Capturing the Spirit of Cabo: A 5-Hour Private Fishing Adventure
If you’re heading to Cabo San Lucas and love the idea of fishing in the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean, this private 5-hour cruise might catch your eye. For $900 per group (up to 8 guests), you’ll enjoy a worry-free day aboard a clean, well-equipped boat with a bilingual crew. The trip starts early at 6:30 am, offering a chance to beat the crowds and make the most of the day on the water, with excellent chances of hooking various sportfish — from dorado to the elusive marlin.
Two things we particularly like about this experience: First, the crew’s knowledgeable guidance and friendly attitude, which many reviews highlight as making the trip special. Second, the stunning views of Cabo’s coastlines and the chance to spot whales or pods of dolphins, adding extra magic to your fishing adventure.
One potential drawback to consider is the additional costs that aren’t included in the base price — like licenses, bait, drinks, and lunch — which bring the total closer to $50 per person if you add everything. It’s worth planning ahead on those extras to avoid surprises.
This tour suits anyone who appreciates authentic, guided fishing experiences with a personal touch, especially if you’re interested in trying your luck at big game fishing or simply want a scenic day out on the water with friends or family.
Key Points

- Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, offering a tailored experience.
- Includes Fishing Gear: All necessary equipment and lures are provided, making it easier to just focus on the fishing.
- Guided by Bilingual Crew: Helpful for non-Spanish speakers and adds a professional touch.
- Additional Costs: Licenses, bait, drinks, and lunch are extra, so budget accordingly.
- Optimal Timing: Early start at 6:30 am maximizes fishing opportunities and avoids crowds.
- Mixed Reviews on Experience: While some rave about the guides and views, there are concerns about honesty and fish handling, so be aware.
In-Depth Look at the 5-Hour Private Cabo Fishing Trip

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What to Expect on Your Day Out
This private trip begins at 6:30 am from the meeting point at Blvd. Paseo de la Marina 15. Early mornings in Cabo are ideal for fishing, as the fish tend to be more active before the midday heat. The boat itself is described as clean and well-maintained, with a comfortable space for up to 8 guests, making it a good choice for families or small groups wanting an intimate experience.
Once aboard, your crew — noted as bilingual, which is helpful if your Spanish isn’t fluent — will set you up with all the necessary fishing equipment and lures. They’ll explain how to use the gear, suggest techniques, and point out potential hotspots. The waters around Cabo are rich with sportfish, including dorado, marlin, and other prized catches.
The Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean provide contrasting backdrops: calm, sheltered waters on some days, with spectacular vistas on others. Many reviews mention seeing whales and pods of dolphins, adding a wildlife element to your fishing trip.
The Itinerary
- Start at 6:30 am with a briefing and gear setup.
- Fishing in the open waters, targeting a range of species, with the crew guiding your efforts.
- The boat generally stays within 2-3 miles offshore — manageable for most participants, given the small boat size.
- After about five hours on the water, you’ll return to the original meeting point, often with stories of big fish and exciting bites.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included:
– Top-quality fishing gear and lures that cater to different fish species.
– An ice chest with ice to keep your catch fresh.
Not Included:
– A boxed lunch and five drinks come at an extra cost of $20 USD per person — a good idea to bring or plan for this.
– Licenses and dock fees at $22 USD per person, a necessary expense for legal fishing.
– Live bait costs about $20 USD for the group, which can make a difference in attracting fish.
The Real Experiences of Travelers
While some reviews express frustration, particularly about fish handling and honesty, others praise the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular scenery. One reviewer noted, “The guides were very knowledgeable and the customer service from booking to fishing was a great experience,” while another lamented, “They stole our biggest fish,” highlighting that not all trips are equal.
This variance underscores the importance of managing expectations and being aware that, on occasion, fish may be kept or handled in a manner that some guests find disappointing. Always clarify your fish-keeping intentions with the crew beforehand.
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The Value of the Experience
At roughly $112.50 per person (assuming full cost split among 8), this trip offers good value for the chance at big game fish and enjoying Cabo’s beautiful waters. The professional guides and clean boat are significant pluses, but the extra costs for licenses, bait, and drinks can add up, so budget accordingly.
Who Will Love This Trip?

This private fishing tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized, guided experience with an emphasis on serious fishing or fun with friends. It’s ideal if you appreciate early mornings on the water and are comfortable handling additional expenses like licenses and bait.
While it’s not perfect — some reviews mention less-than-ideal encounters — many guests enjoy the stunning scenery and knowledgeable crew, which can make for a memorable Cabo adventure. It’s especially recommended if you’re eager to target marlin or dorado and enjoy the camaraderie of a small, private group.
Final Thoughts

This 5-hour private fishing experience in Cabo San Lucas offers a personalized, scenic, and potentially productive day on the water. Its main appeal lies in the dedicated guides and the chance to fish in some of the most beautiful waters in the world. While the additional costs and mixed reviews about fish honesty should give you pause, the overall experience remains appealing for seafood lovers, avid anglers, and travelers craving an authentic glimpse of Cabo’s marine world.
The early start and private setting make it perfect for those who want a more intimate and flexible outing, rather than a crowded tour. If you’re a confident fisherman or someone who simply wants a beautiful day at sea with the possibility of catching dinner, this trip could be a highlight of your Cabo trip.
FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusive to your group, providing a more personalized and flexible outing.
What time does it start?
The trip begins at 6:30 am, taking advantage of the early hours for better fishing prospects and fewer crowds.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers fishing equipment, lures, and an ice chest with ice. Extra costs include licenses, bait, drinks, and lunch.
How long is the trip?
It lasts approximately 5 hours — perfect for a half-day adventure on the water.
Is the crew bilingual?
Yes, the crew is noted as being bilingual, making communication easier for non-Spanish speakers.
Are drinks and food included?
No, drinks and food are not included but can be purchased for an additional $20 USD per person.
What if the weather is bad?
The trip is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
To sum it up, this private fishing adventure in Cabo offers a solid mix of professional guidance, scenic beauty, and the thrill of the catch. It’s best suited for those who value a personalized experience but are aware of the extra costs involved. Whether you’re an avid angler or a traveler looking for a scenic day out, this trip can deliver a memorable slice of Cabo’s legendary waters.
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