What an incredible change a week can make for Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo. The fishing this past week came alive for both, inshore and offshore fishing and the best part was the close proximity for the offshore fishing, starting at just 7-8 miles outside the Bay. Adding to the great sailfish bite chasing bait and lures, came a few marlin in the mix, along with a few quality dorado. Even the inshore roosterfish were on the chew in really good numbers of bigger fish along the beaches of Pantla and Valentin, on both sides of Zihuatanejo Bay. The annual Sailfish Tournament had more than 100 boats entered with the first place winner taken aboard the "Zihua", with a sailfish that weighed in at 34.7 Kilos. Largest marlin was taken aboard the "Palamar", and checked in at 144.4 kilos and the largest dorado checked in at 15.6 kilos, taken aboard the "Orfelina". Hopefully, in the years to come they will change this into a release event. Tournament participants came from all areas from Acapulco to the South and Puerto Vallarta to the North, with the biggest winners taking home new vehicles and numerous other prizes.


IZ Climate: Partly cloudy days with long periods of intermittent sunshine and temps that ranged from 74 nights to 89 daytime highs. Perfect weather for fishing.

Sea Conditions: There was about a degree of difference between the inshore and offshore temps that appeared to be stable at 84 inshore and 85 offshore. Surface breezes ranged from calm to 12 mph and flowed mostly from the southeast directions.

Best Fishing Areas: The billfish bite started just short of 8 miles out front of Zihuatanejo Bay and the sailfish bite was sensational. Adding to the bite was a mix of blue marlin and dorado. Inshore offered excellent roosterfish and Sierra action.

Best Bait/Lure: Everything worked well for the sailfish, including rigged baits, lures and even live bait. Roosterfish were pretty eager on live bait but also cooperated on poppers and other lures.

Bait Supply: Remained plentiful for live bait and fresh baits for rigging.


THE IXTAPA-ZIHUATANEJO FISHING REPORT FOR THE INDEPENDENT SPORTFISHING FLEET