What can we expect to catch today?

I am asked this question all the time while preparing our charter customers and our crews for the day's activities. And, while I can certainly understand why people want to know what to expect...I've probably asked that question in the past myself...there is no good way to answer this question. I know what is possible to see, I know what we are equipped to catch and what we are trolling for, but I have no idea what the day will bring. So I usually answer this by telling that person to let me know once they come back from their trip and we will both wait to be surprised.

And it is often a surprise at this time of the year. It is truly amazing the variety of species that we find here, especially as we are not yet being covered up by bill fish or by mahi-mahi. This is the time of the year when we pull out all of our tools and toys and experiment to see what we can come up with.

An example of this "surprise" , a few weeks ago I was out with some people who just wanted to do some "deep drops" to get either a big snapper or grouper. We had a good morning and came back with more than enough fish to eat well for the next few days. As we tied off and I jumped off the boat, I noticed a crowd checking out the water right behind the Sea Phantom run by Captain Beto. As I was in a hurry to get back to my shop in order to get things ready for the afternoon charters, I didn't take time to see what it was that people were looking at as I assumed they had spotted one of the rays or barracudas that often visit the marina. However, as I returned to the marina with our afternoon charters, my curiosity got to me and I took a look over the side. Holy smokes! There it was, a big bull shark...must have been over 250 lbs...tethered off the back of the boat. NICE! What a thrill for the clients and what a spectacle it made later that day as the fish was later processed and handed out to the local families.

Another example of the daily "surprise" came a few days later. The wahoo bite suddenly turned on and some of the boats reported in with multiple hookups...one of them, Wild Bill with Captain Caballo, hooking up with 4 at once. While not all got landed, there was a nice showing on the dock at the end of the day, including a beautiful 47 pounder. So, now it's time to wrap this up and head over to the dock to see what's up for today's surprise. Enjoy the pictures of the surprises -

Until the next time, keep your lines tight!
Bob
We are!! Captain Rick's

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Mike, Jake, and Myself;
Would like to thank everyone who stopped by the booth last week at the Fred Hall show.
It's very gratifying to see so many old friends and to meet the youngsters that are just getting started fishing. 

We all have hopes for the coming season. The reports of large schools of Yellows moving up the coast and the first catches of Sea Bass had everyone excited.
For those of you who thought that OKUMA reels where just another second class offering from over seas. You got to see and handle their new offerings. Most of you we talked to after handling them where quite impressed with the quality of workmanship and innovation showmen in the entire line.  Mike and the crew can't wait to give them a try.
 
For those of you who didn't make it up to Long Beach we will be at the Del Mar show
March 24 to 28. stop by and say hello and we can exchange sea stories.
 
Remember if you purchase $200 worth of OKUMA tackle at the show you will receive a 50% off coupon for any BIG GAME 90 2010 trip and be entered into a drawing for a free trip 
on the BIG GAME.

If you can't make it to the show you can still save 50% on selected trips if you book one before April 15 see our show special add on  biggame90.com 

Call 858-270-7525 for trip information and reservations.

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The Big Game 90 once again kicks off their season from Long Beach Marina with 976-TUNA.

This is a 2 day Island freelance trip leaving Wednesday night March 17

OK so you all got new gear at the Fred Hall Show. Give it all a test run on this trip with your chance to win a free ride on the next Big Game 90 trip and a trip to Palmas de Cortez.

Cost of the trip is just $200

This will be a tool belt trip with the big fish riding for free on the next 976-TUNA 2 day trip leaving March 31 plus the tool belt winner will be in our end of the year fish off for a chance to win a 6 day stay at Hotel Palmas de Cortez.

Come fish with Earl the Peral McVicar for good times and good fishing.

Call Rick at 310-328-8426 for reservations now or CLICK HERE to book right on line.

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Call and make your reservations for the following trips!!!

LAST TWO WEEKS OF THE POT OF GOLD STARTS TOMORROW!!! Only 10 more trips to land "THE BIG ONE" and get yourself in the TOP 25 FISHOFF FOR THE POT!

Running Wednesday March 10, 2010!!  Pot of Gold Halibut Derby on the Native Sun!!!  Skippered by Kevin Nguyen is running our annual Pot of Gold Halibut Derby running Wednesday through Sunday departing at 9am and returns at 5pm.  Tickets are $50 which includes your entry fees. 

ROCKFISH  on the ¾ day! Skippered Jeff Villapando the Icon is on a single ¾ day run Saturday, Sunday, and Monday fishing locally for Rockfish, Sand bass and Sculpin. Trip departs at 7am. Tickets are $48 save an additional $5 when you prepay with your reservation!! Monday prepay special, tickets are only $40 when you prepay with your reservation!!! Please be prepaid by 5pm on Sunday.

The Tide Change is online to run full day trips to Catalina Sat. through Mon.  The cost is $60 and there is a Monday Mayhem special when you prepay with your reservations tickets are $50.  The trip is 6am - 6pm

Call between 8am and 5pm for reservations or further information at 562-432-8993 or check out [link]

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The Cobra out of Channel Island Sportfishing is on line for open party trips leaving Friday, Sunday, and Monday at 4 am.

The Cobra's hoop net trips are still on line for Friday and Saturday night.

Call 805-382-1612 for reservations.

Listen to Chris live - Click Here For Live Report

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Captain Shawn Morgon Announces
The Long Beach Halibut Challenge for Saturday, May 22nd
Early Bird Special-
Sign up before April 15- ONLY $65   After $100
Sign Up on line at www.LongBeachHalibutChallenge.com

Win a 7 Day Trip on the Q-105

Are you up to the Challenge?
WWW.LongBeachHalibutChallenge.com
Click to read more about the Halibut challenge-  Weekly Fishing Column: LB Halibut Challenge fills void - The Daily Breeze

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OPEN PARTY TRIPS

Depart Friday March 12th @ 8:00pm
Return Saturday March 13th @ 6:30pm
*2 SPOTS
 
Depart Saturday March 13th @ 8:00pm
Return Sunday March 14th @ 6:30pm
*4 SPOTS
 
Depart Thursday March 18th @ 8:00pm
Return Friday March 19th @ 6:30pm
*6 SPOTS
 
Depart Wednesday March 24th @ 8:00pm
Return Thursday March 25th @ 6:30pm
*4 SPOTS
 
Depart Saturday March 27th @ 8:00pm
Return Sunday March 28th @ 6:30pm
*6 SPOTS
 
Depart Saturday April 10th @ 8:00pm
Return Sunday April 11th @ 6:30pm

Call 562-980-2009 for reservations.
                                                               
2010 OPTIONS WHITE SEABASS COUNT - 3

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A Weekend With 976-TUNA at Rosarito Beach - April 9th, 10th and 11th
Call Philip at 310-809-7340 or e mail Philip@976-TUNA.Com
Only $285.00 per couple includes
 

2 Nights the Rosarito Beach Hotel and Resort,  15 % Off The Spa,  2 welcome drinks, 2 breakfast buffets, a Saturday BBQ, 2 no host parties, 4 PM late check out on Sunday, and 24/7 service from Philip and the 976-TUNA staff. You simply won't find a more affordable and fun weekend than this. It's perfect for the whole family.
    

Take the Bus from Torrance or the Border and Back

Bus from the United States side of the border - Leave your car in secure parking at the border and travel by bus to and from the Rosarito Beach Hotel with 976-TUNA. ($50.00 per person) or leave from Torrance for only $99 round trip per person

Call Philip at 310-809-7340 or e mail Philip@976-TUNA.Com

Read more about this great trip-  Click- Baja Times - SINCE 1978 - English Language Newspaper of Baja California or  Weekly Fishing Column: Rosarito Beach welcomes anglers - The Daily Breeze

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*** Eclipse Owners Special***

Attention Anglers!!  I just talked to Mark Gillette, Owner/Operator, of the Eclipse and he wants to offer a $99 rate for his first three 1 Day Trips.  That's right, only $99 for these 1 Day Island Freelance Fishing Trips, targeting Yellowtail/Rockfish/Bass at either Catalina or San
Clemente Island. 

The first trip departs Thursday, March 11th, the second trip departs Friday, March 12th, and the third departs Saturday March 13th. 

Dust off your rods and reels and start the 2010 saltwater season the right way.

To make a reservation call (949)673-1434 or to check out the boat check out our website [link]

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Fishing Bonds 'Big' Brothers

Dana Wharf facilitates bonding through free kids fishing clinic and trip

            Dana Point, CA - March, 2010   Kids from all over enjoy a free fishing clinic each Sunday where young anglers are taught basic fishing techniques.  After the noon-12:30 free clinic, kids can go on the afternoon ½ day fishing trip free with a full-fare paying adult.  But, sometimes, that's a problem.  Bill Kirkpatrick, 13, has only one person with whom he does these kinds of activities, and that's his 'Big Brother' Joe Egender. The two live in Los Angeles and do a lot of different activities together; but this last Sunday they chose a beautiful day to spend on the water to fish and hang out together.  "Sportfishing sounded like fun and Dana Wharf had this great offer" said Egender.  

Bill's grandmother wanted a male role model in his life and she thought this was the greatest experience she could offer him.  "We go bowling, go-cart racing, and go out to eat" Bill said, "Last summer we went to Lake Tahoe and went Para-sailing and kayaking."

Joe and Bill have been 'brothers' for five years now.  Bill, and an A student, recently submitted a letter to the program about what Joe means to him and his experience in the program.  Because of Bill's letter Joe was named Big Brother of the Year for the Los Angeles area.  Bill's letter was then submitted nationally and if his letter is chosen by the national committee Joe and Bill will have the incredible opportunity to meet President Obama "that will be totally tight" Bill said smiling. 

Joe Egender taught inner city kids for a year in New Orleans and was so fulfilled by the experience he became a mentor with the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Program after he moved to Los Angeles. This program is the oldest, largest and most effective youth mentoring organization in the United States.  Statistics have shown that kids in this program are more confident with their schoolwork, get along better with their families, are less likely to begin using illegal drugs and alcohol, and enjoy going to school everyday.  Joe became a mentor simply to make a difference in a kid's life and hopefully live up the goals and reputation of the Big Brothers program.

Dana Wharf Sportfishing's free clinic and fishing trip brings young people the opportunity to experience the ocean and to bond with an adult who shares the passion for the ocean and fishing 

"We must thank all the Joe's in this country that take the time to support, love and uplift kids like Bill.  Dana Wharf Sportfishing is honored to provide fishing trips, whale watching trips, and other cruises and activities to kids like Bill from all over the world to create lifelong memories," said Donna Kalez, general manager.  You too can create wonderful memories of your own by visiting danawharf.com 

 For more information, visit danawharf.com or call 949.496.5794.  Reservations are recommended.

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That's right! The Big Game 90 has their show special going on. Book any trip listed below before April 15 and save 50%

Don't wait as space is limited. Call 858-270-7525 to get your spot at the rail.

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Greetings!

Salt water fly fishing is the fastest growing segment in the sport of fly fishing.  The Baja Flyfishing Co. will host three seminars this upcoming year at Hotel Punta Colorada.  Come learn from the experts that have over thirty years of experience fly fishing the Sea of Cortez.  

These seminars are geared for all levels of fly fishing experience, including those new to the sport of fly fishing.  Our seminars will cover the common species found in the Sea of Cortez, the tackle and tactics used to catch them.  Individual sessions include fly casting, tackle rigging, salt water knots and leaders systems, presentation techniques for specific species, fish fighting and fly selection and design.

Each seminar package includes five nights stay at Punta Colorada, airport to Hotel transfers, all meals, the seminar and three days fishing on a panga with a local Captain.  Fly tackle is available for rent by prior arrangement. 
Cost per person, based on double occupancy, May and October, $980.  August, $925.   
 
Enhance your seminar experience by arranging for individual guide service with one of the instructors.  Availability is limited at a cost of $150 per day per person (two per boat) and includes all fly tackle and flies

SEMINAR DATES:
Roosterfish:  May 4, to May 9, 2010
Roosterfish and Dorado:  August 3, to August 8, 2010
Dorado, Tuna: October 12, to October 17, 2010
 
For more information or to reserve your spot at any of these great seminars, please contact Mike Rieser/ Baja Flyfishing Company at 877-572-5012  or by email at E-mail

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The Pacific Quest now taking charter reservations.

Our mission is to provide you with the best possible sportfishing adventure. Therefore, we have set forth in the quality of services and the expertise of our crew members.

We look forward in bringing the opportunity of a lifetime of adventure. Come join us on your quest for adventure, more fish, more fun, no crowds.

The perfect boat for up to 12 anglers
Join Captain Josh for a great trip on the Pacific Quest

For open charter dates CLICK HERE then call Greg at 951-491-1004 or Gary at 760-212-0397 for more information and to book your trip.

The best charter dates are filling fast so call now.

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The Sea-Adventure 80 is now booking charters for the 2010 season.

Book now to get the dates you want.

Book it NOW!!

Spring and Summer 2010 The Real Sea-Adventure 80 is set to take reservations now.
Please call to book your group private charter and company charters now.
Thank you Capt. Scott McDaniels (619) 889-0621 [link] For charter information call 619-224-8062

The Sea-Adventure 80 has some great open party trips lined up for you.     

Click Here for a full Sea-Adventure 80 schedule then call 619-222-1144 to book your trip.

The Best Keeps Getting Better

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The Indian out of H & M Landing is on fire and only has a few prime dates left on this summers season. Don't miss your chance to ride in style on this awesome vessel. Call Call 619-523-8862 for your group reservations on these last remaining trips.

The INDIAN is second to none in customer service and comfort with our experenced and frienly crew at the ready to make your next fishing adventure a memorable one.The Indian is 65 feet length with a wide 20 foot beam that offers plenty of space from stem to stern.We have a bait capacity of 150 scoops and a 2 ton spray brine fish hold that is a chilled sea water spray system that will improve the quality and firmness of your catch.

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Great Deal On Pacific Star

2 Day Trip From Pierpoint in LB
Deaprts Friday March 12th at 9PM, returning Sunday the 14th at approx 7PM
              
Price $199.00 pp and includes breakfast both days
 
Book on-line at our website or call Chris for more information 951-302-6383

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The Cobra out of Channel Island Sportfishing only has a couple of Saturdays left for March and April.

Give Chris a call at 310-403-9969 for charter information and to book your trip.

Rockfish season is here and the Cobra will be running open party trips all week long.

Call 805-382-1612 for trip information and reservations.

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Legend Sportfishing Where Fishing is Legendary

With the 2010 season fast approaching it's time to start thinking about your groups charter.

The Legend will fish anywhere from the Channel Islands, Guadalupe, San Benito's, Cedro's Islands.
She features a huge live bait capacity comparable to the biggest sportfishing  vessels.
The Legend is ideal for outings of 8 to 36 people.

The Legend has a full galley preparing hot delicious food to enjoy while out  on the water.

Our 6-ton freezer will store your fish until we get to the dock.

This popular option is for small to Large groups and is often booked well in advance.
Call the Legend office at 619-722-6471 for charter information and book the best dates today.

Listen to Shawn Live - Click Here for Live Report
Book a charter by Jan 15th and save big call Legend Sportfishing For Special Rates. 619-722-6471 

The One The Only The Legend

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Jump on The Royal Polaris as they have a few spots available on the trips listed below, treat yourself to the Royal Fishing Greatness before its too late call the Royal Polaris office at 619-226-8030  

An 18 day JB Line One Open leaving Sunday March 14 - 1 Spot 

An 18/12 day optional fly back trip leaving April 3 - 3 Spots

A 17 day trip leaving Friday April 23 - 4 Spots

An 8 day Shimano sponsored trip with tons of give-a-ways leaving Friday June 18

CLICK HERE for a full Royal Polaris schedule then call 619-226-8030 for reservations.

Listen to Frank Live - Click Here For Live Report

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James and the crew of The Grande would like to thank all who fished with them this year and for making 2009 so much fun!

Remember, it's never to early to start booking for 2010.

I have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on the Grande in the last few years. Once onboard, You will notice new engines and generators, which are much quieter, smoother and more reliable. You will also notice a new 200 scoop bait tank. I have also installed a new fresh water maker and water tanks as well as several new systems that are invisible to the fisherman's eye but improve the operation of the vessel, such as new hydrualic steering, fish hold refrigeration system, satellite phone, radars and engine room/deck cameras. As many of my regular customers know, I spare no expense in keeping the Grande at the forefront of the 1 to 3 day fleet.

The Grande is also available for private charters for just about any type of outing. We are certified to carry up to 100 passengers (44 on overnight voyages) for local trips, such as whale watching, bird watching, harbor tours, Parade of lights, weddings or various other types of parties. We are also available for marine research trips, marine transportation and field trips.

Click Here for charter rates.

To book a private charter on the Grande or for any boat information, you can email James at james@grandesportfishing.com

It's Not Big It's Grande

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Welcome aboard the Dolphin II, a 65-foot San Diego Sportfishing vessel. The Dolphin II is an excellent fishing platform with a long history as one of the top overnight/multi day vessels in the fleet. We offer trips of various lengths, from a 1/2 Day trip to the coastal waters off San Deigo up to a 2.5 Day trip into the waters off Baja. Year around there is phenomenal fishing within our range. During the winter months the focus is mainly on bottom dwellers such as Rockfish and Lingcod along with the occasional Yellowtail catch. As we move into spring the warm water currents bring schools of surface fish up the coastline. These species include Bonita, Barracuda, and Yellowtail. This springtime fishing proceeds our world class summer and fall fishing for Albacore, Bluefin Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, and Big Eye Tuna.

The Dolphin II runs out of Mission Bay Sportfishing and they are now taking charter reservations for the 2010 season.

Get the best dates by booking now.
 
    Click Here for charter rates then call 619-971-5941 for reservations

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The Sea Horse is a go for Friday night the 12th departing at 8pm for $100

 Saturday has a light load as of right now too, nice weather foretasted too.

Call 949-496-5794 x7 for reservations.

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Now is the time to start thinking about your groups charter for the 2010 season and the first place to look is the Pacific Queen out of Fishermans Landing.

The Pacific Queen is a graceful, smooth-riding Sportfishing vessel with a length of 88' and a beam of 22'

Spacious air-conditioned sleeping accommodations for up to 40

The Pacific Queen operates anywhere from 1-day overnight trips to 3-day trips out of Fisherman?s Landing in San Diego. These trips take advantage of the world-class tuna fishing that is found in the offshore waters of the Baja coast. Albacore, bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna, yellowtail and dorado are the gamefish that are found in these waters. Depending on the type of year we are having, we may encounter incredible fishing for albacore and bluefin tuna. During warmer water years, we might see excellent fishing for yellowfin tuna, bigeye tuna and dorado. The offshore waters of the Baja coast consistently produce outstanding tuna fishing and the trips we have scheduled take advantage of this.

Book now and get the best dates!

Click Here for more charter information then call 619-992-7686 for more information and to book your groups trip.

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Attention all stations

This is the promotion that we will be running at the

Fred Hall shows in March

and in keeping with our promise to give our loyal readers first shot at some real money saveing deals we are offering it to you 6 weeks early 50% off selected trips

　
      Trip # 25, 26, 28, 30, 34, 66, 70, 74, 76, 80, 84, 88, 90,

                     
                     LB 96, LB 98, LB 100, LB 102
　
            A 25% nonrefundable deposit is due @ booking
                      Food, permits and taxes are extra
                          Offer expires April 15 2010
        Book now there are a limited number of discounted spots on each trip

                                 Call 858 270 7525 for information and to book your trip

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The March 976-TUNA Rod and Reel Club Meetings
Free White Seabass/ Island Fishing Seminar
This Thursday at Hooters of Anaheim
with Freedom skipper Tom Lee
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Bring the Family! The Fish ID Game Live! It's Free! Free Raffle with Great prizes.
Reserve Philip@976-TUNA.Com
E-mail" /> E-mail" />
*Get the Seabass forecast * Latest WSB Info * How to catch More and Bigger White Seabass* Iron Fishing* Private Boater White Seabass* Learn the best way to catch fish at Catalina, San Clemente, and Santa Barbara Island* Free Raffles* Win A trip for 2 to La Paz from www.TailhunterInternational.com , try www.BubbasHotRods.Com , sign up for a 976-TUNA Trip, meet new fishing friends.

March 11th at the Hooters in Anaheim, 7 PM
2438 East Katella Avenue
Anaheim, CA 92806-5901
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March 18th at the Nationals Sports Grill in Torrance, 7 PM
3210 Sepulveda Blvd
Torrance, CA 90505-2719

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