For months, we’ve been trying to make sense of the changes in our world-famous fishing grounds of Puerto Vallarta in the Bay of Banderas! The rapid switch between La Niña and El Niño conditions has left us constantly adjusting our expectations for the season. All the usual indicators that help us predict fishing conditions seem to be failing us this year.
Typically, we start to see Sailfish return to the area in March, but not this year. We also expect great bottom fishing with cooler water temperatures, but that hasn’t materialized either. So, we’re taking it day by day, doing our best as we move into the spring breeding season. For now, it means we’re catching smaller species, but that will change soon. The key is to take advantage of the current conditions and seek out ‘Action Fishing.’ Yeehaw!
This week, Corbetena has once again been less than spectacular, with very few boats heading out in that direction. The lingering dirty water and cooler temperatures at 67 degrees make Corbetena less ideal for your fishing dollar right now. However, for those targeting larger species, we have seen some Striped Marlin caught this week, albeit just a few after a full day of trolling. The fact they’re out there, combined with warming water temperatures, suggests that Striped Marlin could be around for a while.
If you’re considering bottom fishing as an alternative, it’s not the best choice right now. The action has been a bit flat. While there are fields of Jack Crevalle over 40 lbs. in the bay, bottom fishing isn’t producing the excitement we typically expect. Should the water clarity improve and transition to blue water conditions, that could change things. For now, we’re stuck with dirty water, which is fairly common for late March—hopefully it won’t last long.
As for El Banco, information is scarce; with very few anglers venturing there, it might be worth a shot, but you’d be rolling the dice, amigos. Stay tuned…
From El Morro to Punta Mita (now called Punta Nayarit), the same dirty water conditions persist. You’ll find Jack Crevalle and Bonito in these areas, but again, there’s no need for an eight-hour trip to catch what’s readily available in the bay. Normally, bottom fishing off the reefs behind the Marietta Islands is a great option, but currently, it’s been underwhelming. Interestingly, we’ve seen a few Roosterfish caught north of Carrilleros, and the water is a bit cleaner closer to shore north of Sayulita. Feeling lucky?
Inside the bay, things remain consistent. Jack Crevalle are still the main players. However, Jacks appear to be in a breeding phase, which means they may or may not take the bait when closer to shore. It can be frustrating to see them swimming by, ignoring your offerings. If you head toward the center of the bay, specifically towards the Marietta Islands, you’ll likely have better luck.
Bonito are at a good size around 20 lbs—delicious, but sometimes finicky and not always taking bait. Why? Your guess is as good as mine. On the bright side, things are looking up with larger Roosterfish and Jacks in the area. As we transition into spring, the action is bound to improve. I recommend booking a six-hour trip, as four-hour outings may not get you to where the larger, more active Jack Crevalle are.
With Jack Crevalle, Sierra Mackerel, Bonito, Skipjack Tuna, and other species, Puerto Vallarta fishing is always promising if you keep an open mind.
Surprisingly, the bite has remained consistent, starting around 09:30 or later for the past few months—very strange indeed. The water remains dirty, but that should change soon. With temperatures still at 67 degrees, we expect the bottom fishing for Snappers, Sea Bass, and other species to improve in the bay and at the Marietta Islands shortly.
For now, look for positive signs before spending your fuel dollars on uncertain prospects. While live bait is always effective, this week lures have been the best choice. Consider using deep-diving baits like purple Rapalas, as well as red and white or Dorado colors. Black with yellow or green are also great options. Hopefully, these tips give you a leg up. If you venture into the bay and follow this advice, you’re likely to catch fish, amigos.
Until next week, don’t forget to kiss your fish!
