Latest Nuevo Vallarta fishing report October 2026

Welcome aboard, my fellow anglers! Capt. Pete here with your October 2026 fishing update straight out of Mexico’s Pacific coast. October is officially here, bringing cooler air, warm sea temperatures, and some of the finest action of the year. Whether you are planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta or heading slightly north to Nuevo Vallarta, our crews are finding non-stop offshore and inshore thrills.  Reservations

Key Highlights for October 2026Nuevo Vallarta fishing

  • Yellowfin Tuna: The fall months are prime time for monster yellowfin tuna. These powerful swimmers are hitting hard offshore around El Banco and La Corbeteña.

  • Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): Dorado action is in full swing throughout October. Anglers are having a blast landing these fast-feeding, colorful jumpers.

  • Big Game Billfish: Blue marlin, black marlin, and sailfish are active in the warm offshore waters, giving sport fishermen the battle of a lifetime. Try fishing out kite or live baiting a 10-pound charro for starters.

  • Inshore Action: Closer to shore near the river mouths and coastal reefs, we are seeing plenty of roosterfish, snappers, grouper, and pompano. Here, inside the bay and just offshore, it has been working fantastically. 

Top Fishing Spots

The waters surrounding Banderas Bay offer incredible variety for every skill level. For those seeking massive pelagic predators, deep-sea fishing out at Corbeteña Rock (35 miles offshore) or El Banco (50 miles offshore) is second to none. Water conditions are settling into near-perfect levels, making it smooth sailing for half-day bay trips or full-day offshore marlin runs.

Closer to shore, the Ameca River mouth is producing steady action on roosterfish and jacks, while bottom fishermen are pulling up hefty grouper and snapper around the structure.      Contact Capt.Pete here

Catch & Conditions Overview

Targeted Species Peak Water Location Best Technique Expected Size Range
Yellowfin Tuna El Banco & La Corbeteña Live bait, Trolling 40 lbs – 200+ lbs
Blue & Black Marlin Offshore Drop-offs Trolling lures & rigged bait 250 lbs – 500+ lbs
Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) Bay Edges & Floating Debris Light tackle, Live bait 15 lbs – 40 lbs
Roosterfish Inshore / River Mouths Live goggle, Casting 20 lbs – 50 lbs
Grouper & Snapper Rocky Reefs & Structures Bottom fishing with squid/ cut bait 10 lbs – 35 lbs

Tips for an Unforgettable Trip

  1. Book Early for Fall Peaks: October brings high demand for big-game pelagics; securing your charter boat in advance ensures you get prime dates.  Check availability here or call for last-minute reservations.

  2. Pack Smart: Bring polarized sunglasses, snacks, lunch, sun protection, and a light jacket for early morning runs out past the bay.

  3. Practice Conservation: Our fleet of boats from 28 ft. to 50 ft. strongly supports sustainable catch-and-release practices for billfish to protect these fisheries for future generations.

  4. One of the biggest differences from our charters is that we fish every day. This gives us a big advantage over most other companies. We know where the fish are biting and what we have caught the day before.

The waters are cooling off slightly, creating ideal conditions out on the Pacific. Pack your gear, gather your crew, and let’s get you hooked up on a trophy catch! It’s an El Niño year, so waters will be warmer than normal.

Tight lines,

Puerto Vallarta fishing report

Capt. Pete and crews