Los Cabos Affords a Select Fishing Experience for Everyone
It’s no secret that Los Cabos is a mecca for fishing. The waters of the Sea of Cortez are uniquely nutrient rich, due to upwelling oceanic currents carrying plankton that feeds young reef fish. The sea rests over a tectonic fault, with underwater volcanic activity pumping hot water into the cold sea. Seasonal winds and dramatic daily tides also contribute to a vigorous mixing of warm and cool waters to and from the Pacific Ocean. This abundant ecosystem nurtures nearly 900 species of fish, with ninety of those found only in the Sea of Cortez.
Los Cabos may be the marlin capital of the world, but there are many other fish to be found, literally in every month of the year. Striped marlin can be caught year round, but are most abundant from November through May. Blue and black marlin are best fished in July, August, September, and October. Peak time for all marlin and sailfish is considered September through November, and thus the big tournaments tend to fall in October. Striped marlin caught by anglers are usually in the 50 pound range, though they can grow to 300 pounds. Black and blue marlin are bigger, with black marlin ranging from 200 to 1000 pounds and blue marlin- the largest marlin species in the Pacific- often topping 1000 pounds. One marlin is allowed to be kept, but many operators operate exclusively catch and release for marlin to protect the populations.
Other popular deep sea fishing species include dorado (mahi mahi) and wahoo in the summer and fall and yellowfin (ahi) tuna in the fall. Deep sea fishing is the province of charter operators, who deliver an abundance of expertise. Charter operators will provide all your needed equipment, fuel, dock fees, tackle, bait, and can assist with the required fishing licenses. Most importantly, these seasoned professionals will take you to the best fishing areas and use their honed knowledge to help you land your catch. Whether you’re a novice or a fishing enthusiast, charter operators work hard to ensure you receive what you’re looking for.
Not all fishing in Los Cabos is for deep sea fish species; there’s a whole world of inshore fishing to be found close to the water’s edge that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Charter operators can arrange inshore fishing excursions as well, though you can also fish right from the shore which does not require licensing. The Sea of Cortez is like a river in that it lacks waves, and fish often congregate near rock piles and reefs along the coastline. Charter operators can teach specialized techniques, such as fly fishing and surf fishing. Fish readily caught close to shore include grouper, snapper, jack crevalle (toro), and sierra mackerel. Perhaps the most sought after coastline fish is roosterfish, which is unique to tropical Pacific waters and highly concentrated in the Los Cabos region. A member of the jack family, roosterfish is a predator of the surf and typically a fighter when caught.
Top Fishing Spots in Los Cabos
San Jaime Bank
This spot is located on the Pacific Ocean, with close access to the 3,500 foot deep Tinaje Trough’s excellent currents and many species of fish. Three seamounts create an underwater pathway through to Golden Gate Bank. Skipjack tuna, bonito, yellowjack tuna, and blue marlin are often found here.
Golden Gate Bank
This is regarded as a top spot, being near the Tinaje Trough and boasting warm waters throughout the year. Commonly sighted fish include dorado, black seabass, skipjack tuna, yellowfin tuna, striped marlin, and blue marlin.
Finger Bank
Located fifty miles offshore in the Pacific Ocean, striped marlin are abundant here in the winter months. Some anglers have reported catching sixty billfish in a day fishing here!
Gordo Bank
On the Sea of Cortez, Gordo Bank is sheltered by mountains and has good fishing from April through November. Divided into Inner and Outer Gordo Bank, portions are in excess of 200 feet deep at only ten miles off the coast.
Santa Maria Canyon
This is a popular and easily accessible local fishing hole for tuna, billfish, and dorado throughout the year.
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