Catching your first fish in the ocean out of Puerto Vallarta is something you don’t forget—especially when it’s a Spanish mackerel. It usually starts with a quick, sharp hit, and before you really know what’s happening, your reel is going and you’re trying to keep up. They’re fast fish and put up a solid fight, which makes it a pretty exciting first catch.

As you bring it in, you’ll see flashes of silver just under the water, and then it’s right there at the surface—long, sleek, and moving the whole time. Spanish mackerel are pretty common around the area, so they’re often one of the first fish people hook into, but it doesn’t make it any less fun.

The best part? We were able to bring our catch home to the beach and have it grilled right there for us!!!

It’s not just about the fish either—it’s the whole moment. Being out on the water, figuring it out as you go, and landing that first one. That’s usually all it takes to get hooked on fishing. So proud I could be part of this!