Fellow anglers, Captain Pete here, reporting straight from the pristine coastline of Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico! November is not just a great fishing month; it marks the absolute pinnacle of the season here, attracting dedicated local and international fishing enthusiasts. The deep, cold, crystal-clear blue waters are fully settled, and the abundance of bait fish has the entire pelagic population locked into aggressive feeding patterns. If you are looking for explosive action, this is undeniably the month to be here!
The Offshore Chase: Giants at the Banks
For those seeking true trophy catches, our deep-sea runs are targeting the famed offshore banks where the ocean’s largest game fish congregate. The conditions are perfect for chasing down the biggest predators, with water temperatures ranging from a comfortable F to F, creating a paradise for trophy seekers.
The highlight of our offshore trips is the pursuit of Marlin. We are seeing strong numbers of Black and Blue Marlin aggressively feeding, providing incredible opportunities for massive catches. We are also heavily focused on the colossal Yellowfin Tuna. These muscle-bound brutes are consistently showing up on the sonar, ready to test the toughest anglers. We successfully hunt these giants using a combination of heavy tackle, large live baits, and specialized techniques around the structure of El Banco (The Bank). Landing a Yellowfin Tuna pushing well over the 200-pound mark is a very real possibility right now, delivering a fight that few other species can match.
The presence of these massive predators confirms that our offshore fishery is delivering world-class Big Game Fishing action throughout November.
Inshore Action and The Tournament Frenzy
The action is just as hot closer to shore, particularly inside the vast expanse of Banderas Bay. Our shorter 4 to 8-hour trips are delivering consistent and varied catches that are ideal for families or those seeking fast-paced fun. The beautiful Sailfish are plentiful, providing exhilarating catch-and-release opportunities characterized by blistering runs and spectacular jumps.
No report would be complete without mentioning the colorful Mahi-Mahi (Dorado). These acrobatic fighters are readily hitting lures and live bait around any structure or debris, providing excellent table fare and non-stop fun. For our popular 4 to 6-hour trips, anglers are successfully targeting Spanish mackerel, hard-fighting Yellowtail, and various Snapper species near the rocks and reefs.
Nuevo Vallarta fishing rates and prices November.
The November Tournament Scene
This month, Nuevo Vallarta is hosting two major events that inject high-stakes excitement into the marina:
- The Los Muertos Tournament (Nov 7 th and 8 th): This is one of the biggest fishing tournaments of the year, typically drawing around 200 boats. The primary focus is on Mahi-Mahi and Sailfish, and the competition is fierce. Impressive cash prizes totaling 500,000 pesos are on the line, and we have a strong history here, including catching the largest fish in a previous year and securing second place last year. The entry fee is 6,500 pesos plus the cost of your charter.
- International Tournament (Nov 12 to the 15th): Registration opens for three intense days of fishing, targeting the “big four”: Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, and Mahi-Mahi. This event is tailored for the deep-sea enthusiast, with an entry fee of 37,000 pesos. Our focus during this competition will be on landing those massive Marlin and Tuna we know are feeding offshore.
Specialty Trips and Contact Information
In addition to standard charters, we provide unique experiences perfect for the winter season. One of our most sought-after offerings is a half-day fishing excursion combined with half a day of whale watching. Whales typically make their grand entrance from November through December, and these trips offer an incredible combination of huge catches and stunning wildlife moments. Another popular choice is a half-day fishing trip paired with beach activities, such as snorkeling and beachfront dining.
We eagerly look forward to welcoming all of you to the waters of Nuevo Vallarta Fishing for an unforgettable experience. For newcomers and general information, please visit our comprehensive Q&A page. You can also contact Captain Pete directly at our toll-free number, 800-430-6048, for the latest conditions and to book your deep-sea adventure.
Tight lines,
Captain Pete