600 lb Black Marlin at Gordo Banks + Fast Tuna Limits & Mahi
Quick Summary
- Headline: Black marlin estimated ~600 lb at Gordo Banks, 3-hour fight after trolling a 15 lb tuna as bait.
- Tuna: Yellowfin action remains hot — crews reached the limit in ~2 hours this morning.
- Mahi mahi: Consistent around debris/weeds and current edges; good table fare.
- Best window: Early departures; bait early, then run to the banks.
Weights are visual estimates unless weighed at the dock.
Hot Bite Map (Text)
- Gordo Banks (Inner/Outer): Black marlin shots on the outer edges; yellowfin stacks on sonar early.
- Current lines off San José: Striped/billing marlin life and mahi mahi on weedlines.
- Inshore (Palmilla → La Laguna): Light tackle windows at first light (variable).
What Worked Today
| Species | Technique | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Black Marlin | Trolling live 15 lb tuna + pitch bait readiness; spread with large lures/bonitas | Heavy leader (200–300 lb), 7–8.5 kt; work current edges & drop-offs |
| Yellowfin Tuna | Live sardina + chum; cedar plugs/plumas at 6–7 kt | Fluorocarbon 25–40 lb, circle hooks #2–3/0; limits came fast (~2 hrs) |
| Mahi Mahi | Feathers/skirts + live bait near weedlines and flotsam | Cover ground at 6–7 kt; stop and drift when you see life |
Black Marlin
One heavy bite on the outer edges of Gordo produced a ~600 lb fish after a 3-hour battle. Classic summer pattern with life stacked on current seams.
Yellowfin Tuna
Steady schools on the banks at daybreak. We hit the limit in roughly two hours before switching gears to hunt billfish.
Mahi Mahi
Pick a few on weedlines and bird activity while moving between spots. Nice table size for dinner.
Know Before You Go
- Check-in: 6:10 AM at Puerto Los Cabos (ask for Felipe at the check-in palapa).
- Licenses: ~$20 USD per person (required by law).
- Bait: ~$30 USD per boat (morning bait pangas).
- Included on all trips: Bottled water + cooler with ice for your items.
- Fish care: Filleting at no extra charge (tip appreciated). Vacuum pack & freeze for $2 USD/lb; hotel delivery available.
On-Water Video
Short clip from today’s action. Turn sound on for the bite.
Today’s Highlights (Photos)
FAQ (Today’s Report)
Is a 32–38 ft boat required for black marlin?
No, but it improves range/comfort when working the banks and current edges. Pangas are great for tuna/inshore; 33–38 ft makes long runs more comfortable for billfish.
What time should we leave for the best tuna bite?
Early. Check-in at 6:10 AM lets you load bait and be on the banks when the fish stack on sonar.
Do you clean and pack the fish?
Yes. Filleting is included (tip appreciated). Vacuum pack & freeze is $2 USD/lb and we can deliver to your hotel before departure.
What line/leader for today’s pattern?
Tuna: fluoro 25–40 lb. Mahi: 30–40 lb mono/fluoro. Black marlin: heavy leader 200–300 lb with circle hooks and a pitch bait ready.
