Know What Bird Island Is
- What it is: a rocky, mostly bare island group offshore from Rocky Point.
- Wildlife: a large sea lion colony and nesting and roosting seabirds. Dolphins are often seen on the way.
- Why the fishing is good: islands and rocky high spots hold baitfish, and baitfish draw bigger fish.
Plan the Trip Out
| Departure | The harbor, about 15 to 20 minutes from the lodge |
|---|---|
| Distance | About 23 nautical miles southeast of the harbor |
| Run time | Roughly 1 to 2 hours each way, depending on the boat and the sea |
| Trip length | Usually a full day when combined with fishing |
| Best conditions | Calm mornings. Wind can cancel island trips |
| Group size | Our partner sportfishing boat carries up to 18 for Bird Island trips |
Bring layers, sun protection, a camera, motion sickness medicine, and drinks and lunch.
Fish Around the Island
The waters around Bird Island are known for:
- Yellowtail: mainly in cooler months, on live bait and iron.
- Grouper and sea bass: on rocky bottom and drop-offs.
- Seasonal pelagics: some years bring other offshore species.
Your captain follows current rules for fishing near the island and its wildlife. See our deep sea fishing guide.
Respect the Wildlife
- Keep your distance from sea lions, especially pups and bulls on the rocks. Your captain knows how close is appropriate.
- Do not land on the island or disturb nesting birds.
- No feeding sea lions or birds.
- Keep it quiet and slow near the colony.
- Pack out everything. Fishing line and plastic are deadly to wildlife.
Isla San Jorge is part of Mexico's Islands of the Gulf of California Flora and Fauna Protection Area. The area's management rules require a federal fishing license to fish from a boat, ban harassing or feeding wildlife, and set minimum viewing distances around breeding colonies. See the official management program summary (checked October 2026).
Book a Bird Island Trip
Want to combine fishing and the sea lions? Tell us when you request your dates, and we will check whether the partner captain can run a combo trip that day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bird Island in Rocky Point?
Bird Island, also known as Isla San Jorge, is an offshore island known for sea lions and seabirds. It is a popular destination for both wildlife tours and fishing trips.
How long does it take to get to Bird Island?
Bird Island is about 23 nautical miles southeast of the Rocky Point harbor. Most boats take roughly 1 to 2 hours each way, depending on the boat and the sea. Your captain sets the plan when you book.
Can you fish at Bird Island?
Yes. Full-day charters often fish the waters around Bird Island for species like yellowtail and grouper, following current rules for the area.
Can non-anglers come on a Bird Island trip?
Yes. Sea lions and seabirds make it a great trip for anyone in the group who does not fish.
Plan Your Trip
Send your dates and crew size. We reply within 12 hours with your lodge quote and a confirmed boat.