The-Hook-Brochure

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Fishing experience 

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Guatemala - World Class Fishing 

Fleet and Marina - Lodging - Rates - Contact

guatemala 

a beautiful and culturally rich country 

magic, 

culture and 

traditions 

One of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in 

Central America. It is also one of the largest, covering an 

area of over 108,000 sq Km (slightly smaller than 

England). Guatemala shares its main borders with Mexico 

to the north, the Caribbean Sea and Belize to the east, the 

Pacific Ocean to the west, and by both Honduras and El 

Salvador to the south. Guatemala is a gorgeously scenic 

country where flat plains and sandy shores converge with 

the ascending moorlands that exemplify a large part of 

the Guatemalan landscape. What signifies the culture of 

this territory is undoubtedly the very vivid influences of 

the ancient Mayan faith and set of beliefs. 

From active volcanoes to immaculate colonial cities to 

quite possibly the world’s most beautiful lake, Guatemala 

boasts plenty of reasons for you to bid farewell to your 

loved ones, return those outstanding library books, and 

spend a couple months in Central America. 

There is an accurate word to describe this destination for 

its magic, culture, traditions and stunning beauty of all 

natural resources. Yes, exotic perfectly fits the overall 

experience you get from visiting Guatemala. 

The Mayan culture is nowhere else in the whole of Central 

America to be found embedded so intricately. The archaic 

civilization of the Mayan inhabitants has resulted in magnificent 

towns, the relics of which continue to strike the 

visitors in awe and sheer amazement. 

www.thehook.fishing info@thehookfishing.com (+502) 3226-5841

heaven for 

sailfish 

why guatemala 

rich in bait and pelagic fish 

Guatemala is one of the largest breeding grounds for 

Pacific sailfish and boasts one of the highest concentrations 

of sails in the world. Along Guatemala’s Pacific coast, 

strong currents moving east from Mexico collide with 

currents moving west from El Salvador, creating an enormous 

natural occurring eddy, rich in bait and pelagic fish, 

making it a haven for sailfish, marlin, dorado, tuna, grouper, 

and many other species. 

Year after year Guatemala has consistent numbers of rises, 

bites and releases, all recorded and reported, backed up 

with testimonials from satisfied anglers that agree we are 

the Sailfish Capital of the World. A quick search on the 

Internet, Media and Press will provide figures that say 

pretty much the same thing: catches of over 25 sailfish 

per day are common, double and triple hookups are 

common, on average between 15 and 22 sailfish are 

caught and released per boat, per day. 

Fishing is hot year round! Conservative numbers estimated 

by local boat captains report between 1000 and 1400 

sailfish are caught and released, per boat, per year, using 

conventional tackle and bait. 

To reinforce the claim of Guatemala truly being the Sailfish 

capital of the world, below is a chart from the US 

Department of Commerce and the National Oceanic and 

Atmospheric Administration NOAA published in their 

2011 Newsletter. The figure depicts catch per unit of effort 

(CPUE) in number of fish per angler day reported by 

region from 1969 to 2011. 

Number of fish per day 

years 


www.thehook.fishing info@thehookfishing.com (+502) 3226-5841 

BIG GAME BILLFISHING 

rich in bait and pelagic fish 

The Pacific coast of Guatemala features some of the world’s 

most consistently calm billfishing waters. The billfish are 

here and the conditions are superb! This is our tropical 

playground and species like Sailfish, Marlin, Dorado and 

Yellowfin Tuna are abundant. 

On March 11, 2006 the daily release record was achieved 

with an unbelievable 124 sailfish released!! The top boats 

release over 2,000 sails a year. 

Many days our fishing will start just 12 to 15 miles offshore. 

Other days we may run as far as 40 miles if that’s what it 

takes to put you on the fish. 

calm 

billfishing 

waters 

During the day your crew will serve you a hot lunch, snacks 

and fresh fruit. They will also prepare fresh Ceviche or Sashimi 

right in the galley if we catch Dorado. Of course beer and 

sodas will also be available. Combine a productive day of 

fishing with the hospitality of our staff and comfort of your 

private Lodge and you have the recipe for an 

incredible fishing experience. 

Every boat is meticulously maintained for your comfort and 

safety using top of the line tackle and equipment. Our 

crews are friendly and eager to teach anyone how to improve 

their fishing technique. Each boat features an 

experienced Captain and two excellent mates.

FLY FISHING 

billfish, dorado and tuna 

More and more anglers are hearing and reading stories 

about fly fishing for Billfish, Dorado and Tuna. Some of 

them get curious and decide to try it out. After a trip to 

Guatemala it’s easy to catch the “this is the only way of 

fishing for billfish” bug. In fact, anglers like the challenge 

and intensity of saltwater fly fishing so much that it has 

become one of the fastest growing segments of the 

recreational bill fishing industry, gaining in popularity by 

leaps and bounds every season. Catching a billfish on a fly 

rod is different than fly fishing for Spanish mackerel, redfish, 

jack crevalle or snook. The adrenaline rush when 

fighting a sailfish is similar to catching a 70 to 140 pound 

tarpon and it goes off the chart if a marlin or giant tuna is 

hooked. Be ready for a fight! 

When a sailfish takes the fly…the angler better have at 

least a rod for 12 weight line, a reel with a good drag and 

plenty of backing. Sailfish sometimes go absolutely 

berserk when they are hooked, they jump, dive, swim 

side-to-side, skip on the surface, try to jump into the boat 

and then do it all over again…you imagine a maneuver 

and some sailfish is bound to attempt it. 


Now if a marlin shows up…better have a rod for 15 or 16 

weight line with matching reel and hope it’s not a it’s not 

a 600-pound or larger monster. Marlins can take off like a 

rocket, jump, dive and while the angler is reeling in line 

figuring out where the fish went, what looks like another 

marlin jumping off in the distance is actually your fish! 

Unlike sailfish, marlins often get so excited while being 

“teased” and fought that they change colors along their 

flanks, “lighting up” as the crews call it. It’s a sight anglers 

will treasure forever. 

FLY FISHING 

billfish, dorado and tuna 

While all this is going on, if you bring a camera, one of the 

mates or the captain is clicking away. At The Hook we 

support conservation efforts so any billfish you catch will 

be returned to the sea. 

23 SAILFISH 

CAUGHT AND 

RELEASED IN 

ONE DAY 

The current world’s fly fishing record is 23 sailfish caught 

and released in one day. This record was set in February 

2003 in Guatemala. Our boats fish in these same Pacific 

waters and use the same type of equipment and methods 

that set this current worlds record, except we try to get 

those expensive flies back! Each of our boats is equipped 

with quality fly equipment from 9-15Wt that is available 

for our clients to use free of charge. 

Of course if you wish to bring your own fly equipment, the 

crews will be happy to help you to rig them in the optimal 

way for sailfish or marlin. 


INSHORE FISHING 

blue calm waters off the coast 

Although the main attraction for anglers in Guatemala is 

the huge numbers of aggressive Pacific Sailfish that are 

present all year round there are also good opportunities 

of gamefish in the blue calm waters off the coast. Inshore 

waters offer the prospect of the much sought after Roosterfish. 

Although the immediate coastline does not provide 

ideal conditions for these gamefish, they can be found 

usually trolling around areas of strong currents within a 

few miles from the Marina Pez Vela. 

good 

opportunities 

of gamefish 

Typically Roosterfish are chased with either live bait or 

soft imitations cast around rock formations or hard structures. 

As we don’t have any significant outcropping or 

high reef for bait to concentrate close to shore, we resort 

to trolling either ballyhoo or rapala lures and aim to cover 

more ground. 



why the hook 

World Class Fishing: 

No destination has more Sailfish than Guatemala with less 

fishing pressure…year round. Guatemala is one of the 

best blue water fishery on the planet and the surest place 

on the globe to target Sailfish on fly rods. In addition to 

our prolific sailfishing we raise and release Marlin each 

month of the year and have immense populations of 

Dorado, Yellowfin Tuna, Roosterfish and other inshore 

species. Our company owned boats are at YOUR service, 

unlike other companies that charter boats and crews. 

Value for your money: 

You will pay far less per sailfish raised and released than 

anywhere in the world because our fishing is so prolific! 

Also when we say all-inclusive, we mean it! We’ll make 

sure you’ll be anxious to come back pretty soon! The only 

thing you need cash for on your fishing trip is discretionary 

expenses! 

Performing Standards: 

At The Hook we exceed our clients expectations. Our boat 

captains and mates are top-class experts in the fishing 

game at both conventional and fly fishing. Our professional 

staff is trained to serve your needs and solve any incurring 

issues. Whether in or out of the water we implement 

exceptional standards guaranteeing a successful fishing 

trip.

why the hook 


Angler Owned Company: 

We love to fish! In fact, the owner competes on every local 

tournament to ensure boat, crew, and service quality. We 

are experts on how to deliver the best fishing experience. 

Minimize Travel Time: 

Guatemala is much easier to get to than Costa Rica or 

Panama for bluewater action. Fishing trips to both of 

these countries often require an overnight stay in San 

Jose or Panama City, additional in-country flights and 

extended travel time. We understand you are looking to 

maximize your time in the water and a hassle free experience 

staying within your budget. 

Our Accommodations: 

The Hook Lodge is exclusive for our clients and is not 

open to the public and that guarantees privacy and 

freedom for your group. For those truly discerning travelers 

looking for the very best lodging available, The Hook 

Lodge is the ideal environment to rest and relax after a 

productive day of fishing trip. 

Service: 

Service is in everything we do. Our staff is highly trained 

to assist you. We make you feel part of The Hook family. 

With an incredibly high repeat clientele we know we take 

care of our clients.

15 to 20 

bites a day 

FISH SPECIES AND SEASONS 

Pacific Sailfish 

They are common in the offshore fishing waters within 20 

miles of the Guatemalan shore all year around, although they 

concentrate most in the months of October through May. A 

terrific light tackle opponent, the Sailfish is known for its 

schooling, multiple hook-up tendencies and aerial acrobatics. 

The Pacific variety are significantly larger than their Atlantic 

cousins – with an average fish being in the 80-100lb range – 

and much larger fish in the 120 lb class common. Caught by 

trolling, teasing, and drop-back baiting methods for those 

paying close attention to when they arrive in the lure pattern 

behind a boat, schooling Sailfish are the target of tournament 

anglers and Guatemala is considered prime. 

On average you can experience 15 to 20 bites a day. During 

the peak season from October through June, 40 or more 

bites a day is not uncommon. The top boats release over 

2,000 Sailfish a year. On March 11, 2006 the daily release 

record was achieved with an unbelievable 124 Sailfish released. 




Pacific Marlin Blue, Black, Striped 

Pacific Blue Marlin make their homes all across the Pacific, 

including the warm blue waters of Guatemala. The best 

season is considered to be in the months of October-November 

and April-May. But just like any species and fishery, yearly 

fluctuations do occur. 

We do raise occasional black and stripe Marlin, but the waters 

of Guatemala are predominantly inhabited by blue Marlin 

which average between 200 and 500 pounds. 

Dorado (Mahi Mahi) 

This is a heavy, thick set marlin of warm Indo-Pacific oceans 

which reaches our northern coasts in summer months wandering 

in the waters off Guatemala. The short, thick spear, low 

dorsal lobe and fixed pectoral fin are features which immediately 

distinguish this species from the more abundant striped 

Marlin. Specialists targeting black Marlin with large live-baits 

continue to have success. 

This staple table food fish is also one of the most exciting to 

angle for because of its abundance and aerial acrobatics. 

While out looking for Marlin, many anglers will often find a 

cargo net, a piece of plywood or some other floating debris 

with a nice school of Dorado underneath it. 

They are also often found in open schools during spawning 

seasons, and peak times are April or May through October. In 

Guatemala, the fish come closer to shore as the summer 

progresses, and while it might take a trip to 30 or 40 miles in 

the early season to find them, Dorado will often come in just a 

couple miles offshore as the temperature warms up. 

A popular technique for multiple hookups is to angle the first 

catch to a position off the stern of the boat, where it can either 

be left on the rod or connected to a floating bottle. The fish 

will return to the school, and as he does, one crew will get out 

the light tackle casting gear while two or three crew will 

watch the bottle and the floating debris. 

If a Dorado is caught a part or all of it is used to make ceviche, a local delicious specialty.



Yellowfin Tuna 

The Yellowfin is a prize. And Guatemala has its share. Hunt for 

the Yellowfin the same way you would for Marlin and other 

gamefish; look for piles of birds such as shearwaters that are 

active and organized. Mix up the lures to see what they bite 

on a given day; sometimes it’s big and purple, sometimes it’s 

small and green. Chrome jet heads are also effective. 

The fun thing about Yellowfin besides their pure fighting 

power is once you learn what they’re biting on a given day, 

multiple hookups are common. Bait should also be carried 

when targeting Yellowfin, because these fish rise and drop 

frequently throughout a day, and there are many times when 

they are down that the only thing they will bite is bait. Some 

anglers will tailor their entire mindset to target and catch the 

Yellowfin Tuna. 

Wahoo 

The rule of thumb for catching one of the fastest and the most 

delicious and sharpest toothed of the Central American 

species of gamefish is to use the depth recorder religiously in 

order to stay right at 40 fathoms. 

Although it is essentially unknown what the reason for 

Wahoo’s preference to this depth is, scientists have acknowledged 

they often hang around near the bottom in this part of 

the water column and then attack surface lures with a 

vengeance, often trying to slice their prey in half with their 

extremely sharp teeth. 

This specie of billfish is pelagic and seasonally migratory, it 

tends to be a loner or travel in small groups of 2 to 6 fish. It is 

reputed to be one of the fastest fish in the sea, attaining 

speeds of 50 mph (80 km) and more. The first scorching run 

may peel off several hundred yards of line in seconds. Occasionally 

this fish jumps on the strike and often shakes its head 

violently when hooked in an effort to free itself. 

The Wahoo average size is 30 pounds, but frequent catches to 60 and 70 pounds occur.

fleet and the marina 

the marina 

Our fleet is docked at the new Pez Vela Marina, 65 miles 

from the Guatemala International Airport. This new 

marina uses the same outlet as Guatemala’s main Pacific 

port, Puerto Quetzal, and is located next to it. This is the 

only sportfishing boat marina on the Pacific coast that has 

calm saltwater access without going through the dangerous 

old outlet near Puerto Iztapa. 

sportfishing 

boat marina 

After an exciting day on the water our chaffeur will be 

waiting for you at the dock. It’s a 4 mile drive back to your 

private Lodge (not open to the public) to enjoy your favorite 

beverages and snacks followed by an outstanding 

gourmet meal, specially prepared by our chef. 

The Marina offers a fixed, non-floating fuel dock with 

good pumps ensuring good quality fuel for all the area’s 

high-speed sportfishing fleet. Ashore from the marina is a 

restaurant, and nearby is a cruise ship pier. The tourist pier 

has a bank, shops and an air-conditioned Internet cafe. 

The security in the facilities couldn’t be better. You must 

pass through a guarded gate to get on the property and 

several security personnel patrol the docks and port 

entrance. 


outstanding 

crew, experts 

We own two reliable classic game boats to meet your fishing needs. Each boat in our fleet comes with an outstanding 

crew, experts in both conventional and fly fishing, as well as lite tackle if interested. 

Our crews are professionals who know how to get your catch of a lifetime to the boat. They have been fishing this prolific 

waters all their lives and deep sea fishing is their passion. They will go the extra mile on every trip to guarantee your 

satisfaction and comfort. 

Our boats are stocked with bottled water, sodas, beer, rum, snacks and fresh fruit. Hot lunch is provided every- 

day onboard. The boats are equipped with the best Shimano tackle for “stand up” conventional fishing for Sail, and also 

carry top-notch gear with pitch baits for Blue Marlin. There are teasing rods for spinning tackle for Dorado, Yellowfin Tuna, 

etc. 

fleet and the marina 

GAME BOATS 

Game Boat: 

Enrana2 

Stragos 

Boat Make: 

Bertram 28 Bertram 31 

Engines: 

Cruise Speed: 

Twin Cummins 200 hp 

24 knots 

Twin Yanmars 315 hp 

26 knots 


the lodge 

includes a 

personal 

chef 

Lodging 

ACCOMMODATION 

The Hook Lodge is located on the water 4 miles from The Marina Pez Vela. The area is a 24/7 secure residential complex 

located on a series of water channels. We offer three private bedrooms sleeping up to six anglers. They are staffed with a 

personal gourmet chef, a housekeeper and a handyman so that there is maximum flexibility for menus and individual 

attention to all your personal needs. 

What does a fishing day look like? 

Followed by a delicious breakfast, transportation will be in a 

private vehicle at 6:30 am from The Lodge in each inshore or 

offshore fishing day. The driver will make the 15 minutes trip to 

the Marina and will be at the dock on your return. Everyday we 

will guarantee you are ready for the fish and everything is 

running smoothly. 

You will leave the dock at 7 am for a full fishing day with lunch, 

fresh fruit, snacks, beer, rum and non alcoholic beverages 

included. You will return around 4:30-5:00 pm to find freshly 

made Hors D’oeuvres and cold drinks. Dinner may be Dorado, 

Yellowfin Tuna, Red Snapper or Snook caught on the trip that 

day – or whatever your party has chosen for the evening….but 

all served as you like it, whenever you want it. 


privacy for 

the group 

Lodging 

Benefits of our private accommodation 

Privacy for your group. The Hook Lodge will be for the sole use of your group while you stay. Although it is nice to socialise 

with other anglers – it is often difficult to get the right mix of folks, and so our experience has been that it is most convenient 

to share stories with other groups at the dock or share a cold beer at the marina bar after the day…but then have 

the ability to retire to your own private accommodation. 

Only your schedule to consider: some groups like to burn the candle at both ends while on a trip; having The Lodge for 

you and your group only means you don’t have to listen to someone partying in the pool until dawn! 

We do have a standard menu – but we are happy to revise it according to your preferences. More fish/less fish, local dishes 

(adventurous or otherwise !), vegetarian special diets and needs, etc.. Our staff are professionals and are more than willing 

to accommodate you. 

The Lodge is stocked each day with conveniences such as snacks, juices, cold drinks, cigars, wine, etc.. When you feel like 

a cold drink in the middle of the night – just wander to the fridge and help yourself. 

The bar is stocked with liquor at the start of your trip. Beer, wine, rum, vodka, whisky, juices, soft drinks will be replenished 

daily. If you manage to drink the bar dry (hasn’t happened yet !) – we will be happy to replenish it at cost. 


24 hr 

security 

Lodging 

Benefits of our private accommodation 

The Lodge is located in the secure area of Likin. There is 24 hr security 

not just at the entrance, but continually patrolling the grounds as 

well. We have never had an incident at the property – and you can 

feel confident to take a stroll or shoot some hoops at the basketball 

court, play soccer or volleyball or go to the convenience store around 

the extensive property at any time. 

The Lodge has a private pool. 

Massages can be aranged to enjoy at The Lodge (extra cost). 

Live music on any given day will surprise you! 

Direct TV to watch NFL, NBA or other sports. 


ates 


On your fishing package you can combine your fishing days as you desire: 

Offshore Fishing 

(Enrana2, Stragos). 

Inshore Fishing 

(Enrana2, Stragos). 

Canal Fishing 

(La Tanguita) 

1 day fishing, 

2 nights lodging 





Extra day fishing, 

per person 

1 person 

USD 1,904.00 

USD 3,808.00 

USD 5,600.00 

USD 1,736.00 

2 persons 

USD 1,120.00 

USD 2,240.00 

USD 3,332.00 

USD 980.00 

3 persons 

USD 1,008.00 

USD 2,016.00 

USD 2,800.00 

USD 784.00 

4 persons 

USD 896.00 

USD 1,792.00 

USD 2,380.00 

USD 644.00 

5 persons 

USD 784.00 

USD 1,568.00 

USD 2,240.00 

USD 588.00 

All packages are per person. 

ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGES RATES 

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES RATES INCLUDE: 

VIP Airport reception by our chauffeured and round trip transfers between Guatemala City and The Lodge. 

Daily private Marina-Lodge transfers. 

2 deluxe A/C bunk bed and 1 A/C premium suite accommodations with breakfast and gourmet dinner daily 

at our own private Lodge. The deluxe rooms share a bathroom, and the premium suite has it’s private bathroom. 

All non-alcoholic and domestic alcoholic beverage at the lodge and boats. 

Fishing on your choice of game boats with captain and crew. 

Fresh fruit, snacks and hot lunch prepared fresh on board by our staff. 

All fishing tackle and natural bait, either for conventional and/or fly fishing, canal fishing. 

Wi-Fi Internet service throughout The Lodge. 

Direct TV for your enjoyment. 

Daily laundry services. 

Health insurance (injury as a result of an accident & medical expenses a board our vehicles and boats)

contact 

us 

rates 

RATES DO NOT INCLUDE: 

Airfare to Guatemala City. 

Airport departure tax. 

Meals, drinks or any expenses while in Guatemala City or Antigua or outside of the Lodge and Boats. 

Tips for your host staff and boat crew. 

Cigars (smoking inside the rooms is prohibited), and premium domestic and international alcoholic beverages. 

contact 

www.thehook.fishing 

info@thehookfishing.com 

(502) 7832-5735 / (+502) 3226-5841 / (+502) 7881-4357 

/ The Hook Fishing 

Office Address: 

4a. Calle Oriente #41 Of. “A” 

Casa Convento Concepción 

La Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala, C.A. 

The Hook Lodge Address: 

Chalet 298, plataforma 8, Likin III 

Puerto Quetzal, Escuintla, 

Guatemala, C.A. 

Fishing experience

The-Hook-Brochure

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