- Checking local weather forecast and fishing reports the night before you plan to fish is always wise. Don’t forget hats, scarves, buffs, boat shoes (jackets, if needed) as well as plenty of sun block to combat the intense Baja sun.
- If you are booking a trip at the last minute, use one of the many charter operations in Los Cabos — NOT one of the independent street vendors hawking on the Malecón surrounding the IGY Marina. Be sure to have a clear understanding of what is included in the charter fee — lunches, drinks, fishing licenses, departure and return times along with boat name and location. Check if there are refunds for port closures.
- Before fishing in Mexican waters, ALL passengers on any fishing boat must have a valid Mexican Sport Fishing License. This license is valid anywhere in Mexico and may be purchased by day, week, month or year. It is required for underwater fishing but is not required when fishing from shore.
- Licenses can be purchased online. Here is a link for you to purchase your license, if necessary. bajasursportfishing.com
- Few fisheries in the world offer such a rich assortment of sportfishing alternatives. Cabo’s blue and black marlin exceeding a thousand pounds or tuna in the 300-pound range may be the Holy Grail of sportfishing to seasoned anglers, but not necessarily to the first-timer or occasional angler. On the other end of the scale, much smaller by comparison, with their rooster-like dorsal and coloring resembling a punk-rocker headed for a rave, the roosterfish leads the long list of inshore fish that are tough as nails and never fail to excite visitors searching for a unique fishing experience.
- With so many “fish of a lifetime” to target, deciding what to target can be intimidating. Don’t try to do everything in one day! Choices are inshore and offshore. Based on current reports, chose a target fish that is close to the top of your current catch list. If your choice is billfish, larger tuna or dorado, odds are your Captain will head offshore. If you prefer roosterfish, jacks, yellowtail, small tuna or bottom fish, chances are you will remain inshore.
- Captain and crew are on the water every day and are often eager to share their fishing knowledge and advice with you. Listen carefully. Your enjoyment and success is their primary goal.
- Catch and Release: Mexican Law states, “There is no limit to the practice of «catch and release» as long as the fish that exceeds the bag limit be returned to their environment in good survival condition.” Billfish, sharks and roosterfish are definitely in the glamor category and should be released whenever possible. Be sure to advise your crew before you hook up of your intent to release the fish.
- Don’t overlook the fact that many species of your catch are considered excellent table fare; most restaurants will be delighted to prepare them for your dinner in a variety of tasty ways.
- The most important advice we can offer is for you to relax and enjoy your day on the water. Everyone in Cabo wants your trip to be a pleasant one and will work to make it successful. All you have to do is follow instructions and stay connected!
