Fishing in Puerto Vallarta

Aside from being Mexico's largest bay, the Bahía de Banderas (Bay of Flags) - which spans a whopping 24 miles wide and is up to two miles deep - is also one of the world's top sport fishing sites. In fact, Puerto Vallarta hosts several high stakes fishing competitions, such as the annual International Sailfish and Marlin Tournament, that draw in anglers from around the globe.

The bay is a lucrative source of sailfish, marlin, tuna, red snapper, sea bass and much more all year-round, thus making deep-sea fishing one of the most popular activities among travelers to Puerto Vallarta.

If you're up for a day at sea, there are countless fishing charters available for a variety of prices, durations and groups of people. Book a trip with a travel agency, head to Marina Vallarta to arrange your excursion dockside, or check in with the Cooperativa de Pescadores (Cooperative of Fishermen). Located on the malecón boardwalk, the Cooperativa works kind of like an agency for a lengthy list of the area's sportfishing boats. If it's low tourist season, you might even catch a discount.

Cooperativa de Pescadores
Office on the malecón boardwalk next to Hotel Rosita
Tel: 222 1292

Fishing Puerto Vallarta
Marina Vallarta
Tel: 222 7250
Website: www.fishingpuertovallarta.4t.com

Fishing with Carolina
Marina Vallarta
Tel: 224 7250

Sailing Charters & Bay Cruises in Puerto Vallarta

Another popular option if you're looking to spend some time at sea is to hop on to one of the many bay cruises or charter your own sailboat. Popular bay cruise destinations include the Islas Marietas and the beaches of Yelapa and Las Ánimas. There are also plenty of longer cruises, complete with meals, cocktails and performances.

One of the most popular cruises is the "Pirates of the Bay," which entails spending a few daytime or evening hours aboard a reproduced Spanish galleon by the name of Marigalante. The cruise culminates in an entertaining mock pirate attack and is easily a favorite among Puerto Vallarta visitors of all ages.

Marigalante
Tel: 223 0309
Website: www.marigalante.com.mx

Vallarta Adventures
Av Las Palmas 39, Marina Vallarta
Tel: 297 1212
Website: www.vallarta-adventures.com