Fall Fishing Surge: Cabo Sees Return of Tuna & Dorado Action
Warm waters, calm seas, and hungry fish—Cabo’s fall season is officially on fire.
As the Pacific transitions into its autumn rhythm, the waters off Cabo San Lucas are once again coming alive with activity. From the famous Gordo Banks to the Golden Gate and Lighthouse areas, local captains are reporting an exciting surge in yellowfin tuna, dorado, and striped marlin—a clear sign that fall is shaping up to be one of the most productive fishing seasons in years.
🌊 Conditions Align for a Strong Bite
Sea temperatures hovering around 84°F have created the perfect environment for pelagic species to move closer to shore. Bait balls of sardines and mackerel are stacking up along the Pacific side, drawing in schools of dorado and yellowfin tuna within striking distance of charter fleets.
Anglers are finding success trolling feathers, cedar plugs, and live caballito, while light-tackle enthusiasts are switching things up with poppers and stickbaits for explosive topwater action. Offshore, boats running 25–35 miles out are encountering larger yellowfin tuna over 100 pounds, especially near temperature breaks and floating debris.
🐟 Charters Report Big Numbers
Several local captains have shared optimistic updates:
“We’re seeing consistent double hookups of dorado and yellowfin. The bite turns on early—by 7 a.m. you better have your lines in the water,”
— Captain Arturo Chacon, Tag Cabo Sportfishing
“It’s been one of the best early-fall bites we’ve had in recent years. The tuna are aggressive and hitting hard,”
— Captain Luis, Pisces Fleet Cabo
On calmer days, the marlin bite has also picked up, particularly around the 1150 and 95 spots, with both striped and the occasional blue marlin released on circle hooks—highlighting the local commitment to catch-and-release ethics.
⚓ Conservation & Sustainable Practices
While the excitement of a hot bite never fades, the Cabo sportfishing community continues to champion sustainability. Captains encourage anglers to:
- Practice catch-and-release for billfish species
- Retain only what’s needed for consumption
- Use circle hooks to minimize injury
- Report tags and catches to conservation partners like IGFA
These practices help ensure that future generations can continue to experience the thrill of Cabo’s world-class fishery.
📸 Fishing Tourism Boost
The return of pelagic species has sparked a new wave of bookings for charter operations and tackle shops. Visitors arriving this fall can expect ideal sea conditions, vibrant marine life, and professional crews ready to deliver an unforgettable adventure.
Cabo’s dual coastlines—the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez—offer anglers the unique chance to chase trophy tuna in the morning and cast for roosterfish inshore by afternoon.
💬 Final Word
With dorado flashing gold across the surface and yellowfin tuna schooling under birds, Cabo San Lucas is back in full fishing swing. Whether you’re a seasoned offshore angler or planning your first big-game experience, there’s no better time to hit the water.
Pack your tackle, grab your crew, and get ready—fall fishing in Cabo is officially ON.
📍 Editor’s Note:
If you’d like to share your recent catch, photo, or fishing story from Cabo or the East Cape, email us at cabosportfishingmagazine@gmail.com for a chance to be featured in our next “Angler Spotlight” section.
