A Guide to Sportfishing Operators in Los Cabos

Local fishermen and Hollywood celebrities were among the first to discover the bounties of the waters off the coast of Los Cabos, Mexico. Today, of course, the word is out, as vacationers from around the world fly in to try their hand at one of the country’s best locations for sportfishing. And a variety of local tour operators and hotels help visitors make the most of the experience.

“Los Cabos is a world-class fishing destination preferred by professionals and amateurs from around the world, who have been coming to the Sea of Cortez for more than 30 years,” said Rodrigo Esponda, managing director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board. 
The area’s appeal lies in a near-perfect combination of natural factors, Esponda says.

“Its strategic location, nutrient-rich natural waters and diverse fish species are among the top reasons why Los Cabos is a sportfishing paradise,” he said. “Nowhere else can you find such a breathtaking backdrop where the ocean meets the desert."

Indeed, fishing enthusiasts will find many rewards below the waves. The promise of billfish — which generally weigh between 200 and 500 pounds — is a big reason why so many anglers visit. Striped, blue and black marlin are among the most sought-after species. And yellowfin tuna, which often top the scales at more than 300 pounds, are also a valued catch.

Fishermen of all levels can find an appropriate challenge in Los Cabos, with options ranging from basic in-shore fishing (which involves staying closer to the shoreline) to far-ranging, all-inclusive excursions that include everything from bait and tackle to gear and provisions. And with a range of fishing boat operators, outings can be as bare-bones or as luxurious as a traveler likes.

Hacienda Encantada Resort & Residences is among the properties offering fishing packages. Its popular $350 marlin fishing experience lasts five hours and can be upgraded by adding options for food and drinks, as well as handling live bait and licenses.

Even restaurants are in on the sportfishing craze. To make it easier for visitors to enjoy a complete fishing experience, Herringbone, the U.S.-based chain that debuted this year at Vidanta Los Cabos, offers a “catch and cook” program. Guests can join a private fishing charter and then savor a meal prepared by executive chef Alex Branch that features the guests’ catch. Participants can also accompany the chef in the kitchen to see a cooking demonstration that teaches preparation basics, including how to debone a freshly caught fish.

While fishing is popular year-round in Los Cabos, it’s an especially big draw during several major competitions. The Stars & Stripes Tournament takes place in June; Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in October; and Cabo Tuna Jackpot in November. There are also three local Bisbee’s tournaments — the Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Tournament, Los Cabos Offshore Charity Tournament and Bisbee’s Black and Blue Marlin Tournament.

Local sportfishing operators can provide just about everything a vacationer needs to take to the water in Los Cabos.

For instance, Pisces Sportfishing and Luxury Yachts — which was founded in 1978 by a family in La Paz, Mexico — maintains a diverse fleet that ranges from the Baja panga (a skiff with an outboard motor) to mega-yachts designed to cater to the most demanding travelers. Pangas, which range from 22 to 27 feet, are equipped with one fighting chair and additional passenger seating, with the most common excursions running between 1 and 10 miles parallel to the coast. Standard cruisers, such as the 28-foot Adriana, feature two fighting chairs as well as more shade for passengers. Fishing enthusiasts looking for the ultimate in comfort, meanwhile, can opt for the 120-foot Maranatha, which has a sundeck, two Yamaha wave runners and even a water trampoline and beach tent — perfect for groups who want to mix fishing with some relaxing.

If your clients are impressed by record catches, local operator Picante Sportfishing holds the record for the largest marlin in Bisbee’s Black and Blue Marlin Tournament, which takes place in October. With a fleet of 14 yachts, Picante offers charters to accommodate groups of four to 10 people, while its 110-foot luxury yacht, Panache, sleeps up to six guests.

Another option is Blue Sky Cabo, which has a fleet that ranges in size from 31 to 60 feet. Blue Sky offers one-day fishing trips as well as a one-week fishing charter package that includes accommodations at local resorts such as Hacienda Encantada or Villa del Palmar.

Finally, Redrum Sportfishing is a U.S.-owned operator that also offers packages that include accommodations. The company works with a variety of properties, such as Portofino Pedregal, Villa Luna Nueva and Villa del Toro Rojo. Its creatively named fleet ranges from the 28-foot TantRum, which accommodates four anglers, to the 35-foot 19’s Toy, which can handle eight passengers.

The Details
Blue Sky Fishing
www.cabofishings.com

Hacienda Encantada Resort & Residences
www.haciendaencantada.com

Los Cabos Tourism Board
www.visitloscabos.travel

Picante Sportfishing
www.picantesportfishing.com

Pisces Sportfishing and Luxury Yachts
www.piscessportfishing.com