November is one of the best months to experience Puerto Vallarta fishing, as the Pacific waters off Mexico’s coast welcome an impressive variety of game fish. With warm ocean currents, abundant baitfish, and productive offshore grounds, anglers can expect outstanding opportunities all month long. From trophy-sized marlin and yellowfin tuna to acrobatic dorado and hard-fighting roosterfish, Banderas Bay fishing offers something for every experience level.
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a half-day excursion, or a full-day deep-sea adventure, November presents plenty of reasons to book a Puerto Vallarta fishing charter and explore these remarkable waters.
Offshore Fishing: Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna & Sailfish
For anglers chasing big-game action, November brings excellent offshore fishing and some of the very best fishing we have all year long. The deep Pacific waters around Puerto Vallarta attract several prized pelagic species, making it Mexico’s number one fishing destination.
Blue and Black Marlin: The offshore drop-offs and underwater structures surrounding Banderas Bay provide habitat for powerful blue and black marlin. These impressive predators are known for their strength, speed, and spectacular aerial displays. Hooking one is an unforgettable experience that challenges even experienced anglers.
All questions and answers about Puerto Vallarta fishing
Yellowfin Tuna: November is an exciting month to target trophy yellowfin tuna. Often found around offshore banks and areas of concentrated baitfish, these powerful fish deliver long, demanding fights. Anglers hoping to land a true trophy should consider a full-day offshore trip with experienced local captains.
Sailfish: Known for their distinctive dorsal fins and incredible speed, sailfish are another exciting target. Their explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps make them a favorite among sportfishing enthusiasts, particularly those practicing catch-and-release fishing.
Inshore Fishing: Dorado, Roosterfish & More
Not every memorable fishing adventure requires traveling far offshore. The productive waters of Banderas Bay offer plenty of opportunities for anglers interested in shorter trips and diverse catches. We also offer the best fishing rates in Puerto Vallarta.
Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): November brings opportunities to encounter colorful dorado, also known as mahi-mahi. Recognized for their vibrant colors and aggressive feeding behavior, these fast-swimming fish provide exciting action on light and medium tackle.
Roosterfish: One of the region’s most recognizable inshore species, roosterfish are prized for their distinctive dorsal fins and powerful runs. Rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, and areas near river mouths can provide productive fishing opportunities.
Other species worth targeting include cubera snapper, jack crevalle, and grouper. These coastal predators offer plenty of variety for anglers looking to experience sport fishing in Puerto Vallarta without committing to a long offshore journey.
Where to Fish Around Puerto Vallarta
Choosing the right fishing grounds depends on your target species, available time, and ocean conditions.
Banderas Bay: Ideal for half-day fishing trips, the bay offers relatively sheltered waters and opportunities to target dorado, smaller tuna, roosterfish, and other inshore species.
Corbeteña Rock (La Corbetena): Located approximately 35 miles offshore, this famous underwater pinnacle attracts large pelagic predators, including marlin and yellowfin tuna. It is a popular destination for anglers seeking trophy fishing in Puerto Vallarta.
El Banco: Roughly 50 miles offshore, these legendary seamounts are known for their productive waters and potential encounters with large blue marlin, black marlin, and heavyweight tuna. Full-day excursions are generally recommended to make the most of the journey.
A successful day on the water starts with choosing the right crew and equipment. When booking fishing charters in Puerto Vallarta, consider these recommendations:
Choose the right trip: Discuss your target species, group size, and preferred trip length with your captain before booking. Call toll-free and speak with Capt. Pete
Use professional equipment: Quality reels, appropriate rods, fresh bait, and properly maintained tackle can make a significant difference when targeting powerful offshore fish.
Follow local fishing regulations: Practice responsible harvesting and catch-and-release techniques, particularly for billfish, to help preserve the region’s marine ecosystem.
Prepare for the sun: Bring polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to enjoy your day comfortably.
Book Your November Fishing Adventure
With productive offshore grounds, diverse inshore species, and exciting big-game opportunities, November is a fantastic time to explore the Pacific coast. Whether you’re hoping to catch a trophy marlin, battle a yellowfin tuna, or enjoy a relaxing day exploring Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta offers an unforgettable fishing experience.
Don’t forget about our 2 big tournaments coming up in Puerto Vallarta fishing. Call for more info 800 430 6048
| Tournament Name | Dates | Location | Target Species / Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 70th International Marlin and Tuna Tournament | November 11–14, 2026 | Marina Vallarta | Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Sailfish, Mahi-Mahi; over $1,000,000 MXN in prizes |
| 19th Annual Los Muertos Beach Fishing Tournament | November 6–7, 2026 | Los Muertos Beach Pier | Dorado category, charity catch donation |
| 7th Annual Mismaloya Fishing Tournament | November 20–21, 2026 | Mismaloya Beach | Dorado and Open Water categories with local chef cook-offs |
Tight lines!
