Damn Good Flats Fishing Charters In Mexico

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Recently Booked Flats Fishing Charters In Mexico

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Cancún

25' Panga - Nearshore Or Offshore

100% (5)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $330
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Cancún

Nichupte Lagoon - 18’ Hell’s Bay

100% (5)
18 ft 1 - 3 People From $345
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Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Puerto Vallarta

Bay Fishing Puerto Vallarta

100% (1)
1 - 12 People From $400
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Cancún

Fly Fishing Cancun

100% (2)
23 ft 1 - 2 People From $350

Top Species for Flats Fishing in Mexico

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

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Other Trips in Mexico

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Tulum

Tulum Trophy Hunt

83% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $385
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo Full-Day Or Half-Day

75% (4)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $900
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo Offshore - 35’ Owen

75% (4)
35 ft 1 - 8 People From $900
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo Trophy Fishing

100% (1)
45 ft 1 - 8 People From $1,090
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Loreto

Full Day Fishing Trip

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $270
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo VIP Fishing - 32’ Luhrs

100% (5)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,130
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo Luxury Fishing - 43’ Riviera

100% (5)
43 ft 1 - 10 People From $1,500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Golden Gate Banks - 43’ Riviera

100% (5)
43 ft 1 - 10 People From $2,875
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo VIP Trip - 60’ Bertram 4-8hrs

100% (5)
60 ft 1 - 10 People From $2,378
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cancún

Cancun Big Game - 25' Panga

100% (5)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $365
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo Trophy Hunt - 28’ Cuddy Cabin

NEW
28 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo All-Inclusive Deep Sea Trip

100% (3)
1 - 4 People From $1,000

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Everything to Know About Booking a Mexico flats fishing charter

What are the best flats fishing charters in Mexico?

Why should I book a flats fishing charter in Mexico with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 4 flats trips in Mexico, and the most popular trips in the area are 25' Panga - Nearshore or Offshore guided by Alberto, Nichupte Lagoon - 18’ Hell’s Bay guided by Travis, and Bay Fishing Puerto Vallarta guided by Ariel.

Our guides in Mexico are rated a 4.86 out of 5 based on 3716 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly flats guides / fishing lessons in Mexico? Check out our beginner and family friendly flats guides in Mexico.

What types of flats fishing charters are common in Mexico?

The most commonly sought after species for flats fishing are: 1. barracuda, 2. tarpon, 3. snook, 4. mahi mahi, and 5. bonito.

The most common fishing techniques in Mexico are fly fishing, trolling, and light tackle fishing but jigging and bottom fishing are popular as well.

How much do Mexico flats fishing charters cost?

Prices for flats fishing in Mexico can range anywhere from about $395 to $1,300, but the average price for a half day trip for flats fishing in Mexico is $666. The average price for a full day trip for flats fishing in Mexico is $799.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for flats fishing in Mexico?

The most popular season for flats fishing in Mexico is spring, and most anglers book their trips 21 days in advance.

Do I need a Mexico fishing license and what are the bag limits in Mexico?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Mexico, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Mexico. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Mexico.

What is flats fishing in Mexico all about?

Flats fishing in Mexico is a unique and exciting experience that attracts anglers from around the world. The country's extensive flats, particularly in regions like the Yucatán Peninsula and the Baja California Peninsula, offer diverse fishing opportunities in shallow, sandy areas that are teeming with marine life. These flats are ideal for targeting species such as bonefish, permit, and tarpon. The clear, shallow waters provide excellent sight-fishing conditions, allowing anglers to spot fish and make precise casts.

One of the key attractions of flats fishing in Mexico is the chance to catch bonefish, which are known for their impressive speed and agility. These fish inhabit the sandy and grassy flats, where they feed on small crustaceans and baitfish. Anglers often use light tackle and flies to entice bonefish, making for a challenging and rewarding fishing experience. The flats also offer opportunities to catch permit, another highly sought-after species known for its elusive nature and powerful runs.

Tarpon fishing on the flats is another highlight, particularly in areas where the fish migrate during certain times of the year. Tarpon are known for their acrobatic displays and sheer strength, providing an exhilarating challenge for anglers. The combination of clear waters and the presence of these powerful fish makes flats fishing in Mexico an unforgettable experience. Overall, the flats offer a rich and varied fishing environment, with each trip providing the chance to encounter different species and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Mexico's coastal areas.

What are the most popular months to go flats fishing in Mexico?

In Mexico, flats fishing seasons are influenced by the country's diverse climate and varying weather patterns. The prime time for flats fishing typically aligns with the dry season, which runs from December to April. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and stable, creating clear water conditions that are ideal for sight fishing. The calm seas and lower rainfall levels during this period enhance visibility on the flats, making it easier to spot and target species such as bonefish, permit, and tarpon.

As the rainy season approaches, from May to October, the fishing conditions on the flats can become more challenging. Increased rainfall and storms lead to higher water levels and potentially murkier conditions, which can affect visibility and make sight fishing more difficult. However, this time of year also brings a surge of nutrients into the flats, attracting fish to the area. Despite the more variable weather, anglers may still find success by adjusting their techniques and focusing on different fishing strategies.

The transitional months between the dry and rainy seasons, typically in April and October, can offer a blend of favorable fishing conditions. These periods often feature stable weather with intermittent rainfall, providing a balance between clear water and increased nutrient flow. Anglers can enjoy productive fishing during these times, as the flats continue to host a range of species and offer opportunities for both novice and experienced fishermen. Overall, flats fishing in Mexico remains dynamic year-round, with each season providing unique challenges and rewards.

What techniques are popular for flats fishing in Mexico?

Flats fishing in Mexico offers a range of techniques and methods tailored to the diverse conditions and species found in these shallow waters. One of the most popular techniques is sight fishing, where anglers use polarized sunglasses to spot fish in the clear, shallow flats. This method is particularly effective for targeting bonefish and permit, as anglers can observe the fish's movements and behavior, allowing for precise casts. Using light tackle and small flies or baitfish imitations enhances the chances of enticing these elusive species.

Another common technique is fly fishing, which is well-suited for the flats due to the clear water and the need for delicate presentations. Anglers often use weighted or unweighted flies that mimic local prey such as crabs, shrimp, or small baitfish. The key to successful fly fishing on the flats is making accurate, quiet casts to avoid spooking the fish. This technique can be especially rewarding when targeting species like tarpon, which are known for their powerful runs and impressive acrobatics.

Spin fishing is also popular on the flats, particularly for those who prefer using artificial lures. This method involves casting various lures, such as soft plastics, jigs, or spoons, to attract fish. Spin fishing is versatile and can be effective for a range of species, including bonefish and permit. Anglers often adjust their techniques based on water conditions, using lighter gear and lures that mimic the local forage to increase their chances of success. Overall, the variety of techniques available for flats fishing in Mexico ensures that anglers can find a method that suits their style and the specific conditions of the flats.

What species are popular for flats fishing in Mexico?

Flats fishing in Mexico provides anglers with the opportunity to target a variety of sought-after species in the shallow, sandy waters. One of the primary targets is the bonefish, renowned for its speed and agility. Bonefish are often found in the clear, sandy flats, where they feed on small crustaceans and baitfish. Their challenging nature and impressive fighting ability make them a favorite among flats fishermen. Catching bonefish often requires precise casting and a delicate presentation, which adds to the excitement of the experience.

Permit is another highly prized species for flats anglers in Mexico. Known for their elusive behavior and selective feeding habits, permit present a rewarding challenge for those who manage to hook them. These fish are typically found in the deeper parts of the flats, often near structures like coral heads or mangroves. Anglers targeting permit will use specialized flies or crabs imitations, as these fish are particularly drawn to bait that mimics their natural prey.

Tarpon also make an appearance in Mexico's flats, especially during their migratory periods. These powerful fish are known for their impressive acrobatics and strong runs, providing an exhilarating challenge for anglers. Tarpon can be found in the shallower areas of the flats, where they feed on small fish and crustaceans. Successful tarpon fishing often involves using larger, more robust flies or lures that can handle their strength and aggressive strikes. Overall, the flats of Mexico offer diverse fishing opportunities, with each species presenting its own unique challenges and rewards.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    This was an absolutely amazing trip! The crew was very friendly and entertained all our questions. When we were done, they cleaned the fish, took it to the restaurant and suggested how to best have it prepared. I've never had such fresh fish before. I highly recommend anyone to book with Captain experiences!

    Michael N. | June 11, 2024

    Trip: 25' Panga - Nearshore or Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    Ariel and Alexis were amazing captains. Ariel is completely bilingual and has so much experience fishing for 17 years in PV but also all over the world. He was super adaptive — he worked with us to do a lot of different types of fishing (we trolled, we jigged) and all in we caught almost 40 fish with just two of us!! He also gave us an opportunity to add on a trip to Yelapa where they cooked our fresh fish, and it was not only delicious but such a unique experience. Ariel was super communicative and flexible, too. Would highly highly recommend Ariel to anyone who wants to catch a lot of fish, learn about the area and have an amazing time out on the water.

    Elizabeth C. | February 5, 2024

    Trip: Bay Fishing Puerto Vallarta

  • ★★★★★
    Easily one of the best days ever! Always wanted to catch a mahi mahi and captain Alberto made it happen. Great day on the water. Him and his deckhand Elesio were on top of everything all day and made it amazing. Definitely went above and beyond.Great service great people great times!

    Jayden L. | July 12, 2023

    Trip: 25' Panga - Nearshore or Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    We 3 guys really enjoyed our fishing with Captain Alberto. He was very helpful and knowledgable. Picked us up on time, was very pleasant. Would definitely recommend this trip!

    Theresa A. | April 26, 2023

    Trip: 25' Panga - Nearshore or Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    I’ve always wanted to catch a tarpon on the fly. It’s been on my bucket list for years, so when we planned our trip to Cancun, I look for an opportunity after booking the trip I was obviously excited to get the chance to fill one of the things on my bucket list, however, when I didn’t plan on, was getting very sick, just a few hours before Orlando, my guide was picking me up. As bad as I felt, I went and waited in the lobby for him to arrive. He had to go through a lot of trouble to get through security, but when I met him, he was all smiles. As we rode through the city to his boat I didn’t say a word, because I felt so ill, and after loading the boat and headed out under the water, it was only a matter of moments before he put me on fish, in my weakened state, I could barely throw the fly. However, he kept pointing out fish after fish, and after a few times resting, I finally filled that bucket list. Orlando was so patient with me and very generous. Not only was he an excellent guide he was a very, very good guy. I hope one day I can go back and fish with him again when I feel better Orlando worked very hard to get me on fish , and if I felt better, I’m sure I would’ve caught several more. We did catch more than that one but because I was so sick I laid in the bottom of the boat mostly. It wouldn’t have mattered if we didn’t catch fish I think I would’ve enjoyed spending the time on the water with Orlando. he genuinely wants you to catch fish. In my second state, he couldn’t tell how excited I was but I could sure tell how excited he was. Thanks again Orlando!! Tight lines!!!

    Matthew O. | April 12, 2023

    Trip: Fly Fishing Cancun

  • ★★★★★
    I highly recommend Orlando. The communication before the trip was great and he went the extra miles (literally) to pick me and drop me off at my hotel so I didn't have to mess around with early morning taxi or Uber. Fishing was tough but we got some baby tarpon on fly and when conditions weren't suitable for fly rod we switches to spinning rod and caught more. Also got to see some remote backwater and the resident crocodiles. Made you think twice before putting hand in water to retrieve a snagged fly!

    Simon S. | March 16, 2023

    Trip: Fly Fishing Cancun

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