After two weeks of solid communication, assurances of equipment, ice, etc. We showed up at 7am for our trip and Captain Gabriel was a no show.  I have been on many charters and this was a first for me.  I booked the trip on the strength of his background and experience.

The guy who showed up didn’t tell me that Gabriel was not showing, and instead put a credit card machine in front of me and demanded payment.  After paying we went to the pier and he told us the captain was coming (waiving his cellphone at a Panga out in the bay.  40 minutes later another boat comes up, takes this guy (Miguel) out the the boat, and bringing him back saying he is now the captain.

They had no gear on board, and wasted more time grabbing rods off another boat.  I asked about ice for our beers and was told the stores were “out” of ice, and we didn’t need it if we just drank our beer fast.

He then asked where we wanted to fish, and I suggested he take us where we had the best chance if catching fish.  Apparantly this turned out to be slow trolling right in front of the marina and resorts (in 86 degree water) for 6 hours.

I small bonito was the result. 

I never expect to catch fish when I go out on a charter, fishing is fishing.  What I do expect is honest communication, and a genuine effort to put me on fish, make sure the boat is stocked with ice and cold waters, etc.

Miguel and Nico seem like nice guys, and this shit show was not likely their fault.  I blame the captain who didn’t have the professional courtesy to call to say he would not be there, nor follow up to apologize when he failed to show.  Pretty shameful, and exhibits a real lack of pride in his operation.  I would avoid booking with this company.

Crew and equipment was good.  Just didn’t catch one fish.  I questioned the actual fishing abilities or our guides.  Seemed very random and we just trolled where the wind took us.  Spending my this kind of money for zero bites or fish just isn’t what I expected.  Get a different guide.