For anyone planning a fishing trip to Los Cabos, the first and most important question is often what is in season for fishing in Cabo. The waters off Cabo San Lucas are unique because they sit at the junction of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez, creating currents, temperature gradients, and bait movements that make fish behavior dynamic year-round. Unlike traditional fishing destinations, there isn’t a single “off-season” here different species thrive at different times, and knowing when to go is about strategy, experience, and timing.
Anglers often ask what is in season for fishing in Cabo not just to know what species they might catch, but also to plan trips around offshore conditions, the best tackle setup, and the ideal banks to visit. Blue Sky Cabo’s experienced crew has spent over a decade studying these waters, offering expert insights into seasonal fishing patterns and tactics.
Cabo Fishing Patterns in Winter: Striped Marlin and Nearshore Action
During the cooler months, roughly late November through March, anglers can expect a mix of striped marlin offshore and action-packed nearshore species. If you’re asking what is in season for fishing in Cabo, winter favors striped marlin near Golden Gate and Finger Banks. Onshore, roosterfish, sierra, and snapper provide exciting light-tackle opportunities along rocky points and sandy beaches. Wahoo can appear in temperature breaks offshore, but it’s the marlin and nearshore species that dominate the winter action.
Captains during this period focus on precise positioning, following bait schools, and adjusting trolling speeds to account for cooler surface waters. Winter fishing in Cabo rewards patience and flexibility, making it a great time for anglers seeking both variety and quality bites.
Spring Cabo Fishing: Transitional Months and Multispecies Opportunities
Spring is a transitional season where water temperatures begin to warm, and the question of what is in season for fishing in Cabo becomes even more exciting. Tuna schools start to appear offshore, while marlin remain present but in slightly reduced numbers compared to winter peaks. Nearshore action is excellent for roosterfish and yellowtail, and smaller dorado begin to show up near floating debris lines.
Skilled captains adjust their tactics based on seasonal cues, often running mid-range distances to the 1150 and Jaime Banks. Techniques include trolling with a mix of live bait and artificial lures and observing bird and bait activity for subtle shifts that indicate fish presence.
Summer Cabo Fishing: Tuna, Dorado, and Billfish Bonanza
Summer is one of the most sought-after seasons for those asking what is in season for fishing in Cabo. Warm waters bring in yellowfin tuna in both “football” sizes (20–40 pounds) and cow-class giants (over 200 pounds). Dorado are widespread, often paired with floating debris or surface bait, providing action-packed topwater strikes. Blue marlin also appear in greater numbers during these months, especially around offshore temperature breaks.
Blue Sky Cabo captains often deploy kite systems, flying fish lures, and multiple trolling spreads to maximize multi-species action. Wahoo are present too, rewarding speed-focused anglers who can handle wire leaders and fast trolling setups. Summer fishing in Cabo is physically demanding but extremely rewarding, and experienced crews make sure guests are comfortable, hydrated, and ready for any challenge.
Fall Cabo Fishing: Tournament Season and Peak Offshore Action
Fall, especially October and November, is considered the peak of Cabo’s fishing season by professionals. Those wondering what is in season for fishing in Cabo will find dorado, tuna, wahoo, and marlin all concentrated offshore, often simultaneously. Tournament season brings global competition and elite-level fishing, highlighting why Cabo has earned a reputation as a world-class destination.
During fall, water temperatures remain warm, bait concentrations peak, and pelagic species are highly active. Captains use advanced sonar, spread management, and weather pattern analysis to position boats optimally. Fall offers both seasoned tournament anglers and recreational guests an extraordinary chance for trophy-class catches.
Cabo Fishing Tactics Across Seasons
Answering what is in season for fishing in Cabo also requires understanding tactical changes for each species and season:
- Marlin: Striped marlin in winter, blue marlin in summer/fall. Teasers, dredges, and live bait are essential.
- Tuna: Kites and flying fish lures are critical during summer/fall. Chunking, drifting, and sonar-assisted live bait presentations enhance success.
- Dorado: Topwater techniques near floating debris, light trolling with brightly colored lures, and timed presentations are effective.
- Wahoo: Fast trolling with wire leaders; often paired with surface lure spreads.
- Nearshore species: Roosterfish, yellowtail, and sierra require stealth, topwater presentation, and patience along beaches or rocky points.
By combining seasonal knowledge with tactical expertise, Blue Sky Cabo ensures every trip is optimized based on what is in season for fishing in Cabo at that time.
Cabo Fishing Banks and Offshore Hotspots
Understanding what is in season for fishing in Cabo also involves knowing where the fish are most likely to be concentrated:
- Gordo Banks: Prime for yellowfin tuna, dorado, and wahoo in summer and fall.
- 1150 Bank: Known for consistent marlin sightings; often targeted spring through fall.
- Golden Gate & Jaime Banks: Striped marlin territory in cooler months; seasonal tuna opportunities.
- Finger Banks: Offers trophy striped marlin opportunities during winter and early spring; remote offshore access.
Each bank requires a different approach based on species behavior, water temperature, and bait availability.
Nearshore Cabo Fishing: Roosterfish, Sierra, and Shorelines
While offshore species often steal the spotlight, Cabo nearshore fishing is equally important for understanding what is in season for fishing in Cabo. Roosterfish thrive from late spring through early fall near rocky points, while sierra and small tuna can provide light tackle excitement almost year-round. Experienced crews guide anglers to the right beaches, manage trolling presentations, and ensure the fish fight is safe and enjoyable.
Planning Your Cabo Fishing Trip Around Seasons
For anglers asking what is in season for fishing in Cabo, trip planning should include:
- Aligning dates with preferred species availability
- Selecting boats and crews with experience for that season
- Considering offshore distance, fuel, and provisions
- Preparing tackle and bait setups for targeted species
- Factoring in weather, wind, and sea conditions
Blue Sky Cabo’s team specializes in customizing trips to match each angler’s goals while maximizing seasonal opportunities.
Seasonal Cabo Fishing Summary
From winter striped marlin to summer yellowfin tuna and fall dorado, Cabo’s waters are productive year-round. Knowing what is in season for fishing in Cabo ensures that guests arrive prepared, equipped, and confident. Each season offers unique experiences, requiring a flexible approach, local expertise, and high-quality equipment.
Contact Blue Sky Cabo
Blue Sky Cabo
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If you’re ready to plan your ultimate Cabo fishing adventure with a professional, English-speaking crew, reach out today. We’ll walk you through all the seasonal options, gear setups, and offshore strategies to make your day on the water unforgettable.
