Packing for a Cabo fishing charter isn’t just about tossing a hat and sunglasses into a bag it’s about preparing for an adventure that could deliver the fishing experience of a lifetime. Whether you’re setting out with Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours for a full-day offshore marlin chase or a relaxed half-day trip inshore for dorado and tuna, the right gear can make all the difference between a comfortable, successful day and one filled with small regrets.
From sun protection and fishing attire to tech gadgets and snacks, this guide breaks down everything you should bring and what you can leave behind for the perfect fishing trip in Cabo San Lucas.
Why Packing Right Matters for a Cabo Fishing Charter
A day on the water off Cabo’s coast is unlike any other fishing experience. You’ll be venturing into the meeting point of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez — two powerful bodies of water teeming with marlin, dorado, wahoo, tuna, and more.
But that same ocean energy also means strong sun, shifting temperatures, and salt spray. The crew of Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours provides nearly everything you’ll need for fishing — rods, reels, bait, licenses, breakfast, lunch, and open bar — but what you pack personally can determine your comfort level throughout the day.
Packing smart isn’t just practical; it enhances the entire experience. It lets you focus on the excitement of the chase, the camaraderie with your crew, and that unforgettable moment when your reel starts screaming as a marlin takes the line.
Understanding Cabo’s Conditions Before You Pack
Before deciding what to bring, it helps to understand what a typical Cabo fishing day feels like.
- Morning: Most fishing charters leave the marina early, often between 6 and 7 a.m. The air is cool, the sunrise over Land’s End is stunning, and the seas are usually calm.
- Midday: By 10 a.m., the sun is strong. The reflection off the water can make it feel 10 degrees hotter.
- Afternoon: Winds can pick up, especially from June through September, and it’s common for anglers to get splashed while trolling or reeling in large fish.
Plan for both comfort and protection from changing elements. Even though Blue Sky Cabo’s yachts from the 32’ Luhrs Blue Star to the luxurious 60’ Bertram Blue Sea all have shaded decks, air-conditioned cabins, and clean bathrooms, it’s still smart to come prepared for a long, sunny day at sea.
Essential Packing List for Your Cabo Fishing Charter
1. Lightweight, Moisture-Wicking Clothing
Cabo’s sun and salt air require breathable, quick-drying fabrics. Choose lightweight fishing shirts with long sleeves and UPF protection. Columbia, Huk, and Pelagic make great options.
For men: moisture-wicking fishing shorts or board shorts.
For women: leggings or SPF-rated shorts with a loose performance top.
Avoid cotton it traps moisture and gets heavy when wet. Stick with polyester blends that breathe easily and dry quickly.
2. A Wide-Brimmed Hat or Neck Gaiter
The Baja sun is intense, even on cloudy days. A wide-brimmed hat or performance cap with a neck flap keeps your face shaded. Many seasoned anglers also wear a buff or neck gaiter, which can cover your face, neck, and ears from wind and sunburn.
3. Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized lenses aren’t just about style they’re essential for spotting fish beneath the water’s surface. They reduce glare, protect your eyes from UV rays, and help you see bait fish and color changes that signal big game nearby.
Bring a secure retainer strap; you don’t want your sunglasses flying off during a battle with a marlin.
4. Non-Slip Footwear
Cabo’s fishing decks can get slick from saltwater spray or fresh bait. Bring non-slip, closed-toe deck shoes or water-resistant sandals. Avoid flip-flops they’re unsafe when the boat rocks or when you need quick footing to grab a rod.
5. Sun Protection Essentials
You’ll spend most of your time under the open Baja sky. Pack these must-haves:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- SPF lip balm
- After-sun lotion or aloe vera
- Lightweight sun gloves (optional but helpful for long fights)
Apply sunscreen before boarding, and reapply every 2–3 hours especially to your nose, ears, and hands.
6. Waterproof Bag or Dry Pack
Even though Blue Sky Cabo’s boats are equipped with dry storage, a small waterproof bag is great for phones, wallets, and other valuables. Saltwater spray and humidity can damage electronics fast, so keep them sealed.
7. Motion Sickness Remedies
Even seasoned travelers can get seasick when the waves roll. Bring Dramamine, Bonine, or motion wristbands just in case. It’s better to take them before you leave the marina once you’re queasy, it’s hard to recover.
Pro tip: Ginger chews or electrolyte drinks also help settle your stomach naturally.
8. Lightweight Jacket or Windbreaker
It might seem odd to bring a jacket in sunny Cabo, but early mornings offshore can feel cool, and wind can pick up mid-afternoon. A thin, waterproof windbreaker is perfect easy to pack, comfortable, and practical.
9. Snacks and Personal Drinks
Every Blue Sky Cabo charter includes breakfast, lunch, and open bar with beer, soda, and water, but you can always bring your own snacks or special drinks. Think protein bars, fruit, or electrolyte packets.
Avoid bringing glass bottles or anything that could roll around on deck. If you have dietary restrictions, let the crew know in advance they’ll accommodate your needs.
10. Camera or GoPro
You’ll want proof of that moment when your marlin tail-dances across the water. Bring a GoPro with a floating grip or waterproof phone case.
Blue Sky Cabo also provides professional photo and video options with their crew photographer, so you can focus on reeling while someone else captures your triumph.
Packing for Different Types of Cabo Fishing Trips
Half-Day Inshore Trips
These charters typically target snapper, roosterfish, grouper, and small dorado. You’ll stay closer to shore, where it’s warmer and calmer.
Pack:
- Lightweight shirt and shorts
- Hat and sunglasses
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Compact dry bag
- Towel and water shoes (optional for beach landings)
Full-Day Offshore Adventures
Offshore fishing means deeper water, longer runs, and bigger fish like marlin, sailfish, wahoo, and tuna.
For these trips, bring:
- Long-sleeve performance shirt
- Windbreaker or light jacket
- Motion sickness tablets
- Refillable water bottle
- Extra snacks
- GoPro or waterproof camera
- Portable charger
You’ll be under the sun for up to 8 hours, so hydration and protection are key.
Private Luxury Charters
If you’re fishing aboard Blue Sky, Blue Water, or Blue Sea the larger luxury yachts — you’ll enjoy shaded lounges, air conditioning, and onboard restrooms.
Still, pack:
- Casual resort wear for comfort
- Non-slip sandals
- Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen
- Bathing suit if you plan to swim or snorkel after fishing
- Light jacket for sunset return to the marina
These boats also offer Wi-Fi and a private chef, so you can relax in style while chasing big game.
What Blue Sky Cabo Provides (So You Don’t Have to Pack It)
Many travelers overpack because they don’t realize how much Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours includes in every charter. You can leave these items at home:
- Fishing licenses (included in every trip)
- Professional rods and reels (Penn, Shimano, and custom tackle)
- Live bait and teasers (Squid Nation, Witch Doctor, and custom PVC/beer can dredges)
- Cooler stocked with ice, beer, and soda
- Breakfast and lunch (fresh sandwiches, burritos, fruit, snacks)
- Professional crew including English-speaking captain and mates
- All safety gear
This means you can focus on personal comfort, not technical gear. Just show up, ready for action.
Optional Items That Can Upgrade Your Fishing Day
- Polarized backup sunglasses: In case your main pair breaks.
- Fishing gloves: Useful for handling line or leadering fish.
- Buff or face mask: Prevents windburn and sun exposure.
- GoPro mount: Capture 360° footage of your fight.
- Extra shirt or towel: Saltwater dries fast, but fresh comfort feels great after reeling in big fish.
- Travel-size deodorant and wipes: Handy before heading back to the marina or a post-fishing lunch.
Packing Smart for Cabo’s Seasons
Bring a light jacket, long pants for early mornings, and layers for cooler wind offshore. It’s marlin season, so you’ll spend hours trolling — comfort is key.
Warm, pleasant, and calm. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing are all you need.
Hot, humid, and active fishing months for dorado and tuna. Bring extra sunscreen, hydration packets, and lightweight clothing. A cooling towel or misting fan helps a lot.
Arguably the best fishing season. Warm days, calm seas, and incredible marlin activity. You’ll want your full sun-protection setup and a hat that stays put when the boat moves fast.
Don’t Forget These Travel Essentials
Before leaving your hotel for the marina, double-check your small bag for:
- Passport or ID (sometimes required for port access)
- Cash for crew tips (15–20% is standard)
- Hotel key or card
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Phone or camera
- Refillable water bottle
Keeping everything in one waterproof pouch simplifies your day and keeps valuables safe.
For Anglers Traveling with Families or First-Timers
If your group includes kids or first-time anglers, pack a few extra comforts:
- Dramamine for motion control
- Hats with chin straps
- Towels and extra T-shirts
- Snacks they enjoy
- Small games or cards for the return ride
Blue Sky Cabo crews are excellent with families friendly, patient, and safety-focused. They’ll even teach beginners how to reel, gaff, and pose safely for photos.
Tips for Packing Tech and Photography Gear
For many travelers, the highlight of fishing in Cabo is capturing the moment they hook their first marlin or dorado. To get the best footage:
- Use a waterproof GoPro or DJI Osmo camera.
- Bring extra SD cards and batteries — the salt air drains them quickly.
- Pack a GoPro chest or hat mount for hands-free filming.
- Store all gear in a padded dry bag with silica packs to reduce moisture.
Blue Sky Cabo’s crew often helps guests set up camera angles so you get pro-level footage of your fishing fight and the release.
Sustainable Packing Choices for Cabo Fishing
Cabo’s marine life is a national treasure. By packing sustainably, you help preserve the ecosystem for future anglers.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen only.
- Avoid single-use plastics; bring reusable water bottles.
- Use biodegradable wipes and eco-friendly toiletries.
- Respect catch-and-release practices — a Blue Sky Cabo standard for billfish.
Responsible fishing keeps Cabo’s waters thriving and ensures that generations to come can experience the same thrill.
Post-Fishing Packing Tip: What to Bring for the Dock
After your trip, many guests like to celebrate with photos and a drink by the marina. Bring:
- Clean T-shirt or resort shirt
- Lightweight shorts or sundress
- Sandals
- Small toiletries to freshen up
Blue Sky Cabo’s crew can fillet and bag your fish, and many local restaurants will cook your catch grilled, blackened, or with garlic butter.
Restaurants like Alexander’s and Misiones de Kino are popular among anglers for this “catch and cook” experience.
Final Thoughts: Prepare, Protect, and Enjoy the Experience
A Cabo fishing charter isn’t just another day on vacation it’s a story you’ll tell for years. The hum of the engines leaving IGY Marina, the flash of a marlin breaking the surface, the teamwork between captain, mates, and angler it’s all part of what makes Cabo magical.
Packing properly ensures you stay comfortable, safe, and focused on the thrill of the catch. With the experienced, English-speaking crew of Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours, every detail is handled from bait and gear to food and photography leaving you free to live your dream day on the water.
So pack light, plan smart, and let Cabo’s ocean show you why it’s called the Marlin Capital of the World. When you’re ready to fish with confidence and style, Blue Sky Cabo Fishing and Tours is ready to welcome you aboard.
