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Mexican Lakes
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UPDATED
2009

HACIENDA DON CARLOS
LAKE CUCHILLO

All about MEXICAN LAKES is here to help Bass Anglers from around the world seeking accurate information about the trophy bass fishing in the Lakes of Mexico and finding that information in a friendly, easy to use format.  We strive to provide honest, accurate, up to date, and hopefully, useful information to help the new visitor as well as the seasoned  Mexican traveler. We are a full service agency and can furnish you with a complete all inclusive package.  To include airfare, lodging,  Mexican Auto and Boat Insurance for those planning a drive down adventure along with all the necessary Fishing and Boating permits, which are now required at all Mexican Fresh Water Lakes.  If you have suggestions on how we can make this a better site, please, we welcome your suggestions or comments.  Here's a list of our most frequently asked questions about the Trophy Bass Angling down Mexico way:

  How do you say Bass in Spanish?

Lobina (loh-bee-nah) or Robalo (row-bah-loh)

   How do you say Lake in Spanish?

Lago (lah-go)

    What does  the Spanish word "Presa"  (pray-sah) mean in English?

It means the "Dam."  As an example; the written phrase "Presa Cuchillo" literally translated means "The Dam of Cuchillo."

   What is the very best single phrase to know in Spanish?

"Por Favor"   (The English translation means "PLEASE").  This single universal phrase-word can almost always work miracles in any situation in any country!  Use it often while in Mexico! 

 
   Which Lake in Mexico is the "BEST" for bass angling?

Well, that's a really tough question to answer unless we first define what one considers the definition of "BEST" might be.   Some bass anglers are happy with shear numbers caught without too much regard for size and would consider this to be the most desirable criteria for a successful trip.  Then there are the true "Trophy Bass Hunters" that will fish all day for just a few "BIG" bites.  And of course, there are those that would only consider big numbers with the real opportunity for trophy size bass too as the criteria for a truly successful trip South of the border!   And yes, believe it or not, there are many, many lakes in Old Mexico that easily fall within all of the above parameters and criteria.

Since the introduction of Florida genetics into Mexican lakes in the 70's, the numbers of huge, giant, double digit bass that have quickly matured in the fertile, year round, ideal growing conditions prevalent in most Mexican lakes is truly staggering.  So yes, once again there are many lakes that the "Trophy Hunters" have been flocking to for years.  And, with phenomenal results I might add.  It is not uncommon at all for an accomplished "Big Bass Specialist" to catch and release 100's of double digit bass in the course of just a few seasons at some of the Mexican lakes located on both coasts.  Especially those anglers that prefer and choose to take the time and effort to pull their own bass boats to these lakes that have been stocked with the proper Florida genetics and have had the necessary time needed to produce these giant, double digit GRANDE'S! 

And then of course, there are those new Mexican lakes that have just been opened for public sport angling.  And, as with almost all new bodies of water that have been properly stocked, the angling is absolutely unbelievable the first few years.  With fishing tales that are too much for even the most seasoned angler to comprehend..........at least until such fishing adventures are experienced first hand at a new Mexican lake!  Little Las Blancas lake falls into this category.

As far as a real sleeper lake or two in Mexico right now, I would have to say Lake Baccarac is the best lake for numbers and double digit bass in all of Mexico AT THE PRESENT TIME.  With very little fishing pressure in the past few years, this lake has produced incredible numbers of double digit giants and if one hits it just right, the numbers of bass caught daily would be considered to be as good as it gets ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD!  Another older lake that has made a remarkable cycle back to excellent angling is the famed Sugar Lake just south of Rio Grande City, Texas and just downstream from newer Lake Cuchillo.   This lake has been at or near pool elevation for the past several years and the bass population has exploded. 

The government of Mexico has just completed constructing another huge dam and lake (the largest dam ever constructed in Mexico at over 600 feet in elevation) which is located on the Santiago River just above Lake Milpa and this lake will be open to Sport Angling soon.  The lake was officially named El Cajon and has been stocked with bass.

We are constantly updating our Hot Lakes Section, so check back often for more current information.  And don't forget, we have the very best MEXICAN LAKE MAP SELECTION available anywhere in the world............so, if you or someone you know is planning that fishing adventure of a lifetime down south of the border be sure and check with us for your map needs and all the current lake conditions.  

  Which State in Mexico has the most number of lakes?

Sinaloa on the West coast of Mexico is the leading State in Mexico with lakes (lagos) used for irrigation and bass angling? Listed below are some of the major lakes in the State of Sinaloa.

Presa Luis Donaldo Colosio (Lake Huites)
Presa Miguel Hidalgo (Lake Hidalgo) 
Presa Josefa Ortiz (Lake Dominguez)
Presa Díaz Ordáz (Lake Baccarac)
Presa Eustaquio Buelna (Lake Balbuena)
Presa López Mateos (Lake Mateos)
Presa Sanalona (Lake Sanalona)
Presa Jose Lopez Portillo (Lake Comedero)
Presa Aurelio Benassini (Lake El Salto)
Presa El Sabinal (Lake Sabinal)
Presa Juan Guerrero Alcocer (Lake Vinoramas)

  Are all Mexican Lakes open for Sport Fishing?

Yes, and as previously mentioned, many offer the best bass angling to be found in the world!  Most Mexican lakes have been stocked extensively with Florida genetics, some since the 70's and they are now producing many trophy size bass for gringo bass chasers that make trips South of the border to experience the bass fishing adventures of a lifetime!  There are however some Lakes in Mexico that are closed to all Sport Angling during the spawning cycle.  This closure rule varies from State to State, so check with us for current info about Lake Closures for this upcoming Spring Bass Angling Season. 

   Can you pull your own boat to all Mexican Lakes?

Yes you can.  Although, it generally requires a little more effort and planning than a fly in trip.  Many Lakes in Mexico are fairly remote and access facilities are generally somewhat  primitive by American Standards.  Some of the Lakes have no facilities of any kind on the water, such as launch ramps, marinas and or accommodations that cater to drive down customers.  This is slowly changing however, as more and more Gringos see the advantages of having their own boats on the water while in Mexico.  Generally speaking however, one must plan on being totally self sufficient while at any Mexican Lake after driving down. A few of the outfitters do offer special rates for room and board if they are less than fully booked with fly-in customers.  E-mail us, as we have been driving into Mexico for 40 years and can put you in contact with the right Mexican Nationals to help you set up an enjoyable and trouble free trip.  One word of caution, if you decide to pull your own boat.  The last few miles into many Mexican Lakes are generally never a paved road and depending upon the season and amounts of rain since the last  grading of the dirt-gravel roads, they can all be quite rough and slow going.........so, it's always a good idea to take and extra set of boat trailer springs along with a couple spare tires and all the necessary tools to handle any break down scenario while traveling on the back roads of Old Mexico.  With the proper planning and a little extra time, a drive down trip to Old Mexico can be one of the most rewarding fishing vacations you'll ever have.  E-mail us for more info and tips if you have plans for a drive down trip.  We cater to drive down groups and for a small charge, we can furnish you very specific and DETAILED route maps and instructions, down to and including that very tricky last few kilometers of dirt roads that are part of most any Mexican drive down fishing adventure.  Our Route Maps are simply the best available.

   Will I need Mexican Automobile and Boat Insurance while on a drive down trip?

Yes you will.  Most American Insurance Companies only offer coverage  for the Mexican Towns and Cities that border the US.  We can provide you Full Coverage for your Vehicle, Bass Boat, Trailer and all related equipment.  Our insurance provider is one of Mexico's most respected with over fifty years of serving the tourist industry in Mexico.  A free road map and detailed travel itinerary trip guide is also included as part of the package and coverage.  E-Mail or call us at 800-353-8901 for a competitive quote.

   What about Fishing and Boating Permits?

Fishing and Boating permits are required at ALL Mexican fresh water lakes.  These permits can be purchased in Mexico, but it is much easier to procure these documents before heading south. If flying down for a package trip, the outfitter generally supplies all necessary permits, but be sure and check when booking your trip.  Most include your fishing permit as part of the total package price quoted.  We can provide you with stand alone Mexican Permits or they may also be purchased as part of our complete drive-down package, which includes all Insurance Coverage for vehicle along with boat, motor and trailer.  All fishing-boating permits, current copy of all Mexican Fishing Rules-Regulations, detailed road maps and the best route planning available for any Mexican Lake Destination. WE can supply your permits.  E-Mail or call 800-353-8901 for more  information. 

  Where can I purchase Mexican Lake Maps?

We have the best selections of Mexican lake maps available.  Many are available on CD Rom for easy printing and viewing.  E-Mail Us or call us at 800-353-8901 for more info and or to place an order.

   What can I use as proof of citizenship to enter México?

 A current Passport or Original Birth Certificate is required as proof of American Citizenship.  Original Titles are required if driving and pulling a boat.

Click here for updated current entry requirements.

   How bout the weather?

Bring warm clothing for the early morning and evening hours during the cooler months of the year.  Generally speaking, the days are warm and quite comfortable even during the colder months of the year.  A light jacket or sweater would be a good bet in the fall and spring months.  As in any country, altitude affects the daily weather conditions and several of the lakes on the Mexican west coast are in the foothills of the Sierra Madres Occidental mountain range.  Therefore, occasional cold fronts do make it that far south during the winter months and the temperatures can be quite cool for a day or two.  The rainy-monsoon season in the west coast mountains starts in mid July and it rains most every day-evening for the next 45 days.   Mexican Weather Forecasts.

   Can I drink the water?

The water in Mexico is treated and purified in most of the bigger cities, but the distribution system is not so perfect.  In most hotels and restaurants, you will be served purified water, however, if in doubt - ASK.  (Aqua purificada, por favor.)  I would not drink the water from a private home or condo, unless you know there is a purification system installed, and working.  Buy bottled water.  Why not be completely safe?  Don't take the chance of ruining your vacation.  If using an outfitter and fly-in service, they all provide bottled and purified water at their facilities and for use in the boats while on the Lake.  If driving into Mexico, purified, bottled water is available throughout all the country in various sized containers. 

   Is the Ice made with Purified Water?

Yes, Mexican ice producers use purified water, however, prudence should be used in choosing the ice plant where ice is purchased if  you'll be driving in and taking ice with you to the lake.  Most smaller towns around the various Lakes have an ice plant or grocery store-mercado that can supply you with a purified product.

   Will my cellular phone work in México?

There is local cellular service in all major cities of Mexico and service is being added in the smaller communities.  Mexico presently does not have the extensive roaming capabilities that are available in the US, however, several American cellular providers offer service in Mexico for a small monthly charge plus roaming and service fees.  I have personally found Cingular provides excellent service in Mexico.

   What about the "No-See-Um" Biting Gnats around the Lakes I've heard so much about?

All we can say is everything you've heard is probably true.  Of course, certain times of the year are worse than others, but the best protection is to cover all exposed skin areas and use a good insect repellant.

   How do I convert Kilometers to Miles? How bout Celsius temperatures to Fahrenheit?

Multiply the Kilometers x .6214.  To convert Celsius Temperatures to Fahrenheit, multiply x 9, divide by 5 and add 32!  To convert Kilograms to pounds multiply x 2.2. Meters to feet multiply x 3.3. 
 Click here, for a great conversion site for help with other types of calculations.

  The Staff of Mexican Lakes is always eager to help customers have a great Mexican Adventure.  Please call or e-mail us anytime with questions or special requests.