Fishing charters San Jose del Cabo

What Is the Difference Between Bottom Fishing and Surface Fishing?

Bottom vs surface fishing in San José del Cabo is a common question for anglers visiting the area. Knowing the difference between these styles can help you choose the best experience for your trip.

This guide explains everything about bottom vs surface fishing in San José del Cabo, including gear and seasons.

Whether you prefer action near the reef or excitement at the surface, this comparison of bottom vs surface fishing in San José del Cabo will help you decide.

When to Use Each Fishing Technique

  • Bottom Fishing: Ideal in reefs, rocky areas, or deep drop-offs. Great for slow days when surface activity is minimal.
  • Surface Fishing: Best during active seasons (May to October) when pelagic species are near the surface.

Species You Can Catch in Each Style

Depending on your target, choose the technique that gives you the best chance:

  • Bottom Fishing: Snapper, grouper, triggerfish, amberjack
  • Surface Fishing: Mahi mahi, wahoo, marlin, tuna

Best Boats and Gear for Each Style

At Daliken Sportfishing, we use gear tailored for each method:

  • Bottom: Weighted lines, circle hooks, bait rigs
  • Surface: Trolling lures, live bait rigs, lighter tackle

Which One Is Best for You?

If you’re looking for constant action and good eating fish, bottom fishing might be your best choice. But if you dream of catching a trophy marlin or seeing a mahi mahi leap out of the water, surface fishing is the way to go.


Plan Your Fishing Adventure in San José del Cabo

Whether you’re into bottom or surface fishing, Daliken Sportfishing has a tailored experience for every angler. Our expert captains will help you choose the right technique based on the conditions and your goals.

Book Your Trip Now

Visual comparison of bottom fishing and surface fishing techniques in San José del Cabo, showing gear and target species for each method

Learn more about bottom fishing techniques and fishing styles worldwide.

this guide to different fishing styles in San José del Cabo: Which Is Best for You?

If you’re planning a fishing trip to Baja California Sur, understanding the difference between bottom vs surface fishing in San José del Cabo is essential. Each method offers unique rewards depending on the species you’re targeting and the depth you want to fish.

What Is Bottom Fishing?

Bottom fishing, also known as deep-sea bottom fishing or reef fishing, is ideal for anglers who prefer targeting species near the sea floor, such as snapper, grouper, triggerfish, and amberjack. This technique involves weighted lines, vertical drop fishing, and precise positioning near rocky structures or reefs.

What Is Surface Fishing?

Surface fishing—often referred to as topwater fishing, pelagic fishing, or blue water trolling—focuses on catching species like marlin, mahi mahi, wahoo, or tuna that swim closer to the surface. This method is commonly used during offshore fishing trips in active seasons when pelagic predators are more active near the top.

Species Comparison

Fishing MethodTarget Species
Bottom FishingSnapper, Grouper, Triggerfish, Amberjack
Surface FishingMarlin, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna

Which Style Should You Choose?

Choosing between bottom and surface fishing in Los Cabos depends on your goals. Do you want the thrill of catching a trophy marlin in open water, or do you prefer consistent action targeting good-eating fish like snapper and grouper?

At Daliken Sportfishing, we offer gear and boats for both nearshore bottom fishing and offshore surface trolling, ensuring you have the best chance of success no matter your style.

Still unsure which method is best for you? This complete guide to bottom vs surface fishing in San José del Cabo will help you decide based on season, species, and fishing depth.

Book Your Trip Now