The fishing pressure here is notably less intense than in Cabo, where dozens of boats often congregate around productive spots like the Gordo Banks or San Jaime. In contrast, Puerto Vallarta's fishing grounds – from El Banco and La Corbeteña to the protected waters around the Marietas Islands – often allow anglers to work pristine waters without the crowd. This lighter pressure, combined with the massive Banderas Bay ecosystem and its year-round population of baitfish, creates exceptional opportunities for both amateur and experienced anglers to target marlin, tuna, dorado, and roosterfish in waters that aren't as heavily trafficked as its Baja counterpart.

The Ultimate Guide to Sport Fishing in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta offers world-class sportfishing from several well-equipped marinas, each serving as a gateway to the rich waters of Banderas Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Marina Vallarta, the city's main harbor, bustles with charter operations and luxury yachts, while the newer Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanabacaxtle provides modern facilities in a more laid-back setting. Nuevo Vallarta's marina rounds out the options, offering easy access to both bay and offshore fishing grounds. While Los Cabos may draw more attention with its legendary striped marlin runs and established tournament scene, Puerto Vallarta's waters hold distinct advantages for the discerning angler. The fishing pressure here is notably less intense than in Cabo, where dozens of boats often congregate around productive spots like the Gordo Banks or San Jaime. In contrast, Puerto Vallarta's fishing grounds – from El Banco and La Corbeteña to the protected waters around the Marietas Islands – often allow anglers to work pristine waters without the crowd. This lighter pressure, combined with the massive Banderas Bay ecosystem and its year-round population of baitfish, creates exceptional opportunities for both amateur and experienced anglers to target marlin, tuna, dorado, and roosterfish in waters that aren't as heavily trafficked as its Baja counterpart.

The Marietas Islands' fishing grounds are one of Puerto Vallarta's most productive nearshore fishing zones, offering a diverse array of species throughout the year. The area, located about 22 miles from the marina, a quick run in most fishing boats, features underwater formations, reef structures, and deep-water upwellings that create ideal conditions for both baitfish and predatory species. During peak seasons (April through November), anglers frequently encounter schools of yellowfin tuna in the 20-60 pound range, often marked by diving birds and porpoise activity. The grounds around the islands are particularly noted for jack crevalle, sierra mackerel, and roosterfish that patrol the edges of the reefs, while deeper drops near the islands (200-400 feet) hold quality populations of red snapper (huachinango) and grouper. Trolling the periphery of the islands is especially productive during early morning and late afternoon hours, with live bait fishing being most effective when targeting structure-oriented species. During winter months, the area sees regular visits from sailfish and striped marlin, particularly along the temperature breaks and current lines that form on the ocean side of the islands.

The Bay of Banderas - Puerto Vallarta's Sport Fishing Secret Weapon

Bonito

Bonito, pictured above are medium-sized predatory fish in the mackerel and tuna family. Key characteristics:

- Size: Typically 1-3 feet long, 5-15 pounds

- Appearance: Dark blue-green back, silver belly, diagonal stripes

- Behavior: Fast-swimming, schooling fish that hunt small fish and squid

- Culinary use: Often used for sashimi, grilling, or as bait for larger game fish

- Distribution: Found worldwide in tropical and temperate waters

- Fishing method: Caught by trolling with lures or live bait

In Puerto Vallarta, bonito are available year-round and commonly caught within 2-20 miles offshore. Fun to fish themselves but are also used as bait for Tuna, Marlin and Sailfish. At times, a day of fishing Marlin will start with Bonito fishing to catch them for Marlin bait.

Yellowfin Tuna

Yellowfin Tuna* Fishing in Puerto Vallarta

Yellowfin tuna in Banderas Bay offer some of the most exciting and demanding fishing opportunities in the region. The prime locations focus on the offshore seamounts and banks, with La Corbeteña and El Banco being the premier destinations, though schools of smaller tuna can sometimes be found around the Marietas Islands when conditions align. These offshore honey holes, situated 25-32 miles from Marina Vallarta, require full-day trips with early departures, typically 6-7 AM, to maximize fishing time at the grounds.

The fishing techniques vary with conditions and the size of tuna present. Live bait fishing with skipjack or black skipjack produces the largest fish, though bridle-rigged google-eyes and large sardines also prove effective. Chunking with cut skipjack often brings tuna to the surface when they're holding deep, while trolling with cedar plugs, jet heads, and skirted lures helps locate active schools. When tuna are feeding on the surface, watching for bird activity and porpoise can lead to heart-pounding casting opportunities with surface poppers or live bait.

The thrill of tuna fishing lies in both the hunt and the fight. Once hooked, yellowfin showcase their incredible power with blistering initial runs that can strip hundreds of yards of line in seconds. Their stamina is legendary, with larger specimens requiring battles lasting an hour or more. The excitement builds as the distinctive yellow sickles finally appear in the deep blue water, though many anglers find their arms burning and legs wobbling by this point. Success requires teamwork between anglers and crew, making a yellowfin tuna not just a prize catch but a true team achievement. Most captains recommend at least an 8-hour trip when targeting tuna, though 10-12 hour days are optimal for reaching the offshore grounds and having enough time to locate and work the schools properly.

*The bay also hosts abundant populations of Skipjack Tuna (Barrilete) and Black Skipjack (Barrilete Negro), both available year-round. These smaller cousins, typically weighing 5-20 pounds, provide excellent light tackle action and are popular targets for half-day trips. While often used as live bait for marlin fishing, these sporty fish shouldn't be overlooked for their fighting ability and table quality. Skipjack are found throughout the bay, with the black skipjack typically holding closer to shore and around structure.

Pacific Bluefin Tuna make occasional appearances in Banderas Bay, though they're considerably rarer than their yellowfin cousins. When encountered, usually offshore at the banks during late summer and early fall, these giants typically exceed 100 pounds and are often caught while targeting yellowfin. Most charter operations focus their tuna fishing efforts on yellowfin, as they offer the best combination of size, availability, and sporting quality, though experienced captains know the value of keeping skipjack schools located for both action and bait opportunities.

A note on Catch and Release for Large Billfish including Marlin and Sailfish

Modern catch and release fishing for billfish has been revolutionized by the widespread adoption of circle hooks, which have largely replaced traditional J-hooks in both tournament and recreational fishing. These specially designed hooks are engineered to rotate and catch in the corner of the fish's mouth rather than being swallowed, significantly reducing the risk of gut-hooking and internal injuries. Most professional operations now use 7/0 to 9/0 sized non-offset circle hooks, which have proven to increase survival rates dramatically - from around 65% with traditional J-hooks to over 95% with properly used circle hooks. The technique for fishing circle hooks differs from traditional hook-sets; instead of jerking the rod to set the hook, anglers allow the fish to take the bait and simply start reeling as the line comes tight, letting the hook's design do the work. This method, combined with newer tackle innovations like softer-tipped rods and specialized leader materials, has made catch and release not just more successful but also more consistently achievable even with less experienced anglers. Many charter operators in premier fishing destinations now include educational components about proper circle hook usage in their pre-fishing briefings to ensure the best possible outcome for released fish.

Puerto Vallarta has Blue, Black and Striped Marlin

Blue Marlin

Blue Marlin fishing in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta offers exceptional Blue Marlin fishing opportunities, particularly from July through December when these magnificent billfish are most abundant in the warm waters of Banderas Bay and the surrounding Pacific Ocean. The peak season typically occurs from August to October, when water temperatures reach optimal levels and large females, some exceeding 500 pounds, move into the area to feed on the abundant yellowfin tuna, skipjack, and other baitfish that congregate in these nutrient-rich waters.

Successful Blue Marlin fishing in Puerto Vallarta typically involves trolling with artificial lures or rigged baits in deep waters, usually 5-15 miles offshore where the continental shelf drops into deep blue water. Local captains often target areas around the Marietas Islands and El Banco, a seamount about 28 miles from the marina where upwelling currents create ideal hunting grounds for these apex predators. The typical fishing day starts early, departing around sunrise to reach the fishing grounds when the marlin are most active, with many charter operations using a combination of teasers and bridge-mounted spotting techniques to locate the distinctive fins and splash patterns of feeding marlin. While catch-and-release is increasingly common among sport fishermen, Puerto Vallarta maintains a strong conservation ethic to ensure sustainable fishing practices for these magnificent gamefish.

Blue Marlin (Makaira nigricans) can be distinguished from other marlin species through several key characteristics:

Physical Differences:

Size: Blue Marlin are typically the largest of all marlins
- Females can exceed 1,000 pounds (while Black Marlin are the only other species reaching comparable sizes)
- Average size is 200-400 pounds
- Females are significantly larger than males
Coloration:
- Distinctive cobalt blue coloring on top
- Silvery-white belly
- Unlike Striped Marlin, they lack the prominent vertical stripes
- Color is more vivid than Black Marlin
- Can change color intensity during hunting or excitement
Body Structure:
- More rounded body than Striped Marlin
- Pectoral fins can be folded flat against body (unlike Black Marlin's rigid fins)
- Bill is proportionally longer and more slender than Black Marlin
- Dorsal fin is proportionally lower than Striped Marlin's
- Tail has a greater fork angle than other species

Behavioral Differences:

Fighting Style:
- Known for spectacular aerial displays
- More likely to "tail walk" across water surface
- Generally more acrobatic than Black Marlin
- More sustained runs than Striped Marlin
Habitat Preference:
- Found in deeper offshore waters
- Prefer warmer water temperatures than Striped Marlin
- More migratory than other species
- Often found further offshore than White or Striped Marlin
Feeding Habits:
- More likely to hunt large pelagic fish
- Feed deeper in water column than Striped Marlin
- More solitary hunters than Striped Marlin
- Typically more aggressive feeders than White Marlin

Striped Marlin

Striped Marlin Fishing in Puerto Vallarta

Striped Marlin fishing in Puerto Vallarta offers anglers the opportunity to target one of the most acrobatic billfish species in the Pacific, with peak seasons running from November through April. These magnificent fish, typically ranging from 80 to 200 pounds, are known for their spectacular aerial displays and blistering runs. The cooler winter waters around Banderas Bay, particularly in the offshore areas near El Banco and The Marietas Islands, create ideal conditions for Striped Marlin as they follow the seasonal bait migrations of sardines, mackerel, and squid. Unlike their larger Blue Marlin cousins, Striped Marlin often hunt in groups, creating exciting opportunities for multiple hookups during a single day of fishing.

Puerto Vallarta's charter fleet employs various techniques for targeting Striped Marlin, with live bait fishing and trolling being the most effective methods. Many captains begin their day by catching fresh mackerel or skipjack, which are then bridled and slow-trolled in areas where the marlin are spotted tailing or feeding on the surface. The characteristic striped pattern of these fish, visible when they're in hunting mode, makes them easier to spot than other marlin species. The relatively close proximity of the fishing grounds to the marina (15-25 miles) means more fishing time and less running time, particularly when compared to other Pacific coast destinations. During peak season, it's not uncommon for boats to raise multiple fish per day, with skilled anglers having opportunities for several releases. Modern conservation practices, including circle hooks and proper handling techniques, have become standard among the area's professional charter operations, helping to ensure the sustainability of this premier gamefish.

Black Marlin

Black Marlin Fishing Puerto Vallarta

Black Marlin fishing in Puerto Vallarta offers anglers the opportunity to battle one of the ocean's most powerful gamefish, with the prime season running from August through early November. These massive predators, which can exceed 800 pounds in local waters, are typically found in specific areas where underwater structures and current lines create optimal feeding conditions. The most productive grounds include El Banco, a seamount located about 28 miles from the marina, and the deep-water edges near the Marietas Islands. Unlike their Blue and Striped Marlin cousins, Black Marlin often prefer slightly deeper water and tend to hunt alone, making them a more specialized target that requires specific techniques and considerable patience.

Puerto Vallarta's charter captains have developed distinctive methods for targeting these giants, with live-baiting being the preferred technique. The day often begins with catching suitable bait, usually skipjack tuna or small yellowfin tuna in the 5-15 pound range. These baits are then bridled and slow-trolled at varying depths where Black Marlin are known to patrol. The region's underwater topography, particularly at El Banco where the seafloor rises dramatically from thousands of feet to about 300 feet, creates upwelling currents that concentrate bait and attract these massive predators. When hooked, Black Marlin are known for their extraordinary power and initial runs that can exceed 400 yards, making heavy-duty tackle essential. While their fight is less aerial than that of Blue or Striped Marlin, they compensate with raw power and endurance. Most charter operations now strongly encourage catch and release for these magnificent fish, recognizing their importance as a premier gamefish and their relatively longer reproductive cycle compared to other billfish species. The opportunity to catch a "grander" (1,000+ pound fish) keeps serious anglers returning to Puerto Vallarta's waters year after year.

Sailfish

Sailfish fishing in PuertoVallarta

In Puerto Vallarta, sailfish provide some of the most exciting sport fishing action, particularly from July through January, with peak activity occurring in late summer and early fall. These acrobatic fighters, averaging 60-90 pounds, are found relatively close to shore, often within 15-20 miles of Marina Vallarta or the La Cruz Marina. The warm waters of Banderas Bay create ideal conditions for sailfish, which can frequently be spotted "tailing" on the surface as they pursue schools of sardines, mackerel, and flying fish. Local captains often locate sailfish by watching for frigate birds diving or following recreational boats, as these predators will opportunistically feed on bait stirred up by boat traffic.

The fishing community in Puerto Vallarta has embraced catch and release practices for sailfish over the past decade, recognizing the importance of preserving these magnificent gamefish for future generations. Most charter operations now actively promote this conservation-minded approach, equipped with proper release tools and trained in techniques that maximize the fish's survival chances. Circle hooks have become standard practice, significantly reducing gut-hooking and improving release success rates. Many boats now participate in tagging programs, contributing valuable data about sailfish migration patterns and growth rates in the eastern Pacific. This shift toward conservation has actually improved the fishery, with many captains reporting increased numbers and larger average sizes of sailfish in recent years, particularly in the protected waters of Banderas Bay.

The Guy Harvey Research Foundation has made significant contributions to sailfish conservation along Mexico's Pacific coast, particularly through their tagging and tracking initiatives. Since 2019, the foundation has expanded its network of receivers and increased the number of tagged sailfish in the region stretching from Puerto Vallarta to Manzanillo. Local charter operators participating in the program are incentivized through a reward system that offers $100-500 USD for catching and reporting tagged sailfish, with higher rewards for fish that have been at liberty longer or traveled significant distances. These tagged fish provide crucial data about migration patterns, feeding grounds, and seasonal movements throughout the eastern Pacific. The foundation's work has revealed surprising information about sailfish behavior, including previously unknown north-south migration patterns and the discovery that some sailfish remain in the Banderas Bay area year-round rather than following traditional migration routes. Charter captains in Puerto Vallarta actively support these efforts by not only participating in the reward program but also by educating their clients about the importance of conservation and the valuable scientific data obtained through the tagging program.

Dorado/Mahi Mahi

Dorado or Mahi Mahi fishing in Puerto Vallarta

Dorado (Mahi-mahi) fishing in Puerto Vallarta provides consistent action from June through December, with peak season typically occurring from August through October when water temperatures are warmest. These vibrant, acrobatic fish are found relatively close to shore, often within 5-15 miles of the marina, making them an excellent target species for both half-day and full-day trips. Banderas Bay's dorado are frequently found around floating debris, sargassum weed lines, and current breaks where small baitfish congregate. Local captains are skilled at locating these productive zones, often working in coordination with other boats to track the movements of dorado schools, which can travel several miles in a single day following bait and temperature breaks.

The techniques for targeting Puerto Vallarta's dorado vary with conditions and time of year. During peak season, surface fishing with live bait such as skipjack or small bonito proves extremely effective, while trolling with rigged ballyhoo or artificial lures works well when the fish are more scattered. The average size of dorado ranges from 15 to 30 pounds, though specimens exceeding 50 pounds are caught each season, particularly during the early summer months. One distinctive aspect of dorado fishing in Banderas Bay is the opportunity to sight-fish, as these colorful predators often travel in pairs or small groups and can be spotted from a distance due to their bright blue and gold coloration. Many charter operations have adapted to contemporary conservation practices, encouraging anglers to keep only what they plan to eat and releasing the larger breeding females, ensuring sustainable fishing for future seasons. The combination of hard fighting action, spectacular aerial displays, and excellent table fare makes dorado one of the most popular target species among visiting anglers to Puerto Vallarta.

Dorado are also known as Dolphin or Dolphinfish.

Roosterfish

Roosterfish Fishing in Puerto Vallarta

Roosterfish, with their distinctive dorsal fin array and powerful fighting ability, represent one of Puerto Vallarta's most sought-after inshore game fish species, particularly from April through November. These challenging adversaries are found primarily along the rocky coastlines and beach areas of Banderas Bay, with notable hotspots including the shoreline near Punta Mita, the Marietas Islands, and the coastal stretches south toward Yelapa. Unlike offshore species, roosterfish can be targeted year-round, though the warmer months typically produce the most consistent action. The average size ranges from 15 to 40 pounds, but specimens over 60 pounds are caught each season, particularly during the peak summer months when larger fish move into the bay to feed on the abundant sardines, mullet, and goggle-eyes.

The techniques for targeting roosterfish in Puerto Vallarta have evolved over the years, with live bait being the most effective method. Local captains often begin their day by casting nets for moonfish or Google eyes, which are then either slow-trolled or used for sight casting along the beaches. Many seasoned anglers prefer the exciting approach of sight casting to cruising roosters, spotting their distinctive dorsal fins as they patrol just off the beach breaks. This visual style of fishing has made Puerto Vallarta a destination for light tackle and fly fishing enthusiasts seeking an extra challenge. Conservation awareness has grown significantly in recent years, with most charter operations practicing catch and release for roosterfish, recognizing their greater value as a sport fish than a table fish. The ability to target these powerful game fish so close to shore, often in spectacular settings with the Sierra Madre mountains as a backdrop, makes roosterfishing one of Puerto Vallarta's most distinctive angling experiences.

Jack Crevalle

Jack Crevalle Fishing in Puerto Vallarta

Jack Crevalle fishing in Puerto Vallarta offers anglers some of the most explosive inshore action available, particularly from November through May when large schools move into Banderas Bay. These powerful fish, often called "toros" by local captains for their bull-like strength, can be found throughout the bay, from the shallow waters near river mouths to the deeper areas around the Marietas Islands. Schools of jacks can be spotted from considerable distances when they're feeding on the surface, creating dramatic "busts" as they corral and attack bait balls of sardines and anchovies. The average size ranges from 15 to 25 pounds, but specimens over 40 pounds are not uncommon, particularly during the peak winter months when the largest schools gather in the bay.

The techniques for targeting Jack Crevalle vary with conditions and the fish's behavior. When they're feeding on the surface, casting topwater plugs or poppers into the melee provides spectacular strikes and heart-stopping action. Live bait fishing with sardines or goggle-eyes is equally effective, particularly when the fish are holding deeper in the water column. Many local captains have mastered the art of following frigate birds to locate feeding schools, as these aerial predators often work in conjunction with jacks to corral baitfish. While not considered a prime eating fish, Jack Crevalle are highly respected for their fighting ability, often making powerful runs and dogged deep dives that test both tackle and angler. The accessibility of these fish, often found within minutes of leaving the marina, makes them an excellent target species for half-day trips or when offshore conditions are less favorable. Their willingness to hit artificial lures also makes them popular with light tackle and fly fishing enthusiasts, who appreciate the challenge of landing these powerful fish on sporting gear.