Fellow anglers, Captain Pete here, reporting straight from the docks of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico! If October was the transition, November is the absolute peak. This month is truly a fisherman’s dream, offering world-class action both offshore and right inside Banderas Bay. The ocean is crystal clear, the weather is perfect, and the sheer volume of bait has the massive pelagic species locked into a feeding pattern. It’s no wonder we host some of Mexico’s biggest angling events during this time. Get ready—the bite is explosive!
Offshore Action: Marlin and Trophy Yellowfin Tuna
For serious adventurers, the deep-sea Big Game Fishing grounds are wide open. Our daily runs are taking us to the renowned structure of Corbeteña and the legendary El Banco (The Bank). The conditions out here are prime, with water temperatures holding steady around 80 ∘ F to 84 ∘F, keeping the biggest predators happy and hungry.
The ultimate trophy fish, the Marlin, is dominating the offshore scene. We are seeing incredible numbers of both large Black Marlin and acrobatic Blue Marlin, aggressively taking trolled skipjack, tunas, and rigged baits near the pinnacle walls. Anglers should prepare for a true test of strength; these huge fish are on the prowl, and the odds of landing a career fish are as high as they get all year. The sight of a massive bill cutting through the calm morning water is the reason we do this. For any questions about fishing in Puerto Vallarta, click here.
Right alongside the Marlin are the monstrous Yellowfin Tuna. The focus at the deep banks remains on these brute fighters, with fish consistently ranging from 100 to 200 pounds. We are successfully targeting them with live baits and employing kite-fishing techniques to place baits strategically into the schools. The sound of a 130-pound class reel screaming as a Yellowfin Tuna runs deep is music to our ears. These powerful, muscle-bound beasts demand heavy tackle and true endurance, but the reward is worth every minute of the fight.
Inshore Action and Tournaments
While the offshore scene draws the headlines, the inshore and mid-range action inside Banderas Bay is red-hot for those seeking a shorter run.
Check here for the best rates for fishing in Puerto Vallarta.
The beautiful Sailfish bite is phenomenal this month. These sleek, majestic fish are schooling up beautifully, offering exhilarating catch-and-release opportunities that are perfect for anglers of all skill levels. They put on a show with blistering runs and unforgettable aerial acrobatics.
For fast, furious, and delicious action, look no further than the Dorado (Mahi-Mahi). We are finding large schools of these colorful fighters holding around floating debris, offering non-stop rod-bending fun. The Dorado are easily hitting 20 to 35 pounds and are a fantastic way to fill the cooler. We are also finding plenty of hard-fighting Spanish Mackerel and Yellowtail around structure like El Morro, providing great light-tackle fun.
Tournaments
November is tournament time, injecting extra excitement into the port!
Las Muertos Tournament (Nov. 2 nd, and 3 rd ): This is one of the biggest fishing tournaments in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on dorados and Sailfish, with hundreds of boats competing for big cash prizes.
International Tournament (Nov 12th to the 15th): This is a serious three-day event for dedicated anglers, where the focus is on catching the biggest Marlin, Tuna, Sailfish, and Mali-Mahi. Call 800-430-6048 for more details and availability.
If you are interested in fishing in one of these outstanding tournaments, send me an email to secure your spot!
Unique Experiences and Boat Options
Whether you’re looking for world-class Big Game Fishing or a relaxing day on the water, we have you covered. Beyond traditional trolling, we offer unique bottom fishing trips near El Morro and opportunities for reef fishing. We also combine morning fishing with afternoon snorkeling trips at beautiful spots like Los Arcos, where the crystal-clear, warm water is teeming with thousands of fish.
We offer a variety of high-quality boats to suit any need and budget, ranging from 28-foot center consoles to 150-foot super yachts.
The conditions won’t get any better than this! If you’re ready to experience the best fishing of your life, the time to book your trip to Puerto Vallarta is now.
See ya out there on the water,
