Puerto Vallarta: A Paradise for Fishing—Ranked 6th Globally

In recognition of its rich marine life and fishing legacy, Puerto Vallarta has secured its place among the top 10 fishing destinations worldwide, ranking 6th globally and 4th in Mexico for 2024.

This was revealed through an exhaustive study conducted by FishingBooker, the leading international platform for booking fishing trips. 

The ranking methodology considered five key factors: number of fishing charters available, average review score, recommended average rating, number of guides with the Angler’s Choice award, and total number of bookings. These criteria, based on more than 40,000 reviews and fishing trips over the past year, were meticulously evaluated to determine the final rankings.

A Rising Star in the World of Sport Fishing

Puerto Vallarta’s appeal lies not only in its idyllic tropical views but also in its access to some of the most sought-after fishing experiences on the planet. In the study, Puerto Vallarta scored 29 points out of a possible 60. Our destination stood out in two key areas: the number of available fishing charters and the volume of bookings, achieving a perfect score of 10 in both categories. This solid infrastructure and popularity among anglers firmly place it among the elite fishing destinations.

Globally, 266 fishing destinations were evaluated. Mexico had a dominant presence in the rankings, with Puerto Vallarta joining other coastal treasures like Cabo San Lucas, Cancún, and Puerto Peñasco in the top 10, demonstrating the undeniable prominence of the country in the global sport fishing scene.

Top Fishing Destinations in Mexico

1. Cabo San Lucas – 43 points
2. Cancún – 35 points
3. Puerto Peñasco – 33 points
4. Puerto Vallarta – 29 points
5. Playa del Carmen – 27 points
6. Ensenada – 25 points
7. Puerto Aventuras – 25 points
8. Cozumel – 24 points
9. Isla Mujeres – 23 points
10. Puerto Escondido – 23 points

Puerto Vallarta is an irresistible haven for anglers due to its access to the open waters of the Mexican Pacific and its proximity to renowned fishing spots like El Banco and La Corbeteña, where adventurers can catch species like Sailfish, Marlin, Tuna, and Dorado. The warm year-round climate, crystal-clear waters, and an experienced fleet of fishing guides only add to the destination’s appeal, offering unparalleled luxury fishing experiences.

Top 10 Fishing Destinations Outside the U.S.

1. Cabo San Lucas (Mexico) – 43 points
2. Cancún (Mexico) – 35 points
3. Puerto Peñasco (Mexico) – 33 points
4. Tamarindo (Costa Rica) – 31 points
5. Sooke (Canada) – 31 points
6. Puerto Vallarta (Mexico) – 29 points
7. Herradura (Costa Rica) – 29 points
8. Ucluelet (Canada) – 29 points
9. Quepos (Costa Rica) – 28 points
10. Nassau (Bahamas) – 28 points

Whether you are an amateur hoping to catch your first trophy or an expert in search of world records, Puerto Vallarta is the gateway to exceptional fishing opportunities, supported by the region’s rich marine biodiversity.