How to Fish Riviera Maya? Trolling vs. Bottom Fishing: Which Is Right for You?

But what do they mean — and which method is best for your fishing trip?

At "Wasabi Loco Sportfishing Adventures, we use both techniques depending on the season, target species, and your goals as an angler. Whether you're a first-time fisherman or a seasoned pro, understanding the difference can make your day on the water more exciting and rewarding.

What Is Trolling?</h2>

Trolling involves dragging baited lines or lures behind a moving boat. The goal is to mimic the motion of swimming fish, which attracts predators to strike.

How it works:

We deploy multiple rods with different lures or baits.

• The boat maintains a steady speed to keep the baits moving.

• When a fish hits, you’ll hear the reel scream — and the battle begins!

Best for catching: Sailfish, Mahi-Mahi (Dorado), Marlin, Wahoo, Tuna.

Why choose trolling?

• Covers large areas of ocean quickly

• Ideal for catching large, fast, pelagic species

• Exciting action when the big ones strike!

At Wasabi Loco Sportfishing Adventures, trolling is our go-to method during high season for billfish and other fast-moving predators. Our captains know the hotspots and patterns to get results.

What Is Bottom Fishing?

Bottom fishing targets species that dwell near the ocean floor. We use weighted lines to drop bait to specific depths, often over reefs or rocky structures.

How it works:</strong></p>

• Lines are dropped vertically over likely fish-holding areas.

• We use natural bait like squid, sardines, or cut fish

• You feel the bite, set the hook, and reel 'em up!

Best for catching: Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack, Triggerfish, and other reef species.

Why choose bottom fishing?

• Great for consistent action, especially when trolling is slow

• Excellent for beginners and families

• Often produces delicious fish to take home for dinner!

Our Puerto Aventuras Charters offer the flexibility to bottom fish when weather, season, or preferences make it the best option. Some of our best dinners have come from bottom drops!

Trolling vs. Bottom Fishing: How to Choose

Still can’t decide? Good news: Our Wasabi Loco charters combine both methods! Start your day trolling for big game, then switch to bottom fishing to make sure you bring home dinner.

What’s Best in Playa del Carmen and Puerto Aventuras?

• The Riviera Maya offers world-class fishing year-round

• Trolling shines from March to August when species like sailfish, mahi-mahi, and marlin are migrating.

• Bottom fishing is productive all year, especially near reefs and drop-offs just offshore.

Our captains monitor water temperature, baitfish presence, and recent activity to decide what’s working best — and we’re happy to tailor the day to your preferences.

Final Thoughts: Customize Your Adventure

Whether you're chasing your first sailfish or want to spend the day reeling in tasty snappers, Wasabi Loco Sportfishing Adventures has the right tools, tactics, and team to make it happen.

Trolling and bottom fishing are both exciting in their own ways, and part of what makes fishing in the Riviera Maya so special is the variety of experiences available in just one trip.

Ready to book your Playa del Carmen fishing charter?

Go to our Home Page and take a look at our boats. Click on the boat that interests you and you will see pricing and availability. Book Online or call us to plan the perfect day on the water!

Fish with the locals. Fish with the best. Fish with Wasabi Loco!