How to Go Fishing in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a pretty town by the ocean in Mexico. Many people come here to enjoy fishing. It’s one of the best places in the world to catch fish.

Whether this is your first time fishing or you’ve done it before, Puerto Vallarta is a great place to try it.

🐟 Why People Love Fishing in Puerto Vallarta

There are 3 big reasons:

• Lots of Fish: You can catch many kinds of fish like mahi-mahi (also called dorado), tuna, marlin, sailfish, snapper, and more.

• You Can Fish All Year: Some fish are here all the time. Others come during certain months. But you’ll always find something.

• Nice Weather: The weather is warm and sunny almost every day. The sea is calm and perfect for a boat ride.

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🗓️ Best Time to Go Fishing

Time of Year	Fish You Might Catch	What It Means
May – September	Tuna, dorado, marlin, sailfish	Great time for big fish in deep water
October – January	Dorado, wahoo, marlin, snapper, sailfish	A mix of big and small fish
February – April	Snapper, jack crevalle, small tuna	Best time for fishing near the shore

💡 Don’t worry too much about the season—you can catch fish almost anytime here!

🚤 Two Types of Fishing Trips

1. Inshore Fishing (Near Land)

• You stay close to the beach, inside the big bay.

• The water is not too deep.

• The trip lasts about 4 to 6 hours.

• You might catch smaller fish like roosterfish, snapper, or jack crevalle.

• 🏷️ Price: Around $400–USD 500 for a half day.
  

2. Offshore Fishing (Far from Land)

• You go far into the ocean.

• The water is deep, and the fish are bigger.

• The trip lasts about 8 to 12 hours.

• You can catch tuna, marlin, sailfish, and other big fish.

• 🏷️ Price: Around $1,000–USD 1,400 for a full day.
  

🎣 Trusted Fishing Companies in Puerto Vallarta

Here are some great companies to book with:

✅ Fishing Rebels

• Friendly team and different boat sizes.

• Great for catching tuna, marlin, dorado, and more.

• Located at Marina Los Peines.
  

👥 Shared Trip or Private Trip?

Shared Trip

• You go with other people.

• It costs less—about USD 150 per person.

• Great for solo travelers or small groups.
  

Private Trip

• Just you and your group on the boat.

• More private and flexible.

• Costs more, but you can choose everything.
  

✅ What’s Included in a Fishing Trip?

Most trips include:

• Fishing rods and bait

• Life jackets

• Fishing license

• Bottled water (sometimes snacks)

• Help cleaning your fish

• Some boats also offer snorkeling or fresh seafood (like ceviche)

💡 Tip your crew: A 15–20% tip is nice if they give good service.

📝 Things to Know Before You Book

• Always book with a real company—not someone selling trips on the street.

• Make sure the captain speaks English if you don’t speak Spanish.

• Ask what’s included (some trips don’t include food or drinks).

• On a budget? A shared trip is a great way to save money.
  

🐠 Fish You Might Catch

• Mahi-Mahi (Dorado) – Bright, colorful fish. Tasty and fun to catch.

• Tuna – Strong fish that fight hard. Great to eat.

• Sailfish & Marlin – Big, fast fish. Great for sport fishing.

• Roosterfish – Found near the shore. Looks cool with its tall fin.

• Snapper & Amberjack – Tasty fish found near the bottom.

🎣 Every trip is different—you never know what you might catch!

🎒 What to Bring

Pack these items:

• Hat and sunglasses

• Sunscreen (reef-safe is best)

• Light jacket or long shirt (for sun or wind)

• Camera or phone for photos

• Snacks (if not already included)
  

💬 What Visitors Say

Some people who went fishing said:

“We booked with Fishing Rebels. Amazing experience!”

✅ Final Tips

Fishing Puerto Vallarta is fun, exciting, and for everyone—even if you’ve never fished before.

Here’s what to do:

☑️ Choose inshore (near land) or offshore (deep sea) ☑️ Pick a shared or private trip ☑️ Book with a trusted company ☑️ Pack smart and have fun!

🎣 You might catch the biggest fish of your life!