Los Locos Mag Bay

Located in the small fishing community of San Carlos, Baja California Sur, Mexico, Los Locos Mag Bay is one of the most unique fly fishing operations on the globe. With direct access to Magdalena Bay, anglers have the opportunity to sight-fish to blitzing Striped Marlin on the fly. Roosterfish, Snook, Snapper, and a host of other species can also be targeted in this vast fishery, spanning 200 square miles of blue water, channels, beaches, and mangrove lagoons. Daily fishing adventures are complemented by delicious seafood meals and comfortable lodging just steps from the bay. For adventurous anglers looking for a distinctive experience with expert guides and a friendly local team, Los Locos Mag Bay stands out as an excellent choice.

 

Who It's For

• Striped Marlin, Roosterfish, and Snook Anglers
• Adventurous Couples & Groups
  

 

When To Go

Los Locos Mag Bay offers two distinct fishing seasons; summer and fall. The summer season, from May through July, is primarily focused on the rich inshore fishery of Magdelena Bay. This time of year offers a diverse range of target species for anglers who like variety. From sightfishing to Cubera Snapper on rocky points, Roosterfish in the surf, and Black Snook in the estuaries and mangroves, the possibilities are many with fly and light spin tackle in the summer season.

The fall season, from October through mid-January is prime time for finding Striped Marlin, Mahi, and Wahoo on bait balls of mackerel and sardines. The exciting visual game of casting baitfish patterns into a surface feeding frenzy is what put Magdelena Bay on the map for anglers, and it's what keeps many guests coming back year after year. In addition to the offshore game, the inshore fishery is still a worthwhile pursuit during the fall season. Grouper, Snapper, Jacks, and other unique species can be targeted on fly and light spin tackle this time of year, making for a well-rounded week of offshore and inshore fishing.

 

Striped Marlin

Known for their spectacular acrobatics when hooked, Striped Marlin are the main attraction for anglers in Magdalena Bay during the fall season. Targeting these powerful fish means finding the bait, typically large schools of sardines and mackerel that the Marlin pursue. Once a bait ball is located, sight-fishing for these aggressive feeders is an exhilarating experience, from adrenaline-charged strikes to intense battles. With an average size exceeding 100 pounds, Striped Marlin put both angler skill and gear to the ultimate test, making each encounter a memorable challenge.

 

Roosterfish

Primarily found inshore, Roosterfish are lightning-quick predators that patrol the surf, beaches, and rocky points in search of sardines, mullet, and other baitfish. Their aggressive nature and explosive strikes make them a sought-after target for anglers in Mag Bay, especially in the summer months. Sight-fishing for this ultra-aggressive species is incredibly thrilling, often using poppers and baitfish patterns to provoke explosive strikes. Once hooked up, their powerful, blistering runs can challenge even seasoned anglers.

 

Snook

Snook are a popular target species in the estuaries and lagoons of the inner bay, particularly during the warmer summer months when they are most active. These ambush predators position themselves near rocks or mangrove roots, waiting to strike with explosive power. Not only are their eats powerful and sometimes very visual, but keeping a 20+ pound fish out of structure can be a great challenge for anglers on fly and light spin tackle.

 

Other Species

In addition to Striped Marlin, Roosterfish, and Snook, Magdalena Bay hosts a wide array of catchable species. Inshore, anglers can find Cubera Snapper and Grouper in shallow waters. Within the bay, jigging with conventional tackle can yield Yellowtail, Grouper, White Sea Bass, Snapper, Amberjack, Sierra Mackerel, Jack Crevalle, and more. Offshore, it is not uncommon to encounter highly aggressive Mahi and other pelagic species chasing down bait balls. Overall, the entire Magdalena Bay fishery is incredibly diverse, offering everything from technical mangrove fishing to intense bluewater bait blitzes.

 

Boats

Los Locos uses boats that are designed and locally manufactured specifically for fly fishing in Magdalena bay. These are custom, 28-foot center console pangas with an 8 foot beam that draft about a foot of water. They are equipped with large casting platforms in the bow and stern, complete with leaning bars and sea deck padding to accommodate 2 anglers fishing at once.

Each boat is equipped with depth sounders, radios and trim tabs to ensure smoother runs in variable conditions. They also feature trolling motors to allow for more successful inshore fishing capabilities.

Los Locos utilizes a dedicated local boatman and an English speaking fishing guide on each boat, allowing guides to focus entirely on spotting fish and assisting anglers with casting, presentation, rigging, and anything else they may need. This system works extremely well for Magdelena Bay, and employs local boatmen who know the bay better than anyone.

 

Equipment

A range of rod sizes with matched reels will be necessary for a week at Los Locos. We recommend bringing 4 rods: a 10wt for inshore fishing plus a backup, and a 12wt for offshore fishing plus a backup. In addition to rods and reels, bringing the right lines, backing, leader material, and flies are critical to your success. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident. Rental equipment is available if needed, and flies are available for purchase at the lodge.

Itinerary

Days 1: From Home to Puerto San Carlos, Mexico

A week-long trip at Los Locos runs from Saturday to Friday. Getting to the lodge begins with a Saturday flight to Cabo (SJD), La Paz (LAP), or Loreto (LTO), depending on flight availability from your home location. Upon arrival in Mexico, you can choose to take a pre-arranged shuttle, or rent a car to drive to Puerto San Carlos. Depending on which airport you arrived at, drive time varies from 6 hours, 3 hours, or 2 hours respectively. Once you've arrived, the Los Locos team will give a briefing over a fantastic meal.

 

Days 2 - 5: The Fishing Days

Fishing days start with a full breakfast before heading out with your guide and boatman for the day. If you're targeting offshore species, morning boat runs can be up to two hours with bumpy chop. After a morning fishing session, a cooler lunch is served on the panga, allowing you to relax, eat, and rehydrate while taking in the views of the Pacific Ocean. Following the afternoon session, you'll return to the lodge before dark to unwind and enjoy a flavorful dinner consisting of fresh seafood and Mexican specialties. After dinner, feel free to enjoy a cold beverage with fellow guests, or retire early.

 

Day 6: From Puerto San Carlos to Home

After your week of fishing, you'll enjoy breakfast on Friday morning before beginning your vehicle transfer back to the airport of your choosing, where you'll board your flight to your home destination.

Lodging

Accommodations

Los Locos has partnered with a local eco-hotel, Villas Mar y Arena, to offer anglers comfortable palapa-style villas situated near the water with stunning panoramic views of Magdalena Bay. Each villa is equipped with one queen and one twin-sized bed, a television, hot water, and WiFi. After each day of fishing, guests can relax and enjoy a full-service bar and restaurant on the property, featuring a laid-back outdoor patio by the water - perfect for enjoying a drink with new amigos as the sun sets.

 

Food

Meals are a highlight of the Los Locos experience, featuring fresh seafood and authentic Mexican favorites to fit a variety of palates. Breakfasts are made to order, featuring classic options such as eggs and bagels or Mexican dishes. Cooler lunches are served on the water and can include hearty burritos or sandwiches with additional boat snacks, water, sodas, and fruit. Dinners typically begin with appetizers such as fresh sushi or Mexican tapas as you return from fishing. The main course can include seafood, vegetables, and flavorful meats. Los Locos has a rotation of fantastic local dinner restaurants that you'll experience throughout the week.

 

Connectivity

Complimentary WiFi is available in the Mar Y Arena Eco Hotel. Although it is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions. Cell service may be available at the lodge depending on your service plan.

Rates

Trident Travel's expert planning service is free of charge. The rates below are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge.

All rates below are per person for six nights and five days of fishing. Rates and inclusions are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing.

 

2026 Fishing Packages

Summer Season:

Double Occupancy / 3 Anglers Per Boat (Per Person) = $6,400

Double Occupancy / 2 Anglers Per Boat (Per Person) = $8,300

Single Occupancy / 1 Angler Per Boat (Per Person) = $16,000

 

Marlin Season - October:

Double Occupancy / 3 Anglers Per Boat (Per Person) = $6,700

Double Occupancy / 2 Anglers Per Boat (Per Person) = $8,500

 

Marlin Season - November - January:

Double Occupancy / 3 Anglers Per Boat (Per Person) = $6,900

Double Occupancy / 2 Anglers Per Boat (Per Person) = $8,800

 

Marlin Season - December:

Double Occupancy / 3 Anglers Per Boat (Per Person) = $7,200

Double Occupancy / 2 Anglers Per Boat (Per Person) = $9,200

 

Optional Add-Ons

Private Room Supplement = $100 per night

Rod Rental = $50/day per rod; $250 replacement fee for broken or damaged equipment

 

What's Included:

• Lodging at Mar Y Arena Eco Hotel
• Meals in Puerto San Carlos
• Guided fishing
• Non-alcoholic beverages
• Airport transfers (SJD, LAP, or LTO)

 

What's Not Included:

• Gratuities for guides and hotel staff
• Mexican fishing license
• International airfare
• Lodging and meals in Cabo, if necessary
• All fishing equipment and rentals
• Alcoholic beverages

FAQ

What skill level is required for this trip?

Targeting Striped Marlin on the fly requires a level of confidence with casting 12wt rods with sinking lines and large flies. Additionally, the boat runs can be rather long and arduous compared to many typical flats destinations. Because of this, Los Locos is best suited for more serious anglers who have experience with heavy saltwater tackle, and who are mentally and physically prepared for the long and often rough boat transfers.

 

Is Los Locos Mag Bay Family Friendly?

Because of the remote nature of the fishing grounds and the simple accommodations, fishing is the main attraction here. We recommend this trip for fishing-oriented adult anglers and groups who don't require extra amenities or any non-angling activities.

 

How do tides affect fishing?

Tides can have a significant impact on inshore fishing in the lagoons and estuaries of Magdalena Bay. Because of the vast size of the fishery, both Spring and Neap tide cycles can offer productive fishing, and the expert guides and boatmen of Los Locos will know where to go for a given tide. For offshore fishing, tides are of less concern.

 

Is the water safe to drink?

Although the tap water is non-potable in rural Mexico, purified drinking water is available at all times at the lodge.

 

How many other anglers will be at the lodge?

Los Locos has a maximum capacity of 21 anglers per week. Due to the immense size of Magdalena Bay, you'll never feel crowded by other boats. The guides and local charter captains of the area work together and share information to locate feeding fish.

 

Do the guides speak English?

Yes, all the guides at Los Locos Mag Bay are fluent in English.

 

What kind of electrical outlets are there?

The Mar Y Arena Eco Hotel uses 120-volt electrical outlets, the same style found in the USA (type A and B).

 

What is the weather like?

The climate of Puerto San Carlos is arid and warm, with average temperatures ranging from 75 to 85 degrees F throughout the year. During winter months, lows can dip into the 50s, while daytime highs usually stay in the 70s and sometimes 80s. The hottest months are July through September, when temperatures can occasionally exceed 90 degrees, though the coastal breezes provide some relief. Rain is rare, but the area can experience occasional showers during the late summer and early fall due to tropical influences. While the overall climate is mild and comfortable, it's worth noting that boat runs in the early morning or late afternoon can feel quite chilly due to the breeze over the water and spray. A high-quality windbreaker or rain jacket is essential, and bibs may be necessary during colder months.

 

How does money work in Mexico?

Mexico's currency is the Mexican peso (MXN). U.S. dollars are readily accepted in Mexico, but change will be given in pesos. Be sure to bring enough cash to cover tips and any incidental expenses.

 

Is tipping customary in Mexico?

Yes, tipping is customary although it is at your discretion. We generally recommend tipping 15-20% of your trip total per person.

 

What happens if I’m injured during the trip, and should I purchase travel insurance?

Medical emergencies and evacuations can happen in remote destinations, which is why we strongly recommend enrolling with Global Rescue before your trip. Global Rescue provides industry-leading medical and security evacuation services, and they also offer comprehensive travel insurance plans serviced through IMG. This all-in-one solution allows anglers to secure both emergency evacuation coverage and travel insurance through a single provider, helping ensure you’re protected if something unexpected occurs before or during your trip.