Fishing Seasons in Cabo San Lucas: What You Can Catch Year-Round

Written By Cheyenne Moore

Cabo San Lucas is one of the world’s premier sportfishing destinations, offering year-round action for anglers of all levels. Whether you're after trophy billfish, inshore fighters, or delicious table fare, there’s always something biting in these waters. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to catch throughout the year:

Winter (December – February)

While much of the world slows down for fishing in winter, Cabo stays hot with action.

  • Striped Marlin – This is peak season for striped marlin, making Cabo the "Marlin Capital of the World."

  • Yellowfin Tuna – Large schools of tuna, especially in deeper waters, can be found throughout winter.

  • Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) – Though they start to taper off, you can still find good-sized dorado.

  • Sierra Mackerel – A great inshore species for light tackle and an excellent eating fish.

  • Snapper & Grouper – Perfect for bottom fishing near reefs and rock formations.

Spring (March – May)

As waters begin to warm up, the fishing variety increases.

  • Striped Marlin – Still abundant, but beginning to transition out of peak season.

  • Yellowtail – Strong fighters often found near rocky areas and drop-offs.

  • Roosterfish – This is the beginning of a great season for inshore roosterfish.

  • Wahoo – Sporadic but present, especially around deep ledges and drop-offs.

Summer (June – August)

Warm waters bring an influx of pelagic species, making this a great time for trophy fishing.

  • Blue & Black Marlin – The big game season kicks into high gear, with blue and black marlin showing up in larger numbers.

  • Yellowfin Tuna – Schools of tuna, often accompanied by porpoises, provide thrilling action.

  • Dorado – The bite starts to pick up again with larger fish arriving.

  • Roosterfish – Excellent nearshore fishing, especially around beaches and rocky points.

  • Wahoo – More consistent catches, particularly around underwater structures.

Fall (September – November)

This is one of the best times to fish in Cabo, with multiple tournaments taking place and ideal conditions.

  • Black & Blue Marlin – Peak season for these giants, attracting anglers from all over the world.

  • Striped Marlin – As water temperatures begin to cool, striped marlin numbers increase again.

  • Dorado – The best time of the year for dorado, with large schools and trophy-size fish.

  • Wahoo – One of the top months for wahoo fishing.

  • Tuna – Consistent action with the chance of landing a cow-sized yellowfin.

Year-Round Species

While some species have peak seasons, others can be found almost anytime you hit the water:

  • Marlin (Striped, Blue, Black) – Cabo's waters are rich in marlin year-round, though each species has its prime season.

  • Dorado – Always a chance to catch one, but best from summer through fall.

  • Yellowfin Tuna – Available most of the year, with peak months in summer and fall.

  • Snapper & Grouper – Reliable options for bottom fishing excursions.

  • Roosterfish – One of Cabo’s signature inshore catches, especially along the coastline.

No matter when you visit Cabo, there's always a fishing adventure waiting. Whether you're targeting marlin in the summer, chasing dorado in the fall, or enjoying inshore action year-round, the waters here never disappoint. Book a charter and experience world-class fishing in one of the most abundant fisheries on the planet!

Cheyenne Moore