Luck of the Draw Fishing Continues, Marlin Spread Out

                  Luck of the Draw Fishing Continues, Marlin Spread Out

       Written by: Stan Gabruk owner of Master Baiter´s Sportfishing & Tackle

As we come to the end of another High Season for World Class fishing in Puerto Vallarta we’re still seeing scattered species in all the different locations. For those looking for Black Marlin, Blue Marlin and Striped Marlin and your fantasy then now would be a good time to hit it. The overabundance of bait is still a bit of an issue, but we have fish and that’s a good thing. Fishing is never without it’s challenges. There is no such thing as perfect fishing conditions, but we’re not too far from it amigos!

As we enter the New Year we find Corbetena is still the place to be if looking for larger species like Blue and Black Marlin running anywhere from 250 to 500 lbs. Warm / Cool currents are still swirling so we also find some cooler water species moving is as well as should be expected in January. Sailfish are picking up in strikes if not in numbers for some reason and are taking baits, we won’t complain. Yellowfin Tuna Footballs are in the 40 lb range but they’re moving around following the bait so it may take some extra effort to find them but worth it. Wahoo are still in the area but are a non-schooling species so you can target them easily, troll about 8 miles an hour and you could get lucky. Remember if targeting Wahoo wire leader is suggested as these fish have a mouth like a razor knife. Dorado are also possible but not automatic at 25 to 30 lbs as well. Skippies around the “Rock” have been in the 20 lb range and this is huge for Skip Jack Tuna. Everything you catch is just full of three inch pink Squids. When we see Squids show up we know we’re looking at the seasonal current changes just around the corner. So if you’re looking for summer species you’d better get out there or you’ll be waiting another season for your “finned fantasy”. El Banco is alive as well, but for the most part the fishing has been consistently better at Corbetena and with it being closer-in the prospect of saving fuel money can be a determining factor.

It’s been very interesting the “Island situation” these last few weeks. For the area around the Marietta Islands and El Morro to Punta Mita, just a few miles out you’ll find Black and Blue Marlin. We’ve seen several Striped Marlin but they’re not taking baits, it could be their breeding season, but no hook-ups I’m aware of this past week. Sailfish in the 100 lb range are roaming the area and are taking baits better this week thankfully. Bonito are picking up in numbers and are in the 20 to 30 lb range, remember this is what they put in “Tuna” cans so they’re worth your time and efforts. In fact the entire area off the islands are producing very well with a 70% chance of boating a Billfish for sure. Nothing ventured, nothing gained amigos.

Inside the bay is a real mixed bag. We have Whales, Manta Rays, Sailfish around La Cruz and Los Arcos area in the channels. Dorado to 25 lbs, a Possibility of a Marlin in the bay which is still a strange occurrence even though it seems to be happening on a regular basis. Jack Crevalls are huge at 50 lbs in the bay, Snappers are thinning out for now but should pick up in numbers shortly. With Needle Fish to 30 lbs and there are Sailfish in the bay still. It’s surprising that many times you’ll find the fishing better in the bay than at the deep water locations. One issue in the bay, if you can call it that, is that the bait is moving, no surprise. That means that the fish are moving around as well. Where they were yesterday is not where they’ll be tomorrow. Be prepared to spend six hours, not four if fishing inside the bay, you’ll be glad you did.

The bite is still late morning just around 10 and it’s been like that for a few weeks now so heading out too early, especially in the bay is not helping your cause any. Sleep in a bit, head out about 8 and you’ll be on time, hopefully you’ll be in the right area! Water temperature is still in the 79 degree range which is very acceptable for this time of the year. Bait is another thing, Sardines, Squid of 3 inches, Flying fish of 4 inches, Goggle Eyes and the list goes on. Be sure to bring lures of Pink and black to mimic the Squids and this could be a help. Dead baits have been attracting Sails and Marlin as well so don’t be afraid to switch up your trolling presentations (lures and baits) often.

All and all we have fish, it’s more about finding them in the mood to eat. But even with full stomachs they’re hitting baits and lures so it’s “fishing” in the classic sense. You’ll have a great time on the water but remember, where Whales are, fishing is normally bad. How’d you like to be a small fish waiting to be eaten by a whale? Now you know why fishing and Whales don’t mix well, but hey, they’re fun and beautiful to watch and be around. Just keep that in mind!  

Until next week, Don´t forget to kiss Your Fish!

 

Web page:  www.MasterBaiters.com.mx , Local Phone at: (044) 322 779 75 71 Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Master-Baiters-Sportfishing-Tackle/88817121325

The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing and Tackle is protected under trade mark law and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.