Los Cabos is perhaps best known internationally for its luxurious accommodations, sophisticated cuisine, and breathtaking landscape, but for fishing enthusiasts, this dichotomous destination of beaches and deserts is known for a very different reason: With teeming waters off the Baha peninsula in Mexico home to a wide variety of sea life, Los Cabos is specifically reputed as the “Marlin Capital of the World.” And anyone can (try to) catch one.

Indeed, the giant sportfish draws anglers from across the globe in search of the fishing tale of a lifetime.

Of course, Los Cabos is not only for sport fishers: the destination welcomes anglers of all proficiencies to cast their reel with a comprehensive offering of fishing experiences to suit every experience level. Here’s how to go about it:

Deep sea fishing

The sight of a majestic Striped Marlin breaching the water is as much a symbol of Los Cabos as the Arch rising out of turquoise Cabo Bay – and the best chance to reel one in is to get on the water between November and March.

For those new to the sport, it’s a good idea to be upfront with one’s charter operator/guide. The Sea of Cortez – famously dubbed “the world’s aquarium” by Jacque Cousteau – is home to a plethora of marine life and hundreds of tropical fish varieties. On the off chance the one’s quest for a Marlin comes up short, never fear, it’s impossible to go home empty-handed in waters rich with so many other species.

Visitors are required to purchase a fishing license and can do so at their departing marina but be prepared for long lines during peak season. At the same time, when selecting a chartered fishing package, choose one in which a license, equipment, bait, and tackle are included.

In addition to supplying all fishing gear and live bait, Los Cabos’ many fishing charter companies, such as Go Deep Fishing Charters, include lunch and refreshments for guests on its half and full-day charters. And those lucky enough to reel in a catch can keep up to five fish per person per day.

Surf & shore fishing

For those who prefer to stay on dry land or just prefer a more relaxed pace, shore fishing is an excellent way to experience all the fun of casting a line without having to worry about nautical headings. It’s also an extremely accessible way to get a taste of the hobby, as fishing from the shores of Los Cabos does not require any documentation or license.

Anglers, however, are responsible for keeping their cast at least 250 metres from any swimmers, should they find themselves sharing space on one of the destination’s popular beaches.

Meanwhile, companies like Cabo Fishing Charters also lead light tackle fishing expeditions along the shoreline of the Sea of Cortez where rock piles and reefs that hug the coast are ideal habitats for prized catches like Roosterfish, Amberjack, Snappers, and countless other species that populate these coral coves.

Sport fishing events

For fishing in its most competitive form, Los Cabos does not disappoint. A number of world-class fishing tournaments provide an opportunity to test one’s skill and make every catch just a little bit more meaningful – especially when a prize is on the line.

The city is home to the world’s highest-paying Marlin tournament and has seen more record-breaking catches than any other location. Some of the area’s other prestigious competitions include Bisbee’s Black and Blue and the Los Cabos Billfish Tournament, held annually in October.