Each winter for the last several years Grand Lake-based Ivan Martin, of Martin Guide Service, along with several of his fellow Martin Guide Service fishing guides, has been conducting week-long guide trips to Lake El Cuchillo, Mexico.

The trips would normally begin in mid-November and run weekly until late February. However, due to the volatile situation with the drug cartels in Mexico, Ivan is making this statement for the benefit of his many clients with interest in big bass fishing in Mexico.

Ivan states, "After much soul searching, we have decided not to take guide trips to Mexico this winter. While I personally think it is probably safe to go to Lake El Cuchillo, there is still some doubt in my mind. The situation in Mexico is not good and I don't think it will get any better soon. I do hope to go back in the future once things settle down."

He continues, "I am planning on taking my groups to Falcon Lake, which is the best bass lake in the United States. You have just as good a chance to catch a 10-pound-plus-bass at Falcon as you do in Mexico. If you would like to go on one of these trips with Guide Everett Eaton and myself and try to catch that bass of a lifetime, we will be available for trips in January and February. We still have a few spots open. You can reach me on 918-260-7743 for more information and to discuss available dates. If you insist on going to Lake El Cuchillo, email Chuy Morales at bigbass2@yahoo.com."

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