Private Fishing Tour in the Bay of Isla women

Traveller rating 5.0 (8)Duration4 hours (approx.)Price from$499.51Operated byContoy AdventoursBook viaViator

If you want fishing that feels organized, this tour fits. You get a private fishing outing in the Bay of Isla Mujeres (Women), with 4 hours on the water using trolling, plus a real chance at catching barracuda and other in-bay fish.

The parts I like most are the way the crew works with your group and the practical results. One captain, including Captain Roberto, came across as calm, skilled, and happy to help newer anglers. And beyond the catch, they handle the cleanup, with several groups getting their fish cleaned and taken to be prepared.

One thing to consider: there’s an extra cost on the day in the form of dock taxes (500 mxn), and the trip depends on good weather.

Key things to know before you go

  • Private for up to 6 people: your group stays together, so it’s less awkward and more fun for first-timers
  • 4 hours of trolling fishing in Isla Mujeres’ bay: long enough to settle in and make it count
  • English offered so you can get clear explanations from the captain and crew
  • Crew support during the day: helping you learn and put fish on the line is a recurring theme
  • Fish cleaning and help with what’s next: you may be able to arrange cooking after cleaning

Bay of Isla Mujeres trolling: what 4 hours feels like

This is the kind of fishing trip that works best when you don’t overthink it. You meet in downtown Isla Mujeres, then you’re out on the water fishing for a solid stretch of time. The style here is trolling, which is different from casting from shore or working one spot at a time. Trolling tends to keep things moving and can help you cover more water in the time you have.

Once you’re underway, you’re not stuck staring at the same view the whole time. The bay setting gives you a steady mix of open water, coastline context, and that bright tropical light that makes everything look better than it did on land. Several people also call out the scenery as part of the experience, not just the fish.

The pace is geared to getting you fishing, not hauling gear for an hour and then trying to figure it out. Even if it’s your second ocean fishing day, the trip is set up so you can learn as you go, instead of feeling lost.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Isla Mujeres.

Your private crew and the Captain Roberto effect

This tour is run by Contoy Adventours, and the crew comes through in the way people describe their day. The common thread is hands-on help without attitude. Captains and managers are described as attentive, and there’s a noticeable focus on making sure you’re not just spectators.

In particular, Manuel and Captain Roberto get named in the best feedback. What matters for you is what that implies on the water: these are people who know the routine, understand how to read conditions, and care about your outcome. One review even describes knowledge and tactics passed down through generations of fishermen. You don’t need to treat that as a magic spell, but it does signal local expertise.

Also, this is a private setup for up to six. That matters more than most people expect. You’re not sharing attention with strangers. If someone in your group is learning slower, the crew can adjust. If one person is confident and wants more hands-on help, they can get it too.

What you can catch in the bay (and why trolling helps)

The tour is built around the possibility of catching barracuda, saw, and other fish types in the area. Exact results are never guaranteed on the ocean, but trolling is often used because it helps you present your bait or lure while you move across the bay.

Barracuda show up again and again in the feedback. Multiple groups describe catching a lot of barracuda, including big ones. That suggests the captain’s approach can be effective, especially once the day starts to turn productive.

Here’s the practical takeaway: if your goal is a real chance at strong pulls and a lively fishing session, this style fits. If your goal is guaranteed trophy-sized fish no matter what, no fishing tour can promise that. What this one offers is a good shot, plus active crew support to improve your odds.

A simple flow: meeting in Centro and getting on the water

You start at Av Juárez 13, Centro, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico, with a start time of 8:30 am. The tour ends back at the meeting point, so you’re not worrying about transportation at the end of a long day.

Because the meeting point is in Centro and described as near public transportation, it’s relatively easy to get there without needing to arrange complicated logistics. If you’re staying somewhere central, you’ll likely be able to handle the trip on your own with a short taxi ride or local transit plan.

Timing matters. Starting at 8:30 means you’re likely fishing in the morning window, when the conditions can be favorable and your day has room to go right. The total time on the water is about 4 hours, which is a sweet spot: long enough to get into the rhythm, not so long that everyone is spent by the midpoint.

Fish cleaning and the “what happens after you catch” question

Catching fish is only half the story. The other half is what you do with them after the adrenaline fades.

The information provided includes soda/pop and bottled water, but what you’ll also want to watch for is the behind-the-scenes help people mention after the fishing. Several reviews say the crew cleaned the fish, and in some cases took the catch to a place where it could be cooked.

So, how should you think about it? Plan for cleaning support, because that’s clearly part of what groups experienced. For cooking, treat it as an opportunity you can likely discuss with the crew on the day, since that’s what people report happening. Don’t treat it like an automatic included meal unless the crew confirms your options.

Either way, you’ll feel the difference compared with tours that just drop you back on land with your cooler. Here, the day has a practical after-action plan.

What’s included vs. what costs extra (dock taxes)

You get:

  • Soda/pop
  • Bottled water

That’s it for included refreshments. No full meal is listed as included, so if you get hungry between activities, plan to grab food back in town either before or after.

What isn’t included:

  • Dock taxes (500 mxn)

This matters for value. The tour price is $499.51 per group (up to 6), so the dollar cost isn’t only the tour itself. The dock tax is a flat add-on you should budget for so you’re not surprised at the end. For most groups, it’s still a manageable cost compared with how much you’re paying for a private boat experience.

Price and value: is $499.51 per group fair?

At first glance, private fishing can look pricey. But the math changes when you think in groups, not per person.

This is priced per group, up to six people, and it runs about 4 hours. If you split it across multiple adults, it often lands in the range where you’re paying for three main things:

  1. A boat experience set up specifically for your group
  2. Crew attention that helps you actually catch fish, not just learn theory
  3. Fish cleaning support that saves you time and hassle

In the reviews, the crew attention stands out. People describe hauling in multiple barracuda and getting fish cleaned. That kind of outcome is exactly what makes the private cost feel justified. You’re not paying just to be on a boat. You’re paying for a better shot at a productive session and for help along the way.

If you’re traveling as a solo angler, the group price means you’ll feel the cost more. If you have a small group—friends, a family of fishing fans, or couples—this pricing structure can feel like good value.

Weather rules: the one thing that can change your day

This experience requires good weather. That’s not a throwaway line. Fishing depends on sea conditions, and the provider can cancel and offer an alternative date or a refund if weather becomes an issue.

Also, the day’s success still depends on nature. Even with strong local know-how and a good trolling plan, you can’t control whether fish are actively feeding. The good news is that the feedback suggests the crew works hard to put people on fish once conditions allow.

Who this private bay fishing tour suits best

This tour is a great fit if:

  • you want privacy and a more guided experience
  • your group includes different experience levels, and you want everyone to feel involved
  • you’re hoping for barracuda and other bay fish, not just a casual sunset boat ride
  • you like the idea of learning on the water with a captain who helps

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a long, sightseeing-heavy day. This is focused on fishing for roughly four hours. If you’re mainly in it for the beach and strolling, you’ll probably prefer a different kind of Isla Mujeres outing.

A practical checklist so you enjoy it more

You’ll have soda and bottled water, so you’re covered on basic drinks. Beyond that, think like a fisherman for comfort:

  • Wear clothing you don’t mind getting splashed
  • Bring sun protection for the morning hours and any reflective water exposure
  • Plan to eat before or after, since a full meal isn’t listed as included

Even if the crew helps you learn, you’ll enjoy the day more if you’re not constantly worried about what comes next. Ask the captain about what to do with your catch after cleaning while you’re out there, especially if your group wants to eat the fish you catch.

So, should you book Contoy Adventours in Isla Mujeres?

I’d book this private fishing tour if you want the sweet spot of private attention plus a serious shot at catching fish in Isla Mujeres’ bay. The repeated praise isn’t about empty hype—it’s about crew support, good vibes, fish-cleaning help, and real results with barracuda.

One reason to hesitate: the dock tax and the weather dependency. If your schedule is tight and you can’t flex on dates, you should weigh that. But if you have at least a bit of flexibility, this kind of private, 4-hour trolling fishing is a very solid way to spend a morning in Isla Mujeres.

If you’re traveling with up to six and you want an experience that feels local, practical, and productive, this is a strong choice.

FAQ

How long is the private fishing tour in Isla Mujeres?

The tour lasts about 4 hours.

What time does the tour start?

The start time is 8:30 am.

Where is the meeting point?

You meet at Av Juárez 13, Centro, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s private, and only your group participates.

How many people can be in a group?

The tour is priced for a group of up to 6 people.

What’s the price of the tour?

It costs $499.51 per group.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What’s included in the price?

It includes soda/pop and bottled water.

What additional fee is not included?

Dock taxes are not included and cost 500 mxn.

What do I need to know about weather and cancellation?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

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