How much does a fishing charter cost in Cabo San Lucas?

Top Anglers charters range from $450 (half-day panga, 1-3 anglers) to $2,300 (full day, 45-foot sportfisher, up to 12 anglers). Every price includes captain, crew, fishing licenses, tackle, live bait, ice, water, dock fees, and taxes. No hidden fees.

What is included in a Top Anglers fishing charter?

Every charter includes the boat, captain, crew, Mexican fishing licenses, all tackle and gear, live bait (when available), ice, and bottled water. Dock fees, marina fees, and all taxes are included. Crew gratuity (15-20%) is the only additional cost.

What fish can you catch in Cabo San Lucas?

Striped marlin peak October-April. Blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, and dorado run strong June-November. Wahoo: September-November. Pacific sailfish: May-July. Roosterfish year-round.

When is the best time to go fishing in Cabo San Lucas?

October-November offers the most variety (marlin, tuna, dorado, wahoo overlap). June-September is prime for blue marlin. December-March is excellent for striped marlin. There is no bad time to fish Cabo.

Should I book direct or through FishingBooker?

Booking direct gives you a guaranteed boat and captain, direct communication, no middleman commission (10-30% on platforms), and flexible cancellation. Top Anglers does not list on FishingBooker. 100% of your payment goes to the people operating your trip.

Is the charter safe for children?

Yes. Top Anglers regularly hosts families with children of all ages. Captains adjust trips for comfort and safety. All boats carry required safety equipment and are licensed and insured.

Do I need a fishing license in Cabo San Lucas?

Yes. All passengers aboard a fishing vessel require a Mexican fishing license, even if not actively fishing. Top Anglers includes all fishing licenses in the charter price.

How do I get to the marina for my charter?

Top Anglers departs from Marina Principal in downtown Cabo San Lucas. From the Tourist Corridor: 15-30 min drive. Most charters depart 6:00-7:00 AM. Arrive 15 minutes early.

What is the cancellation policy?

Weather cancellations are rescheduled at no charge. Contact us directly to discuss any changes. We are a family operation, not a policy engine.

How many people can fit on a charter?

1 to 12 anglers depending on the boat. Pangas: 1-3. Mid-range: 4-6. Tournament sportfishers (40-45 ft): 8-12. Choose a boat size that matches your group for the best fishing experience.

Los Cabos Fishing Report — January 2026

Jan 31

Written By Max Vargas

Conditions Overview

January marks the peak of Cabo San Lucas's winter fishing season, delivering exceptional conditions for both inshore and offshore pursuits. Water temperatures settle between 72–75°F, creating ideal conditions for roosterfish, tuna, and other species throughout the region. The protected waters of the Sea of Cortez provide calm, productive grounds along sandy beaches and rocky points, while the Pacific side maintains consistent pelagic opportunities. Whale season is in full swing, with humpback and gray whales frequently spotted during transits, adding a spectacular natural backdrop to every charter. This dynamic environment makes January one of the most consistent and rewarding months to fish Cabo, whether you're pursuing the iconic inshore roosterfish or working offshore structure for schools of yellowfin.

Species Report

Roosterfish: The Inshore Trophy

Roosterfish is January's star performer, captivating anglers with their distinctive tall dorsal spines—the iconic "rooster comb" that gives them their name. These shallow-water warriors inhabit sandy beaches, rocky points, and surf zones in 20–80 feet of water, making them accessible from Top Anglers' inshore fleet. The visual spectacle is unmatched: when hooked, roosterfish flash their spectacular dorsal display while making powerful runs and head-shaking fights that keep anglers on their toes. Live bait presentations using sardines and mullet are the primary technique, and catch-and-release is the standard practice—these fish are prized as sport trophy species, not table fare. January has delivered consistent action, with experienced captains working the Cortez side and Pacific coast near Cabo pinpointing ideal structure. Their aggressive take and acrobatic displays make roosterfish one of the most sought-after inshore game fish in the Eastern Pacific.

Yellowfin Tuna: Offshore Excellence

Yellowfin tuna remain present throughout January, particularly in mid-range and deeper offshore waters. While not as abundant as fall arrivals, consistent schools have provided excellent action for anglers targeting mixed pelagic bites. Live mackerel and sardine presentations have proven most effective. Catches have ranged from 15–40 pounds, delivering the speed and power that serious sportfishing enthusiasts demand.

Dorado: Lower but Present

Dorado catches remain lower than fall abundance, though pockets of activity persist in deeper waters and around floating debris. These aggressive fighters provide spectacular surface displays when located, rewarding the patience required to find them.

Trip Highlights

The Duetto and Group Fishing Adventures

The Duetto and Roosterfish Adventures

Top Anglers' Duetto continues to deliver memorable fishing experiences throughout January. This month featured several outstanding group trips showcasing the boat's capacity for family-friendly charters and corporate outings. Multiple roosterfish charters off the Cortez side captured the visual magic these fish deliver—families and younger anglers lined the rails, watching dramatic dorsal displays and explosive strikes as their guides worked prime structure. When those iconic dorsal spines flush, the entire boat erupts. Mixed outings pairing inshore roosterfish with offshore tuna hunts created the diverse action that makes Cabo sportfishing so compelling.

Multi-generational success and scenic whale sightings created the perfect backdrop for family bonding and angling success, cementing why Top Anglers is the preferred choice for best fishing charters in Cabo San Lucas.

Plan Your Cabo Fishing Adventure

Top Anglers Sport Fishing Charters operates a professional fleet ready to deliver world-class experiences on Cabo San Lucas's premier fishing grounds. Whether you're pursuing the iconic roosterfish, targeting offshore yellowfin tuna, or seeking an unforgettable destination fishing experience, our experienced team knows the seasonal patterns, species behavior, and productive structures that define success. Contact Top Anglers today to book your adventure and experience why serious anglers choose Cabo San Lucas for their fishing destinations.

Top Anglers Sport Fishing Charters | Cabo San Lucas, Mexico