Peak Season Fishing in Boca de Tomatlan - The Bay of Banderas, Corbetena & El Banco
- Jerry Cederstrom
- Dec 14, 2025
- 5 min read
From October to March, fishing is at its best in Boca de Tomatlan, especially for trophy fish like Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Sailfish, and large Dorado (Mahi Mahi). These catches are typically found beyond the Bay, most often around Corbetena (The Rock) and El Banco, two of the most productive offshore fishing grounds near Puerto Vallarta.
This prime fishing season also brings increased activity within the Bay of Banderas, where anglers commonly encounter smaller Dorado, the occasional Sailfish, Bonito, Jack Crevalle, Roosterfish, and Sierra Mackerel. These species make for excellent half-day or full-day Panga fishing trips from Boca de Tomatlan, especially for families and first-time anglers staying at Villa La Sirena.
Peak Fishing Season in Boca de Tomatlan, Corbetena & El Banco - Understanding the Geography
The map below shows Boca de Tomatlan and its relationship to the Bay of Banderas, along with the offshore peak fishing season locations of Corbetena and El Banco.
Reaching Corbetena and El Banco in a traditional Boca Panga is a long run - typically 2 to 3 hours each way - and is best suited for experienced local captains and guests who understand the limitations of a small Panga. Corbetena lies approximately 30+ miles from Boca, with El Banco another 14 miles northwest.
Most Boca captains recommend 4-6 hour fishing trips, which are ideal for Bay fishing. Longer offshore trips are better suited to marina-based fishing companies in Puerto Vallarta, which operate larger boats with enclosed cabins and toilet facilities.
Recommended Boca-based captains can be found at: bocapangafishing.com
A Corbetena Adventure - Big Fish, Big Battles
That said, recent Boca captains had an exciting offshore trip to Corbetena with three young, fearless brothers. Although they didn’t land any of their hookups, they got a true taste of big-game fishing in the Bay of Banderas region.
They started at The Rock, catching Bonito to be used as live bait.
Shortly after trolling with Bonito, they had a strong hookup and battled hard - but the line snapped. Based on the fight, the crew suspected it was a sizable Yellowfin Tuna.
Later in the day, still using Bonito and small Dorado as bait, they hooked a 40+ pound Dorado. After a 20-minute fight, just before gaffing, the fish made a wild flip and snapped the line. Close - but no cigar.
Marlin at El Banco - Revenge Planned
With adrenaline high, the group headed northwest toward El Banco. Late in the afternoon, they hooked a Marlin. Its size and strength were impressive - initially impossible to reel in. After rotating anglers and enduring four spectacular leaps, the fish went deep, likely into the rocks, breaking the line.
The brothers vowed revenge and promised a return trip to find that crafty Marlin.
Why Corbetena & El Banco Are World-Class Fishing Grounds
What makes Corbetena and El Banco such productive fishing spots is their volcanic underwater topography. These dramatic seamounts create ideal conditions for baitfish, which in turn attract large pelagic species such as Marlin, Tuna, Dorado, and Sailfish.
Bonito and Skipjack serve as the primary bait species, forming the bridge between sardines and larger predators. Steep underwater structures force nutrient-rich water upward, creating feeding zones that pelagic fish seek out.
Corbetena rises sharply above the waterline
El Banco remains submerged, with a plateau 200–500 feet below the surface
The areas around Corbetena and El Banco provide deep waters which attract pelagic fish: Marlin, Tuna, Dorado, Sail Fish, etc., which swim in schools and prefer shallow areas (the volcanic reefs/sea mounts) that meet deep water, making them legendary fishing destinations near Puerto Vallarta.
Another Big-Fish Day at Corbetena
Just days after the brothers’ trip, four Boca captains departed at 7:00 am, aiming for Marlin or a large Tuna. They reached Corbetena at 10:40 am, began trolling for Bonito, and had a strong hookup at 2:00 pm - but the line snapped again. With dogged persistence, at 4:15 pm, the line takes off like crazy. The bewildered look on all 4 fishermen said this is a ----ing big fish. After nearly two hours of fighting, three hefty fishermen finally hauled it onto the Panga.
On the scale, it weighed 66 kilos (146 pounds). The Tuna was quartered, so each family received ultra-fresh meat - perfect for grilled dinners and countless tuna sandwiches.
Back to the Bay - Ideal Fishing for Families & Beginners
Now back to the Bay of Banderas, the most common fishing choice for families, beginners, and anglers looking for a relaxed yet rewarding day.
Typical 4–6 hour Panga fishing trips from Boca de Tomatlan involve trolling with lures along the South Shore toward Yelapa, and sometimes farther south toward the Faro Lighthouse.
The most common catch is Bonito. On a Villa team trip near the lighthouse, at least 45 Pacific Bonito were caught - too many to count.
While some anglers from the U.S. consider Bonito oily or strong-flavored, in Mexico, they are highly respected. When bled immediately, iced properly, and cooked fresh, Bonito delivers firm, tuna-like meat that locals love. They also fight hard and are especially fun on light tackle, making them perfect for younger anglers.
Along these trips, it’s also common to encounter smaller Dorado, Jack Crevalle, and Needlefish.
Trash Lines, Cloudy Days & Dorado Action
During the rainy season, driftwood and debris wash out to sea, forming “trash lines.” These floating structures attract baitfish and predators alike and are especially favorable for Dorado fishing, as Dorado often hide beneath them.
Cloudy days also improve fishing conditions, as fish feel more protected compared to bright, sunny conditions.
Los Arcos, Roosterfish & Near-Shore Action
Fishing around Los Arcos, just minutes from Boca de Tomatlan, can be excellent for Dorado. The shoreline area is well-known territory for the iconic Roosterfish, with the Los Arcos islands forming a dramatic backdrop. Occasionally, Sailfish are also found in this area.
As the peak season matures, larger Dorado migrate closer to shore and can reach 20+ pounds. These fish offer both excellent table fare and a guaranteed fight.
Isla Marietas - Where the Bay Meets the Open Ocean
For a longer 6-hour fishing trip, Isla Marietas is another option. Located at the boundary of the Bay of Banderas and the open ocean, it can occasionally produce smaller versions of offshore species found at Corbetena and El Banco - conditions permitting.
Many seasonal fishing calendars exist online, and while helpful, they vary widely. Fishing is always a search with unknown results. Conditions shift with weather, currents, and water temperature.
View any calendar as a guideline - not a guarantee.
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