Baja January Report Shows Big Yellowfin in Warm Water Pockets

The monthly Baja fishing report covered fisheries from Cabo San Lucas through the Midriff and highlighted notable yellowfin action across multiple ports. Cabo San Lucas produced consistent week-by-week results, including yellowfin to 135 pounds, day totals such as 14 tuna on a single trip, and individual fish reported in the 105 to 135 pound range. Anglers running local trips found plenty of activity where warm-water patches held.

Gordo Banks, including both inner and outer areas, delivered a broad size range of yellowfin and a few very large fish. Most tuna there ranged from roughly 50 to 185 pounds, and private boats reported giants approaching 220 to 250 pounds. Those big tuna have drawn interest from captains able to push for prime structure and the warm seams that concentrate bait and gamefish.

Along the Sea of Cortez side, East Cape and La Paz continued to produce tunas and dorado where warm pockets persisted. La Paz action skewed smaller, with yellowfin most commonly in the 10 to 30 pound range, offering good opportunities for anglers focused on numbers and fast action. Magdalena Bay remained steady for yellowfin and wahoo, giving local boats a mix of pelagic options when surface water warmed locally.

Seasonal context matters: winter wind patterns have curtailed some of the longer offshore runs that are typical in calmer months. Those conditions favor targeting close-in warm-water pockets rather than committing to long, rough trips. As a result, productive tuna days often come from reading the water and finding patches of warmer temperature and bait rather than simply running fixed long-range lines.

Practical value for anglers and local operators is straightforward. Focus runs on known warm-water seams and structure near confirmed hotspots, plan trips around wind windows to maximize time on productive water, and consider private or smaller-boat options if you’re chasing the very largest fish. Check local regulations before you go, including bag limits, size rules, and any seasonal closures that may apply.

For communities that depend on sportfishing, the mix of giant yellowfin and steady smaller fish offers both headline-making trophies and steady charters for anglers looking for action. Expect continued variability through the winter months, with the best days tied directly to where the warm water shows up.