Casa Vieja, is excited to announce the re-naming of the “Pelagian,” Casa Vieja’s famous 37’ Rybovich. Jim Turner, along with the boats new co-owner, me – Capt. Tred Barta, will re-name her “Makaira.” This has been the name of all my boats for the last 30 years. Makaira will be docked alongside the rest of Casa Vieja’s classic gameboats at Marina Pez Vela. Powered by twin 350 hp Caterpillars Makaira makes good speed and has a history at the lodge and around the world as a fish raising fool. With a beautiful flat wake and very little white water, its length, design and maneuverability make Makaira the quintessential light tackle rig.
Makaira is available for character though the lodge and is equipped with our personal ultra light tackle. 2-2lb rigs, 2-4lb rigs, 2-6lb rigs, 2-8lb rigs and 4-12lb rigs. The maximum tackle on the “Makaira” is 16lb outfits for Blue Marlin. There also is a full arsenal of fly rods for those wishing to pursue pelagics with the long wand! Makaira’s crew is special, no doubt, fully versed in IGFA Rules as well as world-class light tackle techniques – Bait and switch, live baiting, casting to baitballing schools of sails or yellowfin tuna.
Aboard Makaira, you’ll never see a tackle locker like this. Loaded with everything you will need to do battle on light tackle from ball bearing snap swivels a large inventory of wind-on light leaders. Multiple flies for sails and blue and black marlin, bait specially rigged for 2 to 8lb line. Four spinning rods are aboard for recasting teasers when fish are missed or casting for roosterfish and tuna. Perfect new line is added upon your arrival and spare line in each category is onboard.
If you’re a die-hard light tackle angler you’ll be in heaven. The rods are custom made and our Avet reels have custom light cams for 2, 4 and 8- the drags are like silk.
If you’re a beginner who would like to catch your first sail on 8lb line or perhaps your first sail ever, our crew’s willing, ready, and able to help you. Will you break some fish off due to inexperience? Sure you will, but it’s OK, we’re here to teach. We can teach a beginner ultra light fishing in one afternoon on 12lb or catch one on 8, 6 or 4lb line. It’s a learned art form – you’ll never go back to heavy tackle on sails.
So everyone, welcome aboard the 36’ Rybovich “Makaira” rigged and ready for the light tackle fishermen.
Tight Lines,
Fleet Captain Tred Barta
P.S. I have always loved custom boats – Makaira has 500 hours on her new engines since leaving the yard with a complete restoration. She’s a beauty! Plus she is completely ready for those in a wheelchair like me. A paraplegic fish magnet.