Cast A Line in Magdalena: Explore the Bay’s Beauty Through Sportfishing

MAGDALENA BAY, BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR (May 15, 2024) – As spring turns to summer and the Pacific Ocean warms, Magdalena Bay’s waters transform, attracting majestic “big-game” fish and becoming an oasis for intrepid fishing fanatics seeking their next big catch. With an impressive array of coveted giants such as striped marlin (one of the world’s fastest fish!), dorado, yellow fin, wahoo and halibut, the crystalline waters offer an unrivaled fishing experience from now through November, making it a must-visit summer and fall destination both seasoned anglers and novices alike.

Nestled on the western coast of the Baja Peninsula in the Municipality of Comondú, Magdalena Bay is the largest natural bay on the northern hemisphere. Sheltered from the powerful waves of the Pacific Ocean by Isla Santa Margarita and Isla Magdalena, its waters create the perfect wildlife refuge. Anglers visiting the region can explore fishing both off-shore, where the big-game thrive, or in-shore, where spotted sea bass and grouper lie hidden amidst the mangrove-lined estuaries.

For those seeking insider access to prime fishing spots, esteemed guides such as Garcia´s Tours and Mar y Arena Ecotours offer tailor-made experiences catering to fishermen of all skill levels. With their expertise, travelers can reel in prized catches like mahi-mahi or pose for the “quintessential big-catch” photo with a massive, long-billed marlin. Packages range from half-day excursions to multi-day adventures, complete with fishing technique tutorials.

However, Magdalena Bay isn’t only a destination for fishing enthusiasts, it’s a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts as well. The serene bay is celebrated for its exceptional grey whale watching experiences, as the mammals utilize the peaceful, sheltered waters for nurturing their calves. Additionally, sea turtles thrive in abundance, navigating the gentle currents as they feed. Considering the endangered status of both species, local conservation groups composed of scientists, students, and volunteers play a crucial role in the region, offering essential resources and educational initiatives to safeguard the Bay’s marine ecosystem.

For those wishing to visit this off-the-beaten path paradise, visitors have the option to stay in charming fishing villages such as Puerto San Carlos on the bay’s eastern shore, Puerto Adolfo López Mateos on the northeastern coast, or Puerto López Mateos to the north. Accessible via Loreto for a scenic 2 ½ hour drive from the eastern coast of the Baja Peninsula, or La Paz for a slightly longer 3 ½ hour journey north, Magdalena Bay’s remote allure adds to its appeal. Whether guests prefer camping under the stars or cozying up in the region’s quaint hotels, there’s accommodation to suit every preference in this natural oasis.

Comondú

The municipality of Comondú, a large swath of the state of Baja California Sur, mostly rests along the Pacific Ocean side of the peninsula. One of the biggest attractions to Comondú is Misión San José de Comondú, home to one of the first missions built on the mission trail. Travelling slightly south will bring tourists to the beautiful waters of Magdalena Bay, a renowned spot for spotting grey whales as they raise their young during the annual winter migration. Puerto San Carlos and Puerto Lopez Mateos also offer extraordinary opportunities to snorkel, kayak, fish, surf, boat and camp. Duck Island provides fabulous bird watching conditions and Scorpion Bay in San Juanico is famed as one of the longest waves in the world and one of the best surf breaks in Baja. For more information please visit: https://www.visitbajasur.travel/en/