Yellowfin Tuna
One of the hardest-fighting fish in the ocean and among the best-eating. Yellowfin Tuna in Cabo regularly exceed 150 pounds, with super-cows over 200 pounds caught every season.
Overview
The Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares) is one of the most prized game fish in Los Cabos, and for good reason. They combine blistering speed, incredible endurance, and superb eating quality.
In Cabo waters, Yellowfin Tuna are available year-round, with the best fishing from April through November when water temperatures are warmest. A hooked Yellowfin will make multiple long runs, often stripping hundreds of yards of line in seconds.
October is often the best month for trophy tuna, with fish over 200 pounds caught regularly at the 1150 Bank and Gordo Banks.
Seasonal Patterns
Small to medium-sized fish (20-60 lbs) are present year-round. The trophy-sized "cows" (150+ lbs) move into Cabo waters when the water temperature exceeds 75°F, typically from May through November.
Hot Spots for Yellowfin Tuna
Gordo Banks
5-10 mi SE: The premier tuna ground. Productive year-round with trophy fish in summer and fall.
1150 Bank
25 mi S: Holds the largest tuna. Produces cows over 200 lbs consistently.
Iman Bank
12 mi E: Excellent for medium to large yellowfin.
Golden Gate Bank
15 mi NW: Productive when water temperatures are right.
Cabrillo Seamount
45 mi E: Long run but worth it for trophy-sized fish.
Best Techniques
Live Bait Fishing
The most consistent method. Live caballito trolled on the edge of temperature breaks.
Chunking
Chum with frozen squid chunks. When tuna are 'chewing,' present a chunk on a hook.
Kite Fishing
Live bait suspended from a kite: deadly for trophy tuna feeding near the surface.
Popper Casting
When tuna are boiling on the surface, cast poppers for explosive strikes.
Table Fare
Yellowfin Tuna is among the best-eating fish in the ocean. The meat is firm, steak-like, and perfect for grilling, searing, or eating raw as sashimi and sushi.
When you catch a Yellowfin on your charter, the crew will clean and fillet it. Many local restaurants will cook your catch for you: a true boat-to-table experience.
The Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot
Held annually in November, the Los Cabos Tuna Jackpot draws hundreds of teams competing for over $1 million in prizes. Format: single heaviest fish wins.
Ready to Catch Yellowfin Tuna?
Book a charter and experience the blistering runs of these ocean athletes.
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