Gordo Banks Fishing Charters
What is Gordo Banks?
The Gordo Banks are a pair of underwater seamounts rising from the deep waters of the Sea of Cortez, located approximately 8 to 10 nautical miles southeast of Puerto Los Cabos Marina in San Jose del Cabo.
The bank features two distinct peaks. The Inner Gordo rises to about 130 feet below the surface, while the Outer Gordo sits deeper at around 250 feet. The vertical structure concentrates baitfish and creates one of the most reliable fishing zones along the entire Baja peninsula.
Local captains call this area the Wahoo Banks, in honor of the wahoo runs that have made it famous for decades. But Gordo Banks also produces world-class yellowfin tuna, blue marlin, striped marlin and dorado throughout the year.
Some of the most productive water in Baja
The Sea of Cortez has been called "the world's aquarium" for good reason. Where the cold currents from the Pacific meet the warmer waters of the Sea of Cortez, nutrient-rich upwellings concentrate sardine, mackerel and squid along the steep walls of the seamount.
That food chain attracts pelagic predators in serious numbers. On a single trip to Gordo Banks it is possible to hook wahoo, yellowfin tuna, dorado and marlin in the same morning. The proximity to shore also means a short run, more fishing time, and less fuel burned compared to long offshore tournament hauls.
For visiting anglers, this combination of variety, accessibility and quality is hard to match anywhere else in Mexico.
What You Can Catch at Gordo Banks
The species mix changes through the year. Here is what to expect by season when you book a charter with us.
Wahoo
The signature species of Gordo Banks. Lightning-fast strikes on high-speed trolling lures and live bait. Average size 30 to 60 pounds, with larger fish landed every season.
Yellowfin Tuna
Gordo Banks is famous for producing cow-class yellowfin. Live bait drifting on the bank is the proven technique. Schools of football tuna are common all season.
Blue Marlin
Blue marlin patrol the temperature breaks around the seamount during the warm-water months. Striped marlin run heavier from November through April. Catch and release standard.
Dorado / Mahi Mahi
Aggressive surface feeders, beautiful color and excellent table fare. Often found around floating debris or temperature lines on the way to and from the bank.
What a Trip to Gordo Banks Looks Like
Short run, full day of fishing, back in time for lunch or sunset depending on your package.
Marina Check-In
Meet Felipe at Puerto Los Cabos Marina at 6:30 AM. Quick paperwork, gear loading and a briefing with your captain.
Bait & Departure
Live bait pickup outside the marina. Then a smooth 45 to 60 minute run southeast to the Gordo Banks fishing grounds.
Fishing the Bank
Drift live bait over the seamount for tuna and wahoo. Slow troll the edges for marlin and dorado. Bottom fish on request.
Return & Filleting
Run back to the marina, photos with your catch, and complimentary filleting and bagging. Optional vacuum sealing available.
Our Boats for Gordo Banks Trips
All three boats in our fleet are rigged and equipped for the run out to Gordo Banks. Choose based on group size and comfort preference.
Super Panga 23 ft
- Bimini top for shade
- Live bait tank included
- Rods, reels and tackle
- Captain and deckhand
Super Panga 26 ft
- More space and stability
- Larger live bait well
- Restroom on board
- Captain and deckhand
Habanero 28 ft
- Twin outboards, fastest boat
- Enclosed cabin and restroom
- Premium tackle setup
- Captain and deckhand
Gordo Banks Fishing FAQ
The questions visiting anglers ask us most often before booking.
How far is Gordo Banks from Puerto Los Cabos Marina?
The Gordo Banks are approximately 8 to 10 nautical miles southeast of the marina. The run typically takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on sea conditions and which boat you choose, leaving plenty of fishing time in a standard 6-hour charter.
What is the best time of year to fish Gordo Banks?
Gordo Banks fishes well year round, but specific species peak at different times. Wahoo runs are strongest from October to January. Yellowfin tuna peaks from June through November. Blue marlin and dorado are best from May to October. Striped marlin is most consistent from November through April.
Do I need a Mexican fishing license?
Yes, anyone fishing in Mexican waters needs a valid CONAPESCA fishing license. We can include it in your package or assist you in obtaining one before your trip. Just let us know when you book.
What is included in a charter to Gordo Banks?
All our trips include captain and deckhand, all fishing equipment (rods, reels, lures), live bait, ice, and fish cleaning at the dock. Drinks, food and Mexican fishing license can be added on request. Bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and a light jacket for the early morning run.
Can beginners fish Gordo Banks?
Absolutely. Our captains have decades of combined experience and routinely guide first-time anglers. Live bait fishing on the bank is one of the most accessible techniques in offshore fishing and the action is usually fast enough to keep everyone engaged.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first. If conditions are unsafe to run to Gordo Banks, we will offer to fish closer inshore zones such as the area in front of the marina, Punta Gorda or Palmilla, or to reschedule your trip for another day. You will never be charged for a cancellation we make due to weather.
How do I book a Gordo Banks charter?
You can book directly online by clicking any of the boat booking links above, contact us by email at [email protected], or WhatsApp us to confirm availability and customize your trip. We respond the same day.
Book Your Gordo Banks Charter
Private boats, experienced local captains and a 10-mile run to one of the best offshore fishing spots in Mexico. Limited dates available during peak season.