Spearfishing Ethically and Timing Yellowfin Tuna Season in Southern Baja

Spearfishing Ethically and Timing Yellowfin Tuna Season in Southern Baja

Spearfishing is more than a sport — it’s a direct connection to the ocean, a test of skill, and a way to source your own food. But with growing attention on sustainability and marine conservation, the question often comes up: Is spearfishing ethical? And for those targeting pelagic giants like yellowfin tuna, another common question is: When is the best time to go to Southern Baja?

Here’s a closer look at both.

Is Spearfishing Ethical?

In short, spearfishing can be one of the most ethical forms of fishing — when practiced responsibly.

Unlike industrial fishing methods that rely on longlines, nets, or trawlers (which often result in bycatch and damage to marine habitats), spearfishing allows for precise, intentional harvesting. It’s an activity that rewards patience, awareness, and respect for the ecosystem.

Why Spearfishing Is Considered Ethical

  • Selective Harvesting – You take only the species and size you intend to, reducing bycatch to nearly zero.

  • Low Environmental Impact – Spearfishing does not harm reefs, seagrass beds, or the ocean floor.

  • Minimal Waste – Spearos often catch only what they plan to eat or share.

  • Stronger Connection to Food – Like hunting, it cultivates a deep respect for where your food comes from and how it’s obtained.

When It Crosses the Line

That said, spearfishing can become unethical under certain conditions:

  • Targeting vulnerable or overfished species

  • Disregarding local regulations or conservation areas

  • Taking more than necessary or wasting the catch

At its core, ethical spearfishing is about intention, knowledge, and stewardship. It’s about taking responsibility for every shot and making sure your actions align with the health of the marine environment.

When Is Yellowfin Tuna Season in Southern Baja?

If you’re looking to target yellowfin tuna, Southern Baja California — particularly areas like Cabo San Lucas, the East Cape, and La Paz — offers some of the best fishing grounds in the Eastern Pacific.

Peak Season: July to November

This is when water temperatures rise and large schools of yellowfin follow the bait into the region. Late summer and early fall are especially productive, both in terms of numbers and size. Tuna over 100 pounds are not uncommon during this window.

Shoulder Season: May to June

Some early activity begins in late spring, with smaller fish showing up as conditions improve.

Off-Season: December to April

Cooler waters push tuna farther offshore or south, making them less accessible for spearfishers and recreational anglers.

Final Thoughts

For those planning a trip to Southern Baja, aligning with peak yellowfin tuna season can offer some of the most rewarding bluewater experiences available. Combine that with a responsible, ethical approach to spearfishing, and you’ll walk away with more than just an impressive catch — you’ll gain a deeper respect for the ocean and its rhythms.

If you’re interested in trip planning, regional tips, or recommended gear for Baja bluewater, feel free to reach out. There’s a lot to explore, and doing it right makes all the difference.

Explore Southern Baja by Lift eFoil: A Luxury Charter with Ventana Travel

efoiling charter with lift efoils v5

Imagine gliding silently above turquoise waters on a Lift eFoil, surrounded by sun, sea, and serenity. With Ventana Travel’s all-inclusive, full-service Lift eFoil charter in Southern Baja, that dream becomes your reality. Designed for couples, families, and groups craving an unforgettable escape, this luxury experience combines high-adrenaline adventure with total relaxation—set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sea of Cortez.

Your journey begins aboard a spacious, beautifully-appointed catamaran, where comfort and style come standard. Each guest enjoys a private stateroom with an en-suite bath, full air-conditioning, and ever-changing panoramic views. You won’t need to lift a finger—Ventana’s professional crew takes care of everything, including a private chef serving fresh, gourmet meals made from locally-sourced ingredients.

The highlight of the experience? The Lift eFoil. These electric-powered hydrofoils let you soar above the sea’s surface with smooth, effortless grace. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned rider, Ventana’s expert guides are by your side, ensuring everyone—from adventurous teens to curious grandparents—feels the thrill of flying across glassy waters. (Need tips for launching like a pro? Don’t miss this practical guide to getting your eFoil in and out of the water.)

The Sea of Cortez—often called “The Aquarium of the World”—provides the ideal setting for eFoiling, with calm bays, warm water, and an abundance of marine life. You’ll carve past deserted beaches and rocky outcrops, catching glimpses of dolphins, rays, and other sea life along the way.

Each day is yours to shape. Start your morning with sunrise yoga or a peaceful paddleboard session. Spend your afternoon eFoiling, snorkeling vibrant reefs, or lounging on the shaded deck. When the sun dips below the horizon, sip cocktails, enjoy a candlelit dinner under the stars, and share stories with friends new and old.

Every Ventana Travel charter is fully customizable, making it ideal for special celebrations, corporate retreats, or reconnecting with loved ones. Whether you’re marking a milestone birthday, planning a romantic escape, or gathering the family for a long-awaited reunion, this blend of luxury and adventure offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

With deep local knowledge and a passion for discovery, the Ventana team crafts each itinerary to steer clear of crowds and reveal hidden gems—secluded coves, untouched beaches, and secret snorkeling spots you won’t find on any tourist map.

This isn’t just a vacation. It’s a floating boutique hotel, an adventure basecamp, and your own private eFoil school—wrapped into one unforgettable journey.

Explore Southern Baja like never before—with the wind at your back, the sun on your face, and nothing but smooth water ahead.

Exploring Sunken Giants: Diving with Submarine Wrecks Around the World

Exploring Sunken Giants: Diving with Submarine Wrecks Around the World

There’s something uniquely thrilling about descending into the deep blue and seeing the ghostly silhouette of a sunken submarine emerge from the gloom. These relics of the sea carry immense historical weight, and diving them offers not just adventure but a profound connection with the past. Whether you’re a seasoned wreck diver or just dipping your fins into the world of underwater exploration, submarine wrecks provide some of the most fascinating dives around.

Let’s take a dive into some of the most intriguing submarine wrecks you can explore, from shallow beginners’ sites to deeper advanced dives — and yes, we’re starting with a charming little one in the UK.

1. Stony Cove, UK – The Baby Sub at 5 Metres

For those just getting started or wanting an easy, accessible submarine wreck dive, Stony Cove in Leicestershire is home to a small training submarine wreck that sits at just 5 metres deep. It’s a perfect introduction to wreck diving and great for practicing buoyancy and navigation. While it’s not a real sunken war sub, it’s a cool little teaser that sparks the imagination and makes for an excellent dive with minimal effort.

2. HMS M2 – Portland, England (30–35m)

The HMS M2 is one of the most iconic submarine dives in UK waters. Sitting upright on the seabed just off the coast of Portland, Dorset, it’s often referred to as the world’s first underwater aircraft carrier — complete with a hangar and catapult system that once launched a seaplane. The M2 is accessible for advanced recreational divers and offers a fascinating look into experimental military history. Just make sure to pick a good day — UK weather doesn’t always play nice.

3. U-352 – North Carolina, USA (35m)

Wreck diving doesn’t get more dramatic than this. The U-352, a Nazi German submarine sunk by the US Coast Guard in 1942, rests off the coast of Morehead City, North Carolina. Sitting at about 115 feet (35m), this dive offers excellent visibility and warm waters in the summer months — no dry suit needed. It’s haunting, historic, and wildly popular with divers. Several operators in the area offer trips, making it a must-do if you’re diving the U.S. East Coast.

For a broader list of incredible diving spots in warm waters (including some of these submarine wrecks), check out Ventana Travel’s blog post on scuba diving in Baja.

4. U-853 – Rhode Island, USA (40m)

Just seven miles off the coast of Rhode Island lies another German sub, the U-853. This wreck is slightly deeper and colder than U-352, but many divers who’ve done both prefer this one for its accessibility and intact structure. In late summer, you can dive it comfortably in a 5–7mm wetsuit. Plus, the history surrounding its sinking during the final days of WWII makes it an emotional dive for many.

5. The Japanese I-169 – Truk Lagoon, Micronesia (40m)

For tech divers and history buffs willing to travel, the I-169 in Chuuk (Truk Lagoon) is the crown jewel of submarine wrecks. This Japanese submarine tragically sank in 1944 and now rests at around 40m. It’s not for the faint of heart — tight penetrations, preserved torpedoes, and deep water make it a serious undertaking. But for those qualified, it’s one of the most unforgettable wreck dives in the world.

6. J4 Submarine – Port Phillip Bay, Australia (26m)

Located just outside Melbourne, this Australian sub wreck offers a relatively shallow and accessible dive at 26m. The J4 is popular among local divers and known for its marine life and eerie, tubular interior. Don’t expect warm water year-round though — locals recommend a dry suit most of the year!

Plan Your Submarine Wreck Dive Adventure

Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling to the ends of the Earth, there’s a submarine wreck out there for you. And if you’re dreaming of wrecks in warm waters with rich history and vibrant marine life, Baja California is a surprisingly underrated hotspot.

For personalized dive travel planning, gear rentals, and guided dive tours, visit VentanaTravel.com — they specialize in unforgettable underwater experiences, including historic wreck dives that you’ll be talking about for years.

Final Thought From 5 metres in a quiet UK lake to the depths of the Pacific exploring WWII relics, submarine wreck diving is a journey into the past with every breath. Whether you’re in it for the history, the adventure, or just the sheer cool factor — there’s no dive quite like a dive into the depths of a submarine’s final resting place.

Have you dived a submarine wreck? Share your favorite in the comments — and who knows, maybe it’ll be the next on our list!

Want more underwater inspiration? Dive into the full world of warm-water diving spots here. 🌊🐠

Why European City Centers Feel Like the Malls We Always Wanted

The Mall vs. The European City Center for fitness travel walking

During a casual chat with my American colleague, he mentioned how much he enjoys spending time at the mall — not necessarily for the shopping, but for the experience. Strolling from shop to shop, sipping a beer with friends on a terrace while waiting for his wife, and watching the kids run around safely, away from traffic.

It struck me in that moment: he wasn’t describing what most Europeans think of as a “mall.” He was, in essence, describing the classic city center of a European town.

The Mall vs. The European City Center

The traditional mall in the U.S. has always aimed to recreate the walkable charm of an old town square — all under one roof and with ample parking. But somewhere along the way, it lost its soul. The original idea of the enclosed shopping mall, pioneered in the mid-20th century, was actually inspired by European urban design. It was meant to be a place where people could live, shop, and socialize — a modern agora. Instead, it evolved into a temple of consumerism, dominated by big chains and lifeless uniformity.

European cities, on the other hand, live and breathe. Their historic centers are pedestrian-friendly, full of small local shops, cafés, and open plazas. People actually hang out — not because they’re trying to kill time, but because it’s genuinely enjoyable. There’s a rhythm to the day: a stroll in the morning, a relaxed lunch, a coffee in the afternoon sun, dinner with friends in the evening. No one needs to be “entertained” because the city itself offers presence and atmosphere.

Some Malls Are Catching On

Interestingly, a few places are trying to recapture that magic. Take Optimist Hall in Charlotte, North Carolina — a former mill turned lively food hall filled with local restaurants, cafés, and a brewery. It’s not your typical mall. There’s life, variety, and a sense of community — exactly what so many malls are missing.

As discussed on Ventanatravel.com, walking-friendly environments play a huge role in the enjoyment of travel. Their post on the best travel shoes for walking long distances touches on something deeper than just footwear — it highlights how our experience of a place is shaped by how we move through it. And that movement feels entirely different in a place made for people rather than cars.

The Problem With “Lifestyle Centers”

In recent years, developers have tried to rebrand malls as “lifestyle centers” — outdoor, more stylized shopping districts. But many of them still lack the authenticity of organically grown cities. Why? Because they’re still built all at once, often by a single developer, and filled with the same national chains. They might look like a downtown area, but they rarely feel like one.

Real city centers are often “built by many hands” — layered over time, full of idiosyncrasies, local identity, and generational evolution. You can’t fake that in a development built in 18 months.

What We’re Really Longing For

What my colleague unknowingly expressed was a longing for human-centered design — a space not dominated by traffic, consumption, or surveillance, but one that simply feels good to be in. That’s what European city centers offer, and what malls, at their best, only try to replicate.

So maybe the next time you find yourself seeking a change of pace, look beyond the mall. Go where people walk slowly, where storefronts are different from one another, and where you don’t need a reason to linger. Or better yet, plan a trip with Ventanatravel.com and see how real city life unfolds — one cobblestone street at a time.

Curious to explore places designed for walking and wandering? Don’t forget to check out Ventana Travel’s guide on travel shoes made for real exploration. Because the journey is better when the path invites you to stay a while.

The Airport Bar Dilemma — and How to Actually Stay Hydrated on Long Flights

Blog Post Title: The Airport Bar Dilemma — and How to Actually Stay Hydrated on Long Flights ventana travel

Let’s be honest — we’ve all made a beeline to the airport bar “just to take the edge off” before a long-haul flight. A cold beer and Chickie’s & Pete’s crab fries before a red-eye? Iconic. But let’s talk real strategy here: how do you actually stay hydrated at 35,000 feet without turning your rowmate into your personal aisle pass?

The Dry Truth About Flying

Airplane cabins are drier than the Sahara. The humidity levels in a typical aircraft hover around 10-20%, compared to the 40-60% we’re used to on the ground. That means you’re losing moisture through your skin and breath the whole time, even if you’re just watching Fast & Furious 9 for the fifth time.

Dehydration can leave you with dry skin, puffy eyes, fatigue, and even headaches — not the best way to kick off your trip, whether you’re heading for tacos in Mexico or sushi in Tokyo.

Wait, So Can I Drink That Pre-Flight Beer?

Absolutely. We’re not monsters. But be strategic. A beer or glass of wine pre-flight won’t wreck you, but pounding drinks until you’re cut off at the lounge? That’s a fast track to being that guy getting denied boarding. And if you are indulging (responsibly), make sure to balance it with water and maybe an electrolyte packet or two.

Water Rules (That You’ll Actually Follow)

There’s a lot of debate out there — from “8oz per hour” to “just drink when you’re thirsty.” Truth is, everyone’s different. But a few solid hydration hacks almost everyone agrees on:

  • Pre-hydrate: Start drinking water earlier in the day. Don’t chug a gallon at once — just sip consistently.

  • Bring your own bottle: After security, fill up a 1L reusable bottle at a hydration station. Don’t count on the tiny airplane cups — they’re helpful, but not enough.

  • Ask for refills: Flight attendants will refill your bottle, just maybe not during dinner service. Be kind and ask at a chill time.

  • Consider electrolytes: A little boost from electrolyte packets like Liquid I.V. or Nuun can help water go further.

If you’re flying ultra long-haul (say, from Australia to Mexico — yes, that’s a thing), hydration becomes even more important. Want to know the fastest route for that trip? We’ve got you covered.

Aisle vs Window: The Ultimate Hydration Debate

This one’s personal. If you’re a window-seat ride-or-die, chances are you intentionally drink less to avoid disrupting your rowmates. If you’re on the aisle, you’ve got the freedom to sip, stroll, and stretch. No shame in picking your seat based on your bladder strategy.

Either way, get up, move around, and let your blood flow. Hydration + circulation = a much more comfortable landing.

Final Thoughts (from the Airport Lounge)

You don’t need to drink 11 pounds of water (yes, someone did the math), but you do need to listen to your body. A little planning goes a long way — start early, bring your own bottle, and maybe skip that third Spotted Cow if you’re already two in and your flight boards in 30 minutes.

Whether you’re flying home to Philly or heading somewhere far-flung, staying hydrated keeps you fresher, clearer, and way less grumpy.

For more travel tips, smarter itineraries, and offbeat travel hacks, check out Ventana Travel.

Now go ahead — hit the bar. Just chase that beer with a bottle of water, will ya?