Fishing in Puerto Vallarta: a sport fishing boat guide

Puerto Vallarta is one of the best sport fishing destinations on the Mexican Pacific. Banderas Bay, one of the largest bays in Mexico, has deep water very close to shore, which means you can find big game fish just a short ride from port. Whether you have never held a rod or you are dreaming of your first marlin, here is everything you need to know to plan your fishing boat tour.

Why go fishing in Puerto Vallarta?

The mix of warm water, food-rich currents and deep seabeds makes the bay a highway for pelagic fish almost all year round. On top of that, Vallarta weather lets you fish in any season, and departures from Mismaloya Beach, in the south of the bay, put you on the fishing grounds in no time.

Species you can catch in Banderas Bay

• Sailfish: the king of the bay thanks to its spectacular jumps. Found for much of the year.
• Marlin: blue, black and striped. The ultimate offshore trophy.
• Yellowfin tuna: famous for its strength; some fish top 100 kilos.
• Mahi-mahi (dorado): brightly colored, a strong fighter and delicious.
• Roosterfish, snapper, jack crevalle and sierra: the classic bay species, perfect for beginners.

Fishing seasons in Puerto Vallarta

You can fish in Vallarta all year, but each species has its peak months. As a general guide:

• November to May: good season for yellowfin tuna, sailfish and mahi-mahi.
• June to November: warmer water that brings blue and black marlin, plus mahi-mahi and sailfish.
• Year round: bay fishing for roosterfish, snapper, jack crevalle and sierra.

Nature does not follow an exact calendar: water temperature and currents change every year. Before you book, message us and we will tell you what is biting that week.

Bay fishing vs. offshore fishing: which one to choose?

On our sport fishing boat tour we offer two options:

• Bay Fishing (4 hours): ideal for beginners, families with kids or anyone who wants to try fishing without spending the whole day at sea. Calmer water and plenty of action with bay species.
• Offshore Fishing (8, 10 or 12 hours): for anglers after the big trophies: marlin, sailfish, tuna and mahi-mahi. We head out to open water, where the pelagic fish roam.

Both options include fishing gear (rods and reels), bait, captain and crew, life jackets and a cooler with water. Pricing depends on the option and duration, so we give you a custom quote.

What to bring on your fishing boat tour

• Biodegradable sunscreen, a hat and polarized sunglasses.
• Light clothing and an extra layer: offshore, the morning wind can feel cool.
• Extra snacks and drinks, especially for offshore trips.
• Seasickness medication if you are prone to motion sickness: take it before setting off.
• A camera or phone in a waterproof case for the photo with your catch.

Also check our full guide on what to bring on a water tour.

Tips for a great day of fishing

• Start early: the first hours of the morning are usually the most productive, with the calmest sea.
• Listen to the captain: the captain knows the bay and where the fish are, and will coach you through the fight.
• Practice catch and release with billfish like marlin and sailfish, to keep sport fishing sustainable.
• Fishing license: in Mexico, sport fishing from a boat requires a CONAPESCA license. When you book, we will confirm how it is handled for your trip.

Private fishing for your group

If you are traveling with family or friends, you can book the whole boat: you choose the schedule and the boat is just for your group. Meet our 27 and 33 ft boats in the fleet section or check out our private boat tours. And if you have a spare day, pair your fishing trip with a Los Arcos boat tour or a trip to the Marietas Islands.