Fellow anglers, Captain Pete here, reporting straight from the Sayulita coastline! If you’re looking for that perfect window of opportunity for world-class Sport Fishing, you’ve found it. October is the magic month when the ocean’s giants transition into their peak feeding season, making the deep waters off this part of the Mexican Pacific arguably the best in the world. Get ready to load the gear, because the action across Banderas Bay and on the offshore banks is nothing short of explosive!
The Offshore Frontier: Peak Marlin and Trophy Tuna Mania
For the serious anglers ready to commit to a long run from our Sayulita departure point, the Deep-Sea Fishing grounds are wide open and thriving. We are logging necessary miles out to the legendary deep-sea banks of El Banco (The Bank) and Corbeteña (The Rock), and the results are spectacular. The ocean conditions are holding a gorgeous, clear blue hue, and the sheer volume of bait—including big schools of skipjack, bonita, and flying fish—is pulling in the biggest predators in force.
The primary highlight of the month is the phenomenal Yellowfin Tuna action. These muscle-bound brutes are attacking bait schools with reckless abandon, and we’re consistently hooking up with fish ranging from 80 to 150 pounds. More importantly, the opportunity for a true “Cow” pushing well over the 200-pound mark is present daily. These aren’t just fish; they are true tests of endurance that demand heavy-duty 80-to-100-pound class tackle, strong backs, and a never-say-die attitude. Nothing sounds better than a reel screaming a hundred yards of line off the spool as one of these giants goes deep! Live baiting with larger baits and employing kite fishing techniques have been the most productive methods for tempting these massive offshore fighters.
Right alongside the tuna are the ultimate predators: the Marlin. The transition from the late summer heat means the massive Black Marlin and powerful Blue Marlin are aggressively hunting in these deep-water havens. Trolling large, rigged baits and natural cedar plugs around the submerged pinnacles and drop-offs of Corbeteña is yielding phenomenal action. This is the critical lead-up to our peak winter season, and the granders are already putting on a dazzling show. Seeing that distinct, massive bill slash the surface or watching a Marlin skyrocket on the strike is the ultimate, unforgettable thrill in Mexican sportfishing.
Inshore & Mid-Range: Sensational Sailfish and Dorado
Closer to the Sayulita coastline, the action is just as hot, especially for those looking for a shorter run inside Banderas Bay’s northern quadrant.
The majestic Sailfish bite is nothing short of sensational. These magnificent creatures are schooling up beautifully in the blue water breaks, providing fantastic, high-volume catch-and-release opportunities. They are excellent fish for anglers of all skill levels, giving you an exhilarating fight characterized by blistering runs and unforgettable aerial displays. We are finding great success slow-trolling live bait like caballitos and goggle-eyes.
If you want fast, furious, and absolutely delicious action, look no further than the Dorado (Mahi-Mahi). We are finding huge schools of these colorful, acrobatic fighters holding aggressively around any floating debris, structure, or prominent weed line. Dorado are opportunistic and easy to catch, providing non-stop fun on the line and plenty of meat for the cooler. The Dorado run is in full swing throughout October, with fish often hitting 20 to 35 pounds—perfect for a quick, rewarding trip.
Get Out Here!
October conditions are near-perfect—we’re seeing calm, manageable seas, stunning tropical weather, and water temperatures right in the sweet spot of F to F. Whether you’re chasing a trophy Marlin or want the explosive, reel-screaming action of a Yellowfin Tuna, the time to book your deep-sea fishing adventure with us is now. Don’t let this phenomenal transition month pass you by!
Tight lines,
Puerto Vallarta fishing report
Capt. Pete and crews
