Mayan Riviera Deep Sea Fishing

From February through September, Blue and White Marlin, Dorado, Sailfish and Yellowfin Tuna are to be found in fresh runs in Playa del Carmen. Internationally known as the top sailfish hot spot in the world, fishermen are drawn here by the thousands. If you're a serious angler, it doesn't get better than this.

It's because of the unusual topography-Playa del Carmen sits on the edge of an underwater valley. This brings the habitat of the huge game fish right to the shore. You can look down into the darkest blue water you've ever seen. The southern beaches of this area with Dorado, Wahoo, Barracuda, Jack Crevalle, Red Snapper, Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, and other fish in abundance draw sports fishermen from all over the world.

Some fishermen come exclusively for the seasonal Marlin runs. Even 500-pounders have been pulled out here. Given the 500 species that live in these waters, everyone can fish-the pros and the amateurs and the beginners.
You can fish inshore if that is your preference or you can fish offshore. Inshore, trophy Snapper, Grouper, Spanish Mackerel and Yellowtail Jacks are pulled out of the water all through the year. Offshore, Atlantic Sailfish, blue and Black Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, and Wahoo are caught on fly rods.
You can rent a boat if you feel up to managing one yourself or you can charter one. If you want to join others in a charter to reduce the cost, those opportunities are available also. Most rentals assure an experienced, English-speaking captain. Soft drinks and ice and water are commonly provided. However, if you want beer or liquor, you will need to bring it yourself. Tackle, bait, and fishing licenses are also typically provided.
Some boats require some experience; however, both men and women are welcome aboard and some providers encourage beginners to come along and even offer lessons. March, April, May, and June are the best months for fishing. You can expect your experienced captain to know the best spots for whatever fish you prefer to try to hook.


Some Suggestions for Conventional Tackle
For the months from May to October, for Dorado, Striped Marlin, and Sailfish, a couple of six- to seven-foot trolling rods are best. If you have roller guides, fighting the fish will be easier, but they are not absolutely necessary. For trolling, 30- to 50-pound monofilament on a Penn 4/0 (or equivalent) with a lever or a star drag will work just fine. However, for bait casting, a Penn 500 and 20-40 pound monofilament is good. You'll also want to bring a Penn 650ss or its equivalent with 10-20 pound monofilament. Three-hundred yards of line should be sufficient for any of the reels. Actually, you may be able to make do with no more than 200 yards but you'll be glad for the extra line if you have it.

Rapalas size CD11 to CD14 or greater lures in green or blue mackerel are said to work best. Also iron spoon-type lures in chrome or blue/chrome have been used. Another one: Yo-Zuri crystal minnow lures in blue mackerel or pink and silver. For tackle, 80- to 120-pount monofiliament and Mustad 6 to 7 hooks should be adequate. If you're experienced enough to experience with other tackle, your boat captain will probably go along. You should have a hard case container for your rods, which you can buy or you can make one with PVC.

These requirements may differ slightly if you're fishing from November to April. It would be best to call your boat provider for suggestions in that case.
View the original article here