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Puerto Vallarta fishing May report

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 ReservationsPuerto Vallarta fishing May
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)tripadvisor puerto vallarta fishing
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.fishing in puerto Vallarta

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,

Puerto Vallarta fishing report

Capt. Pete & Crew

Puerto Vallarta Fishing Report: March 2026

March 2026 fishing outlook for some of the best fishing on the planet. If you’re heading down our way this month, you’re in for a treat. Between the world-class hospitality of our local community and the perfect “goldilocks” weather—warm enough for shorts, but with those cool afternoon breezes that keep you refreshed—there is simply no better place to be for Spring Break. Remember, March is one of the best months to fish here when you can catch just about anything in the ocean.

As we move further into March, we are seeing some incredible transitions in the water. Things are heating up (literally and figuratively), and if you’ve been waiting for the “big ones” to show up, your patience is about to pay off. The water temperature starts moving up,Puerto Vallarta fishing report and the bait balls start moving into our area. Offshore and inshore.

Reservations

The Secret Sauce: Bait Movement in Banderas Bay
One of the most surprising things newcomers notice is how quickly the “bait balls” can pop up. In the world of Banderas Bay fishing, finding the bait is 90% of the battle. During March, we see massive schools of diverse baitfish entering the bay and moving just offshore.

Here’s what we look for—water clarity, moon phases, and temperature—but the number one factor is bait movement. Everything’s gotta eat, and the big trophy fish are no exception. If we find the bait, we find the fish. The trick we’ve mastered over the last 40 years is timing that bait movement with the tides. When you hit that incoming or outgoing tide right on top of a bait ball, the action is absolutely electric.

Targeting the Giants: Marlin and Beyond
As the water temperatures continue to climb this month, we’re starting to see the arrival of the heavy hitters. Marlin fishing in Puerto Vallarta becomes the name of the game as the blues and blacks start moving into our local grounds. These fish are looking for that warmer water and the abundance of food that March provides.

Puerto Vallarta fishing rates

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience, our deep-sea fishing Puerto Vallarta trips are designed to get you out where the monsters live. We don’t just “go for a boat ride”; we hunt. Whether we are trolling the high seas or dropping lines deep, we are looking for that line-screaming run that makes a trip legendary.

The Roosterfish Rush
A lot of anglers don’t realize that March is actually the premier time for Roosterfish fishing in Mexico. While everyone else is chasing the usual suspects, the real pros know that the coastlines around Vallarta are teeming with these “punk-rock” looking fighters right now.

They are aggressive, they are strong, and they look incredible in a photo before we release them back to the wild. If you’ve never hooked a Roosterfish, you haven’t truly lived. We find them patrolling the reefs and the shorelines, and when they strike, you’ll know it.

Choosing Your Adventure: The 8-Hour Sweet Spot
With so many options—from bay fishing and bottom fishing to overnight offshore grinds—it can be tough to choose. However, my personal favorite for March is our 8-hour fishing trip.fishing in Puerto Vallarta

The First Half: We start inside the bay, checking the local hotspots for action.

The Blast Offshore: Then, we head out to the deeper water looking for Sailfish and Marlin.

The Backup Plan: If the Marlin are being shy, we pivot. We’ll hit the reefs for Snapper, Amberjack, and the sought-after Roosterfish.

This versatility is why we are one of the most trusted Puerto Vallarta fishing charters. We don’t just stick to one plan; we go where the fish are biting.

40 Years of Local Expertise
We’ve been doing this for over three decades. Whether you’re a first-timer who needs help choosing the right boat or a seasoned pro looking for a 4-day offshore expedition, we’ve got the gear and the grit to make it happen. My philosophy has always been simple: If we can’t catch it, you don’t want to hook it.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest places on Earth. Our streets are clean, plenty of security, the beer is cold, and the fish are hungry. Puerto Vallarta is ready for you and your family. My crew and I are ready to show you why we love this life.cow tuna fishing Puerto Vallarta

Tight lines,
Puerto Vallarta fishing report

Capt. Pete

December fishing report Puerto Vallarta

December 2025 Fishing Report

Hello, avid anglers! Captain Pete here with your essential December 2025 update from the breathtaking coastline of the Riviera Nayarit. The transition into winter has been spectacular, with the ocean surface temperature settling around a perfect 75°F (24°C). This drop is the biological dinner bell, signaling the start of the massive migratory feeding frenzy that transforms our region into a world-class sport fishing destination. If you’re looking for prime winter action, securing your Nuevo Vallarta fishing charter now is highly recommended.

Offshore Action: Giants at El Banco and El Corbetenamarlin fishing

The sheer density of baitfish currently congregating at our famed offshore pinnacles—El Banco (The Bank) and El Corbetena (The Rock)—is driving incredible results. For serious adventurers, the eight- to twelve-hour Deep Sea Fishing trips are delivering legendary catches right now.

The star of the show remains the Striped Marlin. We are experiencing a fantastic bite, with high numbers of these acrobatic billfish aggressively hitting slow-trolled live baits and fast-moving lures. These magnificent animals thrive in the slightly cooler winter currents, providing the exhilarating, rod-bending challenge that defines a successful offshore trip. If landing a beautiful billfish is your ultimate goal, this is the prime window to make it happen.

Beyond the marlin, the Yellowfin Tuna schools are cooperating, too! While the gigantic Cow Tuna may have pushed a little further out, we’re pulling in plenty of 40–80 lb schoolie fish, especially near El Corbetena, where we’re using heavy jigs and kite techniques for the best results. We are also finding beautiful, high-jumping Sailfish, which we safely tag and release to maintain the health of the Riviera Nayarit fishery. No Deep Sea Fishing report is complete without mentioning the always-exciting Dorado (or Mahi-Mahi). We are finding them still abundant, offering terrific aerial action and excellent table fare. Look for them aggressively chasing schools of flying fish near visible temperature breaks and floating debris on your offshore run.mahi-mahi fishing

Inshore Excellence: Banderas Bay Fast Action

For those preferring shorter, four- to six-hour excursions, the protected waters of Banderas Bay, right outside the marina, are a non-stop hive of activity. Our Nuevo Vallarta fishing trips focused on the inshore zones, particularly around Punta Mita and Cabo Corrientes, continue to exceed expectations.

The undisputed king of the coast this time of year is the magnificent Roosterfish. Their winter activity levels are at their peak as they patrol the rocky points and sandy drop-offs close to the shoreline. The most productive technique for hooking one of these powerful fighters is slow-trolling live mullet or caballitos (small jacks). If landing a trophy Roosterfish on light tackle is your bucket-list item, the inshore waters are ready for you. Furthermore, the bay is thick with aggressive Jack Crevalle and Spanish Mackerel, offering fast-paced action that is perfect for young anglers or anyone seeking constant hookups and great results. These trips offer fast action and are easily accessible, making inshore Nuevo Vallarta fishing a superb choice for a half-day outing.

The Wildlife Spectacle and Captain Pete’s Tips

December is truly a magical time, as the peak of the sport fishing season perfectly aligns with the annual arrival of the Humpback Whales. These gentle giants have returned to Banderas Bay to breed and give birth, offering unforgettable experiences right from our boats. Witnessing a massive mother breach alongside her newborn calf elevates every charter into a magnificent nature tour. Ask us about our combo trips!fishing Puerto Vallarta

Weather-wise, December is beautiful. The seas are often flat and calm, with air temperatures ranging from a pleasant 65°F (18°C) in the early morning to a warm 78°F (26°C) by midday—dress in layers! The water clarity is exceptional, which is crucial for sight-feeding predators like the Striped Marlin and Sailfish. If you are eager to land your trophy fish, enjoy explosive Roosterfish fights, and marvel at the whale migration in the stunning Riviera Nayarit, contact us today. We are ready to make your winter fishing adventure unforgettable!

Happy Holidays and Tight Lines,

https://www.travelvallarta.com

Captain Pete

Puerto Vallarta fishing report January 2026

Happy Fishmas and Feliz Año Nuevo from Puerto Vallarta!
¡Bienvenidos, amigos! It’s your favorite salt-crusted captain, Pete, coming to you live from the docks. First off, a huge Happy Fishmas and Feliz Año Nuevo to all my fishing family out there. It’s January 2026, and while I know many of you are back home digging out of the snow or winterizing your rigs, let me tell ya—the only thing we’re “winterizing” here in Mexico is the ice chest to make room for more fillets!

It is my absolute pleasure to bring you the January 2026 fishing report straight from the stunning, blue waters of Puerto Vallarta. If you’re looking for a winter getaway that feels like a literal paradise, you’ve parked your boat in the right slip. We’ve got perfect weather, beaches that’ll make your jaw drop, and some of the friendliest people on the planet. But let’s get down to the real reason you’re reading this: you want to know if the fish are biting. The short answer? You bet your bottom dollar they are.

The January Conditions: Tropical “Chills”
Winter in our neck of the woods is simply magical. Now, don’t let the word “winter” fool ya. Our mornings greet us with a cool, crisp breeze around 65°F—just enough to need a light hoodie while we’re rigging the lines. By the time the sun hits high noon, we’re basking in a perfect 78°F.

The Pacific Ocean follows suit, staying right in that sweet spot between 65°F and 78°F. The locals might call it “cold water,” and sure, it might feel a bit “refreshing” when you first jump in for a snorkel, but for the fish, it’s prime time. This temperature range creates some of the most action-packed Puerto Vallarta fishing you’ll find all year.

The Big Boys: Offshore Fishing
While our friends up north are hunker’d down, we’re just hitting our stride. The cooler waters of January bring a change of guard in the deep blue. The massive blue and black marlin have started their migration to warmer southern waters, but don’t you worry—their cousins, the striped marlin, have arrived in force to fill the gap. These guys are acrobatic, fast, and put on a heck of a show.

If you’re heading out for some serious offshore fishing, you’re also going to run into plenty of sailfish. They love these January currents. And let’s not forget the crowd favorites: mahi-mahi (or as we call ’em here, dorado). These gold-and-green beauties are still lighting up the spread, providing both a great fight and the best fish tacos you’ll ever taste. When we’re out there, we’re constantly looking for those massive schools of sardines. These “bait balls” are like an all-you-can-eat buffet for predators. Watching a striped marlin or a pod of dorado crash a bait ball is a sight that’ll leave your adrenaline pumping and your arms sore from reeling.

Inshore Action and “Rooster” Fever
Not everyone wants to go way out to the Corbetena or El Banco, and that’s just fine because the inshore fishing right now is spectacular. Our 6-hour bay trips are producing impressive catches of yellowtail, Spanish mackerel, and snapper.

But the real king of the shoreline right now is the roosterfish. These “punks of the Pacific” with their iconic mohawk fins are a blast to catch. Pro tip: if you want to hook a trophy roosterfish, we’ve been having huge success using live Spanish mackerel as bait. There’s nothing like seeing that comb-fin slicing through the surf right before your drag starts screaming!

Why Choose Our Fishing Charters?
Whether you are a seasoned pro or a first-timer who doesn’t know a lure from a lolly pop, we’ve got the know-how to help you hook your dream fish. We offer the best prices on deep-sea fishing adventures in the region.

6-Hour Trips: Perfect for families and hitting the inshore honey holes.

8-Hour to Multi-Day: For the hardcore anglers chasing the big game offshore.

Whale Watching Bonus: This is the best part of January! While we’re hunting for sailfish, we often see humpback whales breaching right next to the boat. It’s a two-for-one nature show!

So, what are you waiting for? Come visit the friendliest port city in the world. The sun is shining, the beer is cold, and the fish are hungry. Give me a call toll-free at 800-430-6048 to check our availability. Let’s get you out on one of the premier fishing charters in Mexico and make some memories.

Tight lines and blue water,

Capt. Pete and Crew

Nuevo Vallarta fishing report

Capt. Pete and Crew

Puerto Vallarta fishing report November 2025

Puerto Vallarta Fishing Report: November 2025 – The Pinnacle of the Season!

Fellow anglers, Captain Pete here, reporting straight from the pristine coastline of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico! November is not just a great fishing month; it marks the absolute pinnacle of the season here, attracting dedicated local and international fishing enthusiasts. The deep, cold, crystal-clear blue waters are fully settled, and the abundance of bait fish has the entire pelagic population locked into aggressive feeding patterns. If you are looking for explosive action, this is undeniably the month to be here!

The Offshore Chase: Giants at the BanksPuerto Vallarta fishing boats

For those seeking true trophy catches, our deep-sea runs target the famed offshore banks where the ocean’s largest game fish congregate. The conditions are perfect for chasing down the biggest predators, with water temperatures ranging from a comfortable F to F, creating a paradise for trophy seekers.

The highlight of our offshore trips is the pursuit of Marlin. We are seeing strong numbers of Black and Blue Marlin aggressively feeding, providing incredible opportunities for massive catches. We are also heavily focused on the colossal Yellowfin Tuna. These muscle-bound brutes are consistently showing up on the sonar, ready to test the toughest anglers. We successfully hunt these giants using a combination of heavy tackle, large live baits, and specialized techniques around the structure of El Banco (The Bank). Landing a Yellowfin Tuna pushing well over the 200-pound mark is a very real possibility right now, delivering a fight that few other species can match.

The presence of these massive predators confirms that our offshore fishery is delivering world-class Big Game Fishing action throughout November.

Inshore Action and The Tournament Frenzy

The action is just as hot closer to shore, particularly inside the vast expanse of Banderas Bay. Our shorter 4 to 8-hour trips are delivering consistent and varied catches that are ideal for families or those seeking fast-paced fun. The beautiful Sailfish are plentiful, providing exhilarating catch-and-release opportunities characterized by blistering runs and spectacular jumps.

No report would be complete without mentioning the colorful Mahi-Mahi (Dorado). These acrobatic fighters are readily hitting lures and live bait around any structure or debris, providing excellent table fare and non-stop fun. For our popular 4 to 6-hour trips, anglers are successfully targeting Spanish mackerel, hard-fighting Yellowtail, and various Snapper species near the rocks and reefs.

The November Tournament Scene

This month, Puerto Vallarta is hosting two major events that inject high-stakes excitement into the marina:

  1. The Los Muertos Tournament (Nov 7 th and 8 th): This is one of the biggest fishing tournaments of the year, typically drawing around 200 boats. The primary focus is on Mahi-Mahi and Sailfish, and the competition is fierce. Impressive cash prizes totaling 450,000 pesos are on the line, and we have a strong history here, including catching the largest fish in a previous year and securing second place last year. The entry fee is 6,500 pesos plus the cost of your charter.
  2. International Tournament (Nov 12th): Registration opens for three intense days of fishing, targeting the “big four”: Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, and Mahi-Mahi. This event is tailored for the deep-sea enthusiast, with an entry fee of 37,000 pesos. Our focus during this competition will be on landing those massive Marlin and Tuna we know are feeding offshore.

Specialty Trips and Contact Informationtuna fishing Puerto vallarta

In addition to standard charters, we provide unique experiences perfect for the winter season. One of our most sought-after offerings is a half-day fishing excursion combined with half a day of whale watching. Whales typically make their grand entrance from November through December, and these trips offer an incredible combination of huge catches and stunning wildlife moments. Another popular choice is a half-day fishing trip paired with beach activities, such as snorkeling and beachfront dining.

We eagerly look forward to welcoming all of you to the waters of Puerto Vallarta Fishing for an unforgettable experience. For newcomers and general information, please visit our comprehensive Q&A page. You can also contact Captain Pete directly at our toll-free number, 800-430-6048, for the latest conditions and to book your deep-sea adventure.

Tight lines,

https://www.travelvallarta.com

Captain Pete

 

Puerto Vallarta fishing report September 2025

The end of the rainy season is upon us, and the fishing in Puerto Vallarta is absolutely on fire! September has been delivering some incredible action, with a wide variety of pelagic species making their presence known. The weather has been beautiful—sunny days with refreshing afternoon or evening showers that are actually helping our fishing.Puerto Vallarta fishing September

A Deeper Look at the Rainy Season or make a reservation
Many people ask about the rainy season, which runs from mid-June to mid-October. They often worry that daily rain forecasts will ruin their trip, but the reality is quite different. The rain typically falls late in the day or at night, and it’s a huge benefit to our local fisheries.

The runoff from the surrounding mountains brings a flood of nutrients into the bay and offshore. This influx of food draws in bait fish, which in turn attracts all the larger game fish we’re famous for. This is a little-known secret that makes this time of year one of the best for fishing in Puerto Vallarta. The rainy season actually makes the fishing better, bringing the fish closer to shore and making them more active.

Best fishing prices in Puerto Vallarta

Inshore & Offshore: A Tale of Two Fisheries
Whether you’re fishing in the bay or heading out to the deep blue, you’re in for some amazing action.

Bay Fishing
The bay is packed with life right now. It’s a fantastic option for shorter trips, offering a chance to catch a variety of game fish. The abundance of bait has drawn in skipjack, mahi-mahi, rooster fish, snapper, and even sailfish. Yes, you heard that right—sailfish often move into the bay during the summer and early fall, giving anglers an incredible opportunity for a fish of a lifetime on a short trip.Puerto Vallarta fishing

Offshore Fishing
While the bay fishing is great, the true magic happens offshore. This is prime time for chasing the biggest trophy fish in the region. Our fishing grounds are alive with massive Marlin, huge mahi-mahi, sailfish, and large tuna. These powerful pelagic fish are cruising up and down the coast, providing a high-stakes angling experience.

For the best shot at a trophy catch, we highly recommend booking an 8 to 10-hour trip. While a short 4 or 6-hour trip in the bay can sometimes result in an incredible catch, your odds of landing that once-in-a-lifetime Marlin or Tuna go up tenfold when you head offshore.

Planning Your Fishing Adventure
To maximize your chances of success, it’s best to work with a local expert. We use a variety of tools and knowledge, including tides, moon phases, bait movement, and our daily catch reports to find the best spots.

We’re always here to help you plan the perfect trip. We can match you with the right boat, captain, and crew for your specific goals, whether you’re a seasoned angler chasing a grander or a family looking for a fun day on the water.bay fishing Puerto Vallarta

Ready to book your custom fishing adventure? The action is as hot as ever, and we can’t wait to get you out on the water.

Tight lines,

Captain Pete and the crew