luis Millan Jr of Team Release posted an impressive
point total of 3,500 points releasing seven blues. He was followed by
anglers Massimo Ortisi also from Venezuela fishing aboard Adelina with
2,200 points resulting from 4 blues and a sail, and American Larry
I'anson fishing aboard Guarimba with 2,000 points for the 4 blues he
released.

There was yet another first for Venezuela in this year's Shootout. In
the annual softball game played on the lay-day pitting Venezuela vs All
Visitors, Venezuela prevailed for the first time in the 3 year tradition
crushing the Visitors by a score 14 to 4. The game had to be called on
account of lack of equipment after the Venezuelans knocked all game
balls out of the park with several consecutive home runs!!! We'll see
what happens next year . . . Special thanks go out to our Title
Sponsors for making sure nobody went thirsty during the game and the
entire tournament for that matter by providing plenty of Solera Premium
Beer, Pepsi, 7UP, Gatorade and Minalva Bottled Water. Also, special
thanks are in order to angler Luis Angel Rincon, owner of Mango ************************
and his staff for hosting and making the Pirates of the Caribbean Rum
Bash held on the night before the game, another tremendous success.
Maybe the visitors partied a little too much at the Rum Bash and that's
why they were so badly defeated the next day?

Mark your calendars for the upcoming Venezuelan International Super Slam
scheduled for September 27th thru October 2nd. The tournament promises
to be another great one. Observers interested in participating please
contact Michelle Zelones at bluefin@usa.com or 561 310 3474. For
charter boats contact FishQuest Sportfishing Adventures at 1 888 891
3474 (from outside the U.S. 706 896 1403). For dockage please email
info@intlbillfishtourns.com. Register online at
www.intlbillfishtourns.com. We look forward to the pleasure of your
company.

pescadora

04-10-2006, 06:00 PM

One boat, the WATERMAN, fishing out of Mango ************************ on April 1st and 2nd caught and released 17 blue marlins! Ten on the 1st and seven on 2nd. Double digit blue marlin! Unbelievable!!!!! They caught 47 blue marlin in 10 of 11 fishing days! Contrary to any rumers about Venezuela, this place is a fine place to come and fish. It is the best fishing in the Atlantic Ocean and only a three hour flight from Miami.

pescadora

04-15-2006, 06:00 PM

And on April 14, the SOUTHPAW caught 8 blue marlin out of 11 bites. If you are scared, say so! Another boat returning from Los Roques for Easter holiday (Sunday) caught and released 5 blues in five hours of fishing! Venezuela is the BEST!

Warren_Brantley

04-16-2006, 06:00 PM

Is anyone taking any time to catch any swordfish among all those Blues? It does appear to be a rather impressive blue marlin bite continuing based on the reports posted. Based on Gustavo Urbina's blues in February it appears the bite has started earlier and continues to extend.

As most all the Venezuelan boats talk to each other all during the day it would be nice to post boat names and number of fish raised, hooked up and boated (or tagged) daily as is found on some of the other sites (ex. El Budster, Cabo Magic, Pisces, etc., etc.) That way one could figure the number of days they would need to fish based on the number of persons in their charter party. Some of you local fellows down there should post daily catches (good or bad) on the other forum that is set up for that. Posting only outstanding days may lead novices to believe they can roll into town and boat 5 to 8 blues a day on their particular charter; every day.

I must say that my trip a few weeks ago was quite pleasant and all the political rhetoric seen on the News and in the papers is only found there (on the News and in the papers only).

April 25th was the extension date on Delta and Continental flying in and out; perhaps it will evaporate or be continued. The CCS Airport is finished and very efficient and safe now. Tight lines. WGB

Don_Leneski

04-17-2006, 06:00 PM

Hello:
I am looking for one or two team mates to participate with me in the upcoming Venezuelan International Super Slam Sep 27th thru Oct 2nd.
If interested please write. I already have a charter boat booked with excellent crew.
Thanks,
Don

pescadora

04-18-2006, 06:00 PM

Six boats today fishing out of Caraballeda released 34 blue marlin! SOUTHPAW - 8, SNIPER - 7, WATERMAN - 2, TROPIC KING - 9, VINTAGE - 6, SALITRE - 2.

Nick_Fuegi

04-19-2006, 06:00 PM

I echo the call for pescadora to post the adverts on the other forum.

As Capt Brantley said, only posting great figures puts pressure on the crews and deludes anglers leading to their disappointment. The last thing a fishery needs is any anglers being disappointed. Everyone knows how someone that gets good service will tell three people but someone that gets bad service will tell 16...
Why not do the stats job properly? Compile stats for the whole fleet each week/month/season and post the (full) numbers in the right place (catch reports). Even then many will not believe it and understandably so. Problem with a forum that nobody has to sign into, is that anyone can say anything and pretend to be anyone. This leads to a lot of trolls and as a result, a lot of sceptical readers. To prove the point, how does anyone know for certain that I'm actually the author of this post and not someone that is just pretending to be me?!

Everyone reading this thread can see that whilst it is possible to have great fishing in Venezuela (or many other places), it won't always be like the glowing reports invariably provided by the well-meaning industry advertisers that post here.

You won't see pescadora posting about amazing catches in Jan or July!...
Although anyone could prove me wrong by pretending to be pescadora...! lol. :)

Nick_Fuegi

04-19-2006, 06:00 PM

I agree with what Warren said, maybe pescadora could post the adverts elsewhere. Only posting great figures just puts pressure on the crews and deludes anglers leading to their disappointment and irritation. The last thing a fishery needs is disappointed anglers. Everyone knows how someone that gets bad service will tell 4x the people about it as someone that got good service...
Why not do the stats job properly? Compile stats for the whole fleet each week/month/season (all the fishing not just the highlights) and post the (full) numbers in the right place (catch reports). Even then, many will not believe it and understandably so. Problem with a forum that nobody has to sign into, is that anyone can say anything and pretend to be anyone. This leads to a lot of trolls and as a result, a lot of sceptical readers. To prove the point, how does anyone know for certain that I'm actually the author of this post and not someone that is just pretending to be me?!

Everyone reading this thread can see that whilst it is certainly possible to have great fishing in Venezuela (or many other places), it won't always be like the glowing reports invariably provided by the well-meaning industry advertisers that often post here.

You won't see pescadora posting about amazing catches in Jan or July!...
Although anyone could prove me wrong by pretending to be pescadora...! lol. :)

pescadora

04-19-2006, 06:00 PM

Today, six boats released 25 blue marlin, 15 sailfish and one white marlin. Top boat (SOUTHPAW) had 9 blue marlin and 6 sailfish!

Nick and Warren just do not get it! And neither does Wade! Sorry.

Nick_Fuegi

04-20-2006, 06:00 PM

Check out this thread:

http://www.marlinmag.com/forum.jsp?done=yes&ID=558167

Lots of nice Venezuelan links to help people get fishing.

Nick

Wade_McArthur

04-21-2006, 06:00 PM

Pescadora,

I get it, more than you would believe. I'll be back to Venezuela, perhaps this fall, otherwise next spring. And I agree with Warren and Nick, only the best fishing reports are posted. I have been to Venezuela, and much like Warren, I have been a part of the good reports, and also the reports that are not posted. Fishing is just that, fishing. Otherwise it would be called catching.

Believe me, I understand more than you think.

Wade_McArthur

04-21-2006, 06:00 PM

Pescadora, Just out of curiosity,

What was released the day before, or the day after?

Also, if 25 were released, we're obviously not talking about local boats? I've fished the local boats, "release" is not something that happens on those boats. Understand though, I'm ok with that. A fish going towards feeding the population is ok. But I do know, that fishing is not that good everyday, and not every fish is released by either the local sportfishing fleet or the longliners that are present.

I'll post pictures of both longline vessels and dead marlin if you like.

Wade

Nick_Fuegi

04-23-2006, 06:00 PM

Great points all Wade. Esp about the number of marlin the local operators release (very few by all accounts).

My only issue, is with the idea of marlin for food - and I appreciate that it's a complex issue. I also understand that you weren't making a specific point on that subject. However, the issue was raised.

Seems to me that if someone actually intends to feed people with what they catch, they catch bonitos etc as opposed to marlin...
The idea that marlin are required to feed people doesn't stand up to scrutiny.
The real reason(s) marlin are taken is so fishermen get to go marlin fishing (better than bonita fishing) show off the fishlike in the 'good ol' days' (better than showing off bonitos) and make extra MONEY selling the fish (just like catching bonitos). They then abuse the fact that the fish ended up as food to justify to themselves and others: 1) Fishing for marlin when they could have caught more table-fish. 2)Showing off the catch. 3)The financial return on selling the fish.
I don't have any problem with feeding people. I do have a problem with killing fantastic and increasingly scarce apex predators to make extra money. Especially if it's just to show off/advertise the business a la 'Mark the Shark'.

Nobody would starve if marlin weren't killed by recreational fishermen.

Nick

Rick_Alvarez

04-23-2006, 06:00 PM

Nick, Wade, Pescadora and others:
The point about the reports on "highlights only" is well taken and true. It can be misleading and create false expectations. However, it is not easy to gather info on all boats each day due to the the way things are in La Guaira. The dockmasters at each ************************ concern themselves with only the boats under them. For example, the guys at Portofino do not share info with the guys at Mango even though they're across the basin from each other. Those further, like Pto Viejo & Playa Grande to the west, and Pto Azul to the east, the difficulty in communication is even greater. They just have no reason to give each other any info. Maybe a sponsor wants to put up some money and start a site with fishing reports and have somebody down there dedicated to gathering true accurate info every day. I don't know ... but I do know for a fact because of my close relationship with the Venezuela fishing scene that reporting on all catches is a major task under the present set of circumstances. The only times I can tell you for sure that the reports are accurate and that ALL fish were released is during the tournaments I do down there twice a year.
On another note, while I too realize that certain people catch marlin to sell at the market and therefor the fish are ultimately consumed by humans, it is unfair to say that ALL local boats kill fish ALL of the time. There are some that do sometimes and some that don't ever do it. And those that do, do not do so with every catch every time they go out. There's a possibility some might kill all of the fish all of the time, but with all the time I spend down there (a week out of every month nowdays) I would know which ones are doing that and I cannot say for certain that I know any that go to those extremes ... and that includes both Venezuelan private and charter boats. In discussing these matters it is best not to use 100% terms, because they will inevitably get you in trouble.
I certainly hope this helps to put things a little bit in perspective.
Good fishing to all,
Rick
PS - Nick I know for sure it is you because of the style of writing and the choice of words LOL LOL LOL

Nick_Fuegi

04-24-2006, 06:00 PM

Agreed, getting competing businesses to cooperate is tough at the best of times. If it also involves more work AND shows a less rosy picture as a result, they're never going to do it. That's why we only get the ultra +ve reports.

Anyhoo. With regards to billfish being killed by recreational operators. You're right. You can only go on what you have seen yourself. I saw double digits of billfish killed and none at all released alive - except on the boat I was fishing on - where 100% were released.

Certainly, my personal observations do not mean that every operator always kills their billfish. However, from what almost everyone here has written (including yourself Rick), it's evident that the practive goes on in no small measure without much reasonable justification.
We've already debunked the food argument.
Likewise, the money argument always goes like this:
"I need the money to feed my family". This doesn't stand up, because the family could have eaten the massive quantity of table-fish that could have been caught in the time spent marlin fishing...
The family of a professional fisherman will never go hungry. However, they will want new cars/holidays etc (understandably) and the extra money from dead billfish can help pay for those things.

The question is this. Does one (as a responsible fisherman concerned with what's good for the species) begrudge the professional's desire for the better things in life, because of the way he goes about getting them?
I say yes. We don't condone taking elephants' ivory for profit, or a tiger's skin...
Even if you are allowed to hunt/kill an Elephant (part of a cull), you are not allowed to sell the ivory. If the ivory is ever sold the proceeds must be used for conservation. This disincentivises killing Elephants. The sale/purchase of marlin for food is no different. You buy it, you might as well have killed it. I appreciate that commercials are a far bigger problem than recreation operators in this area. However, recreational fishermen can set an example and change attitudes that will help bolster opinion to restrain the commercial operators.

On another subject. I've updated the links to Venezuelan billfishing websites here:
http://www.marlinmag.com/forum.jsp?ID=558167

BTW. Nice work Rick on your progress on the longliner issue. I was starting to think that issue wasn't being tackled. It's good to know that there is a possibility of regulating commercial operators in Venezuela. Sadly, I fear that any legislation would be largely ignored. It probably wouldn't be policed and if it was, corruption might make any efforts ineffective. Still, a step in the right direction is always good news! Any links to the issue?
How can the rest of us help (other than by fishing there)? ;)

Nick

Mart

04-25-2006, 06:00 PM

Wise men, Think about this. As long as billfishing in Venezuela is good, lots of sportfisherman will spend their dollars on Airplanes, Hotels, Charters, Lures, Restaurants, Holidays at the inland, etc. And we pay a lot more for our trips than a billfish is worth on the local market. So a lot of businesses can do good business on the sportfisherman. When the billfish is gone, no fisherman will spend his money any longer in La Quaira. That is bad business for the harbours, charters, crews and families, and a lot of other businesses as well. So when businessmen are aware of this fact they better start up some lobby to save the billfish (including the big ones) for the future. Then everyone will prosper on the long term.

I myself will never eat billfish, and a love eating fresh fish a lot. So if every one starts to be aware and act wise than maybe there is hope for the long term for La Guaira..

If not, just keep on digging your own economical grave. The guys who will fall the deepest are the ones who are killing the billfish now.

Capt._Hioram_Concepcion

04-26-2006, 06:00 PM

I have said this many times and I will say it again. If you want to Save Venezuelan Billfish come on down and fish. Demand that your crew release all Billfish. We all know that they are worth manny times more released to be caught again.
As for the quality of fishing in Venezuela I'd rather fish there. evan on a bad day. If you fish there enough you will have some great days. My best so far has been raised over 30 Blues and released 13 in one day . NO wonder i still have my boat down there.Evan though i haven't been able to go down since May of last year.. I have been fishing the Bahamas and S Florida . Because I needed to be close to home because of my daughters medical problems. She's all better now after her latest round of surgeries. so I'm ready to get back and fish the Bank.
The fishing reports speak for themselves. Venezuela is the BEST for Billfish.
Capt. Hiram "Courtesan Too"

Richie

04-26-2006, 06:00 PM

I have to agree with Capt Hiram Concepcion,the best place for bill fish is Venezuela. I was fishing on the cortesan too last year in Oct. and I had the time of my life I caught a 120 lb white marlon and my brother caught a 460 lb sword fish.

Anonymous

04-26-2006, 06:00 PM

richie,
Were you smoking pot? (120lb white marlin) or eating shrooms? (460lb sword) Bullshit! You are telling lies! Billfish is one word and the boat name is Courtasan Too. Swordfish is one word also! And marlin is not spelled marion you drunk ass liar.

And for the record, the Courtasan Too never has released 13 blue marlin in one day! Pajul!

Wade_McArthur

04-28-2006, 06:00 PM

Nick,
Good point on the issue of using Marlin for food. I'm still not 100% sure where the answer lies. I've discussed it with Venezuelan captains before, and all of them that I have talked to all agree that releasing billfish is a good thing, but see no reason to until the longline vessels are stopped. Two wrongs don't make a right, but that is the attitude.

I would never have believed that this thread would have gone on so long when it first started.

Good points from most of you, the exception being "anonymous" as usual. No need for name calling.

Wade

Nick_Fuegi

04-30-2006, 06:00 PM

You're right Wade. Regardless of any differences of opinion, this is quite possibly the most productive thread on the forum. There's a lot of useful info here that wasn't easily available before.
I'm also surprised how long it's been going. It's spawned other threads too. I hope the talk continues and that something +ve comes out of it all.

Nick

Rick_Alvarez

05-01-2006, 06:00 PM

Gentlemen:
Getting back to the topic of releases and food, I agree with Nick with regards to the excuses offered by those who kill a billfish for sale at market to increase their income, and maintain the standard of living that they have grown accustomed to.
Personally, when I place a client on any charter boat, anywhere in the world, I do so under the condition that all catches will be released. If the charter captain or operator cannot agree to that, I simply place the clients with somebody who will. That is the policy of our company and is my personal one as well. Having said that, some of what is ocurring in Venezuela these days is that the number of charters per month has been steadily decreasing in the past four years, especially for the local charter boats. Thus, you have charter boat captains taking their boat out to "meat fish" on idle days for additional income. Guys that would never think of boating a fish while clients are on board and instead release and tag fish. I am certain that what Nick witnessed during his visit last year was exactly that. Naturally, one obvious way to prevent those who do that from doing it, is to keep them occupied year round with charter. Something I strive to do but reality is something different. Perhaps through forums like this and other sources more folks will become interested in fishing this great fishery.
Addtionally, my good friend, Jimmy Loveland from St Thomas, director of the Atlantic Blue Marlin Open tournament, has started a movement to put pressure on all sportfishing billfishermen worldwide to; a) Start using circle hooks and; b) release all catches starting in the year 2007. A meeting was held during the International Boat Show here in Miami last Feb to kick-off the movement. I will have Jimmy add any of you to the mailing list if you're interested in participating in this movement. Just email me your email addresses and I will forward them to him. Some of it is already posted on his tournament's website www.amvt.vi
In any event, let us all resolve to do our part in getting all crews worldwide to release all billfish. This forum is one such way but there are many other ways.
Thanks to everyone for their input,
Rick

Nick_Fuegi

05-04-2006, 06:00 PM

http://www.abmt.vi/index.htm

That's the one.

More specifically: http://www.abmt.vi/Pages/f_release.htm

Great ideas. However, can’t find anything specifically about a global recreational release policy.

Would love to hear more about it.

Incredible that people would use formaldehyde on their baits...

james

05-05-2006, 06:00 PM

Any one know if bubba made it back from fla,last time i saw him he had a pretty blond with a wonderfull top half in fla

james

05-05-2006, 06:00 PM

Any one know if bubba made it back from fla,last time i saw him he had a pretty blond with a wonderfull top half in fla in april 06

marcos

05-05-2006, 06:00 PM

he might mary thr prety yellow hair girl from los suanos fishing tournment i see him with. godd luc jimmie

Capt._Hioram_Concepcion

05-07-2006, 06:00 PM

I don't need to defend my fishing record. Beleive me or not .I have caught and released more than my fare share. and For the record I have killed three White marlin , two Blue Marlin and 10 Sailfish.In 30 years. Lost track of how many I released.Those ho know me know that I fish long and hard and I try my best to get my anglers on fish.
As for Richie on the "Courtesan Too" like all good anglers their fish grow with age. they caught a bunch of whites and Sails couldn't find the Blue .So we got them a very nice Sword about 230- 250 lbs. To complete Raul's Grand Slam.It's all on Video along with the Gaint Moonfish Raul Caught. The Sword was Boated and donated to the Mates.Raul was also hooked up on that trip from 4pm -8pm when the crew broke the fish off to go back to the dock.
Tight Lines and keep the faith
Capt. Hiram

Rick_Alvarez

05-07-2006, 06:00 PM

For those interested, Bubba is alive and well in La Guaira running the South Paw for Bob DeGabrielle. I was down there this weekend and saw them hooked up right next to me and talked with Bubba on the radio.
Regards to all,
Rick

Warren_Brantley

05-11-2006, 06:00 PM

Hi,
Just found this online. Just in time for anyone who wants to try their May - June luck at La Guiara:

"Venezuela's civil aviation rating was upgraded by the U.S. Federal Aviation Authority, clearing the way to end a dispute that had threatened to suspend all commercial flights between the two countries."

It was all to do about nothing.

By the way hello to Nani and all the guys in Caraballeda who are now monitoring this Forum. I enjoyed your observations by e-mail two days ago. Aren't wireless laptop computers great? Regards to all. WGB

Warren_Brantley

05-11-2006, 06:00 PM

Posted on Embassy Website:

"A recent outbreak of measles in Caracas has led to the imposition of vaccination requirements for persons departing Venezuela. The version of the new policy published in the Official Gazette does not indicate a requirement that persons traveling to the United States be immunized. However, Venezuela’s Civil Aviation Authority (INAC) has issued a requirement mandating up-to-date immunizations for all persons traveling from Caracas to North America, Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Passengers who do not have proof of a current measles immunization will be required to receive a new dose prior to boarding their outbound flights. Kiosks manned by the Ministry of Health are now in place at Caracas Maiquetia International Airport to provide the inoculation. The vaccine provided by the Venezuelan Government has been certified by the World Health Organization (WHO). It has not been tested by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The State Department’s Office of Medical Services, however, has approved its use for U.S. staff and family members if required.

American citizens are urged to remain abreast of this situation and to develop personal contingency plans as appropriate." Regards, WGB

Mart

05-23-2006, 06:00 PM

Hi guys,

Any average fishing reports for the last 2 months allready? Or are we waiting for that one boat which was very succesful for only one perfect day still to come?

Like to know about recent (good or bad) reports very much!

pescadora

05-23-2006, 06:00 PM

Yesterday, 23 of may, the VINTAGE caught and released four blue marlin and two sailfish fishing out of Caraballeda.

Warren_Brantley

05-23-2006, 06:00 PM

I've been in Mexico. Just got back. Saw baby leatherbacks in the middle of the Gulf in the weed lines.

Nani wrote early last week that the bite was consistent with the off season. That historically supports a mixture of all billfish species found there; with a realistic expectation of 4 - 6 fish over 5 days fished; with mucho sancochoes from the resident rat blues. Call Nani at the telphone number from his website if you want to know what boat caught what this past week.

Is that booing and cursing I hear from the six fish a day crowd?

By the way..... I like those kind of off season odds on billfish. Regards, WGB

George_Woodward

05-25-2006, 06:00 PM

"Venezuela's civil aviation rating was upgraded by the U.S. Federal Aviation Authority, clearing the way to end a dispute that had threatened to suspend all commercial flights between the two countries."

It was all to do about nothing."

Wrong again Warren.

When the Clinton admin suspended Venezuela's aviation authority it allowed American Airlines to increase their airlift into the country by 500%. In the meantime Viasa, Avensa and couple of other carriers went into bankruptcy, pushed over the edge by the FAA's ruling. It was a bad mistake on the part of the FAA, because for years Viasa had an impeccable safety record, despite one crash. While American, Delta, Continental & United were allowed to expand into Venezuelan market, Santa Barbara and AeroPostal were not. Hopefully now this will change and fares will drop.

Annonymous

05-25-2006, 06:00 PM

Also George I will add that the paja (bullshit for you gringos)about the immunizations at the airport is a farse as well. Some people just do not get it! Venezuela is the best destination for offshore Atlantic Ocean quarry in the World. If you are scared to come here and fish, go somewhere else. We do not need you here for your money (Nick) and we do not care if you come here to fish or not. That being said, we welcome you here and are saying everything here is cool. Just go fishing and enjoy your stay. Avoid being the ¨ugly American¨ and you will never have any hassels in all your travels anywhere, anytime in the world.

Just a personal opinion from here in Venezuela and nothing more. You are missing out on a great fishing experience if you refrain from coming here based on information that is hearsay. Everythhing here is cool. Period.

Warren_Brantley

05-29-2006, 06:00 PM

I use reputable information fellows.

This is from the first paragraph of the U.S. Embassy Announcement:

Measles Vaccinations for Airline Passengers Departing Venezuela:

"A recent outbreak of measles in Caracas has led to the imposition of vaccination requirements for persons departing Venezuela. The version of the new policy published in the Official Gazette does not indicate a requirement that persons traveling to the United States be immunized. However, Venezuela’s Civil Aviation Authority (INAC) has issued a requirement mandating up-to-date immunizations for all persons traveling from Caracas to North America, Africa, Asia, and Europe."

I am personally concerned about none of this. I come and go to Venezuela to billfish whenever I have the opportunity. Regards to all. WGB

Warren_Brantley

05-29-2006, 06:00 PM

HEALTH CONCERNS: (these are quotes)

• May 18, 2006
According to a posting on ProMED, a sharp increase in cases of dengue fever has been reported so far this year in Venezuela, with the majority of cases occurring in the western half of the country. Travelers are advised to practice daytime insect precautions.

• May 17, 2006
According to Venezuela's National Ministry of Health, approximately 50 cases of measles have been reported from Caracas since mid-March 2006. Vaccination is recommended for travelers to Venezuela born in 1957 or later (1970 or later in Canada) without history of disease or of 2 adequate doses of live vaccine at any time during their life.

• May 17, 2006
According to the Official Gazette of the Venezuelan government, proof of vaccine against measles and rubella is required for departing international airline passengers who are of Venezuelan nationality or foreign residents, effective April 26, 2006 (the duration of the requirement is unknown at this time). Responsibility has been placed on the international airlines to enforce this policy, and the interpretation of what constitutes adequate evidence of vaccination is at the airlines' discretion. The individual airlines may be responding in different ways. American Airlines has stated that they are not enforcing this regulation for travelers to the United States, but they are enforcing it for travel to other South American countries, Europe, and Africa. Aeropostal Airline is requiring proof of measles vaccine for all international passengers departing Venezuela.
Vaccination kiosks have been set up at the Simon Bolivar International Airport in Maiquetia, and WHO-approved measles vaccines are being offered free of charge.
Note: the regulation was not intended to apply to travelers to North or South America; however, the wording of the notice issued at the airport does not include that exemption. Travelers departing Venezuela for any country are advised to be prepared for this requirement until further notice and to check with their airline for up-to-date information.

Regards to all. WGB

Warren_Brantley

05-29-2006, 06:00 PM

Hi George:

This is a dated press release from Venezuela. This was rhetoric between two governments, many persons cancelled fishing trips (I DID NOT: great trip/my charter agent had 8 American charters cancel in March). It resolved (“threatened”: implies something that was warned, but in this case did not occur, although contemplated) before going into effect.

Venezuelanalysis.com

"Caracas, Venezuela, April 25, 2006—Last week, US officials announced that the classification of Venezuelan airlines would be upgraded. The move removes restrictions on Venezuelan airlines and seems to draw to a close a two month long dispute between the countries, which had threatened to cut off air travel between them.
“The [reclassification] means that the civil aviation authority in Venezuela has been evaluated by the Federal Aviation Administration’s inspectors and it has been determined that this body has granted licenses to the operators to follow the operational security standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization,” said the U.S. embassy in Caracas in a statement.
The Venezuelan Airlines Association praised the decision calling it “positive in every sense” and saying it will expand consumer choice in the market."

This is a great website as it shows Venezuelan perspective on issues in the country and abroad. Regards, WGB

pescadora

06-01-2006, 06:00 PM

Today, 2nd of June sailing from Caraballeda lagoon, the Sniper caught and released two blue marlin. The Southern Comfort caught 1 blue marlin, 3 white marlin and one sailfish! (11 bites) The Waterman caught one blue marlin and 3 sails. The Salitre caught one blue marlin, 2 swordfish and 4 20lb+ dolphin.

Bounty_Hunter

06-23-2006, 06:00 PM

The U S Government has put togeather a bounty package for several non certifed people movers. It is a non publisized move to get those delinquent on taxes and child support back in the states to answer charges. Turn out the lites the party is over,,

Warren_Brantley

06-24-2006, 06:00 PM

Hi,
With all due respect, without further explanation that appears to be more about affairs in the US than in Venezuela. Down there they call it Ransom and they give the person back...... Up here they keep the kids, their own, and don't pay (the ex.) the money. I'm much more interested in what the boats are doing. Yawn, it's late. Regards, WGB

pescadora

06-24-2006, 06:00 PM

Yesterday, 25th of June, the Southpaw while fishing from Caraballeda lagoon released three sailfish and caught one swordfish! Again, as always, everything is cool in Venezuela contrary to news reports, perceptions and US embassy posts.

Warren_Brantley

07-26-2006, 06:00 PM

Hi,

Dumb question perhaps but thought I'd ask. The forum has been quiet anyway. I cannot find these items listed as banned with the Transportation and Safety Site for carry on luggage.

Going fishing in La Guaira in October and plan to take down some fishing hooks for the boat. Specifically they are two dozen medium and larger circle hooks to use with pitch baits. Can they be taken on as carry on luggage?

Regards, WGB

pescadora

07-29-2006, 06:00 PM

On July 27th a blue marlin weighing 367kgs (807lbs) was brought to the dock in Caraballeda. The big blue was caught aboard the Ta-at on a ballyhoo and took about a hour to catch. The past week produced many 200lb class yellowfin tuna and a few mixed bag of billfish.
As a reply to the above post, I would recomend that you pack fishing hooks in your checked baggage and you should have no problem.

Alfred

07-31-2006, 06:00 PM

"Going fishing in La Guaira in October and plan to take down some fishing hooks for the boat. Specifically they are two dozen medium and larger circle hooks to use with pitch baits. Can they be taken on as carry on luggage?"

Nope, absolutely not! Just because one time they allowed it doesn't mean you can get away with it again.

Warren_Brantley

07-31-2006, 06:00 PM

Thanks,

Oh, priced mailing them to Nani (at the yacht club) using DHL and for a small parcel it was $58.70 from Alabama. Carry on it shall be. By the way these Mustad Duratin Circle hooks look perfect for the job. I normally don't take down anything other than a carry on bag. This time I shall.

Nice to see the big blues are back mid-summer like last year. Regards, Doc

Warren_Brantley

01-12-2007, 12:03 PM

The December bite was excellent and there appear to be year 'round blues available now. I have a confirmed Super Slam in December (blue, white, sail, sword). I have found substantial improvements in the roads and lighting, there are new street lights on roads leading to the ************************s, and there is excellent food at the small restaurant (in a wooden boat) at the old public ************************. I have a confirmed longbilled spearfish also caught in December. The tagged white I caught in October was originally tagged in June of 2002 at Punta Cana (Capt. Paul Ivey) according to TBF. Only one tagged white was caught world wide in 2005. So although not celebrated initially it was quite a lucky feat.

On my last trek through the airport both entering and leaving the country was expeditious and efficient. Delta had two hidden security guards patting down folks on the gangway and going through luggage 30 feet before you enter the plane on debarkation. They went through my clothes and my medications. Quiet and business like. Airport security is still allowing 'assistants' inside the front doors. The airport has a wonderful selection of new shops.

As always the citizens are courteous and fishing can be fantastic.

I observed some impressive catches by the 'Viking 74' company boat. Capt. Jimmy Grant was seen heading out a few hours before rest of the boats daily on 'Waterman' as we fished for tarpon in the lagoon. No wonder he is the top producing Capt. down there. The 'Joropo' crew had an crew day and were seen fishing for themselves trolling with spinning reels. There is a new Capt. on 'Gigi IV' I've been told. 'Lady Farah' lies idle with a blown motor. A handful of boats are being overhauled. And Nani is out on 'Diablo' with a new GPS and with new gear arriving with me in February.

The killer whales were in early, seen October 25th around our craft, mother and calf. We have seen some sharks back in the area. A few longline boats were observed out in their normal locations and net boats were observed heading out at sunset daily. Normally 2 to 11 billfish boats are out daily and the best bite had been west of La Guaira.

What to expect. I'm going every other month this year and it looks to be fishing as usual. Swords are going to be slim and have been for awhile. But they are there. I think there are more blues around and most of them can be readily caught on 30 wide gear. They ain't big but they are feisty. 100 to 300 pounds seems to be the normal range. Follow that with whites and sails and there will continue to be grand slam days in Caraballeda.

I am seeing the best catches from the boats that have the following: (1) most experienced Capt. who fishes day to day (2) a coordinated/seasoned crew with someone always watching the baits (3) where communication is bilingual (4) more hours put in trolling daily (5) heading out early (6) coordinating their catches with other boats (7) wooden hulled boats seem to have the edge (resonance?), (8) an edge with electronics and (9) of course good gear and baits. This OF COURSE applies to every fishery.

Fish patterns, weather and all the other variable always come into play also.
For me it is the best place in the world to billfish. So I do. Tight lines, screaming reels and 'met' expectations for everyone fishing La Gauira during 2007. My personal goal is a blue using only a rope and gloves. My son advised "Wear a life jacket; they've find the corpse easier."

Regards to all 2007. Doc

halpaed

01-29-2007, 03:17 PM

Thanks Warren on what has been a very inspirational thread and this very timely update. I first read about Venezuela back in 1990 whilst staying in Cairns and after a blank session there, was keen to visit this place with all it's billfish.

Reading other's comments would deter people from visiting but your detailed accounts have encouraged us to visit the Country and see some wildlife and of course fish off the famous banks.

You mention that the Swords are not around in numbers, I assume it is still worth a fish (March visit) for them ?

Glad to hear about the gear you are taking down, we are fishing on Diablo under Nani's guidance.

Cheers

The Captain

01-29-2007, 05:16 PM

Thank you for the information.
Sometimes this disspells the rumors about a country.We fished this in the early 90s a it was great.Went back 2 years ago and things had changed and also the fishing seasons.But will give it ago maybe next year.
Going to Guatamala in March and fishing with Ron Hamlin for 3 days and will send a report.

Warren_Brantley

01-29-2007, 07:43 PM

Billfi$$hing!!

I'll be there next week and am bringing down supplies. I talked to Nani today and got a "want it" list to bring down.

On my last 7 attempts at swords I did not get one. That was on 3 different boats (Diablo, Gigi IV and Magic Dolphin) dropping deep for 1 to 2 hours with two baits. Had some hits and caught a huge pomfret. If after a sword a person's money and time are better spent in SE Florida (see CyberAngler - SE catch reports. My kids each caught swords there). Spend no more than a two hours on them. If they are not biting (often within the first 10 minutes you'll get one on) move on to trolling. I'm not after them this trip; mainly blues. I'm fishing with ropes and leather gloves: no rod and reel. Also running a Cuban Teaser trying to catch a blue hookless. (It's a hobby, not brain surgery, might as well make it interesting. It might be a short lived hobby, will find out soon.)

So put your time with the right fish. Right now YFT are big and thick (I buy mine in a can). Blues are predominant followed by the sails and whites; which have been finicky by what I'm hearing from the captains out fishing. You can't go wrong with blues; always makes my day. Lots of wahoo about also.

Private jets from the US have been banned so 'Reel Tight' and perhaps a few other fellows are pulling up and moving. I take Delta and it works just fine.
Take the normal precautions and have fun. I'm already booking mid-April for the run of bigger blues.

Tight lines and burning rope!! Doc

Warren_Brantley

01-31-2007, 11:37 AM

Regards to all,

Captain Jimmy Grant, the captain of 'Waterman' posted his e-mail and telephone number on another website just yesterday.

(http://www.abmt.vi/Pages/f_reports.htm)

This is the post:
-----------------------
01/30/07 Capt. Jimmy Grant - Waterman Report - Venezuela

If anyone has any questions concerning fishing in Venezuela, I welcome your calls and e.mails.

Yours truly,

Jimmy

011 (58)414-324-4544
captjimmygrant@hotmail.com
-----------------------

Jimmy according to Nani is the top producing captain plying the waters of La Guaria. (More bills for your bill$$; so to speak.) His reputation precedes him. To have a direct contact via e-mail with someone who is out there putting folks on fish daily is invaluable to anyone studying this fishery. I have never fished with Jimmy but folks I know who do have high praise. I have seen many folks fight billfish from the stern of 'Waterman' when I have been out trolling on the various Ven boats I use with Nani.

I fish Ven boats through Nani so I have never chartered with Jimmy and do not know if someone can charter directly with him or only through charter services. I'm sure he can tell you how. Just another resource for those of you thinking about the blues.

Regards, Doc

Bill Rice

01-31-2007, 02:58 PM

I can confirm what Warren has related concerning Capt. Jimmy Grant on the Waterman. He is an excellant captain who goes the extra mile for his clients. I can also report that you can book directly with Jimmy. I would recomend him without reservation to anyone considering a trip to Venezuela.

Warren_Brantley

02-04-2007, 07:45 PM

Regards to all,

Will be fishiing Ven using some unusual techniques this coming week (rope fishing with no pole or reel/another rig using a Cuban Teaser). My Captain welcomes innovation and is receptive to my ideas. Should others be interested he is a wealth of knowledge and can be contacted by telephone or e-mail. Nani is multi-lingual; Spanish, Portuguese and English:

Capt. Nani Handelman
Marlinsafari@cantv.net
58-414-3-245498

I'll let you know if I survived. I may be reached for questions regarding Ven by direct e-mail through this thread. Tight lines/burning rope! ; Doc

Warren_Brantley

02-14-2007, 02:27 PM

Regards to all,

Update on Ven. I try to be objective.

--CCS airport was great with expeditious embarkation and debarkation. Only one “assistant” inside the front door when leaving. Add $7 or so for the extra fee at the Delta counter. On the gangway after the metal scan at Delta they had one person going through bags, around the corner two folks to pat you down physically (I would have preferred the woman), and then someone to re-check your Passport. Delta was half full coming and going; and they’ve gone up on their prices.

--Vast road improvements continue between the airport and Portofino and where the boats are. They are paving and striping a six lane highway. Was a quick ride over at night and back in the morning. This is the best condition I’ve seen the highways in. They also have new culverts and drainage ditches.

--Roads in the cities seem about the same. The road down past the ************************ had a lot of new graffiti on the cement side walls in large black letters. I could not make it out but it certainly was not anti-US. No anti-American sentiment seen anywhere with anybody. Saw some teens on motorcycles with “US Army” book bags the morning I left out.

--Food: Top of the line as usual eating at the Subway in town one evening; the Navy ************************ with Fernando playing my new Jimmy Buffet CD one night, and at the Caraballeda Yacht Club with Nani for breakfast and supper. I like it simple.

--Fishing: Three days of bad seas: few boats out. Between Saturday and Monday I heard of a total of one tuna, three whites, no blues, no sails, too rough for swords and some lucky locals that got a 14 kg. spearfish Monday while out trying to catch something for supper. Two Orcas came into the spread and spooked them back into port. (I’m sure there were others I did not hear about.) We took a beating, fished two days, skipped the 3rd day due to high winds. Did not hook up any billfish; had byecatch. I’m back in April.

--American boats? Where’d you guys go? Normally about a dozen or so across from the Yacht Club, only saw 5. Some folks got spooked and have left out. Normal number of local boats 2 to 5 (Diablo, Gigi 4, Joropo, Waterman (great paint!), etc.) out and about. Heard there were 34 sunk boats at the Navy ************************. Waterman is the top charter going down there according to Nani.

US folks seems scared of the politics. I actually see a great country with very fine people and a superb fishery. Great place to fish, just had a weekend of bad weather. Sure would have liked to have caught that chucker (Kona for spearfish/normally barbecued). First trip to Ven for 2007. Eying Cabo for the kids in March and then back for 3 days in April.

Regards to all, Doc

Uglyfish

02-15-2007, 04:53 PM

I’m glad you enjoyed it I think I am going to go ahead and try fishing there in my next trip, I am Venezuelan my self but I hadn’t have the pleasure of fishing there :dunno:

George Woodward

04-01-2007, 02:05 PM

They've got a great bite going on Blues this past week. Guarimba four blues released on Wednesday, followed by four more on Thursday + a nice sailfish and couple of YFT.

Warren_Brantley

05-30-2007, 01:51 PM

Regards to all,
Just got an update. Most US and foreign boats (90%) are off to other countries for the summer; very few boats out trolling. Light bite going on. Abundant Pilot whales about. 'Diablo' reports a few sails, whites not in yet, blues are hard to find, few charters. Sounds like it is time to go fishing. I will be down in less than a month for four days. Anyone heard anything different? No one is posting. My group has been in Cabo and Kona and will be refocusing on the Atlantic fishery June through December. Doc

George Woodward

06-14-2007, 04:52 PM

Hey Doc,
The Joropo hit it big time - in three days with two novices on board -17 blues, 4 swords, 3 whites and 11 sails. You can see the full report on this, Rum Cay and Galapagos at www.nbssportfishing.com

Warren_Brantley

06-14-2007, 05:42 PM

Regards George,

'Joropo' is out daily whether they have a charter or not. (Very surprised not to see some YFT listed.) Absolutely works for me. Not being greedy just a few will do. I'll be offshore for four days as of June 29th; going back in September; and twice more before Christmas. (Don't tell anybody that there are fish there other than in October and March.) Does anyone know if Jimmy Grant is out on 'Waterman' from Mango? I have not seen him post recently.

And thank you for the update Sir. WGB

George Woodward

06-14-2007, 08:53 PM

Jimmy is out of the country right now. He'll be back in the Fall, along with El Dooblai and The Sound Machine.

Warren_Brantley

06-21-2007, 12:00 AM

Word is the whites are moving in. Blues are still in. Sails are about. Sounds like the normal culprits. I arrive next Thursday for four days. Perhaps some will be obliging to take the bait. (First time I've ever hauled a hot water heater to Venezuela. It's for the boat................real small.) The eels I took down a few years back ended up in Caracas when somebody picked up my bag by accident........ Imagine their surprise. Can't wait to be out trolling over La Guaira. Regards, Doc

Warren_Brantley

07-04-2007, 09:13 PM

I just returned from fishing LaGuaira with a friend. It appears that all of the American boats are out of the country for now (unfortunately with a vast majority of the billfish also.) I am pleased to say there is no shortage of barracuda, dorado, porpoise, pilot whales, saragasm weed, bait, birds and the occasional Orca. Too much green water many days. But the weather was considerably cooler than here in Alabama. I was able to take a number of siestas as there were hardly any fish about. However June has been taken off of my "favorite month to visit Ven" list.

Arrival and Departure through Caracas (CCS) Airport was smooth as silk, even with all the Pan American Games visitors arriving. The ride to and from the yacht club was uneventful. Lots of the regular boats are gone for now; actually all of them (except for Tropic King over at Mango/but it stayed in port). I might have missed some so please do not take offense. Joropo was out 1 or 2 days but we only heard of a Dorado caught. Hi Wilmer!

One to four boats out daily and out of all of us I only know of 3 blues raised in 4 days, 2 whites and 1 sail (and none were caught!). Two swords were caught, some dorado, above mentioned barracuda, one 70 kg YFT, and I saw some fellow in a private boat hunkered over an 80 wide for an hour trying to handline whatever he was hooked up to. We practiced "release before catching" on three hooked up (two were deep drop the last day) which immensely increases the survival rate (for all you tree huggers).

I did see a Mola but we left it alone. The Orca was not interested in the ballyhoo. We donated two Moldcraft lures and enough line to knit a half dozen sweaters to two separate fish (one was a screaming blue/the other - no idea). I discovered a dislike for local music while offshore (sounded like Venezuelan Poka to me) and tried to enforce a ban on all music while baits were in the water. It was not always followed.

On the plus side the boat was kept extraordinarily clean, the crew did not have to wash their clothes, and we left plenty of bait for the next group unfortunate enough to try June/early July trolling over La Guaira.

I was privileged to take a friend along so I only spent half my normal amount over 4 days; not catching billfish. He and I wished we had invited two others along for the 'boat trip'. I still spent less in total money over 4 days than I would have spent on 1 day offshore of my place in Gulf Shores, Alabama (and you rarely ever get a marlin there and it's 3 hours out before you put baits in).

But at least it wasn't brain surgery as we would have certainly killed the patient. Nowwww........ last year they did have the wonderful bite in late September. And it's called fishing, not catching. So me and Jeb will be down September 20th for 4 days. Think I'll skip August.

Regards to all. I always felt safe and had no problems in the country except for eating way too much! Doc