Fishing in Los Cabos: Frequently Asked Questions
Seasons, species & where we fish
When to come, what you can catch, and the grounds we run off San José del Cabo.
When is the best time to fish in Los Cabos? +
Fishing is good year round. The peak window for marlin, sailfish, and dorado runs roughly June through December, while the cooler months bring strong roosterfish, tuna, and sierra. There is no truly bad season, only different target species.
What species can I catch? +
Depending on season and conditions: marlin (striped, blue, and black), dorado (mahi-mahi), yellowfin tuna, roosterfish, sailfish, wahoo, jacks, sierra, and more. Tell us your target and we will plan the day around it.
Do you depart from San José del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas? +
We depart from Puerto Los Cabos Marina in San José del Cabo. It is calmer and less crowded than the Cabo San Lucas harbor, with quick access to the productive Gordo Banks zone.
How far offshore do you go? +
We typically fish 5 to 30 nautical miles offshore. Common grounds include Punta Gorda, Iman Bank, and Gordo Banks. The captain chooses the run based on conditions and recent reports.
What fishing techniques do you use? +
Trolling, bottom fishing, jigging, and live bait. The technique depends on the target species and the conditions on the day.
Licenses, limits & keeping your catch
What is legally required, how much you can keep, and what happens to your fish.
Do I need a fishing license in Los Cabos? +
Yes. A valid Mexican sportfishing license is required for everyone aboard the boat, even passengers who are not fishing. Shore fishing does not require a license.
Where can I get a fishing license? +
You can buy it online through official CONAPESCA or the Baja California Sur state portal, at the marina, or we can arrange it for you on the morning of your trip. The cost is around $20 USD per person per day. See our full guide on the Los Cabos fishing license page.
What are the daily catch limits? +
Each angler may keep up to 10 fish per day, with limits per species. As a guide, a billfish counts as 5 fish toward that limit, and dorado and roosterfish are also restricted. We release billfish by default to protect the species.
Can I keep the fish I catch? +
Yes. Edible fish can be cleaned and packed for transport. Billfish such as marlin are usually released to protect the species, with a quick photo as the keepsake.
Can I eat my catch the same day? +
Yes. We clean and bag your edible catch at the marina, and several local restaurants will cook your fresh fish for you the same day. Just ask the crew for recommendations.
Can I fish from the shore? +
Yes. Shore fishing is popular in Los Cabos and does not require a license. Common spots include La Playita and Costa Azul.
Booking, boats & what to expect
Prices, how to reserve, timing, boat options, and getting to the marina.
How much does a fishing trip cost? +
Private charters start from $270 USD. The exact price depends on the boat and trip length. See current rates and what each trip includes on our boat prices page.
How do I book and pay? +
Reach out by WhatsApp or our contact page with your dates and group size. A deposit reserves your boat and date, and the balance is paid on the day of the trip. We confirm everything with you before you arrive.
What time do trips start and how long do they last? +
Check-in is usually around 6:10 AM, when the water is calmest and the bite is best. Standard trips run 6 hours, with the option to extend to 8 hours on cruisers and yachts.
How many people fit on each boat? +
Small pangas take up to 2 anglers, larger pangas up to 3, and cruisers and yachts carry 4 to 8 passengers depending on the vessel.
What is the difference between a panga and a cruiser? +
A panga is an open, agile local boat and great value for inshore and nearshore fishing. A cruiser or yacht is larger and more comfortable, with shade, a restroom, and the range for full offshore days. The right choice depends on your group size, budget, and target species.
Is transportation from my hotel included? +
Round trip transportation from your hotel is available on request and is not included in the base trip price. Let us know your hotel and we will arrange it for you.
Are kids allowed on the trip? +
Yes. Children are welcome and usually love the experience. Please bring sun protection, snacks, and child life vests if you have them. A shorter inshore trip is a gentle introduction for younger kids.
Can I book a tournament trip? +
Yes. We participate in tournaments. Please contact us in advance to check availability and pricing.
On the water & the fine print
Gear, what to bring, comfort, tips, and our weather and cancellation policies.
Is fishing gear and bait included? +
Yes. Rods, reels, and tackle are included. Live bait is available for $30 to $40 USD total, provided in the morning before departure.
What should I bring on the trip? +
Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a light long-sleeve shirt, snacks, drinks, your ID, and motion sickness medication if you need it.
Can I bring drinks on board? +
Yes. You are welcome to bring beer, water, or soft drinks. For safety and comfort, we do not recommend hard liquor.
Will I get seasick, and what can I do? +
If you are prone to motion sickness, take a remedy before boarding rather than after, eat a light breakfast, stay hydrated, and keep your eyes on the horizon. Mornings are usually the calmest part of the day.
How much should I tip the crew? +
We recommend 10 to 20 percent of the total trip cost. It is a great way to show appreciation for the crew's hard work and service.
Does the crew speak English? +
Yes. Our crew is bilingual and provides clear communication and excellent service throughout your trip.
What if the weather is bad? +
If the port is officially closed due to weather, we will reschedule or refund your deposit. Your safety is always the priority.
What is your cancellation policy? +
Standard policy: with 7 or more days notice, 50 percent of the deposit is refunded (administrative and date-blocking costs apply). With less than 7 days notice, the deposit is retained in full, except for unsafe weather or boat-related issues. Same-day cancellations or cancelling during the tour result in the full trip amount being charged. If the captain cancels for reasons other than unsafe weather or mechanical issues, only the time spent at sea is charged. High season (October to December): deposits are retained 100 percent if canceled, but you receive a credit voucher equal to the deposit, valid for 24 months and transferable. Full details on the Cancellation Policy and Tour Terms page.
What happens if we don't catch anything? +
Fishing is never guaranteed. Conditions and luck play a role, but our captains work hard to put you on fish and will change zones and tactics through the day to give you the best shot. Slow days can happen even in peak season.
Let's plan your Los Cabos trip
Tell us your dates and group size and we will recommend the right boat and answer anything else. Every message is answered personally.