BajaNomad - What is your favorite month to come to Baja and Why?

What is your favorite month to come to Baja and Why?

Iflyfish - 7-14-2010 at 07:52 AM

Mrsfish and I are planning a trip to Baja this fall/winter. A good Nomad friend told us that October is the best month due to weather, low wind, good fishing, lobster season. What do you think and what is your favorite month in Baja?

Iflyfish

DENNIS - 7-14-2010 at 07:54 AM

Just depends on what area you have in mind.

Alan - 7-14-2010 at 07:55 AM

I agree with your friend. October has always been my favorite. Warm days, cool nights and the water is still warm enough to hold many of the summer time pelagics

shari - 7-14-2010 at 07:57 AM

On the mid pacific side, October is an awesome month but I like November better...bigger fish...and a little cooler temps but still in the 80's...calm winds, warm water....cant wait!! see ya then amigo.

KASHEYDOG - 7-14-2010 at 08:09 AM

Hi, Iflyfish

Do I have to have a favorite month :?:

Since I don't retire for another 2 years any time I get down there is my favorite time. :bounce:

and as of now it's never enough time :no:

David K - 7-14-2010 at 08:15 AM

Any month in Baja is better than that month elsewhere!

Typically May-July and Oct.-Nov. are great weather-wise. August and early Sept. can be too humid for some.

oldjack - 7-14-2010 at 08:28 AM

With Los Barriles as my focus.... I am in BCS every month for 9-15 days(depends on work NOB)... I am into fishing so the "best" fishing I experience is from June thru early Sept... however, fish are caught every month... I like the fall months for my returning neighbors and finding out what they did for the summer NOB; mid-winter(Nov-Feb) is when I get most of my projects done because the temps are favorable... spring is absolutely entertaining... first because the neighbors are getting ready to head north and it is always interesting to hear about their plans.... but the best part of spring is the warming weather and the hordes of birds doing their mating thing... you can sit on the patio in the morning and listen to multiple varietes of song birds entertain you for the first 2-3 hours of daylight... it is just fun to listen to and try to i.d. the species...summer months(may-august) are very warm and the town is very quiet w/o all the snowbirds... it is a time of casual dining and getting to know my mexican neighbors better..... been doing this routine for more than ten years and I still don't know the "worst" month to visit.... but I'll keep evaluating for you....

Iflyfish - 7-14-2010 at 09:23 AM

Great feedback amigos! Gracias.

We are into fishing (panga and shore) birding, Mrsfish heavy into photography, particularly of birds. Meeting and visiting with old and new friends, relaxing, eating good food, practicing mal espanol and enjoying laid back time.

We enjoy places where we can safety stay in our 24' motor home.

Iflyfish

Skipjack Joe - 7-14-2010 at 11:02 AM

October is best because the hot and humid weather drops drastically during that first week but the pelagics haven't started their migration out of the cortez. The dorado and tuna start to move out at this time period and are usually gone by January (much earlier in the Midriff area).

Meanwhile the winds start to increase. In october virtually every day is flat calm. By November you get periods when you're shorebound. By December you get 3 windy days followed by 3 calm days.

So in October you get good weather and the glamor (glamour? you Canadians are confusing me now) fish.

I'm less knowledgable about the Pacific side. I've never seen it calm there. It's calm every morning and blowing 25 knots by late afternoon no matter when you show up.

gnukid - 7-14-2010 at 11:22 AM

I would agree October is excellent in BCS on the Sea of Cortez but be aware everyday is different and October is known as a sever month to Mexicans, with air temperature changes of up to 40 degrees F a day, hurricanes, water temperatures change over the month more than 10 degrees F. In fact, there are Mexican sayings about the horrors of October weather but those of us from the North we are more acclimated to temperature swings and less likely to be negatively affected.

Here's a typical timeline,

Oct 1-5 warm water 88F degress, air 80-100F with chances of hurricanes, occasional rain
Oct 6-10 first winds arrive, warm water dropping 86-88F with chance of hurricane, rain
Oct 11-15 10-20K wind 3 days a week, vast changes in weather and temperature
Oct 16-31 water 76-86F, air 60-90F low chance of hurricane, wind 10-20K 4 days a week

Iflyfish - 7-14-2010 at 11:30 AM

You guys are great! This helps a lot.

Iflyfish

bajajudy - 7-14-2010 at 11:53 AM

This year I would have to say that my favorite month has been July. I dont expect to be saying this tomorrow, as it is supposed to be hot today like it normally is in July.

gnukid - 7-14-2010 at 12:08 PM

And FYI last year, March and April were amazing.

irenemm - 7-14-2010 at 12:14 PM

I will agree Oct. is prettty awesome. We have the most beautiful Moon rising over the hills it is just beautiful.

DENNIS - 7-14-2010 at 01:14 PM

For some reason, I like December. The festivities and the preparations for Christmas are everywhere.
Christmas lights in the city, seen from my house across the bay, are an affirmation of peace and happiness that trancends reality.

FELIZ NAVIDAD

tiotomasbcs - 7-14-2010 at 02:34 PM

It's sure hard to pick as retirement ten years ago has opened the door titled "No Bad Days"!! Mid October thru mid November cools the blzing heat and humidity and puuurfect temps night and day! Beautiful star-gazing and bonfires on the beach! Fishing and surfing on the Pacific coast of BCS are exellent! We all sound like one of those Mexican Tourism commercials---Feel the Warmth of Mexico. Arriba Baja! :yes:

Barry A. - 7-14-2010 at 03:00 PM

For camping on the beach, Oct. is my favorite, April my second favorite-------you can have wind anytime, so I just don't worry about it, but come prepared.

Barry

Ken Bondy - 7-14-2010 at 04:20 PM

October was always our favorite month, above and under the water.

Bajahowodd - 7-14-2010 at 04:30 PM

Alot depends on what your mode of transportation is and where you plan to stay. Although I've been down there in almost any month on the calendar, I just have to wince about those seeming to sell you on October. there have been a number of October hurricanes. Humidity starts to wane in that month, but for my money, November is fly. That said, again depending upon your mode of travel and your choice of stay, The week surrounding US Thanksgiving may well witness some of the highest airline costs and the associated hotel rates. First two weeks of November are awesome, as are the first two weeks of December.

rhintransit - 7-14-2010 at 04:52 PM

I live here October to July. my favorite months are May, June or July. which doesn't cover a fall/winter vacation but you asked...

Iflyfish - 7-14-2010 at 05:17 PM

I asked and I have received. Great input and very helpful in our planning, very helpful. It is a pleasure to read the whys of your choices. So much Baja and we do have time. We will be in our 24' motor home with solar.

Iflyfish

Udo - 7-14-2010 at 07:51 PM

July through October in Bahia Asunción. November-June, La Paz (et-al).
BA because fishing is great and weather is mild (plus Shari & Juan/guests are wild). La Paz (et-al) because the weather is warm, fishing and kayaking are superb! Plus hang out with Osprey in La Ribera.

Iflyfish:
Life don't get much better than that!

Bob H - 7-14-2010 at 10:46 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
Just depends on what area you have in mind.

Excellent point!.... But, for me, overall, I still like October/November for most parts of Baja.

Ah, and on second thought, what coast? Sea of Cortez or the Pacific Ocean. Makes a big difference.

Will be in Ensenada this weekend... can't wait.
Bob H

Iflyfish - 7-15-2010 at 06:45 AM

Have a good one Bob.

We plan both coasts, the whole catastrophe!

Iflyfish

b1 - 7-15-2010 at 07:07 AM

My favorite months to come to Baja are when the wind turns white here in Idaho; usually January and February. b1

The Full Catastrophe

Skipjack Joe - 7-15-2010 at 07:17 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Iflyfish
Have a good one Bob.

We plan both coasts, the whole catastrophe!

Iflyfish

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHAqdZ2f5cM

Bugman - 7-15-2010 at 07:44 AM

I'm with the October crowd since I spend most of my time on the Cortez. Water is still nice for swimming, fishing is still pretty good, not too hot or humid and little wind. Just have to come up with a good excuse to pull the kids out of school so we can't go then as often as we would like.

Iflyfish - 7-15-2010 at 07:59 AM

Skipjack

The Full Catastrophe indeed! I love dolphins!!

Iflyfish

Bajajorge - 7-15-2010 at 09:43 AM

San Felipe Shrimp Festival, usually the first weekend in November. When I was still of the working class, having to beg for time off, I used to head to Cabo in November for Marlin fishing.

Natalie Ann - 7-15-2010 at 11:14 AM

My favorite months on the Cortez side are October/November and February/March. The Sea is often glassy, weather nicely warm... migrating birds and whales to be enjoyed, Canaval in La Paz.... and last but certainly not least - during those months I find the light at its absolute best for photography.

nena

Doug/Vamonos - 7-15-2010 at 02:41 PM

Without question, August and September. I come for the fishing and heat, which go hand-in-hand. I spend my time mostly LA Bay and Mulege.

acadist - 7-18-2010 at 04:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
Any month in Baja is better than that month elsewhere!

Ditto!

hawaiicruz - 7-18-2010 at 05:59 PM

I always liked to plan my trips to the North/central pacific side for right after labor day. it's not the dead of summer but still a shot at a south swell, and excellent fishing.

jan thru dec.

eetdrt88 - 7-18-2010 at 10:19 PM

just depends on where u might b on any given day...if i get to explore even half the places i want to i will b a lucky man :cool:

irenemm - 7-18-2010 at 11:50 PM

welcome
hawaiicruz,
anytime you want to trade house let me know. love Hawaii. spent 5 weeks there last year. 10 days on your island. at kona and captain cook.
have a restaurant food included.
Irene
we are south of ensenada 100 miles and 2 miles from the beach. you can see if from the back 20 acres.

Barry A. - 7-19-2010 at 07:23 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by irenemm
welcome
hawaiicruz,
anytime you want to trade house let me know. love Hawaii. spent 5 weeks there last year. 10 days on your island. at kona and captain cook.
have a restaurant food included.
Irene
we are south of ensenada 100 miles and 2 miles from the beach. you can see if from the back 20 acres.

Ahhhh, Capt. Cook on the big island--------luv it!!!! We always stay at the Manago Hotel ($40 +) there-------food is to die for.

Barry

Pompano - 7-19-2010 at 07:38 AM

My favorite time to come to Baja is anytime these fish are not available in these places:

salmon in Oregon or Alaska
walleyes in Saskatchewan and Minnesota
smallmouth in Quetico Canoe Wilderness
artic char in NWT
lake trout in Manitoba
rainbows in Lake Illiama
grayling along Al-Can Highway
largemouth in San Diego lakes

..and best of all..this fish..

poker chumps like htgfool..hee, hee..

Iflyfish - 7-19-2010 at 07:43 AM

Give me a shout out when you are in Oregon, the salmon are indeed here. Did you know that we have walleye to 18 pounds in the Columbia? My personal record is 10# out of The Dalles. The smallmouth off the John Day run to five pounds. I will sample the Grayling next spring.

I have caught some very nice fish right in front of your home many years ago, when the highway was first built, I camped where you built your palapa! You eat the heart of the water melon indeed amigo! I hope you keep posting your wonderful photos and travel logs. You are one of my Baja Heros!!

How do you keep 'em back on the farm once they have seen Conception?

Iflyfish

Pompano - 7-19-2010 at 07:50 AM

Iflyfish...my casa was started iin 1970 and completed in 1971..a couple years before the pavement crews appeared for the Baja Road. Glad you enjoyed our little palapa in the front yard!

The fishing on my seawall was outstanding in those days. I could easily cast to 40-50 lb roosters trashing baitschools in the shallows, pompano, snapper, snook, and all were on our menu back in the day. All within 100ft of your morning coffee on the patio. :tumble:

The farms in ND now are all corporatiions owned by jetsetters...people like Don Jorge. :biggrin:

Iflyfish - 7-19-2010 at 07:57 AM

You did find a slice of paradise there amigo!!

These and these are the good old days!

Iflyfish

Pompano - 7-19-2010 at 08:25 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Iflyfish
Give me a shout out when you are in Oregon, the salmon are indeed here. Did you know that we have walleye to 18 pounds in the Columbia? My personal record is 10# out of The Dalles. The smallmouth off the John Day run to five pounds. I will sample the Grayling next spring......

Iflyfish

Ilfyfish, many years ago..sometime in the 70's, a fishing guide amigo of mine from Minnesota turned me on to the great walleye fishery near the Dalles, where we nowadays also fish for the cash bounty on pikeminnnows ('squawfish' is no longer politically correct), which kill untold numbers of salmon young every year. It's great fun and helps keep those fuel costs down.

Some walleyes...the stringer shot is from the Columbia.

We will be on the Oregon Coast within 2 days..right after we find our way of all these giant redwoods here in Trinadad, Ca, a beautiful seaside village.

[Edited on 7-19-2010 by Pompano]

hawaiicruz - 7-20-2010 at 12:16 PM

Quote:

Thank you, that sounds interesting. I have really been missing the peninsula lately. Let me talk to my girlfriend, she is always up for some new adventure. we live on the east side of the island (Hilo)

Skeet/Loreto - 7-20-2010 at 04:07 PM

FlyfishI think that Oct. has always been one of my favorite fishintimes. It of course depends on the type and kind of Fishing.

Hope you have some good luck.

P. S. becareful going through Constitution, I have warned my friends about You!!

Skeet

Iflyfish - 7-20-2010 at 07:09 PM

Thanks Skeet, good thing you warned them, I am a very nasty SOB and I know now how to deal with them.

We are now looking at Oct. based upon the feedback we have received, Oct thru Dec should do it for us!! Viva Baja.

Now you be careful on those brokeback mounts of yours. I recently saw a movie that might give you a cautionary tale, it's called incidentally Broke Back Mountain. I suspect that is where you are going no?

Have a good one and take care of your ticker, you have only one and we have only one of you and I would, like an excised hemorrhoid, miss you.

Iflyfish

Iflyfish - 7-20-2010 at 07:13 PM

Pomp,

You have provided evidence of what I am saying about the Columbia Walleye, there are some monsters there. The Squaw Fish fishing has slowed considerably. They are being fished out near The Dalles and it shows how a good bounty program can cut down on preditor fish. We used to catch them by the score, drill 'em and throw 'em back for the sturgeon.

You do indeed get around!

Iflyfish

Pompano - 7-21-2010 at 11:23 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Iflyfish
Pomp,

You have provided evidence of what I am saying about the Columbia Walleye, there are some monsters there. The Squaw Fish fishing has slowed considerably. They are being fished out near The Dalles and it shows how a good bounty program can cut down on preditor fish. We used to catch them by the score, drill 'em and throw 'em back for the sturgeon.

You do indeed get around!

Iflyfish

Ilfyfish,

The Columbia is a favorite hangout of mine since the 70's, but I think the walleye fishing on the Missouri River system is a bit better. Thanks to a highly motivated Game & Fish Dept. which has utilized sound forage fish for the gamefishes in that system. The original stocking of rainbow smelt into Lake Sakakawea in particular has made that water some of the best walleye fishing in the world.

A couple of nice waldos..a 12lber and a 10.5. Gorged on smelt, these fish grow to large sizes rapidly. Comparing the head structure to another walleye from...say a far more sterile Far North Canadian water, will show the huge difference in these fish.

A 4 year old walleye from Tobin or Sakakawea or The Dalles will be heavier & longer, but with a smaller head, than it's darker cousin from the nutrient-poor waters, which is the opposite..larger head, smaller body size.

After Sakakawea, I would put Tobin Lake, Saskatchewan second. Tobin is again on a river system..the Saskatchewan River. A priest recently caught a record walleye while ice-fishing on Tobin...a whopper..23lbs. Almost a world record.

He was quoted as having said a special prayer that morning... :saint:

Here's one nice afternoon of casting for walleyes on Tobin Lake a couple summers ago.

You just can't go wrong with all these choices...AND the dinners are superb.

Iflyfish - 7-21-2010 at 12:06 PM

Uff da!! Dose are some wallinskies dere eh! Pass the katsup.

Iflyfish

AH...finally found that record walleye photo..

Pompano - 7-22-2010 at 05:43 AM

This is the priest from Nipawin, SK, who caught the lunker while ice-fishing. I can only imagine the fun he had pulling that monster through the hole in the ice..

3464james - 7-22-2010 at 06:37 AM

Pompano, wish I knew that you were coming through Trinidad, we would have shown you the local attractions in Eureka, and Trinidad. Give a heads up next time you pass through.
Jim D.

wessongroup - 7-22-2010 at 06:51 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Natalie Ann
My favorite months on the Cortez side are October/November and February/March. The Sea is often glassy, weather nicely warm... migrating birds and whales to be enjoyed, Canaval in La Paz.... and last but certainly not least - during those months I find the light at its absolute best for photography.

nena

thanks for that information.... would really like to be able to "see" the Sea of Cortez... and photograph what I see.. and the "light" is something of interest to me... can't fish any more.. or much else...

The wife will be driving if I can take it... not her driving.. anymore she is better than me.. plus being a Mexican.. she can talk to folks ... I'm still into "el spark plugo" and a lot of pointing... a sad thing that one can not learn another language ... have tried.. but, even with English.. not too good..

Hoping to make the trip to Mulege and if possible to La Paz.. have to see how it goes.. have a lot of places and folks from here that we would like to visit... have met so many kind folks ...

We may disagree on somethings.... but, one thing we don't.. Baja and how much we enjoy and love it down here ..

Just want to get to the other side, just once.. your know..

Will see how it goes.. everything is ready, except me .. resting up and working on my endurance ... get very tired quickly, anymore ... but, really would like to see it... never been on that side.. the most southern point I have made was around 30-40 miles south of El Rosario in 1970... in a Toyota Land crusier with two other guys.. slept in the dirt.. cooked with fire.. and was SO glad to see pavement again... and Hussong's ....

Mexicorn - 7-22-2010 at 07:07 AM

Hands down October.

Pompano - 7-22-2010 at 07:39 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by 3464james
Pompano, wish I knew that you were coming through Trinidad, we would have shown you the local attractions in Eureka, and Trinidad. Give a heads up next time you pass through.
Jim D.

Acht! Too bad we missed each other..next time for sure. You are fortunate to live in such a scenic area on the coast..simply Que bello!..as Co-pilot says.

This is from the viewpoint at Trinadad just the other day. Outstanding place. I thought of looking around a bit.

And getting back to my favorite month in Baja..? I live in the Bay of Conception, so I would have to pick May-June.

The weather is perfect in The Bay then, the water has warmed to nice temps for kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, diving and the fishing is USUALLY good. The evenings are still cool for that great night's sleep.

And..by mid-June, it's time to head up one on the greatest coast drives in the world...from northern California to Alaska.