St. Thomas Anglers Experience Unforgettable Pacific Sailfish Adventure in Guatemala
Join a group of St. Thomas anglers on their thrilling adventure in Guatemala, where they released 135 Pacific Sailfish in just three days. Discover the excitement of fishing with legendary Captain Ron Hamlin and learn new techniques to bring back home.
A Journey to the Sailfish Capital
A group of St. Thomas fishermen recently embarked on an unforgettable fishing trip to Guatemala, where the Pacific Sailfish action was nothing short of spectacular. The average size of these powerful fish ranges from 60 to 150 pounds, with many weighing in at around 90 pounds. Organized by Neptune Fishing Supplies in Red Hook, St. Thomas, the trip brought together a diverse group of seven anglers, including Chris Margolin, Mario Austin, Nick Pourzal, Jim Jamison, Richard Spenceley, and Stewart Loveland from St. Thomas; Richie Kirst and Chuck Evers from Florida; and Drew Margolin from San Francisco.
Meeting at the Miami Boat Show
The group first came together at the Miami Boat Show, where the Big Game Room resembled the lively atmosphere of Sopchoppy’s happy hour during marlin season. After connecting at the show, the group left Miami on a Saturday evening, flying to Guatemala City. That night, they traveled to Antigua, one of the oldest cities in Guatemala, steeped in rich culture and history from the 1500-1600s.
Exploring Antigua’s Rich History
Antigua, nestled between two dramatic volcanoes, offered the group a day of sightseeing and a visit to the local bazaar before they journeyed to the port of San Jose on the West Coast. Their accommodations were at Villa Vella, near the fishing village of Iztapa, where they were warmly greeted with trays of refreshing rum and cokes upon each arrival “home.” Fresh warm tostones and fantastic meals awaited them, along with the beautiful black volcanic sand beaches.
Fishing with a Legend: Captain Ron Hamlin
Each morning, the group left the villa at 7:00 AM to board their two fishing boats. One of these was the famous forty-three-foot “Captain Hook,” helmed by the renowned Captain Ron Hamlin. Hamlin, known for setting several world records, including tagging 2,555 billfish in 1999, led the group through three days of intense sailfish action. Chris Margolin remarked, “It was awesome to fish with a true legend of our time.”
An Ocean Teeming with Life
The waters off Guatemala’s coast were teeming with marine life, including whales, porpoises, manta rays, and small baitfish, which attracted the sailfish in prolific quantities. The peak sailfish season in Guatemala runs from November through April, though the fish can be found year-round. The group was fortunate to experience calm seas, with the “roughest conditions” being just two to three-foot swells and almost no wind chop—quite different from the conditions often encountered in St. Thomas.
Mastering the Art of Circle Hooks
The group employed circle hooks during their fishing trip, a method that is easier on the fish as it prevents gut hooking and allows for easier release. The fast and efficient crew kept three pitch bait rods rigged and ready, running three teasers and two rigged baits in the spread. The sheer number of sailfish bites provided the group with countless opportunities to refine their fishing skills, even for the most seasoned anglers.
135 Sailfish Released in Three Days
Over the course of three days, the group successfully released an impressive 135 sailfish. The experience left them ecstatic and eager to bring their newfound knowledge back to St. Thomas for the upcoming marlin season. Chris Margolin summed up the trip in five words: “I want to go back.”
Worth your time?
Thanks — noted.
