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Seasonal Fishing Guide Puerto Vallarta: When to Catch Your Dream Fish
Seasonal Fishing Guide Puerto Vallarta: – Nestled on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta fishing is a dream destination for fishing enthusiasts. The bountiful waters of Banderas Bay and the surrounding ocean offer a diverse range of fish species, making it a year-round fishing paradise. However, knowing the best times to target specific species can significantly enhance your fishing experience. This seasonal fishing guide will help you plan your fishing trips to Puerto Vallarta with Puerto Vallarta Fishing Tours, ensuring you’re in the right place at the right time to catch your dream fish.
Winter (December - February)
Species: Sailfish, Striped Marlin, Jack Crevalle, Snapper
Sailfish: Winter is prime time for sailfish in Puerto Vallarta. These fast and acrobatic fish are abundant during this season, providing thrilling battles for anglers. Look for them in deeper waters where they chase schools of baitfish.
Striped Marlin: Striped marlins are also more prevalent in the winter months. They can be found offshore, and their impressive size and strength make them a sought-after catch. Trolling with lures or live bait is an effective technique.
Jack Crevalle: Inshore waters teem with Jack Crevalle during winter. Known for their aggressive nature and strong fight, these fish are fun to catch. They often gather in large schools, making them easy to spot and target.
Snapper: Winter is a great time for bottom fishing, and snapper are a prime target. These fish are found around reefs and rocky structures. Use live or cut bait to entice them.
Tips: Winter mornings can be cooler, so dress in layers. Also, this is the high season for tourism in Puerto Vallarta, so booking your fishing charter in advance is recommended.
Spring (March - May)
Species: Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Roosterfish, Grouper
Yellowfin Tuna As the waters warm up in spring, yellowfin tuna starts to appear. These powerful fish are found offshore and are known for their incredible speed and strength. Trolling with lures that mimic small fish is a common method to catch them.
Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): Dorado numbers increase in spring, particularly around floating debris or seaweed patches. Their vibrant colors and acrobatic leaps make them a favorite among anglers. They are aggressive feeders and can be caught using trolling techniques.
Roosterfish: Inshore anglers will find roosterfish more active in spring. These unique fish, with their distinctive dorsal fins, are found near rocky shorelines and estuaries. Live bait such as mullet or sardines is highly effective.
Grouper: Spring is also an excellent time to target grouper. These bottom dwellers are found around reefs and rocky structures. Use heavy tackle and live bait to coax them out of their hiding spots.
Tips: Spring brings pleasant weather with mild temperatures and calm seas. This is an ideal time for both offshore and inshore fishing. Be sure to check the local regulations, as some species may have specific size and bag limits during this season.
Summer (June - August)
Species: Blue Marlin, Black Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo
Blue Marlin: Summer is peak season for blue marlin. These majestic fish can be found in deeper offshore waters. Known for their size and power, blue marlin provides an exhilarating challenge for anglers. Trolling with large lures or live bait is the preferred method.
Black Marlin: Black marlins are also more prevalent in summer. These giants of the sea are found in the same areas as blue marlin and require similar techniques to catch. Their sheer size and strength make them a prized catch.
Sailfish: While sailfish are available year-round, their numbers peak in summer. Look for them in offshore waters, where they hunt for schools of baitfish. They are known for their spectacular jumps and rapid runs.
Wahoo: Wahoo are fast and elusive fish that become more active in summer. They are typically found around offshore structures and are known for their speed and sharp teeth. Trolling with high-speed lures is an effective way to catch them.
Tips: Summer temperatures can be high, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Early morning and late afternoon trips are often more comfortable and productive.
Fall (September - November)
Species: Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Sailfish, Snapper
Yellowfin Tuna: Fall is another excellent season for yellowfin tuna. The waters remain warm, and tuna is still abundant. Offshore fishing trips targeting these powerful fish can be highly rewarding.
Dorado: Dorado numbers remain strong in fall, making it a great time to target these colorful fish. Look for them around floating debris or seaweed patches. They are known for their acrobatic leaps and aggressive feeding behavior.
Sailfish: Sailfish continue to be a prime target in fall. Their numbers remain high, and they can be found in offshore waters. Trolling with lures or live bait is the best way to catch them.
Snapper: Bottom fishing for snapper is productive in fall. These fish are found around reefs and rocky structures. Use live or cut bait to entice them.
