Cabo Fishing in January 2026: Top Species & Why Winter Is Best

If you’re planning a fishing trip to Cabo San Lucas in January 2026, get ready for one of the most action-packed months of the year. Winter brings cooler waters, migrating pelagic species, and ideal weather conditions — all of which make January one of the best fishing months in all of Los Cabos.

Below is your full guide to what’s biting, the best fishing areas, and why winter is consistently a favorite season for anglers from around the world.

Why January Is a Prime Fishing Month in Cabo

Cabo San Lucas is surrounded by rich, nutrient-filled waters where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. In winter, these waters become even more attractive to gamefish due to:

Cooler Sea Surface Temperatures

Species like striped marlin, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and dorado thrive in the cooler temps (70–74°F) common in January.

Increased Bait Activity

Winter currents push sardines, mackerel, and ballyhoo into Cabo’s offshore zones — drawing in large predators.

Perfect Weather for Charter Fishing

January offers:

Calm seas
Low humidity
Average temps between 65–80°F
Minimal rain

This creates ideal fishing conditions, especially for full-day offshore trips.

What’s Biting in Cabo in January 2026?

If you’re fishing with Epic Ventures Fishing Charters, here are the species you can expect to target.

Striped Marlin (Peak Season)

January is prime striped marlin season. These lightning-fast predators gather in huge numbers offshore, especially near:

Golden Gate Bank
Finger Bank
Lighthouse Reef

Anglers can expect exciting surface action and multiple shots per day — often the highlight of a winter Cabo trip.

Dorado (Mahi Mahi)

Dorado remain abundant in early 2026, especially after strong fall runs. Look for them around:

Floating debris
Tide lines
Warm pockets of water

Their bright colors and acrobatic jumps make dorado a fan favorite.

Yellowfin Tuna

January tuna fishing can be excellent depending on offshore movement patterns. Boats often find tuna:

20–40 miles offshore
Near porpoise pods
Around temperature breaks

Typical sizes range from 30–80 lbs, though larger fish are always possible.

Wahoo

Winter wahoo are fast, aggressive, and delicious. January offers:

Strong mid-season action
Best results trolling high-speed lures
Strikes near rocky offshore structures

Wahoo are one of the tastiest catches in Cabo

Inshore Species

If you prefer light tackle or shorter trips, January is also great for:

Roosterfish
Sierra mackerel
Snapper
Grouper

Inshore waters remain clear and active, offering family-friendly options.

Best Places to Fish in January

Some of the top fishing zones for January 2026 include:

Offshore Hotspots

Golden Gate Bank
Finger Bank
The Ridge
Gordo Banks

Inshore & Nearshore

The Lighthouse
Migrino Beach
Chileno Bay

Epic Ventures Fishing Charters typically tailors routes based on current bite reports and water conditions for the best results.

Tips for a Successful January Fishing Trip

Book Early

January is a high-demand month. Charters fill up quickly due to perfect weather and peak fishing conditions

Choose the Right Trip Length

Full-day for tuna, wahoo, marlin
Half-day for inshore species

Wear Layers

Cool mornings warm up quickly — Cabo winter weather can change fast.

Bring Sun Protection

Even in January, Cabo sun can be intense:

SPF 50
Polarized sunglasses
Lightweight long sleeves

Why Fish Cabo With Epic Ventures Fishing Charters?

Epic Ventures offers:

Expert local captains
Top-quality gear
Comfortable boats
Customized inshore and offshore trips

Whether you’re targeting trophy marlin or planning a family day on the water, January is one of the best months to experience what Cabo has to offer.

Final Thoughts

January 2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional month for fishing in Cabo San Lucas. From striped marlin to dorado to tuna, the winter bite is strong, and the conditions are unbeatable. If you’re considering a Cabo fishing adventure, early 2026 is the perfect time to book.

Ready to Experience the Best Fishing in Cabo? Book Your Adventure Today!

Whether you’re visiting Cabo for the first time or returning for another unforgettable fishing trip, Epic Ventures Fishing Charters is here to take your experience to the next level. Our expert captains, top-tier gear, and comfortable boats are ready to put you on the fish — from trophy marlin offshore to exciting inshore action.

Book your 2026 Cabo fishing charter now and secure your preferred date before it fills

Cabo Fishing in January 2026: What’s Biting & Why Winter Is Prime Season