Best Time to Go Sportfishing in Cabo San Lucas: Month-by-Month Guide

Cabo San Lucas has earned its nickname as the Marlin Capital of the World. The Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez right at Land’s End, and that mix of currents keeps big game fish close to the marina almost all year. But the species change with the water temperature — so the best time to fish in Cabo depends on what you want to catch.

Here is a practical month-by-month guide from a local booking team, plus tips to choose between a half-day and a full-day charter.

The short answer

• Fish year-round: there is no bad month to go fishing in Cabo; there are only different targets.
• Striped marlin: caught throughout the year, with strong action from late fall through spring.
• Blue and black marlin: summer and fall, when the water is warmest.
• Dorado (mahi-mahi) and yellowfin tuna: best from summer into fall.
• Wahoo: fall is prime time.
• Roosterfish: a favorite from the beaches and inshore waters in the warmer months.
• October is the most famous month — it is when Cabo hosts its biggest marlin tournaments and the whole fleet is out.

Cabo fishing by season

Winter (December – February)

Cooler water brings steady striped marlin action and pleasant, calm mornings. It is also humpback whale season, so it is common to see whales on the way out. A great time for families and first-time anglers.

Spring (March – May)

Striped marlin remain the main target, with sierra, yellowtail and roosterfish closer to shore. The weather is dry and sunny — ideal for a relaxed half-day.

Summer (June – August)

Water warms up and the variety explodes: dorado and tuna arrive and the first blue and black marlin of the season appear. Early departures beat the heat.

Fall (September – November)

Peak season for many anglers. Warm water means big marlin, tuna, dorado and wahoo in the same trip. Book early, especially around tournament weeks in October.

Local tip: Seasons shift a little every year with water temperature. When you request a charter we tell you what the boats have been catching that week.

Half day (5 hours) or full day (8 hours)?

Our Cabo sportfishing charters depart at 6:00 or 7:00 am — the best bite is early.

• 5 hours ($1,520): perfect when the fish are close, for families with kids, or if you want the afternoon free.
• 8 hours ($1,885): gives the captain time to run farther to where the big fish are feeding. The better choice when chasing marlin or tuna.

Choose between a Basic package (water and ice) or an All-Inclusive package with water, sodas, beers, breakfast burritos, guacamole and chips, and fresh fruit.

What to know before you go

1. Fishing licenses: every angler on board needs a Mexican fishing license. We can arrange them with your booking.
2. Catch and release: billfish such as marlin and sailfish are released to protect the fishery. Tuna, dorado and wahoo can be kept within legal limits.
3. Cleaning your catch: ask about fish cleaning and filleting at the dock — many restaurants in Cabo will cook your catch for you.
4. Seasickness: take your remedy the night before and again in the morning, eat a light breakfast, and stay in the fresh air.
5. Gratuity: 15–20% for the captain and mate is customary.

Not an angler? Mix it up

If part of your group prefers to swim, a private snorkeling charter or a sunset cruise later in the day is the perfect complement to a morning of fishing. See all options and prices in our Cabo yacht charter price guide.