Puerto Vallarta, a gem on the Pacific coast, is renowned for its luxury boat charters and exhilarating sportfishing experiences. With the azure waters offering prized catches like marlin and tuna, it has become an angler’s paradise. However, this tranquil setting is bracing for a change, as Hurricane Norma is forecasted to pass close by on Saturday, October 20, before setting its sights on Cabo San Lucas. Here’s a breakdown of what the sportfishing scene in Puerto Vallarta can anticipate in the wake of this looming storm.
Before Hurricane Norma’s Arrival:
Sportfish Get Intuitive: As the barometric pressure subtly shifts due to the advancing Hurricane Norma, sportfish in the region are likely to respond instinctively. Historically, species such as tuna and billfish move to deeper waters under such conditions, pre-empting the storm’s approach.
An Angler’s Strategy: With Hurricane Norma’s anticipated pass on October 20, those engaged in fishing Puerto Vallarta might witness an uptick in activity in the days leading up. Many fishermen will be trying to make the most of the calm before the storm, securing a good catch before anchoring their boats for safety.
Fish Behavior: Some fish species can detect changes in barometric pressure, which can signal the approach of a storm. In response, many pelagic (open-ocean) species like tuna and billfish might move to deeper waters or migrate away from the storm’s path. Reef and nearshore species might seek shelter within structures or move to deeper water.
During Hurricane Norma’s Pass:
Navigating Nature’s Chaos: As Hurricane Norma skirts Puerto Vallarta, the waters will undoubtedly become tumultuous. Sediments will be disturbed, affecting water clarity, and creating a challenging environment for both fish and fishermen. Most sportfish are likely to seek solace in the depths, finding sheltered spots or crevices to evade the storm’s fury.
Safety First: Sportfishing in Puerto Vallarta, no matter how thrilling, will need to take a backseat as Hurricane Norma makes her presence felt. Luxury boat charters and local fishing boats alike will prioritize safety, suspending operations to weather out the storm.
After Hurricane Norma’s Departure:
A Shift in the Seascape: In the aftermath of the storm, the marine environment around Puerto Vallarta may exhibit some alterations. New habitats may form from storm debris, potentially providing new havens for sportfish. Conversely, some traditional fishing locales might have been affected, altering the patterns of local fish populations.
Emerging from the Tempest: Once Hurricane Norma moves towards Cabo San Lucas and beyond, sportfish will gradually adapt to their possibly changed surroundings. Fishermen will begin to venture out, assess the situation, and as always, Puerto Vallarta’s resilient fishing community will work towards restoring its vibrant sportfishing scene.
Revival on the Horizon: Luxury boat charters and sportfishing ventures will evaluate any damages and soon be ready to sail the waters once more, signaling the return of the cherished angling activities that Puerto Vallarta is famed for.
In summary, while Hurricane Norma’s impending pass brings with it a sense of uncertainty, one thing remains clear: the passion for sportfishing in Puerto Vallarta is unwavering. As history has shown, both the marine life and the fishing community here possess the resilience to bounce back and thrive, no matter the challenge.
For live updates on hurricane Norma see https://zoom.earth/storms/
