TOURIST IS STRUCK BY PUERTO PENASCO PANGA

Oct. 5, 2004, Don Dufek, Rocky Point Fishing Trip Report:

We made a trip to Rocky Point on 9-23 thru 9-26. The water temp was 84.6 and the fish were not very cooperative. We fished from inflatables so unless we have several, we usually stay several miles within shore, as this time. We caught small cabrilla, triggers and my oldest daughter caught a nice 26-inch sierra. All fish were caught on Rebel Fastracs.

While we were there, there was a tragic accident with the pangas and the banana boats. Sometimes these pangas come close to shore at a high rate of speed, and this time a boat hit a swimmer. The swimmer (a 43 year old male) died within minutes, but not before his screams shattered the afternoon calm. Be careful when the Pangas are around. Most are cautious but never let your guard down.

We came across several miles of nets every day. These nets were south of Rocky Point, 3/4 of a mile from shore. I understand our Mexican compadres have to make a living as well. I don't not know if there are regulations on their trade, so they might be legal.

(See "Mexico Fishing News" online for current fishing reports, photos, weather, and water temperatures from Rocky Point and other major Mexican sportfishing areas. Vacation travel articles, fishing maps and seasonal calendars, and fishing related information for Rocky Point may be found at Mexfish.com's main Rocky Point (Puerto Penasco) page.