REEL FREEDOM CHARTERS 

5.0
(18 reviews)
 Marina Pez Vela, Quepos, PU 60601, Costa Rica–

REEL FREEDOM CHARTERS 

Quepos, PU, Costa Rica
–
42 ft
9
5.0
(18 reviews)

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At Southern Escapes, our mission remains unchanged: delivering excellence through unmatched fishing adventures. Starting June 1, 2026, Reel Freedom is launching an upgraded charter menu, featuring new pricing options, premium amenities, and bespoke add-ons.

Choose Your Adventure:

Pura Vida Lite (Half-Day / Inshore-Nearshore): Quick saltwater therapy for tight   schedules, full itineraries, or families trying Costa Rican fishing for the first time.

Pelagic Sprint (3/4 Day / Offshore): High-impact offshore targeting Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, and Dorado. Perfect for groups short on time or testing their offshore legs.

Pelagic Express (Full Day / Offshore): Our signature experience. A complete day on the water targeting premier offshore gamefish.

Pelagic Deluxe (Extended Day / Offshore): For the anglers who always want 'just one more.' Extends your day past standard charter limits.

Pelagic Pursuit (2 Days, 1 Night / Ultimate Offshore): The ultimate bucket-list trip for heavy hitters (max 4 guests). Overnight targeting massive Blue/Black Marlin and giant Yellowfin Tuna.

What Is Included:

All-Inclusive Gear: High-end rods, reels, tackle, and expert Crew.
Signature Lunches: Included on all trips except Pura Vida Lite

What is Not Included: Costa Rican fishing licenses (can be purchased online in advance).

Tailor your trip with our premium upgrades:

Connectivity: High-speed onboard Wi-Fi.
Media: Professional photo, video, and drone packages with full editing.
Catering: Premium culinary menus, fine wine, and top-shelf liquor.
Celebrations: Custom arrangements for your special occasion. 
Private Stewardess: Elite onboard service to bartend, prep, and serve premium culinary items.

At Southern Escapes, our mission remains unchanged: delivering excellence through unmatched fishing adventures. Starting June 1, 2026, Reel Freedom is launching an upgraded charter menu, featuring new pricing options, premium amenities, and bespoke add-ons.

Choose Your Adventure:

Pura Vida Lite (Half-Day / Inshore-Nearshore): Quick saltwater therapy for tight   schedules, full itineraries, or families trying Costa Rican fishing for the first time.

Pelagic Sprint (3/4 Day / Offshore): High-impact offshore targeting Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, and Dorado. Perfect for groups short on time or testing their offshore legs.

Pelagic Express (Full Day / Offshore): Our signature experience. A complete day on the water targeting premier offshore gamefish.

Pelagic Deluxe (Extended Day / Offshore): For the anglers who always want 'just one more.' Extends your day past standard charter limits.

Pelagic Pursuit (2 Days, 1 Night / Ultimate Offshore): The ultimate bucket-list trip for heavy hitters (max 4 guests). Overnight targeting massive Blue/Black Marlin and giant Yellowfin Tuna.

What Is Included:

All-Inclusive Gear: High-end rods, reels, tackle, and expert Crew.
Signature Lunches: Included on all trips except Pura Vida Lite

What is Not Included: Costa Rican fishing licenses (can be purchased online in advance).

Tailor your trip with our premium upgrades:

Connectivity: High-speed onboard Wi-Fi.
Media: Professional photo, video, and drone packages with full editing.
Catering: Premium culinary menus, fine wine, and top-shelf liquor.
Celebrations: Custom arrangements for your special occasion. 
Private Stewardess: Elite onboard service to bartend, prep, and serve premium culinary items.

Stan Cook
Captain
Stan Cook
29 years of experience
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
November 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Pura Vida Lite
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Marlin (Blue)
Roosterfish
Sailfish
+5
US $1,600
Entire boat: up to 6 people
Pelagic Sprint
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Marlin (Blue)
Sailfish
Tuna (Yellowfin)
+2
US $2,400
Entire boat: up to 6 people
Pelagic Express
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Marlin (Blue)
Sailfish
Tuna (Yellowfin)
+2
US $2,800
Entire boat: up to 6 people
Pelagic Deluxe
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
10 hour trip starts at 6:00 AM
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Marlin (Blue)
Sailfish
Tuna (Yellowfin)
+2
US $3,000
Entire boat: up to 6 people
Pelagic Pursuit
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
2 Day Trip starts at 7:00 PM
Overnight stay, liveaboard
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Marlin (Blue)
Sailfish
Tuna (Yellowfin)
+2
US $5,800
Entire boat: up to 9 people

Customer reviews

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Rating

5.0
18 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (40)

Reviews (18)

  • Lisa Trebilcock
    Lisa Trebilcock
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Caught the Big One!

    Pelagic Sprint on December 2, 2025 • 5 adults

    No sooner did we say, “we’d love a big marlin,” a big one hit the line! Followed by a sailfish! We were thrilled. Captain Stan and crew really delivered. Highly recommend. Not to mention a delicious lunch, and seeing tons of dolphin and a couple sea turtle. Great 3/4 day! Thank you, Captain Stan and crew!

  • Steven S
    Steven S
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    Great trip. Stan is a great host and captian.

    Pelagic Express on May 16, 2026

    The wife and I had a great trip. We caught a bunch of new fish for us. the boat was great and we really could not have asked for me. We will be back to CR and book with Stan again.

  • FishingBooker Member
    FishingBooker Member
    5.0

    Unforgettable days on the water with Captain Stan and the Reel Freedom Crew!

    Pelagic Express on May 5, 2025

    We had the absolute pleasure of fishing with Captain Stan on the Reel Freedom out of Quepos, Costa Rica—and what an incredible experience it was! From start to finish, everything exceeded our expectations. Captain Stan is the real deal—professional, knowledgeable, and passionate about what he does. He put us right on the fish, and we had non-stop action throughout the day. His years of experience and calm confidence made the whole trip smooth and exciting. A huge shoutout to the mates onboard—these guys were phenomenal! Friendly, hardworking, and incredibly skilled, they made sure everything ran like clockwork. Whether it was rigging lines, helping land the catch, or just keeping spirits high, they were top-notch the entire time. And we can't forget Michele, Captain Stan's wonderful wife. From the moment we booked the trip, Michele was warm, welcoming, and incredibly helpful in making sure everything went off without a hitch. You can tell this is more than just a business—it’s a true family-run operation built on passion and pride. If you're looking for an unforgettable fishing adventure in Quepos, look no further than Reel Freedom. Thanks again to Captain Stan, Michele, and the amazing crew—we’ll definitely be back!

  • Chad Michaelsen
    Chad Michaelsen
    Repeat angler
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2021
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Epic Sailfish day!!

    Pelagic Express on April 23, 2025 • 7 adults

    We had an amazing day on Reel Freedom. I've fished out of Quepos numerous times and our entire group thought Reel Freedom, Captain Bill and his team ran a spectacular boat. We had a rather large group of friends and all 7 of us caught sailfish - ended up landing 11 overall. Not only did Bill put us on the fish but his guys were great at keeping everyone engaged. The equipment was top notch and the boat was perfect for a larger group. Lunch was excellent !! I would absolutely go fishing with this crew when I am in Quepos and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to catch fish during their stay in Quepos!.

  • Heather Modzelewski
    Heather Modzelewski
    us
    Connecticut, US
    Member since 2021
    5.0

    Full Day of REEL Fun!!!!

    Pelagic Express on March 25, 2025

    We had the best time out with these guys. They helped us check of another bucket list fish!!! 12 sailfish in total during our trip. The boat is fully equipped with everything you need to catch some great sports fish and to satisfy your cravings for lunch from Butcher Block. (Check them out for dinner after you go fishing they are right in the Marina!!! ) The crew is very knowledgeable about the fish you are looking to catch and will bring you to the location to catch your dream fish!!!! There is AC and a head on board, so no need to worry about booking long trips. Capt Stan has you covered!!!!

  • Andrew Hainsworth
    Andrew Hainsworth
    Repeat angler
    us
    Oregon, US
    Member since 2023
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Simply the Best Fishing Charter Experience

    Pelagic Sprint on April 12, 2025 • 4 adults

    Stan and his crew were friendly, welcoming and hospitable from the second we arrived at the marina. We caught a total of 12 sailfish and had an absolute blast all day. By far the best lunch I’ve ever had on a charter boat, they brought us brisket sandwiches, salads and Texas Twinkies from the best local restaurant Butchers Block I was absolutely stunned by how good it was. Basically I felt as if I was treated like a king for the day and was reeling in fish what felt like half the time. Absolutely phenomenal experience!!!!

  • Pat Keenan
    Pat Keenan
    Member since 2025
    5.0

    Full Day on Reel Freedom with Stan Cook

    Pelagic Express on May 9, 2025

    One of the best charters I’ve been on. The crew was dialed in — super helpful when we were on sailfish, tuna, and mahi. Solid gear, great guidance, and nonstop action. Between bites, they served fresh pineapple and a killer burrito for lunch. And the fresh sashimi on deck? Next level. If you’re looking for a serious fishing trip with a crew that knows their stuff, this is it.

  • Jodie Sechler
    Jodie Sechler
    us
    Florida, US
    Member since 2017
    5.0
    Verified

    Bucket List Success - AMAZING!

    Pelagic Express on May 9, 2025 • 7 adults

    Stan and his crew are 1st class! These guys know what they are doing. So impressive! They served healthy fresh fruit, amazing beef, brisket, sandwiches, fresh guacamole, and salsa, just AMAZING….Everything! I would highly recommend this charter! We caught everything on our list, swordfish, tuna, and mahi! It was a perfect day!

  • John Kreiner
    John Kreiner
    Member since 2025
    5.0

    Pelagic Rockstar Lifemed Team on Reel Freedom

    Pelagic Express on January 10, 2025

    I have been fishing for 25 plus years off shore and by far my experience with Stan and his crew on Reel Freedom was the best. Highly recommend if you’re in the Queops area to give him a call. 1st class all around!!

  • Dianna Bicknell
    Dianna Bicknell
    Repeat angler
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2020
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Southern Escape with Captain Stan

    Pelagic Sprint on December 31, 2024 • 5 adults

    Our family of five enjoyed this tour. On vacation from Georgia. First time deep sea fishing experience. We got a sailfish and some smaller species. The boat was plenty comfortable, with nice seating area. The crew was great as well. We recommend.

FAQs about REEL FREEDOM CHARTERS

REEL FREEDOM CHARTERS offers the following trips to customers:
  • US $1,600 per group, additional US $100 per person after 6 guests - Pura Vida Lite (4 hours)
  • US $2,400 per group, additional US $100 per person after 6 guests - Pelagic Sprint (6 hours)
  • US $2,800 per group, additional US $98 per person after 6 guests - Pelagic Express (8 hours)
  • US $3,000 per group, additional US $100 per person after 6 guests - Pelagic Deluxe (10 hours)
  • US $5,800 per day per group - Pelagic Pursuit (2 days)
When you book a trip with REEL FREEDOM CHARTERS, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • Toilet Reel Freedom has (1) bathroom. The bathroom has a standard, marine toilet similar to what you would find on land, handwashing sink and a shower. (shower not available to single day charters)
  • Air conditioning
  • Fighting chair
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Bed
  • Flybridge
  • Live bait well
  • Kitchen
  • Refrigerator
  • Multimedia system
  • Outriggers
  • Tuna tubes
  • Ice box
  • Radar
Trips booked with REEL FREEDOM CHARTERS include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Live bait (Before we make our run offshore, our first priority of the morning is getting live bait, depending on the species we are targeting that day. Mother Nature controls the schedule here—availability changes daily, sometimes it's fast, sometimes it requires pa)
  • Lures
  • Catch cleaning & filleting (Expert cleaning and fillet service is included with each charter. Our crew completes this process prior to docking. Your catch is expertly filleted and bagged for you to take home for dinner. Take all of it or some of it, whatever you don't take will be d)
  • Snacks (We have you fully covered with fresh fruit as a snack, your lunch, water, soda, and beer—all included with your charter. Just show up ready to fish, and let us handle the rest.)
  • Drinks (Water, soda, and local beer are included with your charter. If you have any special requests, we are happy to accommodate with advance notice and an additional charge.)
  • First mate (Ready for an unforgettable trip with the best in the business? Meet Garden Smith, our Costa Rican born and raised first mate and relief captain. Garden knows these pelagic waters like the back of his hand, and his passion for fishing is truly contagious. )
  • Lunch (Lunch is included and catered directly from the highly reviewed restaurant The Butcher Block, located at Marina Pez Vela and go to location for post fishing beverages, air conditioning and fish stories.)
REEL FREEDOM CHARTERS offers the following types of fishing:
  • Inshore fishing
  • Offshore fishing (How far offshore we travel depends entirely on the specific trip you purchase. For our full-day and extended-day charters, we go as far out as we need to go to put you on the fish. For shorter trips, we maximize your time by hitting our proven, secret hon)
REEL FREEDOM CHARTERS offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Heavy tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Spinning
  • Jigging
  • Popping
  • Fly fishing
  • Deep sea fishing
Top targeted fish species with REEL FREEDOM CHARTERS include:
  • Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
  • Marlin (Black)
  • Marlin (Blue)
  • Marlin (Striped)
  • Roosterfish
  • Sailfish
  • Sierra Mackerel
  • Snapper (Pacific Dog)
  • Tuna (Yellowfin)

Your captain

Stan Cook
Stan Cook
Quepos, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
7 Fishing Reports
18 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since December 2024
Captain Stan is a retired U.S. Army Special Forces veteran, entrepreneur, and professional angler with over a decade of experience guiding in Quepos, Costa Rica. From running charter vessels for his Special Operations brethren in North Carolina after retirement to commanding his fourth offshore boat today, Stan operates his business alongside his wife, Michele—who passionately champions women in sportfishing—and their famous boat dog, Coco of Quepos.
Our Team
Garden S.
Garden S.
First mate
Michele C.
Michele C.
Business partner
Bill C.
Bill C.
Captain
Stan C.
Stan C.
Captain
Stan Cook
Stan Cook
7
reports
18
reviews
2024
member since
~1h
response
Captain Stan is a retired U.S. Army Special Forces veteran, entrepreneur, and professional angler with over a decade of experience guiding in Quepos, Costa Rica. From running charter vessels for his Special Operations brethren in North Carolina after retirement to commanding his fourth offshore boat today, Stan operates his business alongside his wife, Michele—who passionately champions women in sportfishing—and their famous boat dog, Coco of Quepos.
The crew
Garden S.
Garden S.
First mate
Michele C.
Michele C.
Business partner
Bill C.
Bill C.
Captain
Stan C.
Stan C.
Captain

The fish you can target

Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Black Marlin
Black Marlin
Blue Marlin
Blue Marlin
Striped Marlin
Striped Marlin
Roosterfish
Roosterfish
Sailfish
Sailfish
Sierra Mackerel
Sierra Mackerel
Pacific Dog Snapper
Pacific Dog Snapper
Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin Tuna
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Black Marlin
Black Marlin
Blue Marlin
Blue Marlin
Striped Marlin
Striped Marlin
Roosterfish
Roosterfish

Real catches by this captain

  • Group showcasing a large yellowfin tuna weighing 152.3 pounds at the Marina Pez Vela tournament, with the catch board identifying boat Red Freedom and angler Michelle.
    Fish 1
    Yellowfin Tuna
    Michele landed her personal best Yellowfin Tuna after waiting out a massive two day storm that stopped all fishing activities in Costa Rica. Soon as the weather broke we put the boat in gear and tracked down a nice school of tuna and a few sailfish.
  • A majestic Marlin leaps out of the water during a thrilling offshore fishing adventure.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Sailfish
    This lovely couple booked their charters during the Flor De Cana Signature Open tournament, held at Marina Pez Vela. Since they were here to celebrate their ten year anniversary we extended an offer to compete against some of the top anglers, captain and crews in the world. Not only did they jump at the chance, the lucky lady won top female angler award with no prior experience and their team almost pulled off the overall win and a nice pay day.
  • A marlin is seen jumping out of the water during a deep-sea fishing trip, showcasing the excitement of sport fishing.
    Lisa T.
    Lisa T.
    No sooner did we say, “we’d love a big marlin,” a big one hit the line! Followed by a sailfish! We were thrilled. Captain Stan and crew really delivered. Highly recommend. Not to mention a delicious lunch, and seeing tons of dolphin and a couple sea turtle. Great 3/4 day! Thank you, Captain Stan and crew!
  • Two anglers proudly displaying their large Yellowfin Tuna on a fishing charter in open waters.
    Fish 1
    Yellowfin Tuna
    Our clients were reminiscing about the biggest Yellowfin Tuna they had ever caught many years ago (15yrs) with their oldest son and wanted to try to beat that day. As with all of us, time catches up. We put them on 3 nice Yellowfin ranging from 85-105 pounds. After the last, and biggest fish they we're worn out.
  • Two anglers enjoying a lively moment on a fishing charter, with rods in hand and the ocean backdrop highlighting their excitement.
    Fish 1
    Yellowfin Tuna
    Our friends from Florida made a special graduation celebration trip to Costa Rica. They got to do a little bit of everything on this charter. Definitely a memorable present.
  • Three anglers proudly displaying their large Yellowfin Tuna while on a sportfishing boat in open waters.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    +1
    Yellowfin Tuna
    Jodie S.
    Jodie S.
    Stan and his crew are 1st class! These guys know what they are doing. So impressive! They served healthy fresh fruit, amazing beef, brisket, sandwiches, fresh guacamole, and salsa, just AMAZING….Everything! I would highly recommend this charter! We caught everything on our list, swordfish, tuna, and mahi! It was a perfect day!
  • A smiling angler poses on the boat's interior, showcasing fishing rods and the ocean backdrop during a vibrant fishing trip.
    These clients came down to celebrate a 50th birthday party and absolutely crushed the tuna.
  • Angler proudly displaying a 106.4 lb Tuna at a fishing tournament, with a vibrant backdrop showcasing the event's branding.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Yellowfin Tuna
    Our guest wanted to compete in the Charter Boat Challenge. This tournament is a meat fish challenge and is only open to the charter fleet. You can only weigh in 2 fish and their biggest was106 pounds. As of last check they were in the lead. If they win, they get a free charter next season courtesy of Marina Pez Vela.
  • Two anglers proudly displaying a large Yellowfin Tuna aboard a sport fishing boat, showcasing a successful offshore fishing trip.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Yellowfin Tuna
    This lovely group inquired about fishing with us over the last few months and this time when they were in town they pulled the trigger and jumped on board. They were extremely happy and enjoyed their time aboard Reel Freedom.
  • Angler actively reeling in a large Sailfish while fishing offshore, showcasing the excitement of deep-sea fishing.
    Fish 1
    Sailfish
    Chad M.
    Chad M.
    We had an amazing day on Reel Freedom. I've fished out of Quepos numerous times and our entire group thought Reel Freedom, Captain Bill and his team ran a spectacular boat. We had a rather large group of friends and all 7 of us caught sailfish - ended up landing 11 overall. Not only did Bill put us on the fish but his guys were great at keeping everyone engaged. The equipment was top notch and the boat was perfect for a larger group. Lunch was excellent !! I would absolutely go fishing with this crew when I am in Quepos and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to catch fish during their stay in Quepos!.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Sportfishing boats
Capacity
9 persons
Boat length
42 ft
Year built
1999
Restored in
2025
Boat manufacturer
Ocean
Boat type
Sportfishing
Engine model
Caterpillar C7.1
Powered by
2 x 420HP
Max cruising speed
28 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Inshore Fishing
Offshore Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Heavy Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Spinning
Jigging
Popping
Fly Fishing
Deep Sea Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

Toilet
Reel Freedom has (1) bathroom. The bathroom has a standard, marine toilet similar to what you would find on land, handwashing sink and a shower. (shower not available to single day charters)
Air conditioning
Fighting chair
GPS
Fishfinder
Bed
Flybridge
Live bait well
Kitchen
Refrigerator
Multimedia system
Outriggers
Tuna tubes
Ice box
Radar
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Live bait
Before we make our run offshore, our first priority of the morning is getting live bait, depending on the species we are targeting that day. Mother Nature controls the schedule here—availability changes daily, sometimes it's fast, sometimes it requires pa
Lures
Catch cleaning & filleting
Expert cleaning and fillet service is included with each charter. Our crew completes this process prior to docking. Your catch is expertly filleted and bagged for you to take home for dinner. Take all of it or some of it, whatever you don't take will be d
Snacks
We have you fully covered with fresh fruit as a snack, your lunch, water, soda, and beer—all included with your charter. Just show up ready to fish, and let us handle the rest.
Drinks
Water, soda, and local beer are included with your charter. If you have any special requests, we are happy to accommodate with advance notice and an additional charge.
First mate
Ready for an unforgettable trip with the best in the business? Meet Garden Smith, our Costa Rican born and raised first mate and relief captain. Garden knows these pelagic waters like the back of his hand, and his passion for fishing is truly contagious.
Lunch
Lunch is included and catered directly from the highly reviewed restaurant The Butcher Block, located at Marina Pez Vela and go to location for post fishing beverages, air conditioning and fish stories.

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 30 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 30 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included
Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.
Child friendly
At Southern Escapes and aboard Reel Freedom, we absolutely love kids and want to create lifelong memories and future offshore anglers who are just as passionate about the sport as we are! Our only request is supervise them as you would at home.
You keep catch
Catch and release mandatory
By Law all Billfish are catch and release

How you can pay

Book with 25% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 25% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash
 Visa
 Mastercard
 PayPal
 Bank transfer
When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 5% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Quepos right now

Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Marlin (Black)Marlin (Black)
Marlin (Blue)Marlin (Blue)
Marlin (Striped)Marlin (Striped)
RoosterfishRoosterfish
SailfishSailfish
Sierra MackerelSierra Mackerel
Tuna (Yellowfin)Tuna (Yellowfin)

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Group size 1 - 9
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Fish 1
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+7
4 hour trip • 9 persons
US $1,600