Sardina are still tops for cabrilla and triggerfish and some of the trips today stirred up firecracker yellowtail and 30-inch roosters.The latest hot spot is just outside (west) of Coronado Island's "Matate" -- fly-lined and slow-trolled sardina for the roosters and crackers. The same area has been good with the same bait fished on the bottom for triggerfish and cabrilla.


Our most popular captain, Francisco "Cuate" Fernandez, managed two 20-pound yellowtail today and he impressed upon me that it was total luck to get bit, and hook and land the yellowtail! The best bait for big yellows in Loreto is mackerel and the second best is big eyed jacks. The last fish we expect on a three-inch sardina are big yellowtail, but surprises happen!


The only live mackerel story is happening out at the "deep spot," a mile or two east of the Lighthouse on Coronado.


A little warning: It seems that the best bait bite in this spot is early! When I say "early" I mean before the sun comes up -- before 6:30 am. That translates to 8 miles in the dark, leaving at 5:00 am and fishing in 500 feet of water. I have to mentally prepare myself for that one.


For the boats with the big baits we are seeing at least two yellowtail over 20 pounds, consistently. Irons have been effective, too, but not every day nor at every spot we tried.


We have been having a good blue whale watching season so far. I say, "so far" because today we spotted orcas in the neighborhood and they are known for throwing off the peaceful balance wherever they appear.


Until then, expect to spend a little more time waiting for launching and hauling out ... this also makes the early bait bite an extra early event. Ouch!


The water clarity has been low and very green with the microscopic goodies. Along the beaches we are starting to get the first of the green weed patches. We are still in winter mode but spring is just around the corner...Rick Hill, Pinchy Sportfishing