Warm 74-75°F Pocket Water Keeps Tuna and Marlin Near Puerto Vallarta

Unusually warm pocketed water is holding tuna and marlin inside Banderas Bay and in nearby offshore areas, shaping local fishing opportunities in early February. A day-of observation recorded water temperatures of about 74–75°F in the bay and surrounding offshore waters, and the report notes ongoing presence of marlin and smaller yellowfin ('footb.

That pocket of warmth matters because it concentrates bait and predators closer to shore, shortening the ride for many charters and increasing chances for anglers targeting tuna and billfish. Local trip logs and booking site listings show active angling traffic: Celia S. logged a Fly Fishing Punta Mita trip on Jan 29, 2026, and Jack V. recorded a Sport Fishing trip on Jan 20, 2026, while other recent entries include inshore half days and Nuevo Vallarta outings. Those entries underline that guides are running regular trips and anglers are on the water taking advantage of whatever bite appears.

Seasonal context tempers the snapshot. Regional guides and seasonal summaries list roosterfish, mahi-mahi, sailfish, and yellowfin tuna among the top catches and mark February–June as the best overall window. At the same time, seasonal advisories warn that February can be variable: "The conditions are good but spring storms are a possibility. Watch out for colder currents arriving from the north, potentially making fishing change from day to day. Inshore fishing is very good and the bottom bite heats up offshore." That warning explains why a warm pocket can be notable, it is a localized condition that can differ from broader day-to-day patterns.

For anglers, the practical takeaway is straightforward. If you are planning a Puerto Vallarta trip in the near term, short rides to productive water are possible while this warm pocket persists. Target tuna and billfish tactics, keep light tackle and trolled baits ready for smaller yellowfin, and set up to work both inshore structure and nearby offshore canyons where marlin have been observed. Be prepared to adjust: the bite can flip if colder currents move in.

Longer term, guides note that summer months bring much higher water temperatures; one seasonal note lists June as a time "With water temperatures averaging 94 degrees," and July is typically the warmest month and a heavy billfish period. For now, the warm 74–75°F pocket gives local boats a window to find tuna and marlin closer to shore than normal.

If you want local assistance or to book a trip, contact Mexico activity specialists at info@themexicotoursite.com or by phone at +1 866 217-9704 or +52 322 222-4935. Expect daily variation: keep an eye on marina updates and captain reports, plan flexible itineraries, and be ready to capitalize if this pocket of warmth holds.