Intensity Sport Fishing: Spring Newsletter 2020
- Rey Rey Rodriguez
- Mar 12, 2020
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 8, 2020
COVID-19
As concerns over coronavirus grow, the teams at Intensity Sport Fishing and Sailfish Oasis Lodge are continuing to monitor the situation as it relates to our staff and our guests. As of today (March 17) Guatemala has closed its borders and banned entry of non-residents into the country for the next two weeks. This was done in order to contain the infection rate of the citizens of Guatemala. As of this writing, fewer than five confirmed coronavirus cases have been reported. Guatemala has one of the lowest rates of coronavirus in the hemisphere.
We hope you and yours continue to stay safe and are hopeful for the return to a less confusing and chaotic time.
- Herb Rosell
Good News to Report
With all the bad news comes the good. Coronavirus thrives in cold weather; warm weather not so much. So with Central America being a tropical climate, it’s expected Guatemala should have minimal impact with recent temperatures in the 90s.
Another beneficial thing to come out of this global crisis is transportation costs are plummeting. Airfares are being offered at bargain basement prices for late spring and summer travel and for that matter, into next next year. Imagine being able to travel from George Bush International Airport in Houston to Guatemala City for less than $50 one way on United Airlines in early April, when the country reopens. The cost for a roundtrip ticket on Copa Airlines from Miami or Atlanta is just $180. We have never seen rates this low! Furthermore it is a seamless time to travel. Airports are both less crowded and doing a stellar job of sterilizing the concourses and the planes with fogging machines among other devices. From point to point you can be assured airplanes are being thoroughly cleaned. Also with less crowded planes, there is a good chance you will be upgraded. So book your flights for future travel to Guatemala with us by calling 305-632-4372.
They're Here!
With one of the most consistent billfish bites in the Western Hemisphere, springtime is the PERFECT time to fish Guatemala where double-digit sailfish bites can be anticipated every day from March through early June. Along with the sailfish, blue and striped marlin are snapping, making your dreams of catching a billfish grand slam almost a sure thing. The oceans become more hospitable in the spring. Winter’s weather fronts and accompanying choppy seas become calm. Suddenly baitfish are everywhere, attracting not only sailfish but gaffer size dorados and yellowfin tunas over 30 pounds (sashimi for lunch or appetizers anyone?)
Successful Fly Fishermen
With calm seas, spring is also the best time of the year try catching billfish on fly as first time Intensity anglers Fred and Lynn discovered for themselves. Fishing in late February, Fred baited, hooked and released a blue marlin. Not an easy task on 20-pound tippet! And congrats to Lynn who made short work of a Pacific sail on 20-pound tippet. We also want to congratulate our friend and longtime Intensity client Nat of North Carolina for his capture and release of an estimated 300-pound blue on 20-pound tippet. All these anglers have extensive fishing bios and I am sure will continue to make their semi annual Guatemalan pilgrimage.
Seigler Reels On Board!
We are indeed proud to announce our partnership with American made Seigler Reels. Everyone who has tried the reels for the first time is unanimous in their praise for the whisper-smooth drag systems that have given Seigler the edge in the production of high-end precision sportfishing reels. Based in Virginia, the company builds a line of all aluminum conventional saltwater reels and fly reels featuring lever drags and carbon fiber stainless clutch systems. Come down and fish with us to experience these fun reels for yourself. You’ll soon understand why Seigler is quickly becoming the must have offshore reel. Their offshore small reels and BF series of fly reels are now on board theIntensityand ready to fish.
Oasis is the Right Location
Situated in a quiet, tree lined gated development only a scant five minutes from the marina sits Sailfish Oasis Lodge. Far from the hectic main road, this is the ultimate retreat for anyone traveling to fish Guatemala’s west coast. Sailfish Oasis is tucked away in the exclusive Likin community. Once the private enclave of a wealthy Guatemala City family, Liz and Kiwi bought the house and grounds and renovated it. The resulting waterfront lodge is breathtaking. Kissed by sea breezes, the boutique hotel features a swim up bar, boardwalk and tropical gardens for strolling and open-air family style dining or separate tables for those seeking privacy. As expected the level of service is superior. From the housekeeping staff to servers, you will receive very personal service. Meals are gourmet affairs. From specialty cocktails and beverages with appetizers to the family style entrees of the finest meats, seafood and wines to dessert and café with after dinner cigars and fine aged rums, your expectations will be exceeded. Exclusive for up to 20 guests, you will be staying in five two-bedroom bungalows with sitting areas and porches. Privacy and security are always the upmost concern. Unlike other lodgings nearby, you are not confined at Sailfish Oasis Lodge. You are welcome to move about freely, to safely jog or walk after dinner. With Wi-Fi connectivity, many guests choose to stay on and sightsee after their fishing trip is over. Your wishes are their command.
Snapping on Instagram
Thanks to those of you who have been following us on Instagram and other sites. We’ve added another one thousand followers to Instagram! In addition to Instagram, you are welcome to follow us on Facebook and our YouTube Channel for action packed videos with breathtaking images, fishing updates and instruction. Check out the exceptional catches for yourself.
Final Thoughts
We will get through this together. Stay informed, stay safe and know that we will be here for that well deserved Guatemalan fish-cation when we hope to welcome you aboard once again. We will see you soon.
For immediate assistance call us at
(855) BILLFISH 245-5347
or (305) 632-4372
Regards from billfish paradise! - Herb Rosell
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