What to Bring on a Fishing Charter in Cabo

Getting ready for a fishing charter in Los Cabos?

Whether you're planning your first fishing trip or returning for another offshore adventure, knowing what to bring can make your day on the water more comfortable.

At Exotic Fish Cabo, we organize private 6-hour and 8-hour fishing charters departing from Puerto Los Cabos Marina in San José del Cabo, Mexico.

Our fishing trips include a local captain and crew, fishing rods, reels, and basic tackle.

However, personal items and certain additional services depend on your selected charter.

Use this practical checklist to prepare for your fishing adventure.

1. Sun Protection

The Baja California Sur sun can be intense, even when the morning air feels cool.

Bring:

• Sunscreen suitable for your skin

• A hat or cap that stays secure in the wind

• Polarized sunglasses

• Lightweight, long-sleeved sun-protective clothing

• Lip balm with SPF

Apply sunscreen as directed and reapply throughout the trip when necessary.

Polarized sunglasses can also help reduce glare from the water.

2. Comfortable Fishing Clothes

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that you don't mind getting wet.

A sun-protective fishing shirt, shorts or lightweight pants, and a comfortable hat are practical choices.

Early morning departures can feel cooler, particularly when the boat is moving.

Bring a light jacket or an extra layer in case of wind or ocean spray.

3. Non-Slip Footwear

Choose shoes that offer good grip on a moving deck.

Non-slip, non-marking footwear is generally a practical option for fishing boats.

Avoid slippery shoes or footwear that makes it difficult to maintain your balance.

4. Seasickness Preparation

Even experienced travelers can feel seasick.

Ocean conditions change throughout the year, and calm seas cannot be guaranteed.

If you are prone to motion sickness, discuss prevention with a healthcare professional before departure.

Some seasickness medications may cause drowsiness or need to be taken in advance, so follow medical advice and product instructions.

Getting enough sleep, avoiding excessive alcohol before departure, and staying hydrated are also sensible preparations.

5. Water, Drinks, and Snacks

Staying hydrated is important during a fishing trip, particularly in warm weather.

Before departure, ask whether your charter includes:

• Bottled water

• Soft drinks

• Snacks

• Meals

• Ice or cooler space

These amenities vary by boat and package.

If food and drinks are not included, confirm what you can bring aboard.

Families should also consider their children's food and hydration needs.

6. A Waterproof Bag for Personal Items

Saltwater spray can reach personal belongings even on relatively calm days.

A small waterproof bag or phone pouch can help protect your valuables.

Useful items include:

• Fully charged phone

• Camera

• Identification when required

• Personal medication

• A small amount of cash

• Booking confirmation

Keep valuable or fragile items secure while the boat is moving.

7. Fishing Licenses

Before your trip, confirm the applicable Mexican sportfishing license requirements for your group.

Do not assume that fishing licenses are included in the advertised charter price.

Our team can clarify whether the required licenses are included with your selected package or need to be arranged separately.

Rules and requirements can change, so confirm them before departure.

8. Do You Need to Bring Fishing Equipment?

Standard fishing equipment is included with Exotic Fish Cabo private charters.

Our trips provide:

• Fishing rods

• Fishing reels

• Basic fishing tackle

• A local captain and crew

You do not need to bring your own rods for a standard fishing charter.

If you prefer to use personal fishing equipment, specialized tackle, or fly-fishing gear, contact us before booking to confirm compatibility with your selected boat and trip.

Live bait and additional specialized equipment may vary by package.

9. What to Confirm Before Your Fishing Trip

Before arriving at the marina, make sure you know:

• Your confirmed departure time

• The exact marina meeting point

• Your selected boat's passenger capacity

• Whether fishing licenses are included

• Whether live bait is included or available

• Whether water, food, and drinks are provided

• Whether fish-cleaning services are available

• Whether transportation is included or separate

• Any additional charges or applicable booking conditions

Asking these questions before departure helps avoid misunderstandings.

10. Preparing the Night Before Your Charter

A little preparation can make an early morning departure easier.

Check your booking confirmation and locate Puerto Los Cabos Marina on a map.

Prepare your clothing, sun protection, personal items, and any food or drinks you plan to bring.

Charge your phone and check that everyone in your group knows the meeting instructions.

Exotic Fish Cabo trips normally depart around 6:30 AM, but always follow the exact time confirmed for your reservation.

Extra Tips for Families Fishing With Kids

If you're bringing children, pack according to their ages and needs.

Pay particular attention to sun protection, hydration, clothing, and comfort during the boat ride.

Discuss the children's ages, applicable safety requirements, and suitable life jackets with our team before booking.

A private fishing charter offers a personalized experience, but children must remain under adult supervision at all times.

If you're organizing a trip with children, explore our Family Fishing Charters in San José del Cabo page for more advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear fishing in Cabo?

Lightweight sun-protective clothing, polarized sunglasses, a hat, and non-slip footwear are practical choices. Bring an extra layer for cool or windy mornings.

Do I need to bring my own fishing rod?

No. Exotic Fish Cabo provides standard fishing rods, reels, and basic tackle with private charters.

Should I bring sunscreen?

Yes. Bring suitable sunscreen and sun-protective clothing. Sun exposure can be significant during several hours on the water.

Do I need to bring food and water?

Check your selected charter package. Food, bottled water, and drinks may be included or arranged separately.

Are fishing licenses included?

This depends on the selected charter. Confirm the applicable requirements and whether licenses are included before departure.

What happens if I get seasick?

Tell the crew if you feel unwell. If you are prone to motion sickness, seek appropriate medical advice before your trip. Ocean conditions cannot be guaranteed.

What time should I arrive?

Our fishing trips normally depart around 6:30 AM. Follow the exact arrival time and meeting instructions provided in your booking confirmation.

Where do Exotic Fish Cabo trips depart?

All our fishing charters depart from Puerto Los Cabos Marina in San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico.

Our boats do not depart from Cabo San Lucas Marina.

Want More Cabo Fishing Tips?

This checklist covers the practical essentials for preparing for your charter.

For more information about fishing techniques, local species, seasickness, equipment, and planning your first trip, explore our Free Fishing Guide for First-Timers in Los Cabos.

READ OUR FREE CABO FISHING GUIDE

Ready to Go Fishing in Cabo?

Exotic Fish Cabo offers private sportfishing charters departing from Puerto Los Cabos Marina.

Selected 6-hour private trips start at $350 USD per boat for 1–2 guests, while selected 8-hour trips start at $550 USD per boat.

Compare our available fishing boats, review the charter options, and contact us to confirm your trip details.