Cabo San Lucas is a world-class fishing destination, drawing anglers from across the globe to its rich offshore waters. From striped and blue marlin to dorado, tuna, and wahoo, Cabo offers some of the most thrilling fishing experiences in the world. A common question among visiting anglers is: what month is best for marlin fishing in Cabo? Answering this ensures your trip maximizes both excitement and success.
Whether you are a seasoned angler or a first-timer, understanding Cabo’s seasonal fishing patterns, species behavior, and key fishing locations is essential. Partnering with Fishing Cabo San Lucas provides experienced captains, modern boats, and all the resources needed to create an unforgettable fishing adventure.
Why Cabo Fishing Is Ideal for Marlin
Cabo’s location at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula creates a unique environment where the Pacific Ocean meets the nutrient-rich Sea of Cortez. This meeting of currents attracts baitfish, which in turn draws large predators such as striped, blue, and black marlin.
When asking what month is best for marlin fishing in Cabo, understanding water temperature, currents, and seasonal migrations of baitfish is just as important as timing your trip. Experienced captains at Fishing Cabo San Lucas guide anglers to the best Cabo fishing spots for maximum action.
Striped Marlin Fishing in Cabo: Fall Favorites
Striped marlin are known for their acrobatic leaps and aggressive strikes, making them a favorite among Cabo anglers.
- Peak Months: October through December
- Behavior: Surface-oriented, chasing sardines, mackerel, and flying fish
- Techniques: Trolling with ballyhoo, daisy chains, and teasers
Understanding what month is best for marlin fishing in Cabo often points to the fall season for striped marlin. Morning trips provide calm seas, while late afternoons often see heightened surface activity, increasing your chances of landing a trophy.
Blue Marlin Fishing in Cabo: Summer Giants
Blue marlin are the ultimate prize in Cabo fishing, offering power and endurance for serious anglers.
- Peak Months: June through October, peaking in August and September
- Behavior: Prefer warmer waters, often near floating debris or temperature breaks
- Techniques: Heavy trolling with large lures and dredges, enhanced with teasers
Afternoon Cabo fishing trips during summer months are ideal. Timing your trip according to what month is best for marlin fishing in Cabo allows you to target blue marlin when they are most active near the surface.
Black Marlin Fishing in Cabo: The Rare Trophy
Black marlin are rarer but highly prized for their size and strength.
- Peak Months: July through September
- Behavior: Found in deep offshore waters near pinnacles and current edges
- Techniques: Live baiting and heavy trolling
While catching black marlin is less common, understanding what month is best for marlin fishing in Cabo can improve your odds for this trophy species.
Dorado, Tuna, and Wahoo Fishing in Cabo
Cabo’s waters are full of complementary species that make any fishing trip unforgettable:
- Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): May through September; aggressive surface feeders
- Yellowfin Tuna: May through October, especially around offshore banks
- Wahoo: Fast, explosive, peak season July through November
Booking a Cabo fishing charter with Fishing Cabo San Lucas ensures you can target multiple species alongside your marlin adventure.
Cabo Fishing: Seasonal Water Conditions and Currents
Marlin respond strongly to water temperature, currents, and baitfish activity. Understanding these conditions is key when asking what month is best for marlin fishing in Cabo.
- Water Temperature: Striped marlin thrive in 72–78°F; blue and black marlin in 80–86°F
- Currents: Temperature breaks attract baitfish and predators
- Baitfish Behavior: Sardines, mackerel, and flying fish indicate feeding zones
Cabo fishing captains track these daily to place anglers where strikes are most likely.
Cabo Fishing: Morning vs. Afternoon Strategy
The time of day affects results:
- Morning Fishing in Cabo: Cooler temperatures, calmer seas; ideal for striped marlin and wahoo
- Afternoon Fishing in Cabo: Warmer surface waters; better for blue marlin and dorado
By combining seasonal knowledge with daily timing, anglers can maximize their success. Knowing what month is best for marlin fishing in Cabo also helps determine whether to choose morning or afternoon trips.
Cabo Fishing: Monthly Marlin Overview

- January–March: Striped marlin dominate; calm seas; morning trips recommended
- April–May: Transitional; mixed species; full-day trips ideal
- June–August: Blue marlin peak; afternoon activity strong
- September–October: Late blue marlin; dorado season at its best
- November–December: Striped marlin return; excellent mixed species action
This monthly guide helps answer what month is best for marlin fishing in Cabo.
Cabo Fishing Techniques That Work
Cabo requires a versatile approach for success:
- Trolling: Standard for marlin using ballyhoo and artificial lures
- Dredging: Surface disturbance attracts predators
- Live Baiting: Effective for black marlin and larger species
- Kite Fishing: Often used for dorado and tuna
Charters at Fishing Cabo San Lucas adapt techniques daily based on seasonal conditions and fish behavior.
Top Cabo Fishing Hotspots for Marlin and Big Game
Knowing the best locations ensures success:
- Gordo Bank: Productive for striped and blue marlin, dorado, and tuna
- 1150 Fathom Spot: Deep offshore waters for blue marlin
- Nearshore Reefs: Excellent for roosterfish, snapper, and small-game species
Professional Cabo fishing guides ensure you fish where activity is highest, especially when targeting marlin during peak months.
Cabo Fishing Safety and Comfort
A safe and comfortable environment is essential for a productive trip:
- Life jackets and first aid kits onboard
- Shaded seating areas, water, and snacks
- Experienced crew trained in emergency procedures
Booking with Fishing Cabo San Lucas guarantees safety without compromising fishing opportunities.
Cabo Fishing Trip Planning Tips
- Book charters in advance during peak months
- Dress for sun: hats, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen
- Stay hydrated and pack light snacks
- Follow captain guidance on trolling, bait, and positioning
- Plan a full day to maximize both morning and afternoon fishing
These tips improve your chances of landing marlin, regardless of the month.
Cabo Fishing Reviews and Social Proof
Clients praise Fishing Cabo San Lucas on:
- TripAdvisor: Highlighting trophy marlin trips and professional crews
- Google Reviews: Consistent 5-star feedback for safety, equipment, and expertise
Reading reviews helps anglers decide what month is best for marlin fishing in Cabo.
Booking Your Cabo Fishing Adventure
To schedule your next fishing trip:
Email: info@fishingcabosanlucas.com
Website: Fishing Cabo San Lucas
Phone: +1.602.489.8145
Working with a professional charter ensures your trip is timed for peak fishing conditions and provides a safe, enjoyable day on the water.

