Cabo San Lucas holds more International Game Fish Association world records than almost any destination on earth. Where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, nutrient-rich upwellings create a feeding ground for blue marlin, black marlin, striped marlin, yellowfin tuna, dorado, wahoo, roosterfish, and more — all within a twenty-minute run from the marina. The fleet ranges from pangas for inshore species to luxury sportfishers with fighting chairs, live bait tanks, and crews who have been reading these waters for decades.
Fish Calendar
| Species | Peak Season | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Marlin | Jul–Nov | Trolling, live bait | Cabo's signature catch, 300+ lbs |
| Striped Marlin | Nov–Mar | Trolling, live bait | Most abundant marlin species |
| Yellowfin Tuna | Jun–Dec | Chunking, trolling | 30–300+ lbs, powerful fighters |
| Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) | May–Nov | Trolling, fly fishing | Fast, acrobatic, great eating |
| Wahoo | Oct–Feb | High-speed trolling | Fastest fish in the ocean |
| Roosterfish | May–Oct | Live bait, inshore | Trophy inshore species |
Year-round fishing: Something is always running in Cabo. The overlap between summer pelagics and winter marlin means there is no bad month to fish. Your captain reads the conditions and targets whatever is biting that day.
Charter Types
Private Charters
Private charters give you the entire boat — choose your departure time, target species, and fishing style. Boats range from 28-foot pangas (1–3 anglers, inshore species) to 60-foot luxury sportfishers (6+ anglers, offshore marlin). All gear, bait, licenses, and crew included. Half-day (4–5 hours) or full-day (8–9 hours) options.
Shared charters split the boat with other anglers — a more affordable way to experience Cabo fishing. Typically 6–8 passengers on a 35–42 foot boat, departing at a fixed time. You share the catches and the cost. Best for solo travelers or couples who want the experience without the full private rate.
Recommended Charters
What to Know
Catch and release: Cabo promotes catch-and-release for marlin and sailfish. Most tournaments are release-only. If you want to keep fish for dinner, dorado, tuna, and wahoo are commonly kept — your captain will advise.
What to bring: Sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses, light layers for early morning, motion sickness medication if prone. All fishing gear and tackle are provided by the charter. Some boats include food and drinks; others allow you to bring your own.
Tipping: Standard tip is 15–20% of the charter price, split among captain and crew. Tips are not included in the booking price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Catch It. Cook It. Eat It at Your Villa.
Villa Experience villas in Los Cabos include a private chef who will prepare your catch — ceviche, grilled, or sashimi — at your table the same evening. Your concierge books the right charter for your experience level and target species.
