Cabo Sportfishing: Species & Seasonal Guide
Cabo San Lucas is uniquely positioned where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, creating one of the richest marine environments in the world. This is the only place on Earth where billfish activity is high 365 days a year.
Key Species & What to Expect
Fishing conditions change daily based on climate, currents, and water temperature. Here is a reference of common species in Cabo waters.
Winter Icon
Striped Marlin
Known for spectacular fights and acrobatic leaps. Highly sought after for catch-and-release.
Summer Giants
Blue & Black Marlin
Classic warm-water giants. They require heavy tackle and offer the ultimate big-game challenge.
Surface Action
Dorado (Mahi-Mahi)
Fast, colorful, and acrobatic on the surface. Excellent for both fishing excitement and table fare.
Power Fighters
Yellowfin Tuna
Renowned for their power and long fights. Schools can be found across multiple seasons.
High Speed
Wahoo
One of the fastest runs in the sea. Memorable and highly prized when they show up.
Coastal King
Roosterfish
Structure-focused fighters. A completely different game than bluewater trolling.
Month-by-Month Cheat Sheet
Year-round fishery peaks. Legend: ++ Very Common | + Good Chance | ~ Variable
| Month |
Striped Marlin
|
Blue/Black M.
|
Dorado
|
Tuna
|
Wahoo
|
Rooster
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | ++ | ~ | ~ | + | + | ~ |
| Feb | ++ | ~ | ~ | + | + | ~ |
| Mar | + | ~ | ~ | + | + | ~ |
| Apr | + | ~ | ~ | + | + | ~ |
| May | ~ | + | + | + | + | + |
| Jun | ~ | + | + | + | ~ | + |
| Jul | ~ | ++ | + | + | ~ | + |
| Aug | ~ | ++ | + | + | ~ | + |
| Sep | ~ | + | ++ | ++ | ~ | + |
| Oct | ~ | + | ++ | ++ | ~ | + |
| Nov | + | ~ | + | + | + | ~ |
| Dec | ++ | ~ | ~ | + | + | ~ |
Expert Tips for Your Trip
Fishing conditions shift daily based on currents and water temperature. Here are key insights for your planning:
- Water Temperature: Blue and Black Marlin prefer water above 80°F, while Striped Marlin are more active in the cooler winter waters.
- Catch handling and regulations: Fish handling follows applicable rules, safety requirements, and captain discretion. If you want to consume your catch, we can guide you on permitted onshore options and process.
- Gear: All our charters include high-end rods, reels, and fresh bait. No extra gear is needed.
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