La Paz & Espíritu Santo

Baja California Sur, Mexico · Saltwater · Advanced

Clear Sea of Cortez water around Isla Espíritu Santo, with roosterfish cruising the beaches and sand drop-offs. One of the best places anywhere to sight fish for roosters.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: boat

Mexico requires an individual CONAPESCA sportfishing permit for everyone aboard the vessel, not just the anglers. Permits are available to foreign visitors for a day, a week, a month or a year, are individual and non-transferable, and are paid through the federal E5CINCO system. Most panga and charter operators handle the paperwork — confirm it is included.

Access information source

Species

  • roosterfish
  • dolphinfish
  • yellowtail

Best times to fish

  • Roosterfish (May-Oct)
  • Dawn along the beaches
  • Calm mornings

Recommended gear

Essential

  • Medium-heavy spin or 10-weight fly rod
  • Poppers and large baitfish flies
  • Fluorocarbon leader
  • Sun protection

Optional

  • Panga and guide
  • Stripping basket
  • Polarized sunglasses

Regulations and requirements

  • CONAPESCA licence required for everyone aboard a vessel
  • Roosterfish are catch-and-release only in Mexico and may not be commercially taken
  • Espíritu Santo is a national park with protected zones

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

Nearby fishing spots

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