Things can be strange and unpredictable as we transition from March into the spring fishing season. This year, the usual patterns seem to be out the window due to unusual swings between La Niña and El Niño, and colder water conditions have played a significant role. Recently, water temperatures have dropped to 67 degrees Fahrenheit—typically, we experience such drops around mid-February, not early March. The emergence of 120 lb Yellowfin Tuna, Sea Bass, Grouper, and Striped Marlin in our renowned fishing grounds is certainly surprising. Stay tuned for this week’s intriguing report.
For weeks, I’ve been informing those who listen—whether in conversation or through these articles—that nothing significant was happening at El Banco and Corbetena. However, this week has brought a change. Suddenly, in this year’s coldest water, 120 lb Yellowfin Tuna have appeared at El Banco! How many were caught, you might wonder? Just one; that’s the only report I received this week regarding these larger Yellowfin Tuna. This particular catch was made on our 35-foot Cabo. Additionally, at Corbetena, a lone Dorado weighing 25 lbs was boated. While Striped Marlin are present in the area, the chances of successfully catching one are slim.
I’ve previously mentioned the ongoing dirty water conditions, which still persist. Yet, unusually, as we enter spring, summer species are now showing up. To clarify the situation: we have chilly 67-degree water, murky conditions, and Sardines appearing in significant numbers. If you’re fortunate enough to entice one of these summer species with your bait, you might just have a successful catch. For the hardcore angler aiming for a Striped Marlin or Yellowfin Tuna, I wish you the best of luck!
Moving closer inshore, the peculiar fishing conditions continue between El Morro and Sayulita at Punta Mita. With an abundance of various bait species present, Sailfish have been spotted in the area—indeed, we caught one this week. Given the current state of fishing, we’ve been cautious in recommending trips out of the bay. However, if the water clears up, we could start to see some exciting developments. Stay tuned for more fleeting anomalies.
Even within the bay, we’re observing some unusual patterns. For example, a Sailfish was caught off La Cruz Marina in the bay’s northern section. Four-hour trips remain hit-or-miss, often yielding disappointing results. However, a six-hour trip typically allows enough time to catch Jack Crevalle weighing 20 to 35 lbs, Sierra Mackerel at 10 lbs, and Bonito up to 20 lbs. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter a rogue Dorado by Los Arcos or perhaps even a baby Sailfish. Opting for our “action fishing” trips in the bay over six hours can deliver the excitement you’re seeking. Even if you don’t land the species you desire, reeling in Jack Crevalle—commonly called Toro for their bull-like strength—can be a thrilling experience.
The bite continues to be best from 09:00 to around noon, after which the action tends to calm down. Don’t leave too early, or you may miss the prime opportunity. Water temperatures remain steady at 67 degrees, which is quite late in the season for such cold water.
Typically, our Sea Bass and Snapper season runs from mid-February to the end of March, but all seasonal indicators are lagging by about six weeks right now. With Dorado and Yellowfin Tuna surfacing in our deep-water fishing grounds, I believe this signals some unusual, warmer currents are at play and could foreshadow an early arrival of the summer season. Soon we’ll see a rise in water temperatures; the key question remains, “When will we see Dorado make their appearance?” Their arrival will indicate that summer currents have begun, and from that point onward, anything could happen.
As a reminder, if you find yourself in Marina Vallarta and someone approaches you claiming to work with Master Baiter’s, they likely do not. We have our own offices in Marina Vallarta, and while we do sell some merchandise, we do not engage in unsolicited sales. Please be cautious and avoid giving any money to individuals asking for deposits. I’ve had numerous customers express their frustration about misleading offers from those who impersonate our company, which has been an ongoing issue for years.
Until next week, don’t forget to kiss your fish!
