Fishing Tips for the Bay of Concepcion, BCS

Written By Lisa Coleman

How to Make the Most of Every Cast in Our Favorite Baja Bay

If you’ve ever dreamed of tossing a line into turquoise waters with pelicans flying overhead and dolphins passing by, the Bay of Concepción in Baja California Sur is where those dreams live. Brian has been fishing these waters for the past 4 years, and whether it’s a sunrise charter on the Allie Marie or a lazy afternoon from shore, there’s always something biting—and something beautiful.

Here’s what he has learned (sometimes the hard way!) about fishing this magical bay.

1. Know What’s in Season

Different fish show up at different times of the year. Here are some local favorites:

  • Yellowtail – Best in the winter and spring

  • Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) – Hot summer months

  • Snapper & Grouper – Year-round

  • Triggerfish & Spotted Bay Bass – Always around and fun to catch

Check with the locals (or just ask Brian!) to find out what’s biting before you head out.

2. Timing Is Everything

Early morning is often the best time to fish—less wind, cooler temps, and more active fish. They like to head out just after first light. That’s when the bay feels extra still, and the chances of landing something tasty are higher.

Pro Tip: Bring coffee in a thermos and breakfast burritos. Trust me.

3. Gear Up Without Overpacking

Try to keep it simple:

  • Light spinning tackle for inshore species

  • A medium rod with braided line for bottom fishing

  • A few trolling rigs if you're heading out past the islands

Don’t forget extra hooks, sinkers, a fillet knife, and sun protection. Oh—and a ice and a cooler for your catch!

4. Use What They Love

Bait matters. Around here, live bait like sardines or mackerel is gold. But don’t overlook the humble squid strip. It works wonders on snapper and grouper.

If you’re fishing near rocky outcrops or underwater structure, try jigs or soft plastics. That’s where the big guys hide. Our favorites are Man I Love Fishing Jigs. You can get them from Nathan on Amazon. Here is the link: https://amzn.to/43HA4z9

5. Know Your Spots

Some of our go-to spots include:

  • Punta Arena – Great for yellowtail and grouper

  • Isla Coyote – Nice drop-offs for trolling

  • Playa Santispac – Fun from shore, especially for triggerfish

  • The reef just outside El Burro – Productive and beautiful

We won’t give all our secrets away (locals’ code!), but those should get you started.

6. Respect the Water

Conditions can change quickly. Always check the forecast. Wear a life jacket if you're heading out, and bring more water than you think you'll need. Sunburns and dehydration sneak up fast out here.

Also: If dolphins show up near your boat, pause and just watch. It's always worth it.

7. Clean Up Right

We’ve seen too many fillet tables left a mess. Be kind to the beach and sea. Clean your catch, bag it up, and dispose of waste properly. Leave no trace—except a few happy footprints in the sand.

Bonus Tip: Ask Around

Don’t be shy about talking to other fishers. This bay has a strong local fishing community, and folks are (usually) happy to swap stories, share tips, and point you toward the best launch points or bait shops.

You never know—you might even get invited to a fish fry. 😉

Share Your Catch!

If you head out and land something worth bragging about, tag us on Instagram [@OurBajaLife] or drop your photos in the comments. We love seeing what you reel in!

Related Posts:

  • [Fishing with Allie Marie – Chartering the Sea of Cortez]

  • [Best Beach Day Recipes from Our Kitchen]

  • [Living Off the Grid: Why We Stayed in Mulegé]

Lisa Coleman
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