Here we are at the end of May 2025, and we’re looking to the weeks ahead of us as we seem to be entering a normal summer pattern. We’re even seeing the first hurricane of the season as it passes the Bay of Banderas. We will normally see these hurricanes push fish into the area as they pass our world-famous fishing grounds here in Puerto Vallarta.
It’s part of the fishing cycle we missed last year. Water temperatures are about where they should be, and the water is getting bluer by the day.
Sardines are hanging out around the area, so we’re still seeing Roosterfish. This has been happening now for the last three weeks, and their bite is still strong. It’s still Spring conditions; fish spawning is an issue we’ll need to deal with.
Tournaments are already starting to spring up from Barra Navidad to San Blas. Blue Marlin are showing up in the surrounding areas, Yellowfin Tuna Monsters* are at the Tres Marias Islands. So, there are some positive signs of a normal season after two years of “WTF is happening out there?”
When it comes to tourism, all the local business owners understand it’s the slowest ‘income’ time of the year. Spring is nothing special, but it gets a bit better once we enter June. The days are warming, the humidity is rising, and the hurricanes are pushing.
With few people in Puerto Vallarta, there is very little to talk about. Corbetena and El Banco have been neglected for the most part these last few months, but the fishing conditions are changing now. Starting at El Banco, anglers are heading to the Isla Marias for the Yellowfin Tuna Cows, observing the action as they drop baits at El Banco. We’re seeing football Yellowfin Tuna in the 30 to 60 lb range, which are perfect bait for the Islas, enticing the Monsters.*
There’s also a real chance of encountering Blue Marlin and Sailfish. Significant numbers of baby Skipjack tuna are in the area, which attracts all the species mentioned. Following the recent hurricane, we might find larger Blue Marlin out there now. While there have been only a few trips to Corbetena, 30 to 50-lb footballs are present around the rock, and it’s the time of year when both Corbetena and El Banco see increased fish activity. Sailfish have been spotted between El Morro and Corbetena as well.3
Sardines have been abundant in the area for about three weeks, and Roosterfish typically follow them. While it may feel like a gamble, locations from El Morro to Punta Nayarit and the beaches of Cabo Corrientes are currently producing larger Roosterfish, often exceeding 35 lbs. Some great action is reported, particularly off Punta Nayarit, especially around Careyeros, a good spot to drop baits near the surf line.
Approximately six to ten miles off the beach, we’re beginning to see baby Dorado weighing around three to five pounds. Though not keepers, some in the 15 to 20 lb range are! Sailfish are present and moving in with other species, making Punta Nayarit an appealing option for anglers pursuing bigger challenges. Just last week, El Morro was bustling with Roosterfish action—a ‘secret’ spot for many captains targeting ‘Gallo’s’.
In the Bay of Banderas, fishing remains good for those seeking action, even if you’re not a fish ‘snob.’ Despite rising water temperatures, Jack Crevalle—a staple species for us—are still abundant in the bay, with averages around 30 lbs available off Nuevo Vallarta or the southern part of the bay. Bonito are still taking baits and are generally around 15 lbs or more. Sierra Mackerels, while usually smaller, shouldn’t be overlooked.
Interestingly, we’re seeing a large number of baby Dorado around 5 lbs, which are not keepers but can be returned. However, some Dorado in the 15 lb range are available for keeping. Sailfish are also present in the bay, particularly in the Los Dos area at Los Arcos. This means there’s a small chance of striking Dorado and/or Sailfish at the south end of the bay. For a six-hour fishing trip, you have plenty of options at a relatively low price. If you mention you’ve read this article, I’ll offer you a ‘readers’ special discount.’
After months of dirty water and few fish, it looks like we’re finally turning a corner on some of the most unusual fishing conditions I’ve ever experienced. Water temperatures are rising nicely and are almost where they should be.
Hurricanes usually kick off a bit later in June, but we can view this positively, as it should lead to an increase in the fish population. With blue water and plenty of bait like Flying fish, Ballyhoo, and Sardines, the conditions are nearly perfect for the arrival of Marlin, Tuna, and more.
Water temperatures range from 81 to 84 degrees, depending on location and currents. As you know, Mexico doesn’t adjust for daylight savings time, so the sun rises around 06:00 now with early bites becoming common. After months of late bites and departing at around 07:00, we’re now meeting folks at 05:30 to enhance fish-catching potential.
While live bait reigns supreme, remember that a few weeks back, dead bait performed better. It could be that dead bait seems like easier prey; who can say for sure? Given the numerous baby Dorado in the area, try a Dorado-colored lure and see what happens. It will be intriguing to watch the developments in the days following the season’s first hurricane.
*FYI: A Monster Yellowfin Tuna weighs over 300 lbs, while a Cow Tuna ranges from 200 lbs to 300 lbs. Locals from southern California are recently labeling them Super Cows. Whatever you call them, they are massive and will and will break your arms off!
Until next week, don’t forget to kiss your fish!
