FAQs
Learn all about our Cabo fishing charters, what’s included, and what you can bring with you. Check out our most frequently asked questions that have been answered by our captains and knowledgable crew. If you have a question that’s not covered here, please contact us for more information. We hope you’ll have all the info you need to plan your next fishing adventure!
What should I bring with me on the day of my fishing trip?
The Picante Sportfishing Fleet in Cabo San Lucas will have just about everything ready, to make your day of fishing a memorable and fun adventure. In our 24 years of experience as the premier fleet of Cabo, we’ve come to anticipate our client’s needs, and have the vessels prepared well in advance of casting off from the Cabo Sportfishing Charter Marina. Consider bringing your sunscreen of choice, and any other personal items you might need. Bring a camera or binoculars to get a closer look at the beautiful area you’ll be touring. Your pre-selected lunches, beverages, and required licenses will be aboard your premier sportfishing vessel. Just bring yourselves and be ready for an incredible day on the water!
What is provided?
During the reservation process, our staff will prepare required licenses and go over safety information. At this time, any special accommodations can be discussed and arrangements made so when you show up at the marina our staff, your captain, and crew will have everything ready. Customers will be given choices from our lunch menu and beverage list to be enjoyed from the vessel. With us, you’ll have hand selected, bilingual, award-winning fishermen guiding you; the best in all of Cabo San Lucas. Your crew will prepare the poles and rigs for the pending hook-ups, so your group can enjoy the spectacular views of mountains that disappear into the Pacific Ocean. Picante will show guests first class fishing in Cabo San Lucas, the Marlin Capital of the World! We strive to provide an all-inclusive experience from start to finish, so guests can get the most out of Cabo sportfishing.
How should I dress? What is Cabo weather like?
Picante’s fleet of world class vessels are equipped to provide a comfortable experience unrivaled by any other Cabo San Lucas charters. We take advantage of excellent year round fishing, with temperatures ranging from 68-91 degrees, with most days averaging from the low to mid 80’s. We recommend loose and comfortable clothing, plus a hat, sunglasses, and sneakers or sandals. For cooler mornings, a windbreaker or light jacket will be enough to fight off the brisk Pacific air. On the hotter days, our air conditioned cabins come in handy, making a nice respite while cruising to the next fishing grounds to hook a Tuna, Wahoo, Marlin or Dorado! In general, Cabo weather is mild and warm, bringing plenty of fish to the area, and making for a great day on the water.
Are the quotas on the amount of fish I can catch/take home?
There is no limit to the practice of catch and release! Picante prides ourselves on having the IFGA record for the most caught and released Striped Marlin in the Pacific. While preparing to leave the marina, your Captain will discuss with anglers what species are in season, and ask which species you would like to target that day. Based on the number and species of each fish you would like to keep, and their limits, your angling adventure will begin! All of our Captains and Crews are well versed on the current sportfishing regulations here in Cabo San Lucas, and adhere to them strictly to ensure the future of the fisheries.
Generally, catch limits are are follows:
In Cabo San Lucas, each angler is allowed to keep up to 5 fish per day. There is a limit of 1 Marlin, and no more than 2 Dorado and Sailfish. In the case of catch and release, every effort must be made to ensure the survival of each fish in their return to their environment to live another day!
Do I need to procure a fishing license or permit?
The Picante staff will have your required licenses prepared for all anglers in your party prior to your arrival. Your Captain will have all of the documents ready aboard your fully prepared sportfishing vessel. Just arrive, and we’ll have everything taken care of in advance.
What species of fish inhabit Cabo San Lucas
Fishing in Cabo San Lucas is a wonderful experience. We are the “Marlin Capital of the World”, because of our access to Blue Marlin, Black Marlin, and Striped Marlin fishing. Dorado, Tuna, and Wahoo fishing in Cabo is world class. We have several other species; Spanish Mackerel, Snapper, Grouper and other shoreline fish add variety to the Cabo fishing experience. You can review our fish calendar (LINK) to see the best time of year for each species. Picante targets all of the fish here, so get in touch to plan your Cabo San Lucas sportfishing adventure.
How does Cabo fishing vary by time of year?
Fishing in Cabo is either good or great. We have fish all year long, and you can reference our fishing calendar which highlights the best month for the species you wish to target. In the summer months, your Cabo fishing charter will produce most all species in the area. Fishing for Blue Marlin, Striped Marlin, Black Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Dorado, Wahoo, and deep sea fishing is at its best when the weather is warmer. No matter the time of year, Picante delivers awesome Cabo charters that will be fun for every angler in your group.
What does a typical day on the water look like?
The Sea of Cortez is know as the “Aquarium of the Sea”, because of the abundance and variety of fish. When fishing in Cabo you can expect to see a variety of different marine life, sea lions, whales, schools of dolphins, and turtles along with the fish you will be catching. Your day fishing with us will begin by boarding your Picante charter boat. The Crew will have the fishing rods out and start preparing the hooks and lures. As you exit the marina, you’ll stop and pick up bait for the day, and head for the fishing grounds. When your Captain thinks the time is right, the mate will put out the lures to slow troll, or maybe put out live bait, depending on the fish your are targeting. Striped Marlin like to sun themselves, so when the crew spots a sunning marlin, they will throw a live bait as close to it as possible. If it’s hungry, you may have a hook up! Then the fun begins; this is marlin fishing in Cabo at its best.
Can I take my fish home?
At Picante, Cabo’s best fishing charter fleet, we are happy to have your catch sent to be packaged, frozen, and delivered to your hotel the day you are leaving Cabo. All you will need is a cooler to take your catch back with you on the airplane. Many guests take a bag of fish to their favorite restaurant and eat their catch that day.
What if I have never fished before?
Don’t worry! At Picante our crews are experienced with first timers, and are happy to teach you how to handle the rod and bait, and get involved with the best Cabo fishing experience. We offer a family friendly environment and look forward to providing the best sportfishing opportunities, to all experience levels. Fish with us to have a fun filled day on the water, regardless of prior experience.
What is the success rate?
Although it is called fishing not catching, 9 out of 10 boats will catch fish. Whether it be Marlin, Dorado, Tuna, Wahoo, or inshore fish, your crew will not be satisfied unless you have a world class Cabo fishing day on the water.
What bait do you use?
Mackerel, Sardines, and Cabaitos (referred her as a horse fish), are the main live bait used here when fishing in Los Cabos. We also use a variety of lures which are trolled to bring the fish to the surface. If the fish does not bite the lures, the crew may put out a live bait to get a hook up. This is Cabo fishing at its best.
How big to the fish get in Cabo?
Of course fish vary in size, but when fishing for Striped Marlin, you can expect a fish weighing 100-180 pounds. Blue Marlin fishing in Cabo can produce a grander 1,000 pounds, but generally, they will be around 300 pounds and up. Dorado fishing in Cabo will range from 15-65 pounds. Tuna here has produces fish up to 350 pounds, but in general you’ll catch them around 20-90 pounds. And our Wahoo can get as large as 100 pounds. As a rule, Cabo produces big, impressive fish, and your Picante charter and crew will make every effort to show you the best of what the sea has to offer.
How is deep sea fishing different from freshwater fishing?
Deep sea fishing in Cabo San Lucas is quite different than fresh water fishing. We are in the ocean, our fish are much larger, and we have a wide variety of species available each day. If you’ve never been before, go with Picante to experience the incredible the very best of deep sea fishing in Cabo San Lucas.
When should I arrive on the day of my fishing trip?
Both half day and full day fishing charters with the Picante charter fleet generally depart around 6:30 in the morning. However, when you fish with Picante, the vessel is yours for your full or half day, so the boat will leave when you are aboard. Afternoon charters are also available. Please specify your preference when you make your booking.
What different kinds of trips are offered?
At Picante, we offer half day charters (5 hours), and full day charters (8 hours). We also have afternoon whale watching charters when in season, and sunset catered charters. Contact Picante for your customized Cabo charter experience.
What is required to book a trip?
To book the best Cabo charter fleet: contact Picante, pick your boat, and make your reservation.
What forms of payment are accepted?
At Picante, we accept American Express, MasterCard, and Visa. We also accept cash in the office.
What is your cancellation policy?
At the time of your booking, we require a 50% deposit. The remainder is due 15 days prior to your charter date. If after we received your deposit you cancel more than 2 weeks prior to reservation date we will give you a full refund minus a 25% administration fee. If you decide to cancel fourteen to six days before your charter reservation you will receive a 50% refund. If you cancel five or less days before your reservation your total amount paid is non refundable. Weather policy 100% refund of your total amount paid only when the port is closed by the Harbor Master authorities.
Can I reschedule my Cabo charter fishing trip?
Picante is Cabo’s premier fishing charter company, and we strive for 100% customer satisfaction. If you need to reschedule your fishing trip, we will try to accommodate your needs. Let us know as soon as possible, and we will try to find availability.
Where in Cabo are you located? How do I get there?
The Picante office is located on the marina in Puerto Paraiso Plaza, with our charter fleet in front of our office. The plaza offers parking, or just ask your taxi driver and they will know our location. Private transportation can be arranged through the Picante office as well.
We have young kids, can they fish too?
Picante is a family friendly charter fleet where children are welcome. Our crew will work with them and provide instruction so they can participate, and have a memorable day on the water.
How many people can you accommodate on a boat?
Picante has vessels can can accommodate groups of up to 10. We are prepared to accommodate groups large and small, and provide lunch and drink service for all guests.
Do I tip the captain and crew?
When you book with Picante, everything such as fishing licenses, lunches, and beverages are provided. A tip for the crew is not included (generally tipping is similar to that in a restaurant).
What if I get seasick? Is there a way to help prevent this?
If you are concerned about getting seasick, we recommend taking a motion sickness pill. A good nights rest will also help you enjoy your day with Cabo San Lucas’ number one fishing charter company.
How can I contact you to book a trip?
Charters can be arranged online at picantesporfishing.com. Our office is open 7 days a week from 6:00AM – 7:00PM and our English speaking staff will be happy to answer any questions and book your charter. So contact us today for your Cabo fishing charter!
