When planning a fishing trip to Cabo San Lucas, many anglers find themselves asking an essential question: “Is it better to fish in the morning or afternoon?” The answer to this depends on several factors, including the species you are targeting, the season, and your personal preferences. This article dives into the pros and cons of morning versus afternoon fishing, which species bite better at different times, and why Blue Sky Cabo’s fishing charters offer an unbeatable advantage for both morning and afternoon anglers. We’ll also highlight how advanced techniques like dredge options, teasers, and our complimentary float and anchor charter can improve your experience, and even discuss glowing TripAdvisor reviews praising afternoon fishing.

Fishing in the Morning

The early bird gets the worm—or, in this case, the fish. Fishing in the morning in Cabo offers several advantages, particularly when it comes to catching certain species that tend to be more active during the cooler hours of the day.

Advantages of Morning Fishing

• Cooler Temperatures: Cabo San Lucas enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round. However, during the summer months, the afternoon sun can be intense, making the early morning hours more comfortable for anglers. In the morning, temperatures are lower, and the seas are often calmer, which can provide a smoother ride out to the fishing grounds.
• Higher Activity for Certain Species: Many species of fish are more active in the morning, as they take advantage of the lower light levels to hunt for prey. Species such as yellowfin tuna, dorado, and roosterfish are often caught during morning hours. The reduced glare from the sun can also make it easier for these species to spot baitfish near the surface, increasing the likelihood of a successful catch.
• Calmer Waters: The wind is typically lighter in the early morning, resulting in calmer seas. This makes trolling and live bait fishing more effective, as the baitfish will appear more natural to predators. Anglers who are prone to seasickness may also prefer the gentler conditions of the morning hours.
• Ideal for Full-Day Trips: Starting your trip early in the morning allows for a full day of fishing, maximizing your chances of encountering a variety of species and taking advantage of peak feeding times. The extended hours also give you the flexibility to explore different fishing spots, increasing your overall success rate.

Species That Bite in the Morning

Several popular game fish in Cabo are known for their morning feeding habits. Here are a few species that tend to be more active in the early hours:

• Yellowfin Tuna: Yellowfin tuna are known to bite better during the morning hours when they are actively hunting schools of baitfish near the surface. These powerful fighters are a favorite among anglers for their speed and strength.
• Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): Dorado are also more active in the morning when the water is cooler and calmer. Their vibrant colors and acrobatic leaps make them a thrilling catch, and they are often found chasing baitfish near floating debris or seaweed.
• Roosterfish: This inshore species is known for its aggressive strikes and can often be found patrolling the shallow waters near the beaches of Cabo in the early morning hours.

Fishing in the Afternoon

Afternoon fishing offers a completely different experience from morning fishing. While some species may be less active during the heat of the day, others are just starting to come alive. Afternoon fishing in Cabo can be especially productive if you know what to target and where to go.

Advantages of Afternoon Fishing

• Warm Water Species: Some species, such as marlin and sailfish, thrive in warmer water temperatures, which peak in the afternoon. These large game fish are more likely to bite as the sun heats the water and they become more active. For anglers looking for a shot at trophy-sized fish, the afternoon may be the better option.
• Longer Light Hours: Fishing in the afternoon allows you to take full advantage of the longer daylight hours, especially during the summer months. You can begin your trip after a relaxing morning and still enjoy several productive hours on the water before the sun sets.
• Sight Fishing Opportunities: With the sun higher in the sky, it’s easier to spot fish near the surface, especially species like mahi-mahi and roosterfish. Sight fishing in the afternoon can add an extra level of excitement as you watch these predators zero in on your bait.
• Afternoon Winds Can Attract Pelagic Species: While calmer waters in the morning are ideal for some species, the afternoon wind often stirs up the water, creating conditions that can attract pelagic species like tuna and wahoo closer to the surface. The increase in wind also makes trolling more effective, as the chop on the water helps to mask the artificial lures, making them appear more lifelike.

Species That Bite in the Afternoon

Some of the most exciting catches in Cabo happen during the afternoon hours. Here are a few species that tend to bite better later in the day:

• Blue and Striped Marlin: As the water heats up in the afternoon, marlin become more active, especially during the peak season from June to October. Marlin are often caught during the late morning to early afternoon hours as they patrol deeper waters in search of prey.
• Sailfish: Like marlin, sailfish prefer the warmer afternoon waters and are known for their aggressive strikes and spectacular aerial displays. They are often found in the same waters as marlin and are more likely to bite as the water temperature rises.
• Wahoo: These fast and elusive predators are often caught in the afternoon when the water has warmed up and the baitfish are more active. Known for their blistering runs, wahoo are a prized catch for anglers seeking a thrilling fight.

The Blue Sky Cabo Advantage

Whether you prefer to fish in the morning or afternoon, choosing the right charter company can make all the difference. Blue Sky Cabo offers a range of advantages that set us apart from other fishing charters in the area. Here’s why booking with us ensures an unforgettable experience:

1. Dredge Option and Teasers

At Blue Sky Cabo, we offer advanced fishing techniques such as the dredge option and teasers. These tools are especially effective in attracting marlin, sailfish, and other pelagic species. Our dredge system mimics a school of baitfish swimming near the surface, while our teasers, which include beer cans and PVC pipe neon teasers, add movement and flashes of color to draw fish closer to the boat. These techniques have proven to be highly effective in increasing hookup rates, especially during afternoon trips when marlin are more active.

2. Complimentary Float and Anchor Charter

At Blue Sky Cabo, we understand that not every fishing trip goes as planned. That’s why we offer a complimentary two-hour float and anchor charter if you don’t catch any fish during your original trip. This offer doesn’t expire, giving you another opportunity to head back out onto the water at no additional cost. We are committed to ensuring that every guest has the best possible chance of landing a catch, and this guarantee reflects our confidence in the fishing opportunities Cabo provides.

3. Money-Back Guarantee on Tackle Dredge Rental

If you choose to rent our tackle dredge system and don’t catch any fish, we offer a money-back guarantee. This demonstrates our commitment to providing high-quality equipment that works. Our dredge system is highly effective for marlin and other large game fish, and we stand behind it with this offer. It’s just one more way that Blue Sky Cabo puts the customer first.

4. Glowing TripAdvisor Reviews for Afternoon Fishing

Many of our guests have raved about the success they’ve had fishing in the afternoon. In fact, our TripAdvisor reviews are filled with stories of anglers who have landed impressive catches during afternoon trips, particularly marlin and sailfish. The combination of warm waters, advanced fishing techniques, and experienced crews makes afternoon fishing with Blue Sky Cabo an exciting and rewarding experience.

You can read more about what our satisfied guests have to say here.

Morning vs. Afternoon: Which is Best for You?

Ultimately, whether you choose to fish in the morning or afternoon depends on your target species and personal preferences. Morning trips are ideal for anglers seeking calmer waters and cooler temperatures, with species like yellowfin tuna, dorado, and roosterfish being more active. On the other hand, afternoon trips provide the best opportunity to catch large game fish such as marlin, sailfish, and wahoo, which thrive in warmer waters.

Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:

• Morning Fishing: Best for yellowfin tuna, dorado, roosterfish, and calmer seas. Ideal for anglers who prefer cooler temperatures and a full day on the water.
• Afternoon Fishing: Best for marlin, sailfish, and wahoo, especially during the warmer months. Ideal for anglers seeking a chance at larger game fish and a shorter, but action-packed trip.

Conclusion: Is It Better to Fish in the Morning or Afternoon in Cabo?

So, is it better to fish in the morning or afternoon? The answer depends on what you want from your Cabo fishing experience. Morning trips offer the advantages of cooler temperatures, calmer waters, and species like yellowfin tuna and dorado. Afternoon trips, however, are perfect for those targeting marlin and sailfish, as these species become more active as the day heats up. Regardless of the time, choosing Blue Sky Cabo gives you the best possible chance for success, thanks to our advanced techniques, complimentary charters, and glowing reviews. No matter when you choose to fish, we’re here to make sure your time on the water is unforgettable.