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Fishing in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya PDF Print E-mail

Sports fishing in Playa del Carmen
Sports, or game fishing is often associated with the Pacific side of Mexico, but the shores of the Rivera Maya are quickly becoming a popular destination for sports fishing enthusiasts.Every year more and more people head to the Riviera Maya region of Mexico to enjoy their passion for one of the world's most popular activities, fishing. The great diversity of species that live close to the Great Maya Reef, which protects the coasts of the Mexican Caribbean, along with the possibility of sport fishing during the entire year, have turned Cancun, Isla Mujeres, the Riviera Maya, the island of Holbox, and the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve into some of the world’s top destinations for fishing.

Fishing, in general, in the Riviera Maya is a once in a life time experience. The topaz blue waters, the clear view of the unforgettable reefs below, the palm-lined shore in the distance, and of course, the fertile waters that are teeming with fish. The natural geology of this area works in the fisherman's favor. Cancun and the deep-water channel between the Yucatan Coast and the Island of Cozumel squeeze the Gulf Stream as it passes by on its journey northward. This "funnel" effect causes an upwelling and an abundance of fish, from small to large, in the Cancun-Cozumel area. Anglers of all skill levels are able to participate and can enjoy fly fishing and light tackle fishing, deep sea fishing, and even some night fishing. The warm waters of the Riviera Maya are home to more than 35 large species of fish including Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo, Dorado (Mahi-Mahi), Tuna, Kingfish, Barracuda, Grouper, Snapper and many more. The Riviera Maya's 130 kilometers of coastline provide an excellent place for sports fishing, including big-game fishing on ships, sailboats or launches. Many species can also be caught directly from the shore. Check out our fishing chart for more information on varying fishing seasons.

Fly Fishing
The best fly fishing in the area is down by Tulum towards Punta Allen within the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve at Ascension Bay and Bocapaila flats. There are hundreds of square miles where it’s common to see bonefish, permit, tarpon and barracuda as well as a migrant season for tarpon and snook. Variety is the word to describe Ascension Bay and Bocapaila flats.

  • Bonefish, provides plenty of action year round, average size is 3-5 pounds with some larger ones.
  • Smart and beautiful Permit is the ultimate fly fishing challenge.
  • Tarpon and their explosive jumps are always exciting.
  • Snook is strong and fun.


Deep Sea Fishing

The Riviera Maya offers some of the greatest catches you can imagine. Local fishing trips can last from 4 to 8 hours, or you can charter the boat for the day and spend a relaxing day on the Caribbean fishing and snorkeling. When fishing in Playa del Carmen your boat comes complete with a very experienced captain and crew, and all equipment and beverages are included in the price. If you would like to make arrangements for lunch or snacks that can be arranged at an additional charge, no problem! Bottom fishing is a great way to catch some of the area’s best eating fish. Bottom fishing is normally done by drifting offshore and dropping lines straight down and deep, often hooking Red Snapper, Grouper, and Triggerfish - all excellent eating fish. If you would like to arrange to have your catch cleaned and cooked your guide can suggest a local restaurant where you can arrange to have your catch of the day prepared and served with a variety of sides for as little as $50.00 Pesos per person (approximately $5.00 USD)

 

Night Fishing

Experience fishing at night, under the Caribbean stars and even enjoy your own catch after. Night fishing is becoming one of the hot tours to enjoy while in the Rivera Maya. You will be able to fish for some of the following species: Snapper, Grouper, Hogfish, Mackerel and more.


Sources:

www.pescamaya.com