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

Season: Winter / Spring

Zone: Offshore

Known for spectacular fights and acrobatic leaps. Highly sought after for catch-and-release.

Summer Giants

Blue & Black Marlin

Season: Summer / Fall

Zone: Offshore

Classic warm-water giants. They require heavy tackle and offer the ultimate big-game challenge.

Surface Action

Dorado (Mahi-Mahi)

Season: Warm Months

Zone: Surface

Fast, colorful, and acrobatic on the surface. Excellent for both fishing excitement and table fare.

Power Fighters

Yellowfin Tuna

Season: Multi-season

Zone: Offshore

Renowned for their power and long fights. Schools can be found across multiple seasons.

High Speed

Wahoo

Season: Variable

Zone: Offshore

One of the fastest runs in the sea. Memorable and highly prized when they show up.

Coastal King

Roosterfish

Season: Summer Focus

Zone: Inshore

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	++	~	~	+	++	~

October is the most complete month: striped and blue/black marlin, dorado, tuna and wahoo all overlap — tournament season. Wahoo bites best October–December as the water cools.

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.