I am not about to recommend or get into a debate about BEST time of year for Ixtapa fishin.. its fishin, same as here, weather pattern, moon etc all play a roll. Always exceptions, good days & bad. Most of the tourist fishing is done out of the main Z marina. But also most of the local and commercial fishing is done from there too. The waters are heavily fished. Get away from the crowd..
Sailfish are the main excitement which are migrating fish. Generally an open ocean fish found 5-30 miles from shore. An average day is 2-5 hookups.... Much more fun are the rooster/jacks etc in close with lighter tackle. Maybe 8-10 hookups then. Make sure to make arrangements with your guide, at least the day before, to tell them what you are after; or at least know what is around. That allows your boat to modify their equipment for your better enjoyment. ( fighting a 20 pound rooster fish with equipment designed for 500 pound marlin is hardly called fun.. just because your guide thought otherwise )
the stable weather patterns of Feb. makes for more enjoyable open ocean fishing as open water and me sometimes don't agree!! Ha ha Inshore fishing can be very good in Nov/Dec but weather can be difficult..
Beach fishing , with a casting rod, can be good. Usually early morn. Walk beach, watch for birds, jumping bait... all kinds of strange fish can be caught.. can be a blast.
A guide / & boat will cost you $200-$300US for the day. Most will take up to 3 people so you can split cost.
Pm me if you have any specific questions>>