Puerto Vallarta Inshore Fishing: 4-Hour Bay Charter for Roosterfish & Mahi
Spend four hours chasing roosterfish, jack crevalle and small mahi inside Banderas Bay aboard a 28-ft center-console panga. Early mornings deliver the calmest seas and the best bite — arrive prepared with sun protection and a steady cast.
The Experience
Before You Go
Go early
Book a morning departure to take advantage of calmer seas and cooler temperatures when fish are most active.
Protect against sun
Bring high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and long-sleeve sun shirt — reflected sun off the water intensifies exposure.
Prevent seasickness
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding and avoid heavy meals immediately prior to the trip.
Follow crew instructions
Crew will handle bait, rigging and safety; follow their guidance for positioning and landing fish to avoid accidents.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Try shallow sandy points near the northern bay for fast jack action early morning
- •Look for bait slicks near river mouths — they concentrate small fish and attract larger predators
Wildlife
- •Brown pelican
- •Bottlenose dolphin
Conservation Note
Favor catch-and-release for juvenile or non-target species and pack out any plastic to limit pollution in a bay that hosts sensitive marine life.
Banderas Bay has supported local coastal fisheries for generations; sport-fishing expanded with tourism in the 20th century, blending local knowledge with recreational techniques.
What to Bring
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Protects against intense coastal sun and reflected UV over the water.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare so you can spot fish and protect your eyes.
Motion-sickness medication or wristbandsEssential
Helpful for those sensitive to boat movement in choppy conditions.
Closed-toe non-slip shoesEssential
Keeps your footing on a wet deck and protects toes when handling gear.
Common Questions
What fish can I expect to catch on an inshore Puerto Vallarta trip?
Inside Banderas Bay expect jack crevalle, skipjack, roosterfish near rocky points, occasional small mahi mahi and needlefish depending on bait and season.
Are fishing licenses provided?
Yes — this charter includes fishing licenses, so you don’t need to obtain them beforehand.
Is the trip suitable for children?
Children five and older can join; infants must sit on an adult’s lap. Discuss specifics with the operator when booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
Sales are final for this tour; bookings are non-refundable and operators may cancel for bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness — able to stand for periods, brace for pulls, and climb on/off a low-sided skiff.
Ready to Explore Puerto Vallarta?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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