San José del Cabo Fish Report – San Luis Bank, Gordo Banks & Iman

Hotspots: San Luis Bank, Gordo Banks, Iman • Target Species: Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Wahoo, Sailfish, Blue Marlin

Quick Summary

San Luis Bank: Yellowfin tuna in the 10–20 lb class, steady bite on live bait and drift. Dorado also showing.
Gordo Banks: Blue Marlin scarce but possible—occasional shots in clean blue water.
Iman: Wahoo action at first light on high-speed trolling and plugs.
Sailfish: Very good activity in blue currents, plenty of surface strikes and aerial action.

Current Conditions

Sea Surface Temperature

Warm mixed waters on the banks; cleaner, bluer water offshore favors marlin and sailfish. Thermocline remains stable at mid-depths.

Weather & Sea

Mornings calm, with moderate afternoon winds. Comfortable seas for pangas and sportfishers, best bite early.

Water Clarity

Green-blue transition water on San Luis, cleaner currents offshore toward billfish grounds.

Tides

Best action around tide changes—early morning and mid-morning shifts have been productive for wahoo and dorado.

Hotspots & Species

San Luis Bank – Tuna & Dorado

Drift fishing with sardina and caballito is producing 10–20 lb yellowfin tuna with dorado mixed in. 25–30 lb fluorocarbon leaders increase bites.

Gordo Banks – Blue Marlin (Scarce)

Blue marlin are very scarce, but dedicated trolling spreads with large 7–10” lures give anglers a real chance at a trophy.

Iman – Wahoo Windows

Early morning action with high-speed trolling, diving plugs and jigs. Short wire leaders recommended to handle razor-sharp teeth.

Sailfish – Excellent Action

Blue currents with mid-water bait schools are holding sailfish, providing excellent topwater strikes and jumps.

Recommended Tactics

Tuna: Drift with live sardina or caballito, fluorocarbon 25–30 lb, 2/0–3/0 hooks, small sinkers if thermocline is high.
Dorado: Target around floating debris, birds or sargasso. Present live baits or surface lures when fish are up.
Wahoo: High-speed trolling (12–16 knots) at dawn. Wire leaders 40–60 lb, diving plugs, and metallic jigs near drop-offs.
Sailfish: Bait-and-switch with teasers + pitch bait, or small skirts. Keep drag light for clean hook sets.
Blue Marlin: Large lures in zig-zag trolling patterns through blue water. Have a pitch rod ready for surprise strikes.

Captain’s Recommendation

Right now, getting out early is key. Depart at 6:10 AM to maximize calm seas and the first wahoo bite. For consistent action, focus on San Luis (tuna/dorado) and wrap up with a shot at sailfish. If chasing a blue marlin, commit to the long troll even if bites are fewer.

For families and beginners, a 6-hour trip targeting tuna, dorado and sailfish is perfect. For trophy hunters, 8 hours allows time to reach Gordo/Iman.

Day-of-Trip Tips

Arrive for check-in at 6:10 AM sharp.
Bring sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses, and light long-sleeve shirt.
Stay hydrated—water is included, extras available on request.
If prone to seasickness, take motion sickness medicine 30–45 minutes before boarding.
Free filleting is included; vacuum-seal service at $2 USD/lb available with hotel delivery.
Discuss your fishing goals with the captain—action vs. trophy hunt—so the route and tactics can be adjusted.