Best Bait for Dorado in Cabo San Lucas During June
Best Bait for Dorado in Cabo During June: Your Ultimate Fishing Guide with Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours
If you’ve ever dreamed of landing a vibrant, acrobatic dorado — the shimmering, golden jewel of sportfishing — June is one of the best months to do it in Cabo San Lucas. The rich waters of Cabo come alive in early summer, bringing with them some of the most exciting fishing action you can imagine.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or planning your first fishing charter, knowing the best bait for dorado in Cabo during June will put you leaps ahead in your quest for trophy catches. This guide dives deep into the secrets of Cabo’s June fishing season, covering bait choices, seasonal species, gear, tips, and how Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours elevates your fishing experience.
Why June is a Prime Month for Dorado in Cabo
June marks a unique time in Cabo’s fishing calendar. Water temperatures stabilize into the warm range, hovering between 78°F and 82°F — perfect for dorado. The warm Pacific and Sea of Cortez waters start blooming with baitfish, drawing dorado closer to shore and surface.
- Abundant Food Supply: Flying fish, sardines, squid, and other bait species multiply in June.
- Longer Fishing Days: More daylight hours mean longer trips and better chances.
- Calm Seas: Early summer often brings gentler weather, great for offshore fishing.
- Dorado Behavior: Dorado become more aggressive feeders, hitting bait and lures with enthusiasm.
What Makes Dorado So Special?
Dorado (also called mahi-mahi or dolphinfish) are some of the most visually stunning and energetic fish you’ll ever encounter. Their bright blue, green, and golden hues flash vividly in the sun as they leap and fight.
- Fast Growth: Dorado grow incredibly fast — a 10-pound fish can become 30 pounds in six months.
- Strong Fighters: Known for their acrobatics, dorado put up fierce battles, thrilling any angler.
- Delicious Table Fare: Beyond sport, they’re prized for their tender, flavorful meat.
Best Bait for Dorado in Cabo During June: Natural Bait Options
1. Flying Fish
Flying fish are without question the top natural bait for dorado in Cabo, especially in June. Dorado naturally hunt flying fish, which gather near the surface and around floating debris.
- Live Flying Fish: Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours regularly uses live flying fish on their charters because dorado are naturally drawn to their movement.
- Chunked Flying Fish: For anglers without live bait tanks, fresh chunked flying fish work well to create enticing scent trails.
- Why Flying Fish Work: Their size and erratic swimming mimic prey dorado can’t resist.
2. Sardines and Small Baitfish
Sardines, anchovies, and other small baitfish are abundant in June and provide excellent bait choices.
- Fresh sardines rigged on circle hooks allow natural swimming action.
- Cut bait from sardines creates strong chum lines to attract dorado.
- Using a mix of live and cut sardines can increase your chances.
3. Squid
Squid is a versatile and readily available bait, favored for its scent and durability.
- Rig whole squid on hooks or cut into strips for chum.
- Squid can withstand dorado teeth longer than softer bait.
- Using squid alongside live bait helps keep dorado close during slow bites.
4. Ballyhoo
Though more often used as trolling bait, ballyhoo can be effective for dorado in June.
- Their slender bodies create a natural profile.
- Ballyhoo lures mimic fleeing baitfish with their darting motion.
- Blue Sky Cabo’s expert captains use ballyhoo strategically in trolling spreads.
Best Bait for Dorado in Cabo During June: Artificial Lures and Techniques
While natural bait is king, certain artificial lures also shine during June dorado runs:
- Surface Plugs: Brightly colored plugs mimic baitfish darting near the surface. Great for aggressive strikes.
- Soft Plastic Skirts: Resemble squid or small fish, effective when jigged near debris.
- Trolling Lures: Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours favors neon-colored trolling lures with reflective finishes to attract dorado in deeper waters.
- Teasers and Dredges: These mimic schools of small fish, pulling dorado close to the boat before casting bait or lures.

Seasonal Species Around Cabo in June: What to Expect Besides Dorado
- Yellowfin Tuna: Starting to show in June, tuna are aggressive feeders that complement dorado fishing.
- Striped Marlin: Begin to arrive, offering trophy chances alongside dorado.
- Sailfish: Appear in June, increasing the excitement on the water.
- Roosterfish: Available nearshore, great for inshore fishing adventures.
- Wahoo: Sometimes caught offshore, but less common in early summer.
Essential Gear Recommendations for Dorado in June
- Rod and Reel: Medium-heavy rods with fast action tips paired with high-quality spinning or conventional reels.
- Line: 30-50 lb braided line is ideal for sensitivity and strength.
- Leader: Use 40-60 lb fluorocarbon leaders to prevent bite-offs.
- Hooks: Circle hooks sized 4/0 to 7/0 are preferred for live or cut bait.
- Terminal Tackle: Include snap swivels, weights, and floats suitable for drifting or trolling.
How Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours Elevates Your June Dorado Fishing Trip
Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours is a standout choice for anglers seeking the best bait for dorado in Cabo during June and expert guidance. Their reputation is built on experience, service, and consistent results.
Why Choose Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours?
- Expert Local Knowledge: Decades of experience navigating Cabo’s seasonal patterns and fish behavior.
- English-Speaking Crew: Clear communication makes the trip enjoyable and educational.
- State-of-the-Art Fleet: Their boats, ranging from 32 to 60 feet, are outfitted for comfort and fishing success.
- Top-Quality Bait: They source the freshest live and cut bait daily, including flying fish, sardines, and squid.
- Custom Tackle and Lures: Their gear is fine-tuned for dorado action.
- Social Proof: Check their thousands of 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Instagram.
- Full-Service Charters: All licenses, meals, drinks, and gear included—just show up and fish.
- Photo and Video: Capture your trophy dorado with professional photography.
Proven Techniques and Tips for Dorado Success in June
- Chumming: Create a chum slick with fresh bait pieces to draw dorado closer.
- Live Bait Drift: Let live bait swim naturally with circle hooks for the best hookup rates.
- Trolling With Dredges: Use dredges and teasers to mimic schools of baitfish and attract dorado at distance.
- Cast Near Floating Debris: Dorado hang around floating objects where baitfish gather.
- Adjust to Water Conditions: Adapt fishing depth and speed depending on currents and temperature changes.
Preparing for Your Cabo Fishing Charter in June
- Book Early: June is popular, so reserve your trip in advance.
- Pack Smart: Bring sun protection, comfortable clothes, motion sickness remedies.
- Stay Hydrated: Cabo’s summer heat can be intense.
- Learn the Regulations: Respect size and catch limits to support sustainability.
Environmental and Ethical Fishing Practices in Cabo
- Catch and Release: Especially for undersized or protected species.
- Eco-Friendly Gear: Use biodegradable lines and lead-free weights.
- Respect the Ocean: Avoid littering and disturbing marine habitats.
Why Cabo is a Dorado Fishing Paradise in June
- Rich Ecosystem: Nutrient upwellings attract abundant baitfish.
- Varied Habitat: Offshore reefs, rocks, and debris provide ideal dorado habitats.
- Friendly Community: Anglers and guides work together for responsible fishing.
- Beautiful Scenery: Combine sportfishing with iconic Cabo landmarks like the Arch.
Testimonials and Real Experiences
Many anglers report that trips with Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours during June resulted in memorable dorado catches:
- “Caught my biggest dorado ever in June — thanks to their live flying fish bait and expert guidance!”
- “The crew’s knowledge about where the fish were schooling made all the difference.”
- “From the comfortable boat to the fresh bait, the entire experience was top-notch.”
Final Invitation to Fish Cabo in June
If you want to experience world-class dorado fishing with the best bait for dorado in Cabo during June, Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours is your go-to partner. The combination of natural bait expertise, seasoned guides, and stunning Cabo waters ensures you’ll have a fishing trip of a lifetime.
Book your charter today, pack your gear, and get ready for the thrill of hooking into Cabo’s dazzling dorado!
The Science Behind Dorado Feeding Behavior in June
Understanding the science of dorado behavior gives you a tactical edge when choosing the best bait for dorado in Cabo during June. These fish are opportunistic, visual predators with lightning-fast strike speeds and razor-sharp instincts.
Key Traits That Influence Bait Choice:
- Visual Hunters: Dorado rely on eyesight more than scent. Bright, shimmering bait like flying fish or neon lures is highly effective.
- Aggressive Feeders: During June, dorado chase bait in open water and around floating structures, often traveling in schools.
- Reaction Strikes: Sudden movements, splashes, or darting action trigger immediate bites.
Tip: When fishing with Blue Sky Cabo, watch the water closely — if one dorado hits, there are likely several nearby. Have rods ready with live bait or lures immediately.

Secret Hotspots in Cabo for June Dorado Fishing
Knowing where to fish is just as important as knowing how. Blue Sky Cabo’s captains — like Captain Gil, Captain Leon, and Captain Francisco — have charted the most productive dorado locations over years of experience.
Top Dorado Zones in June:
- Golden Gate Bank (Pacific side): A well-known hotbed for dorado early in the summer.
- 95 Spot and 1150 Spot (Sea of Cortez): Deep offshore zones where warm currents funnel baitfish.
- Gordo Banks: Often produces large dorado in June and July, especially during early morning hours.
- Floating Debris Zones: Dorado hover near anything floating — logs, seaweed, buoys, even dead turtles.
- Nearshore Rips and Color Changes: Look for areas where cold green water meets warm blue water — dorado patrol these transitions.
Advanced Tactics Using the Best Bait for Dorado in Cabo During June
If you’re fishing with a top charter like Blue Sky Cabo, they’ll already be using the smartest approaches. But if you’re the kind of angler who likes to know every detail, here are advanced tactics that make use of the best bait for dorado in Cabo during June.
The Dredge & Teaser Method
- What It Is: A multi-arm device rigged with artificial bait to simulate a school of baitfish.
- Why It Works: Attracts large dorado to the boat without letting them bite (no hooks).
- How Blue Sky Uses It: Dredges pull dorado into range, then anglers pitch live flying fish or sardines to trigger a strike.
- Best Teasers: Squid Nation flippy-floppies, neon-painted beer can teasers, and PVC pipe “school mimics.”
Pitch Baiting
This is the art of throwing live bait in front of a cruising dorado spotted from the boat.
- Best Used With: Live sardines or flying fish.
- Timing: Pitch the bait as soon as the fish is in range — hesitation often means a missed opportunity.
- Hook Setup: Use a circle hook on 40 lb fluoro leader and let the bait swim naturally.
Livewell Setup for Dorado Success
Blue Sky Cabo’s boats are rigged with high-capacity livewells designed to keep delicate bait like sardines and flying fish healthy for hours.
Key Factors for Healthy Live Bait:
- Water Flow: Constant oxygen-rich water flow to simulate ocean conditions.
- Temperature: Maintaining 75–78°F to avoid shocking the bait.
- Crowding: Too many baitfish leads to early death — Blue Sky limits capacity for quality over quantity.
Having healthy, lively bait directly impacts your success when using the best bait for dorado in Cabo during June.
Weather Conditions in June and Their Impact
June in Cabo San Lucas is the calm before the storm — before hurricane season begins in earnest in late summer. These weather patterns play directly into dorado activity.
Typical Conditions:
- Temperatures: Morning starts around 77°F, with highs hitting 90–92°F midday.
- Winds: Light in the morning (5–8 mph), increasing slightly in the afternoon (10–15 mph).
- Sea Surface Temp: 78–82°F — perfect for dorado.
- Tide Swings: Dorado are more active during tide changes, especially outgoing tides.
When to Fish:
- Morning Bite: First light to 10:00 AM often sees the strongest dorado action.
- Afternoon Option: Some charters report flurries of action around floating debris from 3–5 PM.
- Full Day Advantage: A 7–8 hour charter gives you the flexibility to fish both windows.
Safety and Comfort Aboard a Blue Sky Cabo Charter
A major part of catching dorado — and enjoying your day — is feeling safe, comfortable, and prepared.
What Blue Sky Cabo Provides:
- All-Inclusive Charters: Fishing license, breakfast burritos, lunch, open bar, and bilingual crew.
- Safety Gear: Life vests, first aid, GPS, and radio communication on every trip.
- Amenities: Air-conditioned cabins (on larger boats), shaded decks, bathrooms, and Bluetooth music systems.
- Photography & Video: Your dorado moment captured forever with their included media services.
How to Prepare for a Dorado Charter in June
Checklist:
✅ Sunscreen (reef-safe)
✅ Long-sleeve UV shirt and hat
✅ Sunglasses with polarized lenses
✅ Camera or GoPro
✅ Motion sickness tablets (if needed)
✅ Ziplock bags for fresh fillets
✅ Cash tips (15–20% is standard for an excellent crew)
Blue Sky Cabo also fillets and bags your fish at the dock, and partners with Alexanders and Misiones de Kino to cook your dorado four different ways: grilled, coconut crusted, garlic, and blackened.
Ethical Fishing and Conservation in Cabo
Cabo San Lucas is one of the few places where world-class fishing and sustainability go hand-in-hand.
Conservation Practices:
- Tag-and-Release Programs: Especially for marlin, sailfish, and undersized dorado.
- Catch Limits: Dorado have regulated limits to ensure population health.
- No Waste Ethic: Every part of the catch is used — fillets, collars, even bait scraps.
Blue Sky Cabo follows strict ethical guidelines, and their captains teach all clients about preserving Cabo’s marine future.
Testimonials That Speak Volumes
Real Reviews from June Trips:
- Justin T. (Texas)
“Blue Sky Cabo put me on the biggest dorado of my life in June. We used live flying fish near the 95 Spot, and the fight was insane. Boat was clean, crew spoke great English, and the photos were pro-quality.” - Mandy R. (California)
“Our bachelorette group caught three dorado, and they cooked it for us at a local restaurant. Using sardines as bait worked perfectly. The crew made everything so easy — hands-down the highlight of our Cabo trip!” - Carlos F. (Florida)
“Captain Francisco knows his stuff. We fished floating debris, used chunked squid, and limited out on dorado by noon. They knew the exact best bait for dorado in Cabo during June, and it made all the difference.”
Bonus Tips for Maximum Dorado Action
- Use Bright Colors: Dorado love greens, yellows, and blues — match your lures accordingly.
- Switch Techniques Midday: If the bite slows, switch from trolling to live bait or drift fishing.
- Follow the Birds: Frigates and terns often circle over dorado schools.
- Recast Quickly: If a dorado throws the hook, another is likely following — drop in fast!
- Use a Gaff Correctly: Gaff only when the fish is ready — dorado will thrash wildly at the rail.
Conclusion: Your Cabo Dorado Dream Starts Now
Catching dorado in June is more than just a fishing trip — it’s a full-throttle adventure in one of the most beautiful, abundant fishing grounds in the world. And with the right approach, gear, and the best bait for dorado in Cabo during June, you’ll be well on your way to epic memories, sizzling fillets, and photos worth framing.
Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours gives you the tools, knowledge, and service to turn your Cabo dream into reality.
Don’t settle for a maybe. Book your dorado adventure with Blue Sky Cabo today.