March, 2023 Fishing Diary

March, 2023

3/8-14: A return trip to Rancho Leonero on the East Bay of the Sea of Cortez.

We were last here during Covid. Mexico was about the closest and easiest place to which we could travel during the pandemic and enjoy some halfway decent salt water fishing. As we recall, there were only four rooms rented at the resort during that time period. It was a really tough situation for any place dependent upon tourism for business.

The trip down there is quick and easy from Arizona. The first afternoon of our stay was beautiful - sunny skies, calm seas, and a modest breeze. Little did we know that those conditions were going to disappear for the rest of the week we were there. The late afternoon fishing at a low tide was modest but enjoyable.

Next morning conditions fell apart with big waves, heavy winds, and a nasty upwelling of colder water temperatures that pretty much destroyed any catching opportunities for the balance of the week. The cold water was literally a killer. Large numbers of a warm water loving species of porcupine fish began appearing on the shoreline each day culminating in the massive die off of thousands of them a bit later in the week. The water temperature of the Sea of Cortez in this area apparently was only about 60 degrees when we arrived - and with the violent winds that caused a huge upwelling of deeper, even colder water, the situation for the fish became dire.

Even if the wind conditions had allowed us to be able to cast, the cold water kept all the shoreside fish from actively feeding. It wasn't much fun at all.

But we made the best of it by taking long daily beach hikes and picking up as much sea glass as we possibly could to feed Sue's love of creating mosaics with the various colors and shapes.

Food at the lodge was great. We love Mexican flavors and the restaurant serves fine ethnic courses at each meal. We found a decent locally grown chardonnay called El Cetto which was a bargain at $25 a bottle.

So except for the fishing (which was our main reason for being there) the trip was a pleasant getaway and diversion from the somewhat lousy weather we've been having this spring in Arizona. Here's the regular clunky video we make of these trips:

Just out of curiosity I asked chat gpt to give us a few words about the resort, and here's what it came up with today/

"Rancho Leonero is a beautiful resort located in the East Bay of Cabo, Mexico. The resort offers stunning views of the Sea of Cortez and is a perfect destination for those who want to relax and unwind. The resort has a variety of accommodations, including luxurious suites and cozy beachfront casitas. Visitors can indulge in a range of activities, including fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, and horseback riding. The resort's restaurant offers delicious seafood and Mexican cuisine, and guests can enjoy refreshing drinks at the bar. With its pristine beaches, warm weather, and excellent amenities, Rancho Leonero is an ideal getaway for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque vacation."

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