Where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, the marlin jumps. Los Cabos holds more than 850 fish species within a 30-nautical-mile radius and is the only destination on earth where striped marlin are present every single day of the year. If sport fishing is on your bucket list, this is your place.
Why Los Cabos is the Marlin Capital of the World
The answer comes down to geography. At the southern tip of Baja California, two completely different bodies of water collide: the cold California Current from the Pacific and the warm, fertile waters of the Sea of Cortez. That collision produces nutrient-rich upwellings that fuel an extraordinary food chain. The result is a concentration of pelagic fish that few seas on the planet can match.
According to Visit Los Cabos, tens of thousands of anglers travel here every year from around the world. During peak season it is common to see more than 300 boats leaving before sunrise from the Cabo San Lucas marina, heading toward the main fishing grounds: gordo banks (23° 10.01N, 109º 31² 00.01³O), 45 points (22°4940.40N, 110°0031.97W) y bank 1150 (22°4436.21N, 109°2630.57W). The blue marlin record here belongs to Rocky Gentile: 450 kg caught in 1994. The black marlin record to Martha McNab: 292 kg in 2006.
The Species That Are Always There
One of the great advantages of fishing Los Cabos is the constant variety. Beyond marlin, Cabo's waters are packed with species that make every trip feel different. Dorado (mahi-mahi) puts on an acrobatic show from June through October. Wahoo, one of the fastest fish in the ocean, peaks between August and November. And yellowfin tuna, the star of the biggest tournaments, is present almost year-round with excellent catches from November through May.
For lighter tackle fans, roosterfish and pargo cover the transition months perfectly. The bottom line: there is no dead season in Los Cabos. Only the headliner changes.
May to October: The Season of Giants
When water temperatures climb above 26°C, the ocean's big game shows up. This is when Los Cabos buzzes with energy and charters leave before dawn loaded with anticipation.
- Blue and Black Marlin: In full force from June through October. Daily catches of 6 to 12 marlin are common, according to Travel Weekly.
- Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): Acrobatic fights, stunning colors, and fantastic table fare. July and August are its best months.
- Wahoo: The region's fastest fish, hitting 80 km/h. Its golden window runs August through November.
- Yellowfin Tuna: Catches over 100 kg on the offshore banks. Present all year with peaks in summer and fall.
This is also tournament season. The atmosphere at the Cabo San Lucas marina during the Bisbee events is something you feel in the air: adrenaline, stories, and the best fishing on the planet.
January to April: The Striped Marlin Kingdom
Many travelers come to Los Cabos in winter chasing sunshine, and discover along the way that they've arrived during prime season for one of the ocean's most elegant game fish. Striped marlin dominate these waters from January through May with an abundance that surprises even seasoned anglers.
- Striped Marlin: Present year-round, but at its absolute peak from January through May. The backbone of Cabo's world-record catch-and-release numbers.
- Yellowfin Tuna: Excellent from November through April. Winter catches are consistently high quality.
- Roosterfish: A fierce inshore fighter. January through May is its prime window.
- Pargo and Jack: Perfect for bottom fishing or anyone looking for a relaxed trip with guaranteed action.
Cabo Fishing Calendar: Month by Month
Use this summary to plan your trip around your target species. Data based on historical catch records from Picante Sport Fishing, one of the longest-running operations at the Cabo marina.
- January to March: Striped marlin and yellowfin tuna at their best. Wahoo good. Fewer boats on the water. Perfect for those who prioritize quality over crowds.
- April to May: Striped marlin still strong. Dorado begins to appear. Water warms and the marina starts to buzz.
- June to July: Peak season begins. Blue and black marlin on the rise, dorado at its finest. Full-day charters are booked out fast.
- August to September: The most intense period of the year. Blue marlin, dorado, wahoo and tuna all firing. Bisbee East Cape Offshore kicks off tournament season.
- October: Tournament month. Blue marlin still excellent, tuna at its peak. The Black and Blue Bisbee transforms the marina into a world-class stage.
- November to December: A smooth transition. Wahoo and tuna hold on. Striped marlin starts building again. Great timing for those escaping northern winters.
Best Sport Fishing Charters in Los Cabos
The Cabo San Lucas marina is home to some of Mexico's most recognized sport fishing fleets. Here are the three operators most recommended by Royal Solaris Los Cabos guests:
- Picante Sport Fishing: Premium fleet with boats from 28 to 50 feet. Over 30 years at the Cabo marina. Best for groups seeking comfort and maximum catch opportunities.
- Lands End Charters: Highly rated by solo anglers and couples. Shared panga trips and private boats available. Outstanding value for the experience.
- Boats Baja: Offshore specialists and half-day family tours. Fully bilingual crew (English and Spanish).
Before booking, confirm what is included: bait, fishing license, gear, and whether the boat crew will prepare your catch. The Royal Solaris concierge team can help you coordinate directly from the hotel.
Bisbee International Tournaments
Since 1981, the Bisbee Tournaments have turned Los Cabos into the world capital of tournament fishing. The Black and Blue prize purse has topped $4.6 million USD.
- East Cape Offshore: August. In 2024: 79 teams competed for a purse exceeding $1.6M USD.
- Los Cabos Offshore: October. In 2024: 458 striped marlin and 124 blue marlin tagged, with a purse of ~$2.7M USD.
- Black and Blue: October. The world's most famous fishing tournament. In 2020, team "Los Chachalosos" won $240,248 USD with a 320 kg marlin.
- Tuna Jackpot: October. Prize purse of $1.3M USD in 2024, exclusive to yellowfin tuna.
Practical Tips Before You Go
A little preparation goes a long way on the water. These points will prevent any surprises on the day of your trip:
- Get your sport fishing license from CONAPESCA or confirm it is included in your charter rate.
- Pack SPF 50+ sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and polarized sunglasses. The offshore sun is unforgiving.
- If you are prone to motion sickness, take anti-nausea medication the night before, not at the dock before setting sail.
- Book at least 48 hours in advance during peak season (August–October) and weeks ahead for tournament days.
- Departures start between 6 and 7 in the morning. Get good sleep and eat a light breakfast before boarding.
Calendar Summary: 12 Months × 5 Species
A quick reference to help you choose the right month for your target species:
| Month | Striped Marlin | Blue / Black Marlin | Dorado | Yellowfin Tuna | Wahoo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Excellent | Scarce | Scarce | Excellent | Good |
| February | Excellent | Scarce | Scarce | Excellent | Good |
| March | Excellent | Scarce | Scarce | Excellent | Good |
| April | Excellent | Fair | Good | Good | Fair |
| May | Excellent | Good | Good | Good | Fair |
| June | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Good |
| July | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Fair | Excellent |
| August | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| September | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| October | Good | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Good |
| November | Fair | Fair | Fair | Excellent | Good |
| December | Good | Scarce | Scarce | Good | Good |
Excellent Good Fair Scarce
Where to Stay for Sport Fishing in Los Cabos
Sport fishing starts before sunrise. Being close to the marina or having convenient transportation from an All-Inclusive resort to recover in afterwards makes a real difference. Here are the Solaris resorts in Los Cabos:
Solaris Resorts in Los Cabos
- Royal Solaris Los Cabos All-inclusive on the Sea of Cortez in San José del Cabo. Minutes from Puerto los Cabos (a great place to fish in gordo banks), with access to the best charters. Perfect for combining pre-dawn fishing with beach days and full resort relaxation.
- GR Solaris Lighthouse Los Cabos The premium option for couples and adults. Exclusive atmosphere, elevated dining, and personalized coordination of sport fishing excursions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sport Fishing in Los Cabos
What is the best time to fish in Los Cabos?
Los Cabos offers excellent fishing year-round. May through October is peak season for blue and black marlin and dorado. January through April is prime time for striped marlin and yellowfin tuna. There is no bad month to fish in Cabo.
Why is Los Cabos called the Marlin Capital of the World?
Where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, nutrient-rich upwellings attract over 850 fish species. Striped marlin are present 365 days a year, and blue and black marlin dominate the warm months, producing record catches that have made Los Cabos the world's number one sport fishing destination.
When are the Bisbee Tournaments held in Los Cabos?
The Bisbee Tournaments run from August to October: the East Cape Offshore in August, the Los Cabos Offshore in October, and the famous Black and Blue also in October, with prize purses exceeding four million dollars.
Do I need a fishing license in Los Cabos?
Yes. Mexico requires a sport fishing license issued by CONAPESCA. Most charters include the license in their rates, confirm this when you book.
Can I stay at an all-inclusive resort and still go sport fishing?
Absolutely. Royal Solaris Los Cabos & GR Solaris Lighthouse are perfect base to combine all-inclusive comfort with early-morning fishing trips. The hotel is just minutes from the marina's top charters, and our team can help you coordinate your excursion.
What fish species can I catch in Los Cabos?
The most sought-after species are striped marlin, blue marlin, black marlin, dorado (mahi-mahi), yellowfin tuna, wahoo, roosterfish, and pargo (red snapper). Striped marlin is the only species available at its best every single day of the year.