Baja Roosterfish
East Cape, Baja California Sur, Mexico
The Sea of Cortez is home to over 900 species of fish, thousands of invertebrates and an abundance of dolphins, sea lions and whales. Its rich ecosystem supports some of the world’s densest populations of predatory fish, including billfish, dorado, roosterfish and tuna.
Accommodation
Beach Hotel
Season
April – November
Species
Roosterfish, Marlin, Sailfish, Dorado
Style
Fly-fishing & Spinning
A PLACE THEY CALL THE WORLD'S AQUARIUM
Highlights:
- Possibly the best Roosterfish destination on the planet and the chance to sight-fish these apex inshore predators from the beach.
- Epic inshore and offshore fishing for a variety of resident and pelagic species, including Marlins, Sailfish, Dorado, Wahoo, Yellowtail, Roosters, Jacks, Ladyfish and Pompano.
- The opportunity to target and land a Marlin on fly, one of the only places where this is a true possibility.
- First-class lodging located just steps away from the water and some of the best fishing grounds in the region.
8 DAY PACKAGE
US$5,000 per angler
- Seven nights accommodation at a beach hotel.
- Six days guided inshore & offshore fishing for Roosterfish, Dorado, Marlin, and more.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Baja Mexico’s coastline is one of the most productive inshore and offshore fishing locations in the world. Gentle seas, fair weather, and a nearby drop-off of the ocean floor make this the perfect setting for gamefishing with an incredible number of pelagic species migrating through the area, as well as resident species.
Fishing can be good year-round, but conditions are best for in May, June, July, and again in October. Once fair weather settles into the area come May, an abundance of bait attracts migrating species like roosterfish, jacks, dorado, billfish, tuna, and wahoo are abundant.
Inshore fishing mainly revolves around roosterfish, but jacks, ladyfish, giant needlefish, pompano, and a variety of other species will also be possible. When fishing from the beach it is a sight fishing game. Anglers walk the beach with the guide in search of cruising fish. When fish are spotted, anglers often run to get into casting position. It is a unique blend of sight-fishing, casting, walking, and chaos. Guides are experienced spotting fish and casting hookless plugs to tease fish into range.
Boats and Equipment:
Anglers fish off 22 foot open boats (pangas), which are perfect vessels for sport fishing. The East Cape of Baja enjoys predominantly calm seas and calm conditions in the early spring, summer, and fall periods. It is not uncommon to encounter pelagic species, such as dorado, striped marlin, and tuna within a mile of shore. The conditions and topography present a unique opportunity to catch big fish from a small boat. The pangas can seat 2 anglers and gear comfortably and are suitable for inshore or offshore outings.
Each panga features a center console, back and front casting platforms with non-slip flooring to ensure your footing remains steady as you cast your line. For added safety, you will find stainless steel grab bars, strategically placed rod holders, a well-equipped first aid kit, and all the necessary safety measures in place.
Lodging:
Nestled in the coastal desert paradise of the East Cape, right on the beach along the Sea of Cortez and conveniently located on the main road of La Ventana. Here, you’ll experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the Sea of Cortez, with views that are simply unparalleled. You’ll also enjoy stunning vistas of Cerralvo Island, making your stay even more unforgettable. Learn more about the area here.
The hotel features a swimming pool, a hot tub, a large outdoor space for relaxation, hammocks, a fire pit lounge, a TV sports center, and a restaurant/beach bar, open exclusively to our groups of clients during the fishing season, offering a variety of great food and drink options. The hotel also provides complimentary stand-up paddleboards (SUP) and kayaks, perfect for evening fishing sessions.
Food & Drinks:
A complete breakfast and dinner is included at the hotel, as well as a packed lunch and cooler with drinks for the days fishing.
Non-Angling Options & Activities:
The Sea of Cortez is one of the most abundant marine environments in the world. Arrange a day trip to explore the local sea life. Whales, dolphins, turtles, and sea lions are frequent visitors. Snorkeling with Whale Sharks, swimming with Manta Rays, hiking, mountain biking and golfing are all popular options in the region.
Internet / Communications:
Free Wi-Fi is available for guests at the hotel.
How to get there:
Direct flights are available from most US & Canadian cities making travel easy. Baja California Sur (BCS) has two international airports: San Jose Del Cabo (SJD) and La Paz international airport (LAP). San Jose del Cabo (SJD) has service from all major carriers and most US cities. La Paz (LAP) has limited international service with more flights added each year, but the majority of anglers fly in and out of SJD.
A shuttle will pick anglers up at either airport and transport to the hotel.
Documents Required:
A valid passport is required for Mexico. Many countries, including US/Canada do not require a visa to enter. We will inform you what is needed based on your country.
Travel Arrangements:
We will advise on your best options and travel routes, depending on place of departure.
Itinerary:
7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing
Day 1:
Arrive to San Jose del Cabo (SJD) or La Paz (LP) airport. Transfer to the hotel.
Day 2 – 7:
Six days guided fishing in the Bay of Dreams and surrounding areas. Anglers have the option of fishing from the beach or from the pangas and will fish local waters up and down the East Cape and around Cerralvo Island.
Fishing Day:
05:00: Complete Breakfast, including Coffee, tea, toasts, jam/peanut butter, eggs, fruits and yogurt served at the hotel before departure.
05:30: Either the shuttle picks you up from the hotel and takes you to the fishing location, or our captains will pick you up from the beach between 5:30 and 7:00AM (if we take this approach, breakfast might be served later), depending on
whether they were able to get the chum first and how we plan the fishing day based on the previous day’s reports.
06:00: The shuttle arrives at the fishing location. You board a panga, and depart. The bait is picked up and the fishing adventure begins. Have your lunchbox on the panga whenever you prefer.
13:30: The Shuttle or captains will take you back to the hotel.
14:00: Arrive at the hotel. Relax at the pool or on the beach with a drink.
Day 8:
Transfer back to the airport. Depart Mexico to your home country.
Rates Per Angler:
7 Nights / 6 Days of Fishing = $5,000.00 per person
What’s Included:
- Six nights hotel accommodation in La Ventana.
- Five days guided inshore and offshore fishing, two anglers per boat.
- Packed lunch, soft drinks, beer and bottled water while out fishing.
- Complete breakfast and dinner at the hotel.
- Airport transportation.
- Fishing licenses.
- Live bait and chum.
What’s Not Included:
- International flights to and from Baja.
- Tips for guides & staff.
- Alcohol at the hotel.
- Fly fishing & spinning equipment (rental equipment available).
GALLERY
Frequently Asked Questions:
What makes Baja’s East Cape a top destination for roosterfish fishing?
The East Cape of Baja California Sur is one of the richest marine ecosystems on Earth, with the Sea of Cortez supporting over 900 species. It consistently delivers brilliant predator fishing—roosterfish, billfish, tuna, dorado—against the backdrop of clear water, desert landscapes, and abundant marine life.
When is the best time to go roosterfish fishing in Baja?
Roosterfish are year‑round residents, but the absolute best bite is during May, June, July.
What techniques are used to catch roosterfish on this trip?
Fishing is a thrilling mix of sight‑fishing from the beach and casting from open‑deck pangas. Anglers walk the sand or ride out in boats, stalking cruising roosterfish with poppers, flies, and lures—this is fast‑paced, get‑ahead-of-the‑fish angling at its best.
What other species might anglers hook while targeting roosterfish?
Beyond roosterfish, you may encounter jack crevalle, ladyfish, pompano, giant needlefish, and pelagics like dorado, tuna, and billfish—all adding variety to every day on the water.
What’s the accommodation like during this trip?
Your lodge is situated right on the beach, offering desert charm and unbeatable views over the Sea of Cortez and Cerralvo Island. Amenities include a swimming pool, hot tub, beach bar/restaurant, fire‑pit lounge, kayaks, and SUPs for evening explorations.
How do I reach the fishing lodge?
Most anglers fly into San José del Cabo (SJD) or La Paz (LAP). A shuttle picks you up from the airport and brings you directly to the beachfront lodge on the East Cape. A valid passport is required; visas depend on your country.
What non-fishing experiences are available nearby?
Beyond fishing, guests can snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, or explore the abundant marine life—whales, dolphins, sea lions, turtles. Inland, there are hiking and mountain biking trails, and the lodge area invites relaxing evenings by fire‑pit or enjoying local cuisine.
Do I need a fishing license to fish in Baja Mexico?
Yes. All anglers in Baja, whether fishing from a boat or the beach, must carry a valid Mexican fishing license. We will arrange licenses and be included in trip package.
Is it safe and easy to travel to Baja for a fishing trip?
Yes. The East Cape region is known for being safe, welcoming, and well set up for tourism. Travelers typically fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), which has direct flights from major U.S. cities. It’s recommended to bring cash in pesos for tips and small expenses, and always carry travel insurance for peace of mind.