The billfish catch rate popped right back up over the past week and reflected about a 65% chance for a billfish catch in the offshore waters. However, the big news was the increased numbers of dorado that showed up in the offshore waters with most of the fish in the 15-40 lb. ranges with the skippers reporting 1-3 per boat. The overall fish counts for the offshore waters reflected 6 stripers, (3 released) 2 sailfish released, 31 dorado and 1 hammerhead shark for a total of 13 days fished. The super panga, reporting in for 6 days fished, reflected an enormous increase in fishing action that included 13 dorado, 20 Seabass, 38 red snappers, 11 triggerifsh and 59 rock perch. Everyone connected with the fishing fleet is anxious to see of the dorado counts continue through the coming week and if they do, then it should reflect an early bite for the annual dorado action that typically starts in May.

Mazatlan Climate: Still cool mornings and evenings but pleasantly warm and sunny days with a few passing clouds and temps that ranged from 51 nights to 83 daytime highs.

Sea Conditions: In shore sea temps rose to 76-77 and the offshore waters held fast at 78-79 degrees. Surface breezes coming in mostly from the westerly directions in the 10-15 mph. Good water clarity at about 15 miles and outbound from there.

Best Fishing Area: Southerly from the Marina El Cid, starting at bout 15 miles or so and continuing out to the south from there.

Best Lure/Bait: The billfish were best on the rigged trolling baits as were the bigger dorado. Some of the smaller dorado, the 15-20 pounders were taken on the artificials.

Bait Supply: Remains excellent for both, fresh caught baits for rigging and a good supply of live bait.