From early-morning departures and changing fishing conditions to what to bring, seasickness, tipping, and what happens with your catch — here’s what you should know before your day on the water.
Fishing in Cabo isn’t a scripted experience. Where you fish, how far you travel, what techniques are used, and what species you encounter can all change from one day to the next.
Captains make decisions based on recent fishing activity, target species, bait concentrations, water temperature, currents, weather, sea conditions, and information from other crews. The goal is to put your group in the best available situation based on the conditions that day.
If you have a specific species or style of fishing in mind, communicate that before the trip so the crew can plan accordingly.
Fishing charters in Los Cabos typically leave early in the morning.
Most Playita trips depart at approximately 6:30 AM, and guests should generally plan to arrive at the boat around 6:15 AM unless instructed otherwise for their specific charter. Exact meeting instructions will be provided for your vessel.
Leaving early gives the crew more fishing time and allows the boat to begin traveling toward productive water while conditions are often favorable.
Guests should account for transportation time to the correct marina. Playita boats depart from either Cabo San Lucas Marina or Puerto Los Cabos in San José del Cabo.
Make sure you know which marina your boat departs from before the morning of your charter.
There is no standard distance that every Cabo charter travels. Some days productive fishing can be relatively close to the marina. On other days, crews may travel significantly farther to find the right water, bait, or target species.
This is one reason a full-day trip can provide more flexibility when fishing is the main priority.
There is no single way to fish Cabo. Depending on the species, season, and conditions, your crew may use a variety of techniques throughout the day.
Experienced crews adjust throughout the day based on what they’re seeing on the water. The best approach is usually to let the captain and crew use the techniques they believe provide the best opportunity, while communicating any specific preferences you have.
What is included varies by vessel, so always review your specific boat listing before the trip.
Avoid bringing unnecessary luggage or oversized bags onto the boat.
These inclusions vary depending on the vessel and whether you’ve selected a non-inclusive or all-inclusive option. Refer to your individual boat listing and booking information for the exact inclusions of your charter.
Even on beautiful days, the ocean moves. Plan ahead rather than waiting until you begin feeling sick on the boat. Over-the-counter motion sickness medication is commonly used — follow the directions for whatever you choose and speak with a medical professional if you have questions about whether it is appropriate for you.
Los Cabos has excellent weather for much of the year, but ocean conditions can change. Wind, swell, currents, tropical weather, and seasonal conditions can all affect the ride and the fishing.
The captain has final authority over the safe operation of the vessel and may adjust the fishing plan based on conditions.
The local Port Captain can close the harbor when conditions are considered unsafe. If the port is officially closed and your charter cannot operate, the applicable Playita weather and cancellation policy will apply.
For legal table fish that you decide to keep, you have several options.
Billfish are generally released, and responsible handling and release practices are strongly encouraged. For fish you plan to keep, applicable Mexican fishing regulations and limits still apply.
If you catch more fish than you can realistically eat, sharing some of your catch can go a long way in Cabo.
Captains and crews are always appreciative of fish you’re not going to use, but you can also bring fresh fish back for the people taking care of you during your stay. Hotel, villa, and hospitality staff — concierges, housekeepers, chefs, security, drivers — will often be extremely appreciative of fresh local fish.
You don’t need to give away your entire catch. Keep what you want and share some of the rest. It’s a simple gesture, but a great way to show appreciation and connect with the local people taking care of you while you’re in Los Cabos.
Fish-cleaning and processing services are available around the Los Cabos marinas. Depending on the service, your catch can be cleaned, filleted, vacuum sealed, frozen, or prepared for travel. Guests can also take fresh fish to participating local restaurants that offer cook-your-catch service.
Fish processing is generally separate from the charter unless specifically listed as an inclusion for your vessel. The crew can help point you in the right direction after the trip.
Gratuity is customary on Cabo fishing charters. A typical gratuity is approximately 15–20% of the charter price, depending on the level of service and your experience. The crew works before, during, and after your charter preparing the boat, tackle, bait, equipment, and catch. Gratuity is generally given directly to the crew at the end of the trip.
Cabo is one of the world’s great sportfishing destinations, but no captain, crew, or charter company can guarantee that a specific fish will be caught. Conditions change constantly.
A successful fishing day isn’t always measured by the number of fish brought back to the dock. The best crews put in the effort, adjust to the conditions, and give guests the best opportunity they can on that particular day.
If catching a specific species is especially important to you, let Playita know before booking so we can help recommend the right time of year, boat, and departure location.