First time in Cabo (July 2021) so we had to try deep-sea fishing while there after knowing what kind of fish that area is known for - particularly Marlins. The captain and first mate were very friendly and accommodating. It was their mission for us to hook up and get some good fish on the boat and enjoy the experience, which they delivered. We caught a total of (3) Tuna’s and (1) Striped Marlin. I grew up in the South Florida area and Marlin catching was very sparse down there. So I was pleasantly surprised for the opportunity and experience to reel this Marlin in which exceeded my expectations for the trip. All in all, we had a great time on the water with my family and reeled in some pretty amazing fish (photo attached).
Things to note for this fishing trip excursion to help you prepare:
1. The water is rough. We went a bit offshore and the wind down there can be a bit extreme. Even if it seems like a calm day in the morning at the marina, the winds will pick up once you get offshore. As a result, we had some pretty big swells. So if you think you can and will get seasick, be prepared for that. My family has some pretty strong stomachs, but my 13 year old daughter even felt a little queasy on this trip.
2. The Viviana keeps their prices minimal for the experience alone. You are responsible for everything else, so bring cash. The remainder of the balance of the charter minus your booking fee is due before boarding the boat. Fishing licenses for the adults ($15USD each). There was a woman at a table in front of a restaurant in the marina where she was selling the licenses. So you get them before you board the boat. So arrive a little early. Like 15 mins before you are supposed to board. Although we were not asked to present the licenses in any form to anyone, we just needed to have them if stopped by officials. Live bait for the boat and ice ($20USD). The live bait was in hopes of bottom fishing, but with the sea being so rough, we trolled the entire time. Some bait was used for trolling, but all the fish we caught were on lures. So keep that in mind if you choose to purchase bait or not. Also not included, the tip for the crew. 15-20% gratuity off the chartered boat’s price. Or as Chivo would say, big fish, big tip. So yes, I tipped them a bit more for the experience. Also not included is the price for cleaning the fish ($20USD). Someone met us at the dock and took the fish away to have it cleaned and brought back to us in baggies. We gave most of the fish away to the crew for their families. But, we were able to enjoy our catch at Captain Tony’s restaurant where we ate the Tuna and Marlin. We had the Marlin blackened and the Tuna the restaurant made into sashimi. Everyone loved it, but it was so much food for us to eat. Chivo stopped by at the restaurant and we offered some sashimi to him. Nice guy. Also not included were beverages like sodas, water, or beer. There is a store by the marina where you can purchase these items before you board as well.
Hope this helps any future anglers considering the Viviana while in Cabo! Good luck out there and have fun!
First time in Cabo (July 2021) so we had to try deep-sea fishing while there after knowing what kind of fish that area is known...
