Fishing in Callao Region

The Callao Region is one of Peru’s best-served areas for saltwater fishing. Marinas in La Punta and Callao proper host a variety of charter options, from offshore tuna runs to half-day reef and inshore trips. Most boats include tackle, bait, and refreshments, and some offer bilingual guides familiar with both fishing and the region’s cultural history. Fishing experiences can also include tours of Isla San Lorenzo, known for its birdlife and WWII-era naval history, or visits to bustling seafood markets like Mercado Central de Callao.

The Callao Region, located immediately west of Lima, is Peru’s primary maritime hub—home to the country’s largest port, a major naval base, and a rich tradition of fishing that stretches back centuries. Though densely urbanized, Callao is perfectly positioned along the nutrient-rich Humboldt Current, making it a gateway to some of the most productive marine ecosystems on the South American coast. Callao combines modern infrastructure with strong fishing heritage, offering everything from deep sea charters to shore fishing along piers and breakwaters. The climate is mild and dry year-round, with foggy mornings and sunny afternoons common along the coast. Whether you're visiting for a day trip or launching a serious offshore expedition, Callao delivers authentic Peruvian fishing just minutes from the capital.

Fishing in Callao revolves around saltwater experiences, including offshore big game fishing, reef and bottom fishing, and shore-based angling. The offshore shelf drops quickly near Callao, so deep sea species are accessible without long travel times. Charter boats based at La Punta, Callao Marina Club, and Yacht Club Peruano offer full-service trips targeting tuna, mackerel, and dorado. Inshore, the rocky outcrops around Isla San Lorenzo and Isla El Frontón host a variety of reef species. Traditional small boats and pangas also provide shorter, nearshore excursions using artisanal methods. For casual or budget-friendly fishing, piers like La Punta and Callao Breakwater offer good shore access with simple tackle. Some Callao-based operators offer inland river and lake fishing trips, which may get listed in the region, although actual fishing will take place elsewhere in the country.

Thanks to the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the Humboldt Current, the Callao region supports an impressive range of marine life. Yellowfin tuna, skipjack tuna, and bonito are found offshore, especially from December through April. Occasional mahi-mahi (dorado) and wahoo join the mix during warmer months. Closer to shore, the reefs and islands are home to Peruvian sea bass (cabrilla), groupers, croaker, corvina, grunt, scorpionfish, flounder and octopus. Shore and jetty anglers commonly catch mullet (lisa), rockfish, and small snappers. Chita, cojinova, and jacks are also common targets around rocky points and pilings. The region’s fish diversity supports both sportfishing and subsistence-level harvesting year-round.

Offshore anglers use trolling with skirted lures, ballyhoo, or sardines for tuna and dorado. Vertical jigging is effective near reefs and underwater structures for snapper and rockfish. Many boats also employ drift fishing with chunk bait or live sardines for tuna and mackerel schools. Inshore, both bottom fishing with cut bait and casting soft plastics or metal jigs around structure are popular. Artisanal handline fishing remains a traditional and effective method used from pangas and rocky ledges. Shore anglers use baited rigs with shrimp, shellfish, or sardines on sliding or paternoster rigs, particularly effective near tidal outflows and submerged rock formations. Simple spinning setups work well for smaller predators and mullet.