The Mexican resort town of Puerto Vallerta is renowned for its beaches, water sports and nightlife – not to mention some of the region’s best fishing opportunities.
(Photo: Super Panga Tres Estrellas / Courtesy FishingBooker)
With an abundance of trophy-size fish including Blue, Black, and Striped Marlin, Sailfish and Mahi Mah swimming in its Pacific waters, Puerto Vallarta is a fisherman’s paradise. Whether it’s inshore fishing for Roosterfish, Snappers or Amberjack, or venturing further out into the vast ocean, there’s a dream catch to be had for every angling predilection. Here are 5 of the best Puerto Vallerta fishing charters currently on offer.
Half-Day Trip – Bay Fishing
Embark on a half-day bay fishing adventure fishing for the likes of Dolphin, Jack Crevalle, Wahoo, Amberjack, and Snapper, depending on the season and conditions on the day During the trip, you’ll be shown how to use techniques such as light tackle, trolling, and big game fishing to make your catches. Your fishing boat will be a 34-foot Alura vessel that can accommodate up to 6 anglers and is equipped with a toilet, ice-box, and fighting chair. All rods, reels, and terminal tackle are also included in the tour price. From $680 per group (up to 6 people).
Half-Day Snorkelling & Beach Trip
(Photo: Nuevo Vallarta Fishing / Courtesy FishingBooker)
This combined half-day trip aboard a 34-foot Sea Ray offshore sportfishing boat will see you cruise to Arcos Islands, where you can snorkel and observe coral reefs and their variety of colourful fish. Then you’ll head to the clear waters and white sandy beaches of Las Animas, a beautiful Caribbean-style beach, approachable only by boat, with fresh seafood restaurants and wonderful views – plus the chance to spot whales popping up from time to time. Along the way, you’ll stop for fishing as you hunt for Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Marlin, Jack Crevalle, Roosterfish, and Pompano, depending on the season and conditions. At the end of the trip, the crew also offer a fish cleaning and filleting service. From $450 per group (up to 8 people).
Half-Day Sunset Trip
Experience a magical Mexico sunset on this half-day excursion. Departing mid-afternoon from the Marina Vallarta pier, or Playa Los Muertos pier, you’ll sail to the south of Vallarta to visit the Arcos de Mismaloya, a collection of beautiful islands. Here, you’ll have the chance to fish for species including Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Jack Crevalle, and plenty more. There’ll also be an opportunity to go snorkelling in the pristine waters. Next, you’ll move on to the middle of the bay to wait for the sunset before returning to land with long-lasting memories – and hopefully a catch or two. From $300 per group (up to 5 people).
8-hour Offshore Trip
(Photo: Burton lll Sport Fishing / Courtesy FishingBooker)
If you have the time – and budget – for a full day at sea, this could be for you. With the entire day ahead of you, your crew will be able to get you further out to sea to – hopefully – catch something big such as sailfish, marlin, roosterfish, red snappers, or spanish macklers. The trip takes place aboard a 28-foot center console Nava boat that can accommodate up to 4 guests and features everything you’ll need for a successful time on the water, including a fighting chair, live bait tank, outriggers, and navigational electronics. There’s also the option to add on snorkelling and island hopping to your day. From $703 per group (up to 4 people).
10-hour deepsea water fishing
For a truly indulgent adventure, opt for this extended 10-hour trip out into the deep sea where you’ll have ample time to target all kinds of reef and offshore species, such as Amberjack, Snapper, Roosterfish, Marlin, Tuna, Jack Crevalle, Sailfish, and many more. You’ll be fishing on a 27-foot Super panga centre console boat that accommodates up to 5 guests and can reach a speed of 25 knots to get you to your fishing spot in no time. To make your angling battles easier, the boat is equipped with a fighting chair, trolling gear, live bait tank, and navigational electronics that will locate the specific position of the fish. And, of course, for such a lengthy trip, a private toilet is also available onboard. From $649 per group (up to 8 people).