Cabo San Lucas has been called the "Marlin Capital of the World" since the 1950s, when Bing Crosby and John Wayne used to fly down for fishing trips. The nickname still holds. The confluence of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez creates one of the richest fishing grounds on earth, and the waters around Cabo deliver world-class sport fishing year-round.

Whether you are a seasoned angler chasing a trophy marlin or a first-timer who has never held a rod, this guide covers everything you need to know.

What Fish Will You Catch?

Striped Marlin

The signature fish of Cabo. Striped marlin are present in Cabo's waters almost year-round, with peak season from October through May. They are acrobatic fighters — a hooked marlin will leap repeatedly, making for one of the most dramatic fights in sport fishing.

Most Cabo fishing operations practice catch-and-release for marlin, which has helped maintain the population. You will get photos with your catch before releasing it.

Blue Marlin and Black Marlin

Larger and rarer than striped marlin, blue and black marlin are the ultimate trophy fish. Blue marlin season peaks from June through November. These fish can exceed 500 pounds and provide a fight that can last hours.

Dorado (Mahi-Mahi)

Dorado are one of the most sought-after fish in Cabo — beautiful, fast, acrobatic, and delicious. They are present year-round but peak from May through November. Dorado are also one of the best eating fish in the ocean, and most charters will fillet your catch for you to take home or have cooked at a local restaurant.

Yellowfin Tuna

Yellowfin tuna run in large schools and provide fast, powerful fights. They peak from June through November and are excellent table fare. On a good day, a boat can catch dozens of tuna.

Wahoo

One of the fastest fish in the ocean, wahoo are prized for both their fighting ability and their flavor. They peak from October through January.

Roosterfish

A unique inshore species found along the Pacific coast of Baja. Roosterfish are caught on lighter tackle closer to shore and are known for their distinctive "rooster comb" dorsal fin. They are a favorite among fly fishermen.

Fishing Seasons at a Glance

Species	Peak Season	Notes
Striped Marlin	Oct–May	Present year-round
Blue/Black Marlin	Jun–Nov	Trophy season
Dorado	May–Nov	Best eating fish
Yellowfin Tuna	Jun–Nov	Schools can be huge
Wahoo	Oct–Jan	Fast and delicious
Roosterfish	Year-round	Inshore, lighter tackle

Types of Fishing Charters

Super Panga (22–26 ft)

The most affordable option. Super pangas are open boats that fish close to shore and in the Sea of Cortez. They are great for catching dorado, tuna, and roosterfish. Not ideal for offshore marlin fishing or rough sea conditions.

Best for: Budget-conscious anglers, families with kids, inshore species.

Cruiser (28–32 ft)

The most popular charter size in Cabo. Cruisers have a covered cabin, fighting chair, outriggers, and full fishing equipment. They can handle offshore conditions and target marlin, tuna, and dorado.

Best for: Groups of 2–4, a mix of offshore and inshore fishing.

Sportfisher (35–50 ft)

Full-size sport fishing boats with all the equipment for serious offshore fishing. Multiple fishing chairs, live bait wells, and the range to reach the best offshore grounds. These boats are what you see in the fishing tournament photos.

Best for: Serious anglers, larger groups, targeting trophy marlin and tuna.

Private Yacht Charter

For groups who want the full luxury experience — a large yacht with a professional crew, gourmet food, and top-of-the-line fishing equipment. These charters can accommodate 6–12 people.

Best for: Corporate groups, special occasions, large families.

What Is Included in a Charter?

Most Cabo fishing charters include:

• Captain and first mate
• All fishing tackle and equipment
• Bait (live or artificial)
• Mexican fishing license
• Ice and cooler for your catch
• Fish cleaning and filleting

Not usually included:

• Food and drinks (bring your own or ask about catering)
• Gratuity for the crew (15–20% is standard)
• Fish processing beyond filleting (vacuum sealing, shipping)

How Much Does Fishing Cost?

Prices vary by boat size and season. As a general guide:

• Super Panga (half day): $250–$400
• Cruiser (full day): $600–$900
• Sportfisher (full day): $900–$1,500
• Private Yacht: $1,500–$3,000+

Prices are typically per boat, not per person, so splitting the cost with a group makes it much more affordable.

Tips for First-Time Anglers

You do not need experience. The captain and mate will bait your hooks, show you how to fight the fish, and help you land it. Many first-timers catch marlin on their first trip.

Take motion sickness medication. Offshore fishing means open ocean swells. Even if you do not usually get seasick, take medication the night before and morning of your trip. Seasickness can ruin an otherwise great day.

Dress appropriately. Wear light, breathable clothing and a hat. Bring a light jacket for the morning — it can be cool on the water even when it is hot on shore. Closed-toe shoes with grip are better than sandals.

Bring sunscreen. You will be in direct sun for hours. Reef-safe sunscreen is required in Mexican waters.

Stay hydrated. Bring plenty of water. The combination of sun, sea air, and physical exertion is dehydrating.

Tip your crew. The captain and mate work hard to put you on fish. A 15–20% tip is standard and greatly appreciated.

What Happens to Your Catch?

Most Cabo restaurants will cook your catch for you — a service called "hook and cook." You bring in your filleted fish, choose your preparation (grilled, fried, ceviche, fish tacos), and the restaurant does the rest. It is one of the best meals you will have in Cabo.

For marlin, most operations practice catch-and-release. You will get photos with the fish before it is released. Some anglers choose to keep a marlin for mounting — your captain can arrange taxidermy services.

Fishing Tournaments

Cabo hosts several major fishing tournaments throughout the year, including the Bisbee's Black and Blue Marlin Tournament in October — one of the richest fishing tournaments in the world, with prize money exceeding $3 million. If you are visiting in October, the tournament atmosphere adds an exciting energy to the marina.

Booking Your Charter

Book your fishing charter before you arrive in Cabo, especially during peak season (October–May). The best captains and boats fill up weeks in advance. When booking, ask about:

• The captain's experience and recent catch reports
• What is included in the price
• The boat's safety equipment
• The cancellation policy

Fishing in Cabo is one of those experiences that lives up to the hype. Whether you land a trophy marlin or spend the day catching dorado and tuna, a day on the water in Cabo is something you will not forget.