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Pound for pound, this snapper has to be the strongest of all the snappers here, at least during the initial hit and ensuing first run. I've caught 15lbers that I thought during the fight to be Cuberas at least twice the size. I once had a rod snap in half on a vicious strike while it was setup in a sand spike. I learned very quickly to keep the drag loose and the hooks sharp when they're around. A Discovery Channel show I saw once showed a Barred pargo attacking and demolishing a huge lobster. It was one of the coolest things I ever saw on TV.

Description: This snapper does not have the typical body shape associated with the other snappers in this area. It is a shorter, stouter fish with a deeper body more similar to that of a grunt, only larger. It's overall color is greenish brown with its back being similar in color to a ripe avocado. The lower sides and belly of this fish are reddish brown to maroon in color. They have huge dark eyes. The Barred pargo gets its name from the 9 vertical stripes or bars on its body. An interesting feature of this fish is its protruding tubular nostrils. The IGFA All-Tackle record is 21 pounds, 2 ounces. But an average one would be 5 to 8 pounds.

Fishing Techniques: By Boat: Not normally targeted by boat, however they can be caught bottom fishing with cut bait or by trolling Rapala-type lures along rocky shorelines. Use sharp hooks and a light drag as these fish have been known to snap rods in half on their vicious strikes. Surf Fishing: Although they will hit small spoons at times bottom fishing with bait, particularly live crabs caught on the beach is the only sure-fire way to catch them. Late afternoon and evening is the best time for them. Fly Fishing: I have never heard of one being caught on a fly of any kind, by boat. Although I have never specifically targeted them from shore while fly fishing, I have caught a couple on 2" to 3" mylar- based streamers, which simulate small sardine type fishes. A 9 weight outfit is sufficient.

Edibility & Cleaning: I find Barred pargo to be a bit on the touch side sometimes, especially the larger fish. I usually release them but if I do keep one I'll usually cut up the fillets into chunks and use it in a fish or seafood chowder. My friend, Gene Kira (author: "The Baja Catch" with Neil Kelly) swears that these are the best eating of the snappers. You decide ...

 * The abbreviated text on this page is taken from the upcoming book "Fishing - Mexican Style" by Jeff Klassen, is copyrighted and may not be used for purposes other than personal use without the written permission from the publisher.

If you want to go catch your own Barred Pargo in Barra De Navidad, Melaque or anywhere in the Costalegre Mexico area please check out our Fishing Rates and Packages