GUATEMALA

SAILFISH CAPITOL OF THE WORLD

Welcome to the ultimate destination for thrill-seeking anglers and nature enthusiasts alike – Guatemala, the unrivaled Sailfish capital of the world. Our website is your gateway to an unforgettable adventure, where the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean meet the breathtaking landscapes of this Central American gem.

Embark on an exhilarating journey as we invite you to experience the thrill of fishing for Sailfish in Guatemala’s pristine waters. Known globally for its prolific Sailfish population, Guatemala offers a unique and unmatched angling experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, our guides and charters are dedicated to ensuring an unforgettable and successful fishing expedition.

But it’s not just about the incredible sportfishing – Guatemala is a country that boasts unparalleled natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring scenery of this land, where majestic volcanoes punctuate the skyline. These geological wonders not only add drama to the landscape but also provide a stunning backdrop to your fishing escapades.

As you explore Guatemala, don’t miss the chance to discover the captivating allure of Lake Atitlan, nestled amidst towering volcanic peaks. This mystical lake is not only a haven for biodiversity but also a cultural treasure, surrounded by indigenous Mayan villages that add a rich tapestry to the overall experience.

Tikal, an ancient archaeological site shrouded in the mystery of the Mayan civilization, is another gem awaiting your exploration. Walk in the footsteps of history among towering pyramids and ancient ruins, as you connect with the cultural heritage that defines this extraordinary country.

Join us in celebrating the synergy of adventure and natural wonders that Guatemala offers. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of reeling in the mighty Sailfish or captivated by the beauty of volcanoes, lakes, and ancient history – Guatemala awaits, promising an unparalleled fusion of excitement and serenity.

Let the journey begin – where the pursuit of Sailfish meets the enchanting landscapes of Guatemala, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

RESERVE

WANT TO FISH THE SAILFISH MECCA OF THE WORLD?

Guatemala’s Pacific Coast is the place. Located along the Central American “billfish highway,” this is where sails, stripes and blue and black marlin cruise underwater mountain ranges less than 10 miles from the dock; where skilled captains such as Mike Sheeder on the Intensity and Jason Brice often produce billfish Grand Slams. A place where skippers proudly fly more than 40 billfish release flags.

OCEANS ALIVE WITH FISH

Sailfish fishing off Guatemala is phenomenal! But so is the dorado or dolphin fishing, yellowfin tuna, wahoo and marlin. Catching 15 out of 25 odd sailfish plus scores of dorado and tuna is routine. And when the waters are teaming with bait, as is usually the case, the catch rate can climb to three or more times that number.

Guatemala holds the single day record of 124 sails released on conventional tackle and 57 on fly. No other fishing destination approaches the billfish numbers found off Guatemala. The reason for Guatemala’s productivity has to do with its mountainous offshore bottom structure and the currents that interact with it, sending oxygenated water or upwellings to the surface.

Currents moving east from Mexico and west from Panama collide off Guatemala, creating enormous nutrient-rich eddies that attract and hold baitfish, which in turn attracts gamefish. Everywhere you look there is marine life. Not just sailfish, but whales, spinner dolphin, sea turtles and diving marine birds. Best of all, about 75 percent of the time this marine show happens in flat seas.

Calm conditions that make Guatemala the ideal spot for first time fly fishermen wanting to catch billfish or new-to-offshore fishing families seeking an introduction to the sport. In short, anyone who doesn’t like rough sea conditions will find the ocean off the Port of San Jose a pleasure.

Sailfish, blue and black and striped marlin, wahoo, tunas and dorado are caught year round. However the peak billfish season is October through June. The summer months are tops for dorado and inshore species such as roosterfish, Cubera snapper and grouper on light tackle.

A WORD ABOUT CONSERVATION

Guatemala is a leader in billfish conservation, which has played a big part in making this area a favorite destination for offshore fishing enthusiasts the world over. Guatemala was the first country to embrace and enact laws requiring the mandatory use of baited circle hooks in its offshore fishery. It also has a strict no kill billfish policy.

Because of these policies, it has been able to sustain its reputation for the most sailfish releases in the Pacific every year since records have been kept. Capt. Sheeder proudly contributes to conservation research by keeping accurate records and data on his average yearly 1,500 to 2,000 billfish releases.

DESTINATIONS

INTENSITY SPORT FISHING

EL GRINGO

For more than 20 years the Intensity and its crew have been offering fly and conventional angling clients the finest billfishing in the world. We consistently receive the highest recommendations and reviews from both novice and experienced anglers. We invite you to come, and step aboard the Intensity to begin your own fishing adventure. Make your fishing dreams a reality.

MEET YOUR CAPTAIN:

Originally from Hawaii, Mike Sheeder is the youngest member of the famed Sheeder sportfishing team, as younger brother of Chris Sheeder. His fishing education began at an early age with Neil Isaacs, who regularly took him, his dad and big brother Chris marlin fishing off Kona.

He graduated from California Maritime Academy in 2002, and holds a US Coast Guard “unlimited all seas” license and numerous accreditations as a merchant marine. He started fishing professionally as a 16-year-old on weekends in Kewalo Basin, known for where the world’s largest blue marlin was caught. In 2006 he moved to Guatemala, taking over the helm of the legendary 37′ Gamefisherman INTENSITY.

Equally adept at catching billfish and other species on light to heavy tackle and fly, Capt. Sheeder has consistently taken top honors in tournaments ever since fishing out of Port San Jose, Guatemala. In 2008 he was nominated as Marlin Magazine captain of the year for records like 70 sailfish releases a day; five blue marlin in a day and a sailfish on 2-pound tippet that at the time was second one ever to be caught on fly.

In his off-season, Capt. Sheeder navigated container ships through the Straits of Hormuz. No other captain in Central America has Mike’s experience fishing and running boats in international waters. “Captain Mike” is great at teaching people of all ages and backgrounds to fish. Book a charter on INTENSITY today!

ABOUT THE INTENSITY

Built by DCN, (the Costa Rican-based builder credited with building early Gamefisherman Boats) the 37-foot Intensity is a custom built boat with a wide open cockpit that makes it ideal for up to four anglers and for fly fishermen taking billfish on fly. It’s was formerly owned by Tim Choate of Artmarina – the company that pioneered sportfishing travel to Guatemala – and was the number one requested gameboat at Fin ‘n Feathers Lodge. With Capt.

Bud Gramer it caught the first triple header (three fish by three anglers) of sailfish on fly in March of 2001. Among the previous captains are Ross “Flash” Clark and Chris Sheeder, who turned the keys over to his younger brother Mike in 2006.

The Intensity is powered by two Cummins Diamond series 450 hp diesel engines that make her fast (30-plus knots at cruise) and maneuverable. She’s also comfortable and dry. The boat is equipped with state-of-art electronics, communications and all safety equipment and GoPro cameras to catch those breathtaking images for future bragging rights. Ready for battle, the Intensity is equipped with the finest standup conventional tackle including 16- to 20 pound for sailfish and 30- to 50-pound custom outfits for marlin and tuna.

Additionally, we offer 20-pound spinning gear for sailfish and dorado and 14- to 16-weight fly fishing tackle for those wanting to experience even more fun with billfish. Or, bring your favorite tackle to fish with. Our mates are some of the world’s best at pitching baits and teasing and releasing billfish. Over the years the Intensity has recorded an average year-round daily release rate of 18 sailfish.

The Intensity is one of a dozen or so sportfishing boats docked at San Jose Marina, the only major marina on Guatemala’s Pacific Coast. It operates year-round.

PACKAGE RATES

Rates are based per angler/double occupancy – non-angling companion,
children and single occupancy options available upon request.

INCLUDED

-Your angling package includes VIP airport reception
-round trip chauffeured ground transfers (airport-lodge-airport), daily marina transfer.
-Deluxe double occupancy accommodations.
-Gourmet meals, domestic alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
-Tournament tackle and flies, lunch and beverages on board.
-Laundry service.

NOT INCLUDED

-International airfare to Guatemala City,
-Guatemala room tax of $28/room/night (must be collected in Guatemala).
-Gratuities to lodge staff, captain & boat crews, drivers, and any tours
-Meals outside of the Lodge.

As of April 1st, 2008 the incredible Cayo Largo (Long Key) fishery came under the management of Avalon Fishing Center. With this new undertaking we strive to achieve a paradise that fishermen can enjoy and share with their families and non-fisherman friends. In Cayo Largo you can bonefish on white sand flats while your family enjoys the breathtaking beaches, enjoy a cocktail in the hotel pool, or participate in one of the numerous activities the resort offers.

Fish during the day and relax while watching an incredible sunset in style and comfort in one of the most beautiful pristine natural environments in the world. When you combine this stunning eco system with the personal touch and excellent service that Avalon is renowned for, our 15 years of experience in providing top notch fly fishing trips you are guaranteed a great experience. One of the great benefits to this destination is that Cayo Largo also has a modern international airport where Canadian, European, and South American aircraft can now fly to directly. There are 3 weekly flights directly from Canada and Italy.

This is one of the few companies in the world that can offer its guests the unique ability to fish in a completely exclusive marine park, free of commercial fishermen, nets or any skiffs or yachts from other companies. Think about the incredible possibilities of having all those nautical kilometers to yourself and being able to choose the species and the places you want to fish, without any fuel limitation during your fishing week. Guests can expect the following species when fishing with Avalon at Cayo Largo: Permit, Bonefish (large ones), Tarpon, Jack Crevalle, Barracudas, Mutton Snapper, Snooks, etc.

The bounty of nature found at Cayo Largo is a well-kept secret. It has pristine coral reefs and is complemented by neighboring keys inhabited by numerous species of flora and fauna, among them iguanas, pelicans and turtles. The beginning of the season from November to January is very good, with plenty of bonefish (especially big ones) on the flats and mangrove areas. Fishing for tarpon and other species can also be excellent. This is a really nice time to plan a trip to Cayo Largo, as the weather is much warmer in Cuba than in Europe or Northern America. Our high season from February through July offers stable and perfect fishing conditions with all species present. During this period, our Cayo Largo program is based on the JA1 live aboard to afford the most convenient logistics and ease of access to the most productive fishing areas.

SEASON:

Peak fishing season is from February to July, when all species are present in the area. Tarpon, bones, permit and jacks will all be encountered during these months. The migratory tarpon, up to 80/100lbs (average 15/30lbs) are regularly spotted and shots at permit are very frequent. Our peak season is the best time to try the Gland Slam. Numerous Grand Slams are achieved each season as well as a few Super Grand Slams (Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit and Snook).

In the late part of the season, the weather gets hot but the fishing is still very productive, especially for tarpon and permit. Fishing for bonefish is also very good in the morning and in the evening. Our statistics indicate a very surprising summer phenomenon: that the same number of fish are caught during the hot months as in the peak season, but by half the number of rods. This illustrates how fabulously productive the summer months in Cayo Largo can be for our anglers.

BLUE SANCTUARY AND CAYO LARGO

Blue Sanctuary has been working with partners in the Canarreos Archipelago for the past 27+ years. This is a massive no take marine preserve in the Caribbean, to focus on research, management and economic issues related to what are considered the most healthy and extensive coral reefs in the Caribbean region.

We are working closely with the Cuban Center for Coastal Ecosystems and Marine Research Center of Cuba to better study the natural resources of the region while also assessing their economic and social values. Project Blue Sanctuary is a comprehensive, aggressive and forward-looking program to research and protect the unique and pristine ecosystems of the Canarreos Archipelago.

This research ensures that these protections will endure in perpetuity, serve as a compelling model for marine protected areas worldwide, dramatically advance human understanding of how healthy coral reef ecosystems function, and yield critical insights to inform management decisions for protecting coral reefs globally. Furthermore, this ecosystem and educational research model is bringing Americans and Cubans closer together.Former fishermen and their families are now employed in diving and fly fishing operations. Through this they are continually creating human connections by educating visiting ecotourists creating a sustainable way of life; which in turn, is fostering future generations of stewards in this marine park.