If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable fishing trip in Mexico, then booking one of the
Top Cabo Fishing Charters should be at the top of your list. Cabo San Lucas, located where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, is famous around the world as a sportfishing paradise. But before you set sail, one important question comes up:
What is the best time of year to fish in Cabo?The answer depends on what kind of fish you want to catch, how long you’ll stay, and the type of experience you’re looking for. This guide breaks down the fishing calendar month by month so you know exactly when to plan your adventure. Whether you want marlin, tuna, dorado, or roosterfish, there’s a perfect season waiting for you.
Why Timing Matters for Cabo Fishing Charters
Fishing in Cabo San Lucas is good all year, but timing can make your trip even better. Different species of fish are more active during certain months, so understanding the fishing calendar helps you maximize your chances. For example, marlin might be easier to catch in summer, while dorado are more common in fall.
By planning your trip around the best season, you’ll not only improve your odds of catching your dream fish but also enjoy the excitement of Cabo’s peak sportfishing months. This is why many travelers check the fishing calendar before booking their trip.
The Cabo Fishing Calendar: Month-by-Month Guide
Here’s a simple breakdown of what you can expect throughout the year when you book a Cabo fishing charter.
January – March: Winter Fishing Season
Winter brings cooler water temperatures, but fishing stays strong. During these months, you can expect:
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Striped Marlin: Active and abundant, making January a great month for marlin enthusiasts.
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Sierra Mackerel: Perfect for those who enjoy light tackle fishing.
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Snapper and Grouper: Common inshore fish, great for eating.
This is a good season for travelers who prefer milder weather and smaller crowds.
April – June: Spring Fishing Adventure
As the weather warms up, more species begin to appear. Key highlights include:
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Wahoo: Known for their speed and challenge, they start showing up in April.
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Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): Active and colorful, fun to catch and delicious to eat.
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Striped Marlin: Still strong during spring.
This season is ideal for families who want a mix of adventure and relaxation on the water.
July – September: Summer Big Game Season
Summer is prime time for big game fishing in Cabo. This is when many anglers travel specifically to chase trophy fish. You’ll find:
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Blue Marlin and Black Marlin: These giants are at their peak during the summer months.
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Yellowfin Tuna: Strong fighters that bring plenty of excitement.
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Dorado: Continue to bite during this season.
The weather is hot, the ocean is full of life, and the energy is unmatched. If you want action, this is the season for you.
October – December: Fall Prime Fishing Season
Fall is often considered the best all-around fishing season in Cabo. Many species are at their highest numbers, including:
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Dorado: Abundant and perfect for anglers who want both sport and food.
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Wahoo: Still strong, making it a thrilling time for fast strikes.
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Striped Marlin: Continue to bite well into December.
October and November are particularly popular months, with fishing tournaments taking place and travelers from around the world joining the action.
The Best Time for Specific Fish in Cabo
While you can fish year-round, here’s a quick cheat sheet for when each species is most abundant:
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Striped Marlin: January to June, October to December.
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Blue Marlin: July to September.
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Black Marlin: July to September.
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Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): April to December, with October and November being peak.
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Yellowfin Tuna: July to October.
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Wahoo: April to June, October to December.
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Roosterfish: May to August, mostly inshore.
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Snapper & Grouper: Year-round, especially good in winter.
This calendar shows that no matter when you visit Cabo, you’ll find something worth catching.
What Makes Cabo the Best Spot for Year-Round Fishing?
Not every destination allows fishing year-round, but Cabo does. Here’s why:
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Unique Location: Where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez, creating nutrient-rich waters.
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Warm Climate: With over 300 days of sunshine, conditions stay perfect for outdoor activities.
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Diverse Ecosystem: From deep-sea marlin to inshore roosterfish, Cabo offers a wide variety.
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Professional Charters: Many fishing charters are equipped with experienced crews who know when and where to go.
All of these factors combine to make Cabo San Lucas one of the top sportfishing destinations in the world.
How Long Should You Book a Fishing Charter?
Once you’ve chosen the best season, the next step is deciding how long to spend at sea. Most charters in Cabo offer:
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Half-Day Trips (4-5 hours): Good for inshore fishing or families with kids.
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Three-Quarter Day Trips (6 hours): A balance between short and long, great for a variety of species.
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Full-Day Trips (8 hours or more): Best for serious anglers who want to chase big game fish like marlin and tuna.
If you’re traveling in peak marlin or tuna season, a full-day trip gives you the best chance at landing a trophy catch.
Tips for Planning Your Cabo Fishing Trip
To make sure your trip goes smoothly, keep these tips in mind:
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Book Early: Especially during peak seasons like summer and fall, charters fill up quickly.
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Check the Fishing Calendar: Know what’s biting during your travel dates.
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Bring the Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and light clothing.
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Stay Hydrated: Cabo can get very hot, so drink plenty of water while at sea.
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Trust the Crew: They are professionals who know the waters and techniques.
Family-Friendly Cabo Fishing Trips
Many travelers wonder if fishing is only for experienced anglers. The answer is no—Cabo fishing charters are family-friendly too. Inshore trips are perfect for kids or beginners, offering calmer waters and smaller fish that are still fun to reel in. Families can enjoy the experience together while taking in Cabo’s beautiful coastline.
Luxury Fishing Experiences in Cabo
For those who want a mix of fishing and luxury, Cabo offers high-end fishing charters. These boats often include:
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Air-conditioned cabins
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Private chefs and catering
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Spacious decks with shaded seating
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State-of-the-art fishing equipment
Luxury fishing trips are perfect for travelers who want the adventure of fishing without sacrificing comfort.
Why 2025 Is the Year to Book Your Fishing Charter
Looking ahead to 2025, Cabo San Lucas remains one of the best sportfishing destinations in the world. Here’s why:
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Improved Charter Services: More modern boats and upgraded amenities.
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Strong Fish Populations: The fishing calendar continues to show excellent activity.
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Tourism Growth: With more flights and options to reach Cabo, traveling is easier than ever.
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World-Class Reputation: Cabo remains a top choice for fishing tournaments and international anglers.
If fishing is on your bucket list, 2025 is the perfect year to make it happen.
Making the Most of Your Catch
One of the best parts of fishing in Cabo is enjoying your catch after the trip. Many local restaurants will cook your fresh fish for you, giving you the chance to enjoy the true “catch of the day.” Dorado and tuna are especially popular for this, offering a delicious end to your adventure.
Final Thoughts
Cabo San Lucas isn’t just a beach destination—it’s a sportfishing paradise. By using the fishing calendar and planning your trip at the right time of year, you’ll get the most out of your adventure on the water.
Whether you’re chasing marlin in the summer, dorado in the fall, or roosterfish in the spring, there’s always a reason to book one of the Top Cabo Fishing Charters. The combination of year-round fishing, professional crews, and stunning ocean views makes Cabo one of the best places in the world to cast a line.
As you plan your trip in 2025, remember that timing is everything. Use the fishing calendar, book early, and get ready for an experience you’ll never forget.