Best Time of Year to Fish in Cabo San Lucas

Are you a fishing enthusiast looking for the ultimate angling experience? Cabo San Lucas, located at the tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, is known as one of the world’s top sportfishing destinations. With its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, it’s no wonder anglers from around the globe flock to this hot spot year after year. But when is the best time of year to cast your line in Cabo?

As with any fishing destination, there are high and low seasons to consider when planning your trip. Factors such as water temperature, weather patterns, and migration patterns can all play a role in determining the best time to fish in Cabo San Lucas. And let’s not forget about peak tourist season, which can not only make fishing more crowded but also drive up prices.

But don’t worry, we’ve done the research so you don’t have to! In this article, we’ll break down the best times of year to fish in Cabo San Lucas based on expert recommendations and insider knowledge. So grab your gear and get ready for a thrilling fishing adventure in one of the most beautiful destinations on earth!

Discover the Different Seasons in Cabo San Lucas and How They Affect Fishing Conditions

The High Season: October to May

The high season for fishing in Cabo San Lucas extends from October to May. During this time, the water temperature is warm, ranging from 70°F to 80°F. The conditions are perfect for catching a variety of fish species, including marlin, yellowfin tuna, dorado, and wahoo. The seas are generally calm during this period, making it ideal for all types of fishing.

Fishing Tips:

• If you plan to fish during the high season, make sure to book your trip well in advance as it’s peak tourist season.
• Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to fish as the sun is not too harsh.
• Baitfish such as sardines or mackerel work well during this season.

The Low Season: June to September

The low season for fishing in Cabo San Lucas falls between June and September. During this time, the weather is hot and humid with occasional tropical storms. The water temperature ranges from 80°F to 90°F. This season is known for its excellent billfish action with sailfish and striped marlin being abundant. Yellowfin tuna can also be caught during these months.

Fishing Tips:

• July and August are considered the best months for billfish action.
• Dorado can be caught near floating debris or weed lines during this season.
• Trolling with artificial lures such as skirted baits or cedar plugs work well.

Explore the Types of Fish Commonly Caught in Cabo San Lucas and the Best Time to Catch Them

Marlin

Marlin is the most sought-after game fish in Cabo San Lucas. The best time to catch marlin is during the high season, from October to May. Blue and black marlin can be caught throughout the year, but striped marlin are most abundant from January to April.

Fishing Tips:

• Baitfish such as mackerel or squid work well for marlin.
• Trolling with artificial lures such as skirted baits, chuggers or jet heads produce good results.
• Look out for birds diving into the water as they often signal a school of baitfish which in turn attract marlin.

Tuna

Yellowfin tuna is another popular game fish in Cabo San Lucas. They can be caught throughout the year, but their peak season is during the high season from October to May.

Fishing Tips:

• Tuna can be caught using live bait such as sardines or mackerel.
• Jigging with butterfly jigs or casting poppers also work well.
• Look out for birds diving into the water as they often signal a school of baitfish which in turn attract tuna.

Dorado

Dorado, also known as Mahi-Mahi, can be found near floating debris or weed lines. They are abundant during the low season from June to September.

Fishing Tips:

• Baitfish such as sardines or mackerel work well for dorado.
• Casting surface poppers near floating debris or weed lines produces good results.

Learn How Water Temperature Impacts Fishing in Cabo San Lucas and When the Ideal Temperature Is

The water temperature plays a crucial role in fishing as it affects the fish’s behavior and feeding patterns. In Cabo San Lucas, the ideal water temperature for fishing is between 70°F to 80°F. During this period, the fish are active, and their feeding patterns are at their peak.

If the water temperature is too cold or too hot, it can affect fishing conditions negatively. Coldwater temperatures can cause fish to become lethargic and less active. On the other hand, if the water temperature is too warm, some species of fish will move into deeper waters where it’s cooler.

Fishing Tips:

• Check the water temperature before going on a fishing trip.
• If you notice that the water temperature is too cold or too hot, plan your fishing trip accordingly by targeting specific species that thrive in those conditions.
• If you’re unsure about which fish species to target during certain water temperatures, consult with a local guide or charter company for advice.

Find Out About Specific Months Known for Exceptional Fishing Opportunities in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas has many months known for exceptional fishing opportunities. Here are some notable months:

October

October marks the beginning of high season when marlin fishing is at its best. This month also sees an abundance of yellowfin tuna.

December – February

These months are excellent for catching striped marlin as they migrate south towards Cabo San Lucas.

July – August

These months mark the low season when billfish such as sailfish and striped marlin are abundant.

Be Aware of Weather Conditions When Planning a Fishing Trip to Cabo San Lucas

Weather conditions can significantly impact fishing in Cabo San Lucas. It’s essential to check the weather forecast before planning a fishing trip. During the high season, the weather is generally mild and pleasant with calm seas. On the other hand, during the low season, there may be occasional tropical storms.

Fishing Tips:

• Check the weather forecast before going on a fishing trip.
• If you notice that there is a possibility of bad weather, plan your trip accordingly by rescheduling or targeting specific species that thrive in those conditions.
• Consult with a local guide or charter company for advice on which fish species to target during certain weather conditions.

Check Out Annual Fishing Events or Tournaments Held in Cabo San Lucas That Coincide with the Best Time of Year to Fish

Cabo San Lucas hosts several annual fishing events or tournaments that coincide with the best time of year to fish. These events attract both locals and tourists who are passionate about fishing.

Some notable events include:

Bisbee’s Black & Blue Tournament

This tournament takes place during October when marlin fishing is at its best. It’s one of the most prestigious and lucrative tournaments in Cabo San Lucas.

The Los Cabos Billfish Tournament

This tournament takes place during October and attracts anglers from all over Mexico and beyond.

The Western Outdoor News Tuna Jackpot Tournament

This tournament takes place during November when yellowfin tuna are abundant.

Understand How Moon Phase Affects Fishing in Cabo San Lucas and Which Phases Are Best for Certain Types of Fish

The moon phase can impact fishing as it affects tidal currents, baitfish behavior, and fish feeding patterns. In Cabo San Lucas, certain phases of the moon are more favorable for catching specific types of fish.

New Moon and Full Moon

During the new moon and full moon phases, tidal currents are stronger, which can cause baitfish to move around more. This, in turn, attracts predatory fish such as marlin and tuna.

Fishing Tips:

• During the new moon and full moon phases, focus on fishing near drop-offs or underwater structures where baitfish tend to accumulate.
• Trolling with artificial lures such as skirted baits or cedar plugs work well during this time.

First Quarter Moon and Third Quarter Moon

During the first quarter moon and third quarter moon phases, tidal currents are weaker. This can make it easier to target bottom-dwelling species such as snapper and grouper.

Fishing Tips:

• During the first quarter moon and third quarter moon phases, focus on fishing near rocky structures or reefs where bottom-dwelling fish tend to congregate.
• Baitfish such as squid or cut bait work well for these species.

Discover the Best Time to Plan a Fishing Trip to Cabo San Lucas Based on Crowds and Tourism

Cabo San Lucas is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak season. If you’re looking for a less crowded experience, it’s best to plan your fishing trip during the low season from June to September.

If you prefer a lively atmosphere with lots of people around, then the high season from October to May will be more suitable for you. However, keep in mind that prices may be higher during this period due to increased demand.

Fishing Tips:

• If you plan to fish during peak tourist season, make sure to book your trip well in advance as it’s a busy time of year.
• If you’re looking to save money, consider planning your trip during the low season when prices are generally lower.
• Consult with a local guide or charter company for advice on when to plan your fishing trip based on crowds and tourism.

In conclusion, the best time of year to fish in Cabo San Lucas depends on the type of fish you are targeting. However, the months between October and May generally offer optimal fishing conditions with a variety of species available for anglers to catch.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Time of Year to Fish in Cabo San Lucas

What is the best month for deep sea fishing in Cabo?
For those who enjoy fishing, September is often regarded as the prime month of the year for fishing in Cabo San Lucas. Despite the high temperatures and humidity levels, which typically hover around the mid 90’s and 70%, respectively, the warm weather attracts large fish to the area during this time.

What is the best time of year to marlin fish in Cabo?
If you want to go marlin fishing in Cabo, the ideal period is from July to October, as this is when you will have the best chance of catching Black Marlin and Blue Marlin. Striped Marlin are typically present from January to July. October is generally the preferred month for fishing by locals, as it offers the ultimate fishing experience in Cabo San Lucas.

What is the best fishing in Cabo San Lucas?
Cabo is known as the Marlin Capital of the World for good reason. In addition to fishing for big game Billfish, there are opportunities to catch Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, and Wahoo. Along with offshore fishing, there are also great options for inshore fishing, including Roosterfish, Grouper, and Snapper.

What is the best time of year to catch Roosterfish in Cabo?
Roosterfish can be caught in Cabo throughout the year, but the larger ones are typically caught between July and early October.

What are the best and worst months to go to Cabo?
Cabo San Lucas is a dry cruise port located on the west coast of Mexico, and it has peak and off-peak times for visitors. The ideal time to go is from April to June, while the least desirable times are in August and September.

Is fishing better in Cabo or Cancun?
Cabo is known for having the world’s best deep sea fishing, with an average success rate of 93% in catching big game. Additionally, Jacques Cousteau, a well-known underwater diver, referred to Cabo and the Sea of Cortez as “The aquarium of the world”.