Spearfishing in Baja had been a dream of mine, but I could never pull the trigger until recently. The region is known as a cornucopia of delicious fish to catch regardless if you’re a seasoned diver, or a beginner. But, if you are like me, you’re probable wondering about the best times to plan your trip, the answer depends on what you’re looking to catch and where you’re heading.
On the hunt while spearfishing in Baja. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Best Times to Spearfish in Baja
The prime spearfishing season in Baja generally runs from spring through early autumn. That water is warmer, attracting species like yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and dorado, making late spring to fall ideal for those targeting these tropical fish. On the other hand, cooler months that require a wetsuit, such as December and January, are better for catching snapper and yellowtail. Water visibility and weather conditions are typically at their best from late spring to early autumn.
It’s also worth considering the impact of local events like fishing tournaments, festivals, and holiday crowds, which can make some spots busier. Planning your trip around these dates can help you find quieter areas for spearfishing. I went with a buddy who had spearfished in Baja before, so we relied on his knowledge to fish the best spots.
Baja Spearfishing in Every Season
There is no question each season in Baja offers unique opportunity for spearfishing, but it's good to know what you are getting yourself into. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect throughout the year:
Spring (March to May): Spring bring the warmer water temperatures and improved visibility. Species like yellowtail and grouper are commonly found during this period. This is also a great time to avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying productive fishing. The mild weather and vibrant marine life make spring an excellent season for beginners and experienced divers alike.
Summer (June to August): Summer is peak season for spearfishing in Baja. Warmer waters bring in larger pelagic species such as dorado, yellowfin tuna, and wahoo. Visibility is excellent, making it an ideal time for both beginners and experienced divers. However, summer is also a busy tourist season, so plan your trip to avoid crowded spots. Early morning or late afternoon dives can help you enjoy a more serene underwater experience.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn continues to offer warm waters and good visibility. Many of the same species from summer, like dorado and tuna, remain abundant. This is a fantastic time to enjoy spearfishing with fewer crowds as the tourist season winds down. Autumn also provides calmer seas, making it a preferred choice for divers who prioritize safety and comfort.
Winter (December to February): Winter brings cooler waters, which are better for species like snapper and yellowtail. Although visibility may be slightly reduced compared to summer and autumn, winter spearfishing can still be highly rewarding, especially in less-visited areas of Baja. The cooler water temperatures require thicker wetsuits, so come prepared for the conditions.
Camping on the beach and suiting up to go spearfishing. Photo by Dalton Johnson
We Went Spearfishing for the Winter in Baja
We decided to head south of the border for a winter road trip, exploring Baja with our van and Bronco loaded up with spearfishing gear. December and January weren’t exactly the prime months, but we were eager to see what the ocean had to offer despite the warnings from seasoned anglers.
As we drove along the Baja peninsula, we found that many surf spots doubled as fantastic spearfishing locations. The reefs that create perfect waves are also home to a variety of fish. When the surf went flat, we’d grab our gear and dive beneath the waves to hunt for dinner. The dual-purpose nature of these spots made our trip more dynamic and exciting.
Each dive was a new adventure. We learned how different fish reacted to our movements, a challenge that kept the experience exciting. Most days, we returned to camp with fresh fish to cook, though there were a few times we opted not to shoot anything. One notable time was when none of the fish seemed worth the effort, especially knowing we had an hour-long walk back to camp.
One of my biggest take-aways from this trip was that having a buddy with you makes spearfishing safer and more enjoyable. While we didn’t encounter any large fish during our winter dives, the thought of swimming with a hip full of fish in shark territory kept us cautious. The camaraderie and teamwork added an extra layer of fun and safety to the experience.
Comparing the Pacific Side and Sea of Cortez
We explored both the Pacific side and the Sea of Cortez during our spearfishing road trip to Baja. Each side of the peninsula had its unique advantages. The Pacific waters were cooler and offered different species, while the Sea of Cortez had areas with warmer water and better visibility.
The Sea of Cortez, often referred to as the “Aquarium of the World,” provided a more diverse marine experience. However, it’s important to note that some parts of the Sea of Cortez are marine preserves where fishing is prohibited. Make sure to respect these zones to protect the environment and avoid penalties.
On the Pacific side, the rugged coastline and deeper waters made for a more challenging and rewarding dive experience. The contrasts between these two regions allowed us to appreciate Baja’s incredible variety, ensuring that no two dives felt the same.
Lessons Learned and Final Tips
Spearfishing in Baja during winter was a rewarding experience, even if it wasn’t the peak season. Here are some key takeaways from our adventure:
Research Local Regulations: Know which areas are marine preserves and respect the rules to help protect Baja’s marine life. Being informed ensures a sustainable and hassle-free experience.
Adapt to Conditions: When surf spots were flat, we took the opportunity to spearfish. Flexibility made our trip more enjoyable and allowed us to make the most of changing conditions.
Always Dive with a Buddy: For safety and fun, spearfishing is better with a partner. The shared experience adds to the joy and minimizes risks.
Plan Around Events: Avoid crowded areas by checking for local festivals or tournaments. Planning ahead can make the difference between a chaotic dive and a serene one.
Enjoy the Learning Curve: Observing how fish react and understanding their behavior added to the thrill. Each dive taught us something new, deepening our appreciation for the sport.
Not the best shot, but still caught it while spearfishing in Baja. Photo by Dalton Johnson
While winter spearfishing in Baja brought us plenty of fish and memories, we definitely need to return during the warmer months to experience the region’s peak season. If you’re planning a trip, consider your target species and the time of year to make the most of your spearfishing in Baja.
