Welcome to Mexico's Fishing Paradise!
Are you on vacation in Puerto Vallarta and would love to go fishing? Dreaming of a boys’ fishing trip with your group? Want to catch tuna, mahi-mahi, or red snapper? The Bay of Banderas is perfect for that! Discover how you can board a fishing boat, tame the wild waters, and savor your freshly caught fish on board.
Fishing Boat Charters in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
The Bay of Banderas in Puerto Vallarta is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, offering a blend of natural beauty and abundant marine life that makes every excursion unforgettable. Here’s some information on boat fishing trips in the Puerto Vallarta area:
There’s a Lot of Fish in the Sea!
The Bay of Banderas is teeming with diverse fish species. You can reel in prized catches like marlin, sailfish, tuna, mahi-mahi, and red snapper. This variety ensures thrilling experiences with each outing.
Fishing in the Bay of Banderas isn’t just a hobby; it’s a passion-filled adventure that promises memorable moments on the open seas. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of landing a big game fish or simply relishing the tranquility of fishing surrounded by stunning landscapes, this bay offers an unparalleled experience for all fishing enthusiasts.
Did you know that Puerto Vallarta hosts numerous fishing tournaments annually, drawing anglers from around the world? The bay’s reputation for trophy fish and record catches adds to its allure.
Ideal Fishing Conditions
Unlike fishing in the USA or Canada, the Bay of Banderas offers a tropical climate with warm waters throughout the year. This means no off-season for fishing and a more comfortable experience on the boat. The bay’s deep, nutrient-rich waters create optimal conditions for fish populations to thrive year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, the chances of a successful catch are high.
Boat and Bay’s fishing charters in Puerto Vallarta provide experienced captains who know the best spots and techniques. They ensure a safe and enjoyable fishing trip while sharing insights into local marine life.
This Trip Will Be More Than Just Fishing!
Fishing here isn’t just about the catch—it’s about soaking in breathtaking coastal views, encountering playful dolphins, and possibly spotting humpback whales during migration seasons. Fishing in Puerto Vallarta offers a cultural experience as well. Enjoy freshly caught seafood prepared in traditional Mexican styles and explore the vibrant local communities.
What to Expect from a Fishing Trip on a Boat?
At Boat and Bay, you can book an unforgettable fishing boat trip for your adventure in Puerto Vallarta. This guide introduces you to three types of fishing trips we offer (click on respective link to go to the text):
Read on to discover what a typical boat fishing experience in Puerto Vallarta entails, what you can expect, and how best to prepare.
1. Deep-Sea Fishing Trips: 8-12 Hours
Deep-sea fishing is an adventurous form of fishing that takes place in deep ocean waters, targeting large species like marlin, tuna, and sailfish. It requires specialized equipment and techniques, such as heavy-duty rods, trolling, and advanced navigation technology. This thrilling activity is perfect for anglers seeking the challenge of catching trophy-sized fish far from shore.
These trips are ideal for passionate fishermen and group outings (6-8 people). Novices are welcome but should be mindful of seasickness. Children are permitted provided they are not prone to motion sickness.
Not Recommended For: Individuals with heart conditions, severe motion sickness, or other health concerns.
Expect Premium Catches: Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Mahi-Mahi (El Dorado), Red Snapper, Jack Crevalle, Bonito, Roosterfish, Wahoo, Amberjack, Grouper and Sierra.
Destination: The Corbeteña, located 16 miles off Marietas Islands (near Punta Mita). This is a small rocky outcrop known as a local fish sanctuary.
La Roca de La Corbeteña, located near Punta Mita in the Bay of Banderas, is a renowned spot for sport fishing and diving. It is a large rock formation rising from the ocean floor, providing an ideal habitat for pelagic fish. Its deep waters and nutrient-rich currents attract a variety of marine species, making it a hotspot for anglers.
During the whale migration season (December to March), visitors to La Corbeteña might also spot humpback whales as they pass through the Bay of Banderas, adding another exciting element to a trip to this location.
Fishing Opportunities:
While we can’t guarantee catching a big fish, our expert crews and well-equipped boats maximize your chances. Our crew is committed to your success and enjoyment, making every effort to ensure a rewarding fishing experience.
Itinerary:
Departure: We set sail at 6 AM (or earlier, depending on the sunrise), aiming to reach our fishing spot near La Corbeteña by 7:30 AM. Enjoy the sunrise over the open water, with lures (artificial fishing bait designed to attract fish) ready for action.
Fishing Technique: Look out for bird flocks or schools of fish, indicating potential hotspots. Upon reaching Corbeteña, large baitfish are used, such as skipjack tuna (barrilete) or large-eyed fish (ojotón), ideal for enticing big catches like marlin, tuna, or dorado.
Return: After fishing, it takes about 2 hours to return to the marina at full speed.
What to Do with the Caught Fish?
You have several options:
• Release the fish back to sea
• The crew can fillet your fish and store them in vacuum-sealed bags with ice for you to take away
• The crew can prepare a fresh ceviche with your freshly caught fish, to be consumed on board
• For local dining, bring your catch to one of the Marina Vallarta restaurants and ask them to prepare it for your dinner
• For travel, freeze your fish in vacuum-sealed bags to preserve freshness.
Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in Puerto Vallarta with Boat and Bay. Book your fishing adventure today for a day filled with excitement and great catches!
Top Boats for Deep-Sea Fishing
What’s Included within your boat charter::
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Live bait
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Water
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Ice
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Fresh vegetables for the ceviche (the crew can prepare a fresh ceviche with your freshly caught fish)
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Tostadas
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Sandwiches
Yachts with full kitchens can prepare breakfast items like quesadillas, eggs and bacon, guacamole and later transform your catch into ceviche or sashimi.
2. Local Fishing & Trolling: 4-6 Hour Trips
Ideal for beginners or those seeking a relaxed fishing experience, these trips venture to Boca de Tomates within 4 hours or slightly beyond to La Cruz. Journey within the Bay to Boca de Tomates or nearby La Cruz for a laid-back, enjoyable fishing experience suitable for all, including children and women. This type of fishing can be perfectly combined with a normal tourist cruise trip. We chose special yachts that are comfortable for both fishing and cruising, so you can fish while the rest of your friends or family enjoys the sun.
Don’t know how to fish but would like to try or learn? Then this trip is ideal for you! Our experienced crew will make sure every member of your group has a great time on board our fishing yachts!
Catch Variety: Bull sharks, snappers, bonitos, jack crevalle, and more (known locally as “tequermeque” for all-around fishing).
Fishing Technique: Trolling with rods involves the boat moving forward with two lures trailing, enticing fish to bite. Our captain or crew will assist you in reeling in your catch, ensuring a successful fishing adventure.
Whether it’s a luxury yacht or a standard vessel, all our yachts are equipped and ready for a day of fishing fun.
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Top Boats for 4-6h Fishing Trips
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3. Overnight and multi-day fishing trips
Overnight fishing in Puerto Vallarta is ideal for avid anglers seeking an extended, immersive experience. This adventure offers ample time at prime fishing spots, increasing your chances of landing big game fish like marlin, tuna, dorado, and sailfish. It’s an opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of the open sea, witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, and fully engage with the fishing process. With expert crews and well-equipped boats, it promises an unforgettable experience for passionate fishermen.
Itinerary: Typically, these trips start early, allowing you to reach renowned fishing spots like El Banco or Islas Marias. El Banco is a spot in the sea between Punta Mita and Islas Marías; there are no rocks, just a flat, shallow area. The journey to El Banco takes about 10 hours, covering 80 nautical miles, while Islas Marias is 125 nautical miles away. These locations are perfect for catching tuna and other big fish.
After a day of fishing, you’ll anchor at a nearby island, such as Kliofas or Isabeles, for the night before heading back to the fishing grounds in the morning.
During your trip, you can enjoy meals made from your catch, with options like sashimi, ceviche, or grilled fish. The crew can prepare delicious breakfasts like eggs with beans or quesadillas with meat. You’re free to take your catch home, share it, or have it prepared on the spot.
Fishing techniques involve using live bait like skipjack tuna, with large rods and reels capable of handling big game fish. Overnight trips allow for a more relaxed fishing experience, providing the flexibility to fish day and night. Pricing is usually based on a 24-hour period, but arrangements can be made with the captain to accommodate your schedule and ensure a satisfying fishing adventure.
Overnight fishing is for those who love and understand the essence of fishing, requiring patience and determination. It’s not recommended for those who have health issues such as heart conditions or severe seasickness. This experience guarantees fun and successful fishing, making the long journey and investment worthwhile.
