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Fishing is a wonderful hobby and a fabulous way to pass the time in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. While plenty of fish species can be caught along the Baja California Sur Peninsula, one stands out above the rest — the marlin!
If you’re planning to visit Cabo soon and would like to go on a fishing adventure in one of the best fishing destinations in the world, here is everything you need to know about marlin fishing in Cabo San Lucas.
Why Should You Go Marlin Fishing in Cabo?
Cabo San Lucas is known as the “Marlin Capital of the World” and is one of the best places for black, white, striped, and blue marlin fishing. Marlins have elongated bodies, long dorsal fins, and round snouts.
Marlin Types You Can Find in Cabo San Lucas
In the deep waters of Cabo San Lucas, you will find several marlin species, including blue, black, white, and striped marlin. Black marlin can reach lengths of 15 feet, and blue marlin can weigh up to 1,800 pounds! Some productive fishing spots for marlin in Cabo include Golden Gate Bank, San Jaime Bank, and Gordo Banks.
In addition to marlin, you’ll also be able to find other fish species off the coast of Los Cabos, including spanish mackerel, yellowfin tuna, dorado, and wahoo.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Go Marlin Fishing in Cabo?
The best time to go on a fishing trip in Cabo San Lucas depends on how many fish (and which types of fish) you want to encounter. The best time to catch black marlin and blue marlin in Cabo is during July, August, September, and October. The striped marlin can usually be found from November through May. Regardless of the time of year, morning trips provide better chances for catching marlin.
Most locals would agree that the best fishing experience in Cabo is during October. Not only is the weather fabulous, but the water temperatures in the Pacific Ocean are ideal for big fish, like wahoo, dorado, and, of course, marlin. Several fishing tournaments take place in Cabo during October, so if you’re into sportfishing, this is a great time to visit.
Can You Keep the Fish You Catch When Fishing in Cabo San Lucas?
The most important thing to remember on a Cabo fishing trip is that you can catch and keep five fish per day. So, if you go on a fishing boat with a captain, crew, and six fishermen and have a great day at sea, you can expect to bring back up to 30 fish between the entire group, including your most prized catch!
However, it’s important to note you can only keep one marlin (or billfish) per boat per day, and catch-and-release is encouraged for black marlin, due to low abundance in the waters of Los Cabos. And, in case you were wondering — selling or trading caught fish is prohibited in Cabo.
Can the Weather Impact Fishing in Cabo?
Cabo typically experiences nice weather, so it is unlikely that storms will impact your fishing trip. However, poor weather can cause the authorities to call off fishing trips due to unsafe weather conditions, so it is important to keep an eye on the conditions.
Typically, cancellations are during hurricane season from August to October, which is right at the end of marlin fishing season. If you book any fishing charters or boats, check the refund policy in advance to ensure your investment is protected regardless of the weather.
Should I Book a Fishing Charter or Boat?
It’s ideal to book fishing charters, yachts, and boats to transport you from the shore to the deep sea. This is where anglers can do the best sportfishing and where you will find the best dorado, marlin, and wahoo.
Look for a fishing charter with a license, bait, tackle, artificial lures, equipment, and a trained crew included. Some packages even include food and drinks to keep you full during the long day. Usually, your chartered fishing trip will leave early, around 7 AM, and return in the early afternoon.
It’s important to know that you need to purchase your own fishing license if you want to go marlin fishing in Cabo on your own boat. These licenses are sold by the Mexican government and can be purchased at the Cabo San Lucas Marina. You will also need to bring your own bait, heavy tackle, and fishing gear.
What’s the Best Way to Catch Marlin?
Teasers and switch-baiting are proven tactics for reeling in marlin, and live bait, such as caballito or mackerel, is one of the best options for attracting them. For catch-and-release fishing, non-offset circle hooks can provide dependable hookups and cleaner releases.
Are There Fishing Tournaments in Cabo San Lucas?
Cabo San Lucas is home to some of the most esteemed fishing tournaments in the world. These are the most popular fishing tournaments in Cabo that are worth planning your trip around:
- Bisbee’s Black & Blue Marlin Tournament in October
- Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Tournament in August
- Bisbee’s Los Cabos Offshore Tournament in October
- Pelagic Rockstar Offshore Fishing Tournament in June
- Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot in November
Where Should I Stay During My Fishing Trip in Cabo San Lucas?
Whether you’re planning a dedicated fishing trip to Cabo San Lucas or simply hoping to squeeze in a morning out at sea while on vacation with your family — you’ll be pleased with all the fishing options this coastal destination offers for anglers and sportfishing enthusiasts!
If you’re searching for somewhere to stay in Cabo that offers proximity to the shore, we’d love to host you at the Villa La Estancia Resort with Cabo Rentals by Jane. Our stunning penthouses, panoramic oceanfront villas, and spacious Cabo vacation rentals provide the perfect place to relax and unwind after an adventurous day on the Sea of Cortez. Browse our properties to see what is available during your stay in Cabo. We cannot wait to host you!
