No month guarantees better catches. Fishing varies according to water temperature, currents, weather and natural conditions, and the timing of each season shifts a little from year to year. Use this as a planning guide, then check the month-by-month fishing calendar for the specifics.
Winter fishing (December–February)
Winter is peak striped marlin season off San José del Cabo. Blue and black marlin are also possible early in the season. Offshore, the banks hold tuna and dorado, while inshore roosterfish and sierra provide steady action closer to the coast.
Winter mornings can be cool and the wind can pick up, so early starts and calm days matter. This is also whale watching season, so a fishing day often comes with humpbacks breaching in the distance.
Spring fishing (March–May)
Spring is a transition period. Marlin action continues but becomes less consistent as the water warms, while yellowfin tuna and dorado start to build. Inshore, roosterfish and snapper are reliable through the spring months.
Spring can be a great value window — the crowds are thinner than midwinter and the weather is pleasant, though wind can still be a factor early in the season.
Summer fishing (June–August)
Summer is when the warm-water pelagics arrive in force. Dorado (mahi-mahi) and yellowfin tuna are the headline species, with wahoo a welcome surprise and black marlin possible in the warmest water. Inshore roosterfish stays active.
Summer days are hot and the water is warm, which generally means calmer mornings offshore. Early departures beat the heat and the afternoon breeze.
Fall fishing (September–November)
Fall is a strong mixed season. Dorado and tuna remain through September and October, wahoo is possible, and striped marlin begins to return as the water cools into November. By late fall the winter marlin season is ramping back up.
September can bring tropical weather, so flexibility matters. October and November are often excellent, with comfortable temperatures and good action across species.
Offshore vs nearshore fishing
Offshore fishing runs to the banks and open water for marlin, tuna, dorado and wahoo. Nearshore fishing stays closer to the coast for roosterfish, sierra, snapper and other reef species. If you have a target species in mind, the crew can help decide which approach makes sense on the day. Book the Sport Fishing charter to get out on the water.
Weather considerations
Wind is the main factor in winter and early spring, and can change where and how we fish. Late summer and early fall can bring tropical moisture. Safety always comes first — if conditions are unsafe, we will reschedule or refund. Light clouds rarely affect a trip.
Choosing a month by target species
Striped marlin: peak December–March, returning in November.
Dorado (mahi-mahi): strongest June–October.
Yellowfin tuna: builds from late spring, strong summer into fall.
Wahoo: possible summer through early November.
Roosterfish: nearshore action much of the year.
Sierra: a cool-water inshore target in winter.
For the full month-by-month picture, see the Los Cabos fishing calendar, and for context on the offshore grounds, read the Gordo Banks fishing guide.
Frequently asked questions
Best Time to Fish in San Jose del Cabo FAQs
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