Setting the Stage: The Crew and the Game Plan
The group from California met at the Cabo San Lucas marina just before sunrise. They’d traveled down from the cooler fall temperatures back home, ready to see what Cabo’s waters had in store. Each angler brought something unique to the table. Brandon was the group’s unofficial leader, with years of fishing experience under his belt. Ryan, known for his laid-back attitude, brought along a love for the ocean but was relatively new to deep-sea fishing. Zack and Scott, longtime friends and fishing partners, were there to experience the challenge and thrill they’d heard so much about.
Captain Francisco, with a warm smile and firm handshake, welcomed each of them aboard Blue Sky, a beautifully crafted 43-foot Riviera. Francisco was known for his deep knowledge of the area and his near-perfect track record for leading clients to the best fishing spots. Alongside him was Mate Aaron, an expert at preparing the tackle and helping out on deck, and Chef Ulysses, who had already started preparing a delicious breakfast to kick off the day.
The plan for the day was clear: a full 10-hour extreme angler charter to the prime fishing grounds farther offshore, where big marlin and dorado were known to roam. Cabo’s October waters were especially active, making it one of the best times of year for serious sportfishing.
Ideal Conditions for Offshore Action
The weather on October 19th was perfect for a long fishing expedition. The temperature at sunrise was a comfortable 76°F, gradually climbing to around 84°F by midday. The breeze was light, with winds barely reaching 10 mph—ideal for a steady ride out and smooth trolling conditions.
Captain Francisco navigated Blue Sky through the glassy water, and as the sun climbed higher, the sea transformed from a deep navy blue to a vibrant cobalt. The water clarity was exceptional, with visibility reaching up to 30 feet. The anglers could see smaller fish darting through the clear depths, hinting at the abundant marine life below. Water temperature was around 81°F, perfect for marlin and dorado, both of which thrive in the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez.
First Bites: The Battle Begins with Marlin
With lines in the water and everyone settled into their positions, the crew and anglers waited in eager anticipation. Brandon, who had taken on a mentoring role with the group, shared fishing tips and stories from past trips, stoking the excitement even further. Then, about an hour into trolling, the calm was interrupted by the unmistakable whirring of a reel. The first marlin of the day was on.
Ryan was up first. Despite being a newcomer to marlin fishing, he rose to the occasion, gripping the rod as he felt the immense weight and power of the fish on the other end. Captain Francisco and Mate Aaron coached him, reminding him to stay calm and keep tension on the line. For over 30 minutes, Ryan battled the marlin, his arms burning as the fish pulled and twisted, putting up an incredible fight. Finally, with Francisco’s expert boat handling and Ryan’s perseverance, the marlin surfaced, flashing its magnificent blue and silver body before diving again.
After one last burst of energy, the marlin was brought close to the boat. Ryan managed to get it into position for a quick release, and with a massive grin, he watched as the marlin swam back into the depths. The entire boat erupted in cheers, knowing they’d landed the first of what they hoped would be many for the day.
Double Strike: Zack and Scott Team Up
Not long after releasing Ryan’s marlin, the action picked up again. This time, two rods went off at once—an exhilarating double strike. Zack and Scott, who had been chatting about fishing strategies, each grabbed a rod, and the two friends found themselves in a fierce, side-by-side battle.
With Blue Sky expertly positioned by Francisco, Zack and Scott worked in tandem, their movements synchronized as they fought their marlins. The fish put up a spectacular show, breaking the surface in a series of jumps and dives. Zack was the first to get his marlin close enough for the crew to assist, managing to keep his line tight through every twist and turn. Within moments, his marlin was alongside the boat for a quick release, the brilliant colors of its dorsal fin reflecting in the sunlight before it disappeared beneath the surface.
Scott’s marlin was equally feisty, diving deep before launching itself into the air in a spectacular display. With Aaron’s guidance and Scott’s determination, the marlin was eventually brought in for a clean release. The group celebrated with high fives and fist bumps, the adrenaline coursing through them as they realized they’d just released three marlin before noon a rare and impressive feat for even the most seasoned anglers.
A Well-Deserved Break: Chef Ulysses’ Culinary Skills
After the intense morning action, it was time for a break. Chef Ulysses had been busy in the galley, whipping up a meal that would keep everyone energized for the remaining hours of their trip. He served up a delicious spread, starting with fresh ceviche made from locally caught fish, followed by shrimp tacos with a side of homemade salsa.
The group sat down to enjoy their meal, swapping stories about the morning’s battles and joking about who had the sorest arms. As they ate, they marveled at the beautiful surroundings clear skies, calm seas, and a slight breeze that kept the heat at bay. The moment was perfect, with just the right mix of excitement and relaxation.
Afternoon Action: Dorado on Deck
Fueled by Ulysses’ incredible lunch, the anglers returned to their posts, eager for more action. The focus shifted slightly as they moved into dorado territory. Known for their vibrant colors and acrobatic displays, dorado or mahi-mahi are a favorite among sportfishers for their beauty and their fight.
After another hour of trolling, the crew spotted movement in the water. A school of dorado had been attracted to Blue Sky’s lures, and before they knew it, Brandon and Ryan each had a dorado on the line. The fish zigzagged through the water, flashing electric blues and greens as they tried to shake the hooks. The fight was quick but intense, with the dorado darting and jumping in an attempt to break free.
Brandon, the group’s most experienced angler, expertly maneuvered his dorado, keeping it close to the boat while Ryan worked to bring in his catch. Both anglers successfully landed their dorado, and as they admired the fish’s vivid colors, they knew they’d landed something truly special. These dorado catches would be part of the evening’s feast a tradition among Cabo anglers to celebrate a successful day on the water.
A Grand Finale: Marlin Magic as the Day Winds Down
With only a couple of hours left on their charter, Captain Francisco took the group to a final hotspot, known for being home to some of the largest marlin in Cabo’s waters. The conditions remained ideal, with a slight drop in temperature as the afternoon sun dipped lower in the sky. The water was still a brilliant blue, and as they trolled, each angler watched the lines with focused anticipation.
Just when they thought the day couldn’t get any better, the line screamed again. This time, it was Brandon’s turn to take the rod, and the entire boat watched as he faced off with what would be the biggest marlin of the day. The fish was powerful, diving deep and making several strong runs, testing Brandon’s strength and skill.
Captain Francisco and Mate Aaron provided steady encouragement, their voices calm and reassuring as Brandon worked to tire out the marlin. This was a seasoned fish, a fighter that wasn’t going down easily. For over an hour, Brandon held his ground, leaning into the rod, sweat dripping from his brow as he kept the line taut. The group watched in awe, fully aware that they were witnessing a truly epic battle.
Finally, the marlin surfaced, gliding alongside the boat in a display of sheer strength and beauty. Its enormous body reflected the colors of the setting sun, a shimmering mix of blue and silver that seemed almost otherworldly. The crew quickly released the marlin, giving it a moment to regain its energy before it swam away, leaving everyone on board speechless.
Reflections on an Unforgettable Day
As Blue Sky made its way back to the marina, the group from Northern California took a moment to soak in the day’s events. They had come to Cabo with high hopes, but the day had surpassed every expectation. Three marlin released, two dorado caught, and an experience that each of them would carry for a lifetime. Brandon, the most experienced of the group, admitted that he’d never had a day quite like this. The blend of big catches, smooth seas, and expert guidance from Captain Francisco and his crew had made for a perfect day of fishing.
Ryan, the newcomer to the sport, was already talking about his next trip. The thrill of his first marlin fight had sparked a new passion, and he couldn’t wait to return to Cabo’s waters. Zack and Scott, still buzzing from their double strike, agreed that they’d have.
