A Change in Plans: From Finger Banks to Golden Gate
Grady and Evans were no strangers to the thrill of fishing, but this trip was their first together in Cabo. The original plan was an ambitious one: a 13-hour offshore charter to the legendary Finger Banks, known for being a marlin hotspot when conditions are right. This remote area, located about 50 miles northwest of Cabo, requires both time and commitment, but the potential reward is well worth the journey. However, Captain Francisco, with his decades of experience navigating Cabo’s waters, was quick to recognize that the Finger Banks were not delivering the action that week.
After discussing the options with Grady and Evans, Captain Francisco suggested an alternative: shifting to a 10-hour trip focused on the closer but equally exciting Golden Gate Bank. Known for its high productivity and abundance of game fish, Golden Gate is a top choice for anglers seeking marlin, dorado, and tuna. The father-son team agreed, putting their trust in Francisco’s expertise, and eagerly adjusted their sights to the new plan.
The Setup: Aboard Blue Sky, a 43-Foot Riviera
The day began with the gentle glow of dawn illuminating the Cabo San Lucas Marina as Grady and Evans boarded Blue Sky, a sleek 43-foot Riviera. The vessel is an ideal blend of luxury and functionality, perfectly suited for both comfort and performance in the deep-sea fishing environment. Complete with top-notch fishing equipment, a spacious deck, and an experienced crew, Blue Sky was ready to take the father and son on the adventure they’d been looking forward to for months.
Captain Francisco quickly introduced them to First Mate Aaron, who would be assisting them throughout the day, and Chef Ulysses, whose culinary skills would keep them energized for the hours ahead. After a safety briefing and a rundown of the day’s revised plan, Blue Sky set out toward the Golden Gate Bank, about 20 miles north of Cabo’s coast.
Conditions at Golden Gate: Ideal for a Day of Action
October’s fishing conditions in Cabo are often nothing short of ideal, and this day was no exception. The early morning temperature hovered around 76°F, with a light breeze coming in from the east at around 5 mph. As the sun rose higher, the temperature climbed to a comfortable 85°F, making it a perfect day to be out on the open water. Winds stayed steady, averaging around 7 mph through the afternoon a slight breeze that created just enough surface movement to attract the game fish without affecting boat stability.
Water clarity was excellent, with visibility reaching nearly 50 feet in the deeper sections. The deep cobalt blue of the water hinted at the nutrient-rich ecosystem below, where schools of baitfish were likely congregating, and the water temperature was an inviting 82°F. Conditions like these were exactly what Captain Francisco had been hoping for, and he knew that Golden Gate was going to deliver a memorable experience.
Early Morning Marlin: Grady’s Epic Battle
With lines set and the teasers running in the wake, the father-son team settled into the rhythm of trolling. They were about an hour into the trip when the quiet morning was broken by the unmistakable sound of a reel screaming. The line peeled out at an incredible speed, and Captain Francisco confirmed what they had all hoped for a marlin had struck.
Grady took the rod, his grip firm and his face set with determination. He’d dreamed of catching a marlin for years, and now, with his son by his side, the moment was finally here. Captain Francisco and Mate Aaron worked seamlessly to assist Grady, offering tips and ensuring the line remained tensioned just right. The marlin was powerful, diving deep and then leaping from the water in a stunning display of strength and beauty.
For nearly 30 minutes, Grady and the marlin were locked in a tug-of-war. Sweat beaded on his brow, and his arms burned with exertion, but he held his ground. The battle tested both his endurance and patience, and with steady guidance from Captain Francisco, Grady finally brought the marlin close enough for a successful release. Watching the marlin swim off into the deep, Grady felt an immense sense of accomplishment a memory that would stay with him forever.
Mid-Morning Action: Evans’ First Dorado
After the excitement of the marlin release, the team continued trolling, their spirits high. Not long after, another strike came a dorado this time, known for their acrobatic fights and vibrant, iridescent colors. It was Evans’ turn, and he stepped up to the rod with excitement and anticipation.
Dorado are known for their impressive fight, and this one didn’t disappoint. It leapt from the water in a flash of electric blue, green, and gold, twisting and thrashing as Evans reeled it in. The father-son team shared a smile as Evans worked the fish, adjusting his stance and keeping the line taut under Mate Aaron’s guidance.
Within 15 minutes, Evans had successfully reeled in the dorado, which was quickly brought aboard for photos before being iced for later. The vibrant fish was a perfect trophy for Evans’ first major offshore catch, and the experience of landing it alongside his father made it all the more special.
Lunchtime at Sea: Chef Ulysses’ Culinary Delights
After a successful morning, it was time for a well-deserved break. Chef Ulysses had prepared a spread that transformed their fishing trip into a floating feast. He served fresh ceviche made from local fish, shrimp tacos loaded with flavor, and an array of salsas that added the perfect spicy kick. As they enjoyed the delicious meal, Grady and Evans recounted the morning’s events, laughing and bonding over the shared adventure.
The break allowed them to recharge, both physically and mentally, for the afternoon session. There was still time to chase more fish, and with one more goal on their list catching a tuna the father and son were eager to get back to it.
Afternoon Thrills: Evans Lands a Tuna
With the afternoon sun casting a warm glow over the water, Blue Sky made its way to another section of Golden Gate, where tuna were known to school. Conditions were still perfect, with just enough wind to keep things interesting and water clarity remaining high.
It wasn’t long before they got another hit, this time on one of the deeper lines set specifically for tuna. Evans was up again, and he braced himself as he felt the raw power of the tuna on the other end of the line. Unlike the marlin and dorado, tuna tend to fight by diving deep, testing an angler’s strength and stamina.
Evans battled the fish for nearly 20 minutes, his muscles straining with each turn of the reel. Encouraged by his father and guided by Mate Aaron, Evans dug deep, determined to bring the tuna aboard. When he finally succeeded, the sight of the glistening tuna strong, sleek fish that would make for a perfect dinner filled the team with pride. The father and son high-fived, celebrating the successful catch and the bond that had only strengthened through their shared challenges on the water.
Reflections on a Day to Remember
As Blue Sky headed back to the Cabo San Lucas Marina, Grady and Evans took in the beauty of the coastline and reflected on a day that had been everything they’d hoped for and more. The plan to fish the Finger Banks may not have panned out, but the experience at Golden Gate had exceeded their expectations. They’d come to Cabo seeking adventure, connection, and the thrill of the catch, and they’d found all of it in abundance.
Captain Francisco, ever the humble guide, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to fish alongside them, sharing in the highs of their catches and ensuring they had a safe, memorable experience. Mate Aaron’s expertise and enthusiasm added to the day’s success, and Chef Ulysses’ culinary skills made the adventure feel like a gourmet experience at sea.
The day had delivered on every front: Grady’s epic marlin, Evans’ first dorado, and the hard-fought tuna. Each catch brought a unique thrill and added another layer to the day’s adventure. For Grady, the experience of fishing alongside his son in Cabo’s legendary waters was a dream fulfilled. For Evans, it was a day of firsts that would forever mark his journey as an angler.
As they disembarked, both father and son looked back at Blue Sky, already talking about a return trip. The magic of Cabo San Lucas, the thrill of its waters, and the memories they’d made together had created an experience they would carry with them long after the sun had set.
To book your own family-friendly Cabo fishing charter, contact Blue Sky Cabo at USA +1.480.635.2965. For more updates and to watch live stream videos of daily catches, check out our Facebook page here: Blue Sky Cabo Facebook Live. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Cabo fishing!
