Damn Good Nearshore Fishing Charters In Mexico

Check real-time availability and compare rates on Mexico nearshore fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

Choose a Date
4.59/5 Average Rating

Damn Good Guides

Experts Available 24/7

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Nearshore Fishing Charters In Mexico

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo VIP Fishing - 32’ Luhrs

100% (5)
32 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,130
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Battling Pelagics

NEW
28 ft 1 - 2 People From $380
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Punta Mita

Fly Fishing Punta Mita

100% (2)
29 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo Full-Day Or Half-Day

75% (4)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $900
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cancún

Best Fishing Charter In Cancun

NEW
41 ft 1 - 22 People From $750
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San José del Cabo

Super Panga 24’

50% (2)
24 ft 1 - 2 People From $290

Top Cities for Nearshore Fishing in Mexico

Top Types of Nearshore Trips in Mexico

Top Species for Nearshore Fishing in Mexico

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Nearshore Fishing Charters In Mexico

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Tulum

Tulum Trophy Hunt

83% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $385
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo Luxury Fishing - 43’ Riviera

100% (5)
43 ft 1 - 10 People From $1,500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Full Day Inclusive

NEW
33 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,095
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San José del Cabo

Epic 32ft Sportfishing

50% (2)
32 ft 1 - 5 People From $600
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Cabo San Lucas

Cabo Offshore - 35’ Owen

75% (4)
35 ft 1 - 8 People From $900
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in San José del Cabo

26ft Mako Half Day

50% (2)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
See All Nearshore Trips in Mexico

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Mexico nearshore fishing charter

What are the best nearshore fishing charters in Mexico?

Why should I book a nearshore fishing charter in Mexico with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 39 nearshore trips in Mexico, and the most popular trips in the area are Cabo VIP Fishing - 32’ Luhrs guided by Jim, Battling Pelagics guided by Luis, and Fly Fishing Punta Mita guided by Erasmo.

Our guides in Mexico are rated a 4.59 out of 5 based on 3716 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly nearshore guides / fishing lessons in Mexico? Check out our beginner and family friendly nearshore guides in Mexico.

What types of nearshore fishing charters are common in Mexico?

The most commonly sought after species for nearshore fishing are: 1. mahi mahi, 2. roosterfish, 3. wahoo, 4. sailfish, and 5. yellowfin tuna.

The most common fishing techniques in Mexico are trolling, jigging, and bottom fishing but light tackle fishing and heavy tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do Mexico nearshore fishing charters cost?

Prices for nearshore fishing in Mexico can range anywhere from about $500 to $2,700, but the average price for a half day trip for nearshore fishing in Mexico is $1,101. The average price for a full day trip for nearshore fishing in Mexico is $1,848.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for nearshore fishing in Mexico?

The most popular season for nearshore fishing in Mexico is spring, and most anglers book their trips 23 days in advance.

Do I need a Mexico fishing license and what are the bag limits in Mexico?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Mexico, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Mexico. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Mexico.

What is nearshore fishing in Mexico all about?

Nearshore fishing in Mexico provides anglers with diverse and thrilling opportunities due to its expansive coastlines and rich marine environments. The nearshore waters are home to a variety of species including snook, roosterfish, and various types of snapper. These areas, which lie just off the coast but still within sight of land, offer excellent fishing grounds for those seeking both challenging and rewarding catches. The abundant reef structures and mangroves along Mexico's coastlines create ideal habitats for these species, making nearshore fishing a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

One of the highlights of nearshore fishing in Mexico is targeting roosterfish. Known for their impressive appearance and fierce fighting abilities, roosterfish are a top catch for anglers using live bait or lures. They are commonly found in the shallow waters near rocky points and sandy beaches, particularly along the Pacific coast of Mexico. The opportunity to catch a roosterfish, with its distinctive dorsal fin and powerful runs, adds an exciting dimension to nearshore fishing in this region.

Additionally, the nearshore waters around Mexico are home to a variety of snapper species, including the red snapper and cubera snapper. These fish are often targeted using bottom fishing techniques with baited hooks or jigs. The rich marine life and favorable conditions of Mexico’s nearshore zones make it a prime destination for anglers seeking a diverse fishing experience. Whether you're targeting roosterfish or snapper, the nearshore fishing in Mexico offers an enjoyable and productive adventure with plenty of opportunities for a successful day on the water.

What are the most popular months to go nearshore fishing in Mexico?

Nearshore fishing in Mexico varies throughout the year, influenced by seasonal changes that affect the availability of different species. The dry season, which typically runs from December to April, is one of the most favorable times for nearshore fishing. During these months, the weather is generally stable with clear skies and calm seas, providing excellent conditions for spotting fish and enjoying a productive day on the water. Species such as roosterfish, snapper, and jack crevalle are particularly active during this time, making it a peak period for nearshore fishing.

As the rainy season approaches, from May to October, fishing conditions can become more variable. Increased rainfall and storms can lead to rougher seas and murkier waters, which might affect visibility and fishing ease. However, this season also brings an influx of nutrients to the nearshore areas, attracting a range of fish species. The nutrient-rich waters can enhance fishing opportunities, particularly for species like snapper and jack crevalle, which are drawn to the abundant food sources during this period.

The transitional months between the dry and rainy seasons—April and October—can offer excellent fishing opportunities as well. These periods often feature stable weather patterns and productive fishing conditions, making them ideal for targeting a variety of nearshore species. Overall, Mexico's nearshore fishing remains vibrant year-round, with each season providing its own set of opportunities and challenges for anglers looking to enjoy the diverse marine life along the coast.

What techniques are popular for nearshore fishing in Mexico?

Nearshore fishing in Mexico is a diverse and exciting experience, offering various techniques tailored to the rich marine environments found just off the coast. One popular method is trolling, where anglers drag lures or live bait behind a moving boat. This technique is effective for catching pelagic species like dorado (mahi-mahi), tuna, and sailfish that are often found in the waters just beyond the surf. Trolling allows anglers to cover large areas and locate fish that are actively feeding or migrating.

Another effective technique in Mexico's nearshore waters is casting, particularly around reefs, rocks, and jetties. Anglers use spinning or baitcasting gear to throw lures such as jigs, soft plastics, or poppers. This approach targets species like snapper, grouper, and jack crevalle, which are commonly found near structures where they seek shelter or hunt for prey. Casting allows for precise bait placement and can be done from both boats and the shore, providing flexibility depending on the fishing spot.

Bottom fishing is also a prevalent technique in nearshore Mexico, particularly in areas with rocky or sandy bottoms. Anglers use weighted rigs with baited hooks to reach the ocean floor and target species such as red snapper, grouper, and various bottom-dwelling fish. This method can be highly productive, especially in deeper waters close to shore where these species congregate. Each of these techniques—trolling, casting, and bottom fishing—offers its own set of challenges and rewards, contributing to the diverse fishing opportunities available along Mexico's coastline.

What species are popular for nearshore fishing in Mexico?

Nearshore fishing in Mexico provides a variety of exciting species to target, each offering a unique angling experience. One of the most sought-after species is the dorado, also known as mahi-mahi. These vibrant fish are known for their striking colors and aggressive feeding behavior, making them a thrilling catch for anglers. Dorado are commonly found around floating debris, weed lines, or near underwater structures in the nearshore waters. Their strong runs and impressive leaps make them a favorite for those looking for a high-energy fishing experience.

Another popular species in Mexico's nearshore waters is the roosterfish. Recognizable by its distinctive, spiky dorsal fin, the roosterfish is a prized catch for many anglers. They are typically found in the shallow waters near rocky points, reefs, and estuaries where they hunt for baitfish. Roosterfish are known for their powerful fights and are often targeted using live bait or large lures. Catching a roosterfish is considered a significant accomplishment due to their strength and elusive nature.

Additionally, the nearshore waters of Mexico are home to various species of snapper, such as the red snapper and cubera snapper. These fish are often found near reefs and rocky structures where they seek shelter and feed on smaller fish and crustaceans. Snapper are popular targets for bottom fishing and are valued for their excellent table quality. Anglers use live bait or heavy jigs to attract these species, making snapper fishing a rewarding experience both in terms of the catch and the meal. Each of these species contributes to the diverse and vibrant nearshore fishing opportunities available along Mexico’s coastline.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    An amazing trip! 3 couples set out for a 6-hour experience on the Sea of Cortez - we were not disappointed...caught 2 marlins, one of which was the largest catch of our lives at 150 pounds. Jaime was great, he set us up quick and easy. Got our fishing licenses at the marina on the morning of our trip. Coming back again next year...

    John R. | June 26, 2024

    Trip: Tiara Boat 35Ft Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    This was an absolutely amazing trip! The crew was very friendly and entertained all our questions. When we were done, they cleaned the fish, took it to the restaurant and suggested how to best have it prepared. I've never had such fresh fish before. I highly recommend anyone to book with Captain experiences!

    Michael N. | June 11, 2024

    Trip: 25' Panga - Nearshore or Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great experience with Erasmo and his son Jr.

    Barrett S. | March 20, 2024

    Trip: Fly Fishing Punta Mita

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great trip With a great crew who was accommodating and worked hard to put us on fish. Caught skipjack tuna and dorado (March is not the best month for fishing in Cabo) but we caught plenty of fish and had a great trip. I’d use this outfit again.

    Frank C. | March 14, 2024

    Trip: Cabo VIP Fishing - 32’ Luhrs

  • ★★★★★
    Wonderful, wonderful trip! Brandon, Christian and Hugo are wonderful and made sure we caught fish! Highly recommend these folks.

    Eric S. | March 13, 2024

    Trip: Trolling + Snorkel or Sunset Cruise

  • ★★★★★
    Leonardo was fantastic with communication and letting us know the weather. While unfortunately the weather wasn’t good enough for the port to be guaranteed open during our trip, Leonardo did his best to get us out there as safely as possible for 3 different days. I can’t speak for the fishing, but for everything else Leonardo was a 11/10.

    Zach T. | February 6, 2024

    Trip: Trolling + Snorkel or Sunset Cruise

  • ★★★★★
    Ariel and Alexis were amazing captains. Ariel is completely bilingual and has so much experience fishing for 17 years in PV but also all over the world. He was super adaptive — he worked with us to do a lot of different types of fishing (we trolled, we jigged) and all in we caught almost 40 fish with just two of us!! He also gave us an opportunity to add on a trip to Yelapa where they cooked our fresh fish, and it was not only delicious but such a unique experience. Ariel was super communicative and flexible, too. Would highly highly recommend Ariel to anyone who wants to catch a lot of fish, learn about the area and have an amazing time out on the water.

    Elizabeth C. | February 5, 2024

    Trip: Bay Fishing Puerto Vallarta

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great day on the water with Erasamo. Highly recommend booking him if you are looking to fly fish Punta Mita.

    Mark M. | October 13, 2023

    Trip: Fly Fishing Punta Mita

  • ★★★★★
    We had a blast with Captain Jorge and Alex. Started the morning off with coffee and breakfast tacos as we headed out in search of Mahi off the Pacific side of Cabo. Caught a couple of keepers and some smaller tuna, then took our fresh Mahi over to Alexanders right across from the marina where they cook the fish a few different ways. Definitely recommend hopping on any of the trips Jim and team offer!

    Jake L. | August 2, 2023

    Trip: Cabo VIP Fishing - 32’ Luhrs

  • ★★★★★
    Easily one of the best days ever! Always wanted to catch a mahi mahi and captain Alberto made it happen. Great day on the water. Him and his deckhand Elesio were on top of everything all day and made it amazing. Definitely went above and beyond.Great service great people great times!

    Jayden L. | July 12, 2023

    Trip: 25' Panga - Nearshore or Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    We 3 guys really enjoyed our fishing with Captain Alberto. He was very helpful and knowledgable. Picked us up on time, was very pleasant. Would definitely recommend this trip!

    Theresa A. | April 26, 2023

    Trip: 25' Panga - Nearshore or Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    My Son and I booked a trip with Cesar and 1st Mate Gus. Fantastic fishing in tough conditions. Very knowledgable, skilled and friendly Guides. We will be back!

    Douglas C. | April 23, 2023

    Trip: Cancun Big Game - 25' Panga

  • ★★★★★
    The trip was amazing. They don’t lie when they say you don’t come in unless you catch a fish. I took my 8 year old. We trolled deep see for 5 hrs had 2 separate 100 to 150lb sailfish attacking the bait. Unfortunately no hook set but no worries. Travis and the guys took us closer inshore for an hour on the way back and my son reeled in 2 big triggerfish 2 yellow snapper a barracuda and an amberjack. So finishing stony with 6 fish and seeing the two sailfish chasing the bait was awesome. Not to mention your catching live bait pretty much the whole time.

    Michael T. | March 30, 2023

    Trip: Cancun Big Game - 25' Panga

  • ★★★★★
    The trip itself with my guides was more than I could have hoped for. Not only were they extremely helpful, put us on fish, and instructed well, but they even took pictures for us, gave us a history of the Tulum Ruins and gave us a little snorkeling adventure with stingrays and sea turtles. This entire part was a 5/5 stars. The disappointing part 1/5 stars was the whole reason I booked through Capt. Experiences. According to the booking through this website the total trip was supposed to be $650. I paid "$97" through the website for a deposit. That came out to $130 on my credit card. When I showed up, I still had to pay the full "$650.00" in order to go on the trip, thinking that deposit was more of a holding fee like a deposit on a rental car. Nope, that was also added to the price, now I'm at $750 for this trip. The QR code that was supplied to me to pay the rest. The gentleman at the desk said he doesn't need that. I explained the deposit situation and he insisted his price was correct. Cool, way to vet the companies Capt. Experiences. Now for the Icing on the cake. When I went to the actual company webpage the same trip costs $550! So, you have guarantied that I will never use this service again and let others know of my experience of being ripped off, from a company that says they find the best which would include not getting ripped off. I get paying more as paying more, you're cost being $650, I was ok with that, even though $100 for your service was a bit steep, but hey, you guaranty the companies are vetted and only the best. That should be worth something. But, Oh wait, I still got ripped off. Never again. Total waste of time and money.

    Terrance M. | January 24, 2023

    Trip: Tulum Trophy Hunt

  • ★★★★★
    If I could give more stars a would. Ramon and Diego were amazing and I would love to go back we caught six barracuda and almost had an El Dorado but I lost it right at the end.

    Andrew A. | December 15, 2022

    Trip: Tulum Trophy Hunt

  • ★★★★★
    The trip was awesome. Angel and Diego were great fishing guides. Would definitely come back!

    Joedy M. | August 30, 2022

    Trip: Tulum Trophy Hunt

  • ★★★★★
    Highly recommend. Everything was explained very well by the owner in an email before the trip (where to go, what to bring) and ended up catching a trophy Mahi! Had the fish cooked fresh at Alexander’s 4 different ways at the marina afterwards. Capt. Julio and Jorge have been fishing these waters for over 20 years and are very knowledgeable. We will be booking again very soon for marlin season. Thank you again!

    Austin S. | June 24, 2022

    Trip: Cabo VIP Fishing - 32’ Luhrs

  • ★★★★★
    Another great Captain Experiences trip in the books! While the seasonal timing wasn't the best, this was top notch as always and very up front about catch expectations. The crew worked tirelessly to put us on some fish and succeeded in getting us in some Dorado. This was a family trip aimed at exposing fishing newbies to the experience and spending time together on the water. Success all around! As the saying goes, "There is no such thing as a bad fishing day". Huge shoutout to the impeccable crew, equipment, and service. This was my second trip with these guys, and I will definitely be back!!!

    Drew C. | June 6, 2022

    Trip: Cabo VIP Trip - 60’ Bertram 4-8hrs

  • ★★★★★
    These guys are awesome! You wont find a more professional operation in Tulum. They picked us up from our hotel, made sure we were prepped with sunscreen and everything else we needed to get out there, and had water, soda, and beer on board in pre-stocked coolers for us. Each boat had a captain and a mate who worked hard together to put us on the fish, and between the 3 boats our group took out we caught a bunch of mahi and the biggest barracuda Ive ever seen. -Attison from Captain Experiences

    Attison B. | May 30, 2022

    Trip: Tulum Trophy Hunt

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Francisco was ON FIRE 🔥 He brought such a positive energy to our trip. We got zero fish on another boat our first day out, and Francisco guaranteed us fish. We saw dolphins and whales. Not a moment was wasted. He knew where to find the catch of the season. He connected us with a wonderful local man who cleaned, filleted, packed, and froze our fish for the trip home. I trust him. Very professional and took care of our transport in the morning and the fishing license.

    Casey K. | March 27, 2022

    Trip: Full Day Fishing Trip

Other Types of Fishing in Mexico

Other Types of Hunting in Mexico

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick each and every one of them, and our network spans all across the US and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Nearshore Trips in Mexico