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Many consider Costa Rica to be among the best sport fishing locations in the world.
Having just returned from a 10-day vacation there, I can understand why.
During a two-hour period on one of our charters, we raised a dozen sailfish and released nine of them. David Hohl's 110 pounder was the largest of three we caught at one point. The spectacular aerial acrobatics of three 8-foot Pacific Sailfish won't soon be forgotten.
All were caught using stand-up tackle and 20-pound test while skipping ballyhoo 35 miles off the coast of the city of Quepos. We caught mahi mahi in the 35-40 pound class but our highlight was a yellowfin tuna our captain estimated at 125 pounds. Debra Gell and Karen Nash double teamed the monster during the two hour battle in 1,200 feet.
Few fish are better eating than fresh-caught yellowfin, and many of the natives were able to share our feast.
As good as it is to get away, there is no place like home. Especially when we were welcomed by news that water temperature is inching toward the mid 70s and the forecast is for easterly winds.
Kingfish have already shown up a bit ahead of schedule and promise to be right off our gulf beaches as soon as the near shore waters clear.
Grouper that had required a trip to 120 feet will now become more accessible in depths of 70 feet and as shallow as 40.
Jay Mastry charters Jaybird out of St. Petersburg. Call (727) 321-2142.