May in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is widely considered one of the best times of year to be on the water. As the transition from spring to summer patterns fully takes hold, the ocean truly comes alive. The “bite” doesn’t just turn on—it explodes. For those of us who have spent decades navigating Banderas Bay and the offshore banks, May represents the “sweet spot” where temperature, bait availability, and pelagic movement align perfectly.
Why May Fishing in Puerto Vallarta is Unbeatable and Reservations
By May 2026, we are seeing sea surface temperatures climb steadily to 78°F–80°F and above. This temperature spike triggers a massive influx of life. Schools of mullet, goggle-eye, ballyhoo, and shad are flooding the bay, acting as a dinner bell for the Pacific’s most sought-after predators.
Whether you are looking for deep-sea fishing, inshore light-tackle action, or a marathon offshore hunt, May offers a diversity of species that few other months can match. If you’re a casting enthusiast, the surface action right now is world-class. We are seeing incredible topwater displays, from Roosterfish exploding on poppers near the rocky coastlines to massive Yellowfin Tuna crashing bait balls at the offshore reefs.
Questions and Answers about fishing in Puerto Vallarta
What’s Biting: May 2026 Species Spotlight
1. Blue & Black Marlin
The heavy hitters are back! The Marlin Puerto Vallarta season really starts to sizzle in May. We are seeing a significant migration of Blue and Black Marlin moving into the deep water structures. Our recent runs to Corbeteña and El Banco have been productive, with many boats hooking into fish in the 300–500 lb range. Trolling large lures and slow-trolling live bonito remain the “gold standard” techniques for these giants.
2. Yellowfin Tuna
The “cow” tuna schools are getting larger and more aggressive. While we are finding consistent action 30–50 miles offshore, the warming thermoclines are pushing some of these schools closer to the Marietas Islands. If you’ve ever wanted to test your mettle against a 100+ lb Yellowfin, this May is providing the perfect opportunity.
3. Dorado (Mahi-Mahi)
These acrobatic speedsters are a May favorite. As the spring currents bring in more floating debris and weed lines, the Dorado stack up beneath them. We’ve been hooking 20–40 lb bulls on light tackle. On recent trips, the schools have been so thick that it’s almost impossible to keep a bait in the water for more than a few minutes without a strike.
4. Wahoo
The “skinny” of the sea is out in force. If you like high-speed reels screaming, you’ll love May. We are finding Wahoo near significant temperature breaks, particularly where the blue water meets the emerald inshore currents. High-speed trolling with dark-colored lures has been the winning ticket.
5. Roosterfish & Jack Crevalle (Inshore Action)
Inshore fishing remains red-hot. The Roosterfish bite near Punta Mita and Los Arcos is some of the best I’ve seen in years. We’re regularly boating 30–60 lb fish on live bait. Additionally, the Jack Crevalle are plentiful, providing relentless action for families and light-tackle anglers looking for a high-intensity fight.
How We Find the Fish: The Capt. Pete Advantage
Clients often ask how we consistently stay on the fish while others are just “going for a boat ride.” It comes down to three things:
Real-Time Intel: We operate as a community. My crew and I stay in constant contact with other veteran captains, sharing updates on bait movements and “hot” coordinates.
Advanced Technology: We don’t just guess. We use high-end sonar to find the bait balls and utilize satellite imagery to pinpoint blue water breaks and thermoclines.
Tidal Flow Knowledge: Understanding how the tide moves through the bay is crucial. If the water is murky inshore, we know exactly where the clarity shifts offshore to ensure our clients have the best visibility for a successful hookup.
Pro Tips for Your May Trip
Techniques: Focus on trolling for Marlin and Tuna, but keep a popper rod ready for surface strikes.
Hotspots: Focus your energy on El Banco for big game, or the reefs around Punta Mita for trophy Roosters.
We are currently offering special spring rates before the peak summer rush. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a family looking for a fun day on the bay, we have the boat and the gear to make it happen.
Tight lines,
and the bait balls start moving into our area. Offshore and inshore.
