Fishing Report for April 19, 2009

Fishing in Puerto Vallarta, Seasons and Conditions in Transition.

Everything is changing in Puerto Vallarta, not just the clocks. With longer days and fewer vacationers in Puerto Vallarta, fishing has all but come to a stand still. After Easter, as usual, things slow way down and the number of charters heading out to the fishing grounds drop off dramatically. Notice how I neglect to mention the fishing is bad, because it isn’t!  While that statement may seem to contradict itself, it’s actually a great time to be on the water. With fewer boats heading out, it means that you won’t have an army of charter boats all hitting the same “hot” areas. As long as you’re not expecting Moby Dick, you can always have great day fishing in Puerto Vallarta!

Let’s start out at El Banco, this usually reliable location has just cooled off, both in water temperatures and in strikes. There are still fish here, make no mistake, but it’s not going to come cheap or easy amigos! Last week the fish were hitting just five miles off the high spots, but this week if you wanted anything of any size you were once again heading out to the Tres Maria Islands, more commonly known as the prison Islands. Yellowfin Tuna ranging from 60 to 175 lbs are here and available. Mahi Mahi and Marlin are also in the area, but you better keep an eye on what you’re doing and where you are! I got a report today from a friend that told me his wife was sailing with some friends too close to the island and the next thing they new there were military types in camouflage and waving weapons. The boat was forced to dock at the island and the whole thing was a nasty mess. All came out well in the end, but don’t be stupid and think you’re going to get away with this. The few that have been catching fish in this area are very, very lucky they didn’t have an incident like this…..  So be smart and don’t get your butt in a ringer because you think you’re super man.

Again, with few charters heading out, there really isn’t anything to report about the Rock or Corbetena as it’s more commonly known as. One thing to remember about this area, if you open your mind and try some bottom fishing, you’ll get Cubera or Dog Tooth Pargo (Snapper). Amber Jacks and Rainbow runners are also here for the taking if you catch it right. You can also look a touch south of the rock for Tuna and Marlin. Remember, fish move and locking yourself into a location mind-set will just reduce your chances of getting that trophy you’re looking for. Should have more news by next week, stay tuned….

El Morro and the Marietta Islands, in the safe zone, is still the place to be. Rooster fish in larger than normal sizes have taken over these areas and they’re taking baits. An average 8 hr. day on the water to this area will on average produce at least four Rooster fish in the range of 50 inches in length or around 50 lbs. This week they’re hitting live bait and jigs. So get your bag of tricks out, you may need them. One thing that has been working is using planers with lures or live bait to get them under the surface of the water has been slaying them at will. Some days color isn’t an issue, others it is. But the squid lures have been working well with this.

For Punta Mita fishing (the islands off the point), this area has been the place to be if you’re looking for Mahi Mahi. They’ve been running in the 30 to 45 lb or larger range as late. They’re taking baits and they’re plentiful at the moment. North of the point has been a little dead. Not many charters going up that way since the vacationing angler is looking for short duration trips resulting in something they can put on the grill! This area is worth the fuel expense and who knows, you may come in with a full fish box!

For the most part, fishing in the bay has been consistent. Skip Jack Tuna, Sierra Mackerals, Jack Crevalls, Snappers, small Grouper, Robalo and many other species to choose from. These fish will be on the smaller side, but plentiful. Great day for small kids or those looking for some action but short of time or money.

Last week I announced my new web page was up, but the email was having problems. We’re working the page daily to get content up, etc. If you’d like to get on my real time fishing reports list, fire me an email this week at: stanray55@yahoo.com or try my web site at: www.MasterBaiters.com.mx and check it out…

I guess that’s about it for this week, until next time, don’t forget to kiss your fish!

Email me Stan at: CatchFish@MasterBaiters.com.mx .

The Marina Vallarta Location is the only official and legal Master Baiter’s ® store in Puerto Vallarta with our  company boats. Don’t be fooled by imposters claiming to be us!

Come visit our store in Marina Vallarta, (at the light house, on the Boardwalk facing the water turn left, we’re down nine shops 1 door down from Tikul Restaurant).

We have World Famous T-shirts, Hats and other souvenirs items to choose from. We’re recommended in Fodor’s Travel guide for PV. Fishing and Tours

Phone From Canada / USA: 011 52 322 209 11 28 .. In P.V.: (322) 209 11 28
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