LakeHuitesMexico.com  toll free: 877.755.4950

Home of Trophy Bass Lodge and World Class Bass Fishing

         

Details about our lodge, trip itineraries, costs, tackle, and other common subjects can be found on different pages of this web site. Following is a list of Frequently Asked Questions that we receive regarding Lake Huites and Trophy Bass Lodge.

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Where is Lake Huites?
Lake Huites is located in the Sierra Madres Mountains of northwestern Mexico, approximately miles northeast of Los Mochis in the Mexican State of Sinaloa. The lake's official name is Presa Luis Donaldo Colosio Murrieta (in case you're looking for it on a map).

How do I get to Lake Huites and Trophy Bass Lodge?
You'll fly by commercial airlines to Los Mochis, and then be driven to the lodge. Or, you may fly private into El Fuerte. You may make your own airline reservations, or we can recommend an agent for you who is up-to-date on the lowest fares. All ground transportation is included from Los Mochis or El Fuerte.

Does someone meet me at the airport?
Upon arrival in either airport, you will be met at the arrival gate by our English-speaking, Trophy Bass Lodge representative, who will shuttle you to the lodge in our air-conditioned vans or Suburbans. The drive to the lodge takes 2 hours and 45 minutes from Los Mochis and 1 hour and 30 minutes from El Fuerte.

What is the fishing season?
We fish from late September through early June. When is the best time, and when do the bass spawn? Anytime can be good especially for a large bass. Usually you catch greater numbers of bass in the early part of the season, when lake levels are at their highest (post rainy season). This is when you're likely to have the best top water action. The period from after the New Year into early April is when bass spawn here, with February and March the main spawning period; thus, heavier fish are especially possible then. The post-spawn, lower-water, hotter-weather period from late April through May is overlooked by many because they are fishing seriously on their home waters, but big fish can be concentrated in deep spots, and this is when the odds improve for getting a trophy bass.

What can I expect in terms of average numbers and average size?
This varies with time of year and skill levels. Generally speaking, good anglers can expect to catch 50 to 150 fish per person per day. One thing that's certain: no matter when or where you fish on Huites, any bite could be from a giant trophy fish.

How large are the bass?
This past season produced a lot of 10-pounders, as well as a good number of fish to 12 pounds. Last season produced fish to 13.5 pounds, hundreds over 10 lbs. and over 60% of the customers caught fish in the 6 - 8 lb. class.

What is the lake record?
It is 15.30 pounds, which was established in May 2002.

Can I bring any fish home?
No. We practice catch-and-release and our guides are only permitted to let clients keep enough fish for a local meal. We encourage you to bring a good camera to record your catch. If you want to have a replica mount made, we recommend you to Great Fish Reproduction Studio, artists and taxidermists who have done excellent work for our clients. Modern day replicas last much longer than skin-mounted fish.

Will I fish with a guide?
Yes, you will fish two guests per boat with a local guide who knows this lake extremely well.

Do you have fishing gear that I can use?
We provide free use of well-tested premium All Star, Pflueger and Shakespeare bait casting and spinning rods for those who don't want the hassle of traveling with rod tubes. You're welcome to bring your own rods, if you like.

What fishing gear should I bring?
You should bring your own reels and lures, although we do have a limited supply of gear available in our pro shop. You will be provided with a detailed list of fishing tackle needs upon receipt of your deposit. A follow up call to our office prior to your departure will allow us to give you any up to date "hot" lure needs.

What should I bring besides fishing gear?
A pair of compact binoculars will help you get a closer look at wildlife and the mountaintops, and, of course, a camera adds to the special moments and memories. Feel free to bring a fish scale. Sunscreen is absolutely necessary and lightweight tropical clothing is a plus. Bugs are not normally a problem, but it is always a good idea to carry repellant for no-seeums. Be sure to bring special medications. There is no Rx available near the lake.

What are the boats like?
Our boats are 19-foot, American-made Carolina Skiff fiberglass bass boats with two swivel seats. They have 50 hp Yahama or Honda motors, plus Eagle/Lowrance sonar and MinnKota trolling motors. All boats are equipped with life jackets, nets, and drink coolers.

Do you have bottled water to drink?
Yes. We provide bottled water in your room, while fishing, with meals, etc., and always have a plentiful supply. Our guides fill their coolers with ice, bottled water, and other beverages of your choice every time they leave the dock to go fishing. We urge you to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated during your stay.

Can I brush my teeth with tap water?
No, we suggest that you use bottled water which is provided in your room.

What is the food like at the lodge?
It is most often classified as excellent by our guests on their departure reports. Our chef Freddy has cooked for American clients for over 15 years in various camps and restaurants all over Mexico and understands their likes and dislikes. We serve three meals per day on our veranda-covered dining room overlooking the lake. During your stay we'll serve steak, fish, shrimp, barbecued chicken, and authentic Mexican specialties, plus TBL appetizers every evening. Water, soda, beer, and margaritas are ample and complimentary. Our lodge manager will gladly stop so you may purchase any specialty liquors you may desire.

What is there for a non-angler to do?
Trophy Bass Lodge is located in a somewhat remote area and there is really little else to do except go out on the water and fish. On occasion we have guests who do little or no fishing, and choose to spend much of their time relaxing with a book at the lodge. Some people accompany their spouse/friend on the water in the mornings, and relax at the lodge in the afternoon. The wildlife and bird watching at the lake, however, are fabulous. Mexico's Copper Canyon is right next door to Lake Huites and is an incredible experience when viewed by rail. Access is available in Los Mochis and El Fuerte.

What is the weather like?
From October until January, Lake Huites usually has a high of 80 to 85 degrees and a low of 55 to 65 degrees. From January until the end of May, the high is from 85 to 95 degrees and the low is from 65 to 70. You can count on it being delightful in the mornings and hot at mid-day. For most of the season the chance of having rain is slim to none, although chances increase later in the season. We do however recommend bringing a light-weight rain suit. A light fleece or hooded sweat shirt will often feel good on the ride out in the mornings.

Are there many women on your trips?
A few of our guests are female, many of whom accompany their spouse, boyfriend, or father. Some are avid and accomplished anglers (including some members of the women's professional bass fishing circuit), some are casual anglers, and a few do not fish at all. We put couples in private rooms that we have, space permitting.

Is there laundry service at the lodge?
Members of our staff can do a small amount of laundry for you at no charge, although a gratuity for this is expected.

Is a deposit required with my reservation?
Yes... A 50% deposit is due upon booking, and payment is due in full 45 days prior to departure. Is airfare and ground transportation included in the price? Airfare is not included. Our fishing packages include ground transportation to/from the Los Mochis or El Fuerte airports; accommodations, meals, and beverages at the lodge; and guide service, boats, and gasoline. The only additional expenses are gratuities to your guide and the staff.

Who makes my airline reservations?
You may make your own airline reservations, or we can recommend an agent for you who is up-to-date on the lowest fares.

Do you accept credit cards?
We accept credit cards (Visa & Mastercard are accepted) for your trip charges. However, no credit cards are accepted at the Lodge. All expenses at the lodge eg: tackle, caps or apparel must be paid for in USD.

How far in advance should I reserve a trip to Lake Huites and Trophy Bass Lodge?
Trophy Bass Lodge enjoys a high repeat clientele rate. Because of this, and the fact that we have a limited season and space, we recommend reserving at least several months in advance. Many of our guests reserve a space for next year immediately after completing the current year's trip. Please call to check on available space at anytime, however.

How far in advance should I make airline reservations?
Absolutely as soon as you can select a week and send in your deposit. Do not wait until the last minute. The sooner you make air reservations, the more likely you'll get flights with good prices and connection times.

Are Group discounts available?
Yes, discounts are available for larger groups. Please check with our office for details.

What's the bug/insect situation?
Normally there is no insect problem at the lake. But on occasion there are "no-seeum's". we do recommend bringing a repellent.

Do I need shots or pills to visit this area of Mexico?
No.

Do I need a passport or visa?
Under new federal regulations, Americans now need a passport to visit Mexico and re-enter the US.

Is there an age limitation?
We prefer that guests be a minimum of 16 years old, but depending on the group there can be an exception for children aged 13 and over.

What do you do for a medical emergency?
We have emergency medical supplies at the lodge for routine needs. There is always a vehicle available at the lodge, so we can transport someone to medical care if the need arises. There are hospitals and/or clinics one and one half hour away in El Fuerte, and a doctor in the small town of Chouix.

Do I need a converter for electric outlets at the lodge?
No.

Will I be able to reach my office or family while at the lodge?
There are no telephones at the Lodge and cell phones do not have reception there. There is a satellite phone which we prefer be utilized for urgent needs and emergencies. It is for call outs only. Because of the high cost to us for this phone, there is a per-minute charge to use it. Some of our guests bring a satellite phone with them, and you are welcome to do so. Satellite phones may be rented in the U.S. prior to departure. You should leave our office numbers with your family prior to departure so that in the event of an emergency we may be contacted and we will do everything possible to make contact with the Lodge manager as soon as possible.

Is it safe at the lodge?
Our clients feel very safe at the lodge; our crew is vigilant on a 24/7 basis, and we have a security watchman on a 24- hour basis. To date we have not had safety or theft issues at Lake Huites or Trophy Bass Lodge. That said, we do not recommend bringing valuable jewelry or more cash than is necessary for your trip.

How much cash should I bring? Should I bring traveler's checks or exchange money?
You probably will not need more than $300 cash per person, most of which will be used for tips. Traveler's checks are not necessary, and should not be given to your guide or the camp staff. You do not need to exchange U.S. dollars for Mexican pesos, and you can use U.S. dollars for tipping.

What is the tipping protocol?
The average recommended minimum guide tip is $20.00 per fisherman each day. In addition to this, we suggest a lodge tip of about $65-$75 per person to be divided among the cooks, waiters, maids, drivers, and camp manager. If a particular camp employee goes out of his or her way to make your trip better, and you wish to tip that person, make sure you give it to him or her personally. Tip your guide separately at the end of your fishing trip. Camp tips should be given to the manager just prior to departure. We suggest a van driver tip of $20 at the end of the trip.

What if I don't speak Spanish?
You do not need to speak Spanish, although it helps. In your booking packet, we'll provide you with a translation list of common Spanish words and terms so that you can communicate better (fish speak) , especially with your guide. Most of our guides understand some English. Our camp manager, cook, head guide and transportation personnel all speak English and some of our other staff members understand English, so you'll be fine even if you don't understand or speak Spanish.

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