Best Time to Fish Cedros Island — 2026 Seasonal Guide

Cedros Island isn’t just one of the best sportfishing destinations in Baja California — it produces world-class catches year-round. But like any serious fishing destination, knowing when to go makes the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. This guide breaks down what’s biting each season at Cedros Island, so you can plan your 2026 trip around the species you’re after.

 

Why Cedros Island Produces Fish All Year

Cedros Island sits in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Baja California, where cold nutrient-rich currents from the north meet warmer southern waters. That convergence creates ideal conditions for baitfish — and where there’s bait, there are big fish. The result is one of the few destinations in the world where you can find quality sportfishing on every trip, no matter the month.

The species change with the seasons. The conditions shift. But there is no bad time to fish Cedros Island — only different opportunities depending on when you go.

 

Cedros Island Fishing by Season

Winter (December – February) — Yellowtail Season Peaks

Winter is prime time for yellowtail at Cedros Island. Cold, clear Pacific water pushes yellowtail into feeding mode, and fish in the 20–40 lb range are common. Rockfish and lingcod are also abundant this time of year, offering consistent action for anglers targeting the bottom.

Water temperatures drop into the low 60s°F, and the fish stack up around the island’s kelp edges and rocky structure. If trophy-size yellowtail is your goal, a winter trip with Toro puts you right in the middle of the best conditions of the year.

🎯 Target species: Yellowtail, rockfish, lingcod
📍 Best for: Anglers targeting large yellowtail and consistent bottom action

 

Spring (March – May) — The Transition Window

Spring is a transition season at Cedros Island, and it’s one of the most exciting times to fish. Yellowtail remain active as water temps begin to climb, and white seabass — one of the most prized sportfish on the Pacific coast — start to make an appearance as they move through the area.

By late spring, the first signs of warmer blue water begin showing up, which sets the stage for summer tuna action. Spring trips often produce mixed bags with multiple species in the same day — a rare combination that experienced anglers know to target.

🎯 Target species: Yellowtail, white seabass, early bluefin tuna
📍 Best for: Anglers who want variety and the chance at multiple trophy species in one trip

 

Summer (June – August) — Tuna Season Arrives

Summer is tuna season at Cedros Island. As warm water pushes up from the south, bluefin and yellowfin tuna move into range and the fishing shifts offshore. These are the trips that produce the photos you’ll be showing off for years — big fish, fast action, and full coolers.

Yellowtail don’t disappear in summer. They simply share the spotlight. Summer at Cedros can mean a morning run on tuna followed by afternoon yellowtail fishing back near the island — two completely different fisheries in a single day.

Water temps climb into the upper 60s to low 70s°F, and the blue water fishing that Cedros Island is legendary for is at its best.

🎯 Target species: Bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, yellowtail
📍 Best for: Tuna-focused anglers and anyone wanting the full Cedros Island blue water experience

 

Fall (September – November) — Prime Conditions, Less Pressure

Fall is arguably the best all-around time to fish Cedros Island. Water temperatures are still warm from summer, tuna are still in range, and yellowtail fishing picks back up with intensity as fish begin feeding heavily before winter. The crowds are thinner than summer and the conditions are some of the most consistent of the year.

Late fall often produces the best yellowtail fishing of any season. Fish that have been feeding all summer are at peak weight, and the transition in water temps triggers aggressive feeding behavior. If you can only take one trip a year and want the highest probability of multiple species and big fish, fall is the season to book.

🎯 Target species: Yellowtail, bluefin tuna, white seabass
📍 Best for: Serious anglers who want maximum variety, top-weight fish, and fewer other boats on the water

 

Cedros Island Species Quick Reference

Species	Winter	Spring	Summer	Fall
Yellowtail	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐
Bluefin Tuna	—	⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐
White Seabass	⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐
Rockfish	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐

⭐⭐⭐ Peak  |  ⭐⭐ Active  |  ⭐ Present  |  — Off season

 

How Far in Advance Should You Book?

Cedros Island trips fill up. Toro runs a limited number of trips per season to keep the experience personal — small groups, dedicated service, and real attention to where the fish are. Summer and fall dates in particular go quickly as return clients lock in their spots.

If you’re planning a 2026 trip, now is the time to check availability. Popular months like August, September, and October can be fully booked several months in advance.

→ View the 2026 trip calendar
→ See all available packages 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to fish Cedros Island?

September and October are widely considered the best all-around months — tuna are still active, yellowtail fishing is at its strongest, and conditions are stable. That said, every month at Cedros Island has a target species worth fishing.

H3: Is Cedros Island good for yellowtail year-round?
Yes. Yellowtail are present at Cedros Island in every season. The peak months are winter (December–February) and fall (September–November), when fish are largest and most active.

When does bluefin tuna season start at Cedros Island?

Bluefin tuna typically start appearing in late spring (May) and peak through summer (June–August). The exact timing can vary year to year depending on water temperatures and current conditions.

How long are the fishing trips?

Toro offers 4-day, 5-day, and 8-day packages. All trips are all-inclusive — lodging, meals, open bar, and fishing. [View full package details →](/packages/)

Do I need a Mexican fishing license?

Yes. A valid Mexican fishing license is required for all anglers. Toro can advise on how to obtain yours before your trip — just ask when you book.

What should I bring for a Cedros Island fishing trip?

Light layers for early mornings, sun protection, seasickness medication if needed, and your personal gear. Rods, reels, tackle, and bait are provided. See the full [what’s included page →](/what-your-trip-includes/) for the complete list.

 

2026 Dates Are Filling Up

You’ve seen what’s possible at Cedros Island. The only question left is when you’re going.

→ View the 2026 Calendar and Reserve Your Spot
→ Or browse all packages

Questions before you book? Message Toro directly on WhatsApp.