Costa Rica’s angling scene is something that needs to be experienced to be believed. The country’s glassy blue waters are home to over 200 different IGFA records, with 22 for Billfish alone. The tropical rainforests inland give way to stunning beaches, which look out onto some truly productive hunting grounds. Hop aboard a Costa Rica fishing charter, and you could explore them all!
Some of the most sought-after inshore creatures live close to land in Costa Rica. On the Pacific coast, you’ll find Snook, Jacks, and the exotic Roosterfish, with Tarpon available in the Caribbean. Hit the reefs and a who’s who of dazzling fish awaits! On both sides of the country, you can go after Groupers and Snappers, with Barracuda and Mackerel available in the east.
However, the real prizes come offshore. Billfish is the name of the game for any serious angler in Costa Rica. While Blue Marlin can be caught on either side, the Pacific is where you’ll find Blue, Black, and Striped Marlin – along with Sailfish! Come and test your strength against these beasts, and you may even land yourself a tasty Tuna, Mahi Mahi, or Wahoo too.
Inshore and reef fishing trips can last as little as four hours, giving beginners a great introduction to fishing. More experienced anglers can spend a full day on the water, and that’s required for offshore trips, where you can even spend multiple days at sea! Costa Rica fishing charters that suit all ages and abilities are available along both coasts, with Los Sueños, Jacó, and Quepos popular on the Pacific, and Limón on the Caribbean side.
Rules & Regulations
Every angler on a Costa Rica fishing charter will need a valid fishing license, and you can get yours online from INCOPESCA. Other than that, the only important rule you should know is that all Billfish and Roosterfish must be released.
Amberjack
Barracuda (Pacific)
Bass (Rainbow)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Grouper (Broomtail)
Grouper (Goliath)
Jack Crevalle
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Marlin (Black)
Marlin (Blue)
Marlin (Striped)
Rainbow Runner
Roosterfish
Sailfish
Sierra Mackerel
Snapper (Cubera)
Snook
Spanish Mackerel
Tarpon
Tuna (Skipjack)
Tuna (Yellowfin)
Wahoo
