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This Is The One Must-See Spectacle In Los Cabos For October

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October in Los Cabos is a month of pure magic. The weather is flawless, the ocean is blissfully warm, and the summer crowds have given way to a relaxed, in-the-know vibe. While the destination offers a thousand amazing things to do, there is one singular, breathtaking event—a spectacle of power, wealth, and raw excitement—that stands above all others as the one must-see moment of the month.

It’s not a concert or a festival in the traditional sense. It’s a uniquely Cabo tradition that lasts for only a few thunderous minutes but will stay with you forever: the shotgun start of the Bisbee’s Black & Blue Marlin Tournament.

Here at The Cabo Sun, we’re giving you the full insider’s guide to what this incredible event is and, most importantly, how you can witness it for yourself.


What Is It? More Than Just a Fishing Tournament

First, understand the context. The Bisbee’s Black & Blue is not just any fishing tournament; it is the richest in the world, with prizes often totaling over 10 million dollars. For one week in late October, Los Cabos becomes the undisputed sportfishing capital of the universe, attracting the best anglers and the most impressive, multi-million-dollar fishing yachts from every corner of the globe. The entire town buzzes with energy, but the true spectacle is the grand opening.


The Spectacle: The “Shotgun Start”

The “special moment” is the legendary “shotgun start.” It is a breathtaking display that has to be seen to be believed.

Imagine the scene: in the calm, early morning light, a massive fleet of 150 to 200+ magnificent sportfishing yachts form a single, silent, perfect line across the bay, directly in front of the iconic Arch at Land’s End. Then, at exactly 7:00 AM, a single flare is fired into the sky.

In that instant, the silence is shattered by the thunderous roar of thousands of horsepower as every single boat throttles up simultaneously. It’s a visceral, ground-shaking sound. The sight of the entire fleet of world-class vessels accelerating at full speed and racing towards the Pacific Ocean, leaving massive white wakes in their path, is one of the most thrilling and unique spectacles in all of travel. It’s a pure adrenaline rush, even from the shore.

Fishing boat returns from a day out on the water in Los Cabos, Mexico

How, When, and Where to See It: Your Insider’s Guide

You don’t need a million-dollar boat to experience this moment. Here’s everything you need to know:

  • WHEN 🗓️: The shotgun start happens on all three fishing days: Wednesday (Oct 22nd), Thursday (Oct 23rd), and Friday (Oct 24th). The flare gun fires at 7:00 AM sharp each morning. You’ll want to be in your chosen viewing spot by 6:45 AM at the latest to see the boats line up in the pre-dawn light.
  • WHERE (On the Water) 🚤: For the absolute best, front-row seat, book a spot on a local spectator panga (water taxi) or tour boat. Many operators in the marina run special, affordable tours that morning just to take you out to watch the start from a safe distance.
  • WHERE (From the Shore) 😎: For a fantastic (and free) view, simply find a spot anywhere along Medano Beach. Grab a coffee from a local cafe, find a patch of sand, and enjoy the show. The collective gasp and cheer from the crowd on the beach is part of the experience.
Beach Chairs ready for tourists on Medano Beach Cabo San Lucas
  • WHERE (From Above) ☕: For a more relaxed, panoramic view, consider booking a breakfast reservation at a restaurant with an elevated view of the bay. Spots at resorts like The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, or others along the cliffs offer a stunning vantage point.

This isn’t just an event for fishermen; it’s a testament to Cabo’s deep connection to the sea and its larger-than-life spirit. If you’re lucky enough to be in Los Cabos in late October, witnessing the shotgun start is a truly unforgettable experience.

Happy travels!

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