ISLA MUJERES

[Qualifier Chris]

Once you find out what you got, then go to the tackle store and buy everything you can. Go home and start snelling your hooks. I started mine a couple of weeks ago.
Here is my #1 tip, free of charge:

You don't want to rig when you get down there.

Do it now and you can have a little fun when you get down there.

[frankypettolina]

I second the "you don't want to rig when you are down there" sentiment. Most if not all of my time in MX was during the j- hook era, but I never left FL without at least 600 rigs. The second year I went we got there in January (which was the first year that the winter bite was "discovered") and we caught over 100 fish in our first 4 days. Doing the math on that the rigs can be depleted really quick.

Some things to remember. Extra rigger halyard material, and extra rigger clips. Extra line for your teaser reels. Extra pulleys and glass eyes for your riggers and teaser set ups. I am sure you will take all of the normal rigging supplies with you, but extra pliers are a good idea- that way you can leave a pair or two with your mexican crew. Also, 10 to 12 pound class spinning rods and reels you don't mind parting with will make a nice going away present for your wash boy. When I went back in 05 my wash boy from 99 showed up and told me how upset he was when someone broke into his house and stole the rod and reel I left him (the burglary took place in 05- shows that he kept that rod and appreciated it for 6 years). The mexicans are really hard workers and good people. Some courtesy and kindness goes a long way.

Along those lines, if you have the extra room- some toys suitable for young boys and girls- all of the mexicans have sons or daughters (hijo/hijas) or little brothers/sisters (hermano/hermana menor) that would appreciate it.

Anyway- have fun- I will think about sailfish, tacos and sunshine when I am freezing my ass off waiting for my 1 GBFT bite of the day in MHC.

[Parapapam]

You need a good band that plays "Beach Grass" music.

Mike

[Fishypantsmagoo]

for all the great tips and info guys. I really appreciate it, my life regarding the trip is becoming easier every day.

Mike- John has already begun planning a visit down...if he forgets the guitar I'll forget to pick him up at the airport.

[Parapapam]

Mike- John has already begun planning a visit down...if he forgets the guitar I'll forget to pick him up at the airport.

You taught him to rig 'hoo. Now put him to work.

Those 50 'hoo dredges are a lot of work.

Mike

[Fishypantsmagoo]

he still has a lot of practice to do, but the seed has been planted. Gonna be pulling alot of Kev's dredges and fish mixed in with natural