San Jose del Cabo Fishing Charters: Your Top FAQs Answered
Cabo Fishing Charters FAQ – San José del Cabo
Planning a fishing trip with Exotic Fish Cabo? Find answers to the most common questions about our private fishing charters, booking, prices, fishing licenses, equipment, and what to expect on the water.
All our fishing trips depart from Puerto Los Cabos Marina in San José del Cabo, Mexico.
Booking and Private Fishing Charters
Where do the fishing charters depart?
All Exotic Fish Cabo charters depart exclusively from Puerto Los Cabos Marina in San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico.
We welcome guests staying throughout Los Cabos, including Cabo San Lucas, but our fishing trips do not depart from Cabo San Lucas Marina.
What types of fishing trips can we book?
We offer private 6-hour (3/4-day), 8-hour (full-day), and custom fishing charters, subject to availability.
Depending on the season and ocean conditions, trips may focus on inshore fishing or offshore sportfishing.
Explore our Fishing Boats to compare available options.
Are your fishing charters private?
Yes. All our fishing charters are private.
Your selected boat is reserved exclusively for your group. We do not offer shared fishing trips with unrelated passengers.
Are your charters suitable for families and beginners?
Yes! We welcome families, children, beginners, and experienced anglers on suitable private fishing charters.
Our local crews can explain fishing techniques, assist with equipment, and help guests enjoy their experience.
Boat capacity, children's ages, safety equipment, and sea conditions should be considered before booking.
Learn more on our Family Fishing Charters page.
How do we book a fishing charter?
You can contact Exotic Fish Cabo through WhatsApp, phone, email, or our online contact form.
Let us know your preferred date, number of guests, and fishing preferences. We'll help you choose a suitable boat and confirm availability, pricing, and booking details.
What is included in a private fishing charter?
Every private charter includes:
An experienced local captain and crew
Fishing rods and reels
Basic fishing tackle
A private boat reserved for your group
Fishing licenses, live bait, food, drinks, transportation, and fish-cleaning services vary by charter.
We'll explain what's included and any additional costs before booking.
Why do private fishing charters cost what they do?
Operating a private fishing charter in Los Cabos involves fuel, marina fees, boat maintenance, fishing equipment, and professional crew expenses.
Our prices reflect these operating costs and the exclusive use of a private fishing boat.
We aim to provide transparent pricing, reliable service, and a personalized fishing experience.
Do you offer discounts?
No. Our charter rates are fixed, and we do not offer discounts or price negotiation.
We focus on providing a professional private fishing experience with clear pricing and personalized service.
Fishing Trips and What to Expect
What is a typical fishing day like?
Our fishing charters normally depart at 6:30 AM from Puerto Los Cabos Marina.
A 3/4-day trip lasts approximately 6 hours, while a full-day trip lasts approximately 8 hours.
These durations include travel time to and from the fishing grounds.
Your captain selects suitable fishing areas based on weather, sea conditions, seasonal fish activity, and your fishing preferences.
What fish can we catch in San José del Cabo?
Depending on the season and conditions, fishing opportunities may include:
Marlin
Yellowfin tuna
Dorado (mahi-mahi)
Wahoo
Roosterfish
Grouper
Snapper
Other seasonal inshore and offshore species
Fishing results vary, and no particular species or catch can be guaranteed.
Visit our Fishing Calendar to learn about seasonal opportunities.
Do you offer fly fishing trips?
Yes, fly fishing may be arranged depending on the selected boat, target species, and fishing conditions.
Please bring your own fly fishing equipment and let us know your plans before booking so we can confirm suitable arrangements.
What should I bring on my fishing trip?
We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, comfortable clothing, personal medication if needed, and a camera.
You may also want a waterproof pouch for your phone and other personal belongings.
Food, water, and drinks depend on the selected charter package, so confirm what's included before departure.
Read our complete What to Bring on a Fishing Charter in Cabo checklist.
How should I dress for the trip?
Wear lightweight, comfortable clothing and non-slip footwear suitable for a fishing boat.
A hat, sunglasses, and sun-protective shirt are recommended.
During cooler fall and winter mornings, a light jacket or windbreaker can be useful.
Fishing Licenses, Regulations and Fish Handling
Do I need a fishing license?
A valid Mexican sportfishing license is generally required for anglers fishing from a boat.
Requirements for children and non-fishing passengers should be confirmed before departure.
Contact Exotic Fish Cabo to verify the applicable requirements and whether licenses are included with your selected charter.
Are there catch limits?
Yes. Mexican sportfishing regulations establish daily catch limits and specific restrictions for certain species.
General saltwater limits include:
Marlin, sailfish, and swordfish: A maximum of one billfish per angler per day.
Dorado (mahi-mahi): A maximum of two per angler per day.
Other species: Limits vary, with a general maximum of five fish of the same species.
These limits are subject to combined catch quotas and applicable regulations, not separate allowances.
At Exotic Fish Cabo, we follow a catch-and-release policy for roosterfish to help protect this iconic sportfish.
Our crew can explain the applicable regulations and responsible fishing practices during your charter.
Can we take our fish home?
Yes, you may take legally retained fish home, subject to applicable regulations and transportation requirements.
Fish cleaning, filleting, and freezing services may be available at the marina for an additional fee.
If you're flying home with fish, check your airline's current rules for frozen seafood, approved coolers, packaging, and baggage.
International travelers should also verify the customs and import requirements of their destination country.
Where can we get live bait?
Our crew normally obtains live bait from local suppliers on the day of your trip, subject to availability.
If you expect to need additional live bait, please let us know before departure.
Live bait costs and inclusions depend on the selected charter.
How does fishing change with the seasons?
Fishing opportunities are available throughout the year in San José del Cabo, but species activity changes with water temperature, currents, weather, and baitfish availability.
Warmer months often provide favorable opportunities for certain offshore species, while other fish may be more active during cooler periods.
For seasonal information, explore our Fishing Calendar and Fishing Reports.
Crew Gratuities and Fishing Tournaments
How much should we tip the crew?
A gratuity of 10% to 20% of the charter price is customary, depending on the service received.
Tips are appreciated but should reflect your satisfaction with the experience.
Please give gratuities directly to the crew so they can distribute them among themselves.
Can we book a boat for a fishing tournament?
Yes. Exotic Fish Cabo offers private fishing charters for tournament participation, subject to boat availability and event requirements.
Tournament bookings may involve an additional fee, typically around 30% above the standard charter price, to cover extra operating time, fuel, and tournament-related expenses.
Tournament arrangements also provide for a 20% of the winnings must be paid to the crew, as required by law. All applicable fees, prize-sharing conditions, and booking terms will be confirmed before your reservation.
Contact us in advance to discuss the tournament, schedule, and available options.
Ready to Book Your Fishing Adventure?
Exotic Fish Cabo offers private fishing charters departing from Puerto Los Cabos Marina in San José del Cabo.
Whether you're planning your first fishing trip, a family adventure, or an offshore sportfishing experience, we'll help you choose the right charter for your group.