Know When Yellowtail Show Up
Yellowtail like cooler water. In the northern Gulf, the best odds are generally from late fall through spring, roughly December through May, with the peak varying year to year.
Check the fishing calendar and the latest fishing report before you book a yellowtail trip.
Find Them Offshore
Yellowtail travel in schools around high spots: offshore reefs, pinnacles, and islands where current pushes bait together. Around Rocky Point that means the far reefs and the waters around Bird Island (Isla San Jorge). Captains watch the sonar for bait balls and birds working the surface.
Read more in our Bird Island guide and deep sea fishing guide.
Rig for Yellowtail
| Method | Setup |
|---|---|
| Live bait | Live mackerel or other baitfish on a fly-lined or lightly weighted hook |
| Yo-yo iron | Heavy metal jig dropped to the bottom and cranked fast back to the surface |
| Surface iron and poppers | Thrown into breaking fish |
| Tackle | Heavy conventional rod and reel, 40 to 60 lb line, strong hooks |
The fight is the challenge. A yellowtail's first move is a hard run straight for the rocks. Keep the drag tight, keep the rod up, and do not let it get there. Most charters provide suitable tackle; our partner charters include all rods, reels, tackle, and bait.
Plan a Full-Day Trip
Yellowtail water is farther out, so a half day rarely leaves enough fishing time. Our partner's full-day trip runs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to reefs 15 to 30 miles out and costs $900 per boat for up to 16 anglers (October 2026), paid directly to the captain.
The smart plan: book 3 nights at the lodge and put the full day in the middle, so a windy day can be moved. With 10 guys, the Full Day Crew Trip works out to about $147 each for the lodge and boat.
Yellowtail at the lodge: slice the freshest loin thin for sashimi with soy and lime, and grill the rest with salt, pepper, and oil over high heat. Do not overcook it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can you catch yellowtail in Rocky Point?
Yellowtail are most often caught in the cooler months, roughly late fall through spring. They are typically targeted on full-day offshore trips.
Where do you catch yellowtail near Rocky Point?
Yellowtail are usually found around offshore reefs and islands, including the Bird Island area. Your captain picks spots based on conditions.
What tackle do you need for yellowtail?
Heavy conventional gear with strong line is standard because yellowtail run hard toward structure. Most charters provide suitable tackle.
How big do yellowtail get in the Sea of Cortez?
Fish of 10 to 30 pounds are common, and bigger ones are possible.