Mathis Trips
Charter operator

Mathis Trips

Playa Herradura, Costa Rica
10+ reviews
Crafting Legends, One Strike at a Time For me, the ocean isn't just a workplace—it's a legacy. I learned to cast a line long before I could ride a bike, and the Pacific has been my true north ever since. From the golden silence of a Roosterfish at sunrise to the adrenaline-pumping, two-hour battle with a Blue Marlin, I have dedicated my life to mastering the pulse of the Costa Rican coast. ⚓ The 'Mathis' Difference: Your Story, Documented I believe every charter is a story waiting to be told. Whether we are hunting Offshore giants like Tuna and Sailfish or exploring Inshore reefs for Cubera Snapper, I don't just guide you—I document your journey. My passion for storytelling ensures that every 'screaming reel' and every victory on deck is captured with the personalized detail it deserves. Innovation Meets Maritime Grit We operate a specialized 28ft Apex center console, engineered for a dry, stable, and fast ride to the fishing grounds. We blend old-school maritime grit with modern luxury to ensure your comfort: Premium Tech: We offer Onboard Satellite Internet, allowing you to share your epic catches in real-time while we are miles from the coast. Total Comfort: Unlike many boats in this class, we feature a private onboard toilet, making our vessel the premier choice for families and long offshore sessions. Elite Gear: We hunt with top-tier Penn and Shimano tackle, rigged for maximum success. A Personal Touch in Every Mile Based in the heart of Herradura Beach, we pride ourselves on 'Texas-style' loyalty and 'Pura Vida' hospitality. I've spent years sharing this sport with world-class pros and families alike, and I still get the same thrill as a first-timer every time a line goes tight. Whether you are a seasoned angler chasing a personal best or a family looking for their first great catch, I am ready to help you write your next legendary chapter.
Mauro "Gemelo" G.
Mauro "Gemelo" G.
First mate
Jorge Luis P.
Jorge Luis P.
Captain
Walton "Sullin" S.
Walton "Sullin" S.
Captain
Gersón R.
Gersón R.
Captain

Charter

Rating

5.0
17 reviews
4.9
Boat & Equipment
5.0
Captain & Crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

All reviews (17)

Showing 1 – 5 of 17 reviews
  • Tobias Eckstein
    Tobias Eckstein
    Member since 2022
    4.7

    When dreams come true

    8 Hr Roosterfish: The Ultimate Hunt

    On a perfect Monday morning, I headed out with the crew—just a short ride to the first spots—in search of the target species: the roosterfish. It didn't take long for them to show up; simply magnificent fish! That’s exactly what I’d flown 12 hours from Germany to Costa Rica for. After spotting a few pods of dolphins, fish some smaler fishes by trolling and rescuing a turtle from a fishing net, came the unplanned highlight: I hooked my first trophy fish. It put up an unforgettable fight, leaping out of the water just like in a picture-perfect scene! Many thanks for the experience and for helping me tick two fish off my ultimate bucket list! I will come back... soon 🫡😜

    Reported catch:
    Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
    Roosterfish
    Sailfish
    Response from Charter operator

    Thank you so much for your amazing review! It was an absolute honor helping you tick those two trophy fish off your bucket list and sharing that special moment rescuing the sea turtle together. You brought fantastic energy to the Mathis, and your spot on our deck is always ready for your next adventure. See you soon, friend! Pura Vida!

  • Jeff White
    Jeff White
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    Full Day

    If you’re looking for a world-class fishing experience in Costa Rica, I highly recommend Mathis Trips—also known as Mathis Fishing Legends. My friend and I have been fishing with them for the past three years, and each trip has exceeded our expectations. From the moment we arrive, the owner, Gerson Ramirez, treats us like family. His hospitality sets the tone for the entire experience, making every visit feel personal and welcoming rather than just another charter booking. The boat crew is nothing short of exceptional—professional, efficient, and clearly passionate about what they do. They consistently put us on fish, and their knowledge of the local waters is impressive. Whether you’re an experienced angler or newer to offshore fishing, they make the entire process smooth and enjoyable. Over the years, we’ve had incredible success on the water, landing an exciting variety of species including sailfish, mahi-mahi, tuna, bonita, and roosterfish. Every trip brings new action and unforgettable moments. What really sets Mathis Trips apart is the combination of top-tier fishing, outstanding service, and a genuine sense of camaraderie. It’s not just about catching fish—it’s about the entire experience, and they deliver every time. We look forward to going back each year, and that alone says everything.

    Response from Charter operator

    "It is hard to put into words what a review like this means to the entire Mathis Fishing Legends family. To us, these past three years haven't just been about successful charters; they have been about building a legacy of friendship on the Pacific. As I always say, I don't just see a catch; I see a story—and yours is one of my favorites to tell. Sharing the deck with you and your friend has been a true highlight for our crew. We take great pride in your 'Texas-style' loyalty and 'Pura Vida' hospitality, so hearing that you feel like family from the moment you step, is the greatest trophy we could ever win. Thank you for trusting us with your time and your adventures year after year. The ocean always has a new legend waiting for us, and we are already counting the days until your next visit to Herradura. The seat is yours, and the legends are waiting. See you at the next adventure! — Captain Gersón Ramírez & The Mathis Crew"

  • Paul Burnett
    Paul Burnett
    us
    Texas, US
    •
    Member since 2023
    5.0

    Outstanding Full Day on the Water

    8 Hr Offshore: Deep Sea Battle

    This was our third year in a row fishing with Gersón and the Mathis Fishing Legends team, and once again they absolutely delivered. We landed eight sailfish and had an unforgettable day on the water. The captain spoke perfect English, which made communication effortless, and the first mate was fantastic—quick to help us handle each fish so we could get great photos. The crew was lightning‑fast getting fresh bait back in the water so we could stay in the action, and they kept us comfortable with fresh fruit, a great lunch, and shade from the sun. The boat was well‑equipped, clean, and clearly run by someone who takes pride in what they do. They think of everything, and that’s exactly why we keep coming back. If you’re looking for a top‑tier fishing experience with a team that knows how to make every moment count, I highly recommend fishing with this crew.

    Reported catch:
    Sailfish
    Response from Charter operator

    Pura Vida, friend! 🇨🇷 Thank you for that loyalty. Three consecutive years hunting legends together have turned our outings into a tradition that we deeply value. Achieving 8 sailfish in a single day is a chapter that is written with golden letters in the Mathis logbook. We are proud that you notice the details, from the speed of our crew to the cleanliness of the boat; for us, order is the first step towards success. On this dock you will always have your crew ready to keep the action on the water and the comfort on the deck. Thank you for trusting us once again to write your story in the Pacific. See you in year four! 🎣🔥

  • Lorien Debruyn
    Lorien Debruyn
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    Half day trip with captain Walter

    5 Hr Inshore: Battle for the Reef

    Such a wonderful experience--from start to finish! Speaking with Gersón provided reassurance and helpful information about the half day fishing trip we were interested in. He was so kind and assisted us in any way he could! Captain Walter and mate Mauro were great! This was a very special trip for a Marine Veteran and having the experience of reeling in a powerful Roosterfish was extraordinary! They also made a wonderful montage of the trip and wrote a great fishing update including our catch! This was very meaningful to us! We can not recommend Mathis Fishing Legends enough!

    Reported catch:
    Roosterfish
    Response from Charter operator

    Thank you very much for your incredible review! 🙌 We are excited to know that you enjoyed your fishing day and that the experience with us was so significant for you. For us, this is exactly what we work for every day: providing unforgettable moments and treating each of our visitors as they deserve, especially those who are true heroes of our nations. 💙🎣 We are deeply honored that they trusted Mathis Fishing Legends to live this memory and that the powerful Rooster Fish was part of their adventure. We will continue working with that same passion, because that's where we go: creating experiences that remain in the heart. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your story and for recommending us with so much affection! 🙏 We will always wait for good news from our friend.

  • Jordan Aguilar Garcia
    Jordan Aguilar Garcia
    Member since 2026
    5.0

    They are great guys

    5 Hr Offshore

    As a charter captain from Florida, I have high standards, and Captain Jorge Luis absolutely knocked it out of the park. In just a 5-hour half-day trip, his tactical routing put us right on a blue current line 18 miles out. We landed a double Yellowfin Tuna hook-up, a beautiful Sailfish, and a Rainbow Runner. Tight, clean ship and elite local knowledge. Highly recommended!"

    Reported catch:
    Sailfish
    Yellowfin Tuna
    Response from Charter operator

    Aquí tienes una respuesta perfecta, directa y al grano para la reseña de Jordan: Thank you so much, Jordan! Having a fellow captain from Florida on board and earning your recommendation means the world to us. You’re welcome back on the Mathis anytime. Tight lines and Pura Vida, my friend!

Real catches shared by our community

  • Mathis Fishing Legends
    Mathis Fishing LegendsPlaya Herradura, PU
    Awesome experience
    Travis M.
    Travis M.
  • Mathis Fishing Legends
    Mathis Fishing LegendsHerradura, PU
    Nice crew and lots of fish
    Constance G.
    Constance G.
  • Mathis Fishing Legends
    Mathis Fishing LegendsHerradura, PU
    Fantastic day… Fishing was great and crew was excellent
    Michael P.
    Michael P.
  • Mathis Fishing Legends
    Mathis Fishing LegendsHerradura, PU
    costa rica 2026
    William H.
    William H.
  • Mathis Fishing Legends
    Mathis Fishing LegendsHerradura, PU
    awesome trip!
    Michael J.
    Michael J.
  • Mathis Fishing Legends
    Mathis Fishing LegendsHerradura, PU
    Fishing with  Gersón
    Bob N.
    Bob N.

Fishing reports

Angler proudly displaying a large fish while on a boat in a scenic ocean setting.

Overcoming Challenges & Delivering

Sep 19, 2026 • Playa Herradura
Overcoming Challenges & Delivering Inshore Action! We’ve all had those mornings where things start off on the wrong foot. Between a minor engine starting issue and a couple of guests who were understandably hesitant due to a booking misunderstanding, we knew we had to turn the energy around completely. Our crew adapted on the fly, resolved every detail, and hit the water with full focus. The ocean responded: we landed 2 Pacific Roosterfish, hooked 2 hard-fighting Needlefish that put on a show right by the gunwale before popping off, and brought up a hard-hitting Jack Crevalle for that extra surge of adrenaline. Turning an uncertain morning into a memorable day on the water is what chartering is all about! ?? Summary of Captures & Trip Highlights: Trip Type: Half-Day Inshore Charter Species Targeted: Pacific Roosterfish, Jack Crevalle & Surface Predators Results: 2x Roosterfish released, 1x Jack Crevalle landed, 2x Needlefish released at boat Tactics: Live bait trolling & inshore reef structure #SportfishingCostaRica #Roosterfish #PezGallo #PlayaHerradura #PuraVida #InshoreFishing #CatchAndRelease
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Two anglers enjoying their catch of Red Snapper on a boat after a successful fishing trip.

Yellowfin and 15 Red Snappers Offshore

Sep 12, 2026 • Playa Herradura
"How tough did they make it for us?" others might ask. In our case, we saw it as the perfect opportunity to put our crew to the test—and without sounding boastful, they are undoubtedly among the finest in Herradura Bay. The angler who joined us has fished practically everywhere she's wanted to: in both fresh and saltwater, across the Atlantic and the Pacific. Yet, everyone eventually comes to Costa Rica's Pacific coast with one pending score to settle. Our strategy was clear: if trolling didn't produce, we were dropping straight to the bottom. We tracked down a pod of spinner dolphins and hooked into two yellowfin tuna. We successfully landed a beautiful specimen measuring between 33.5 and 37.5 inches and weighing an estimated 30 to 45 pounds; the other one, as ocean lore goes, managed to slip away. To round out the day, we hit the reef and hauled up 15 red snappers on the bottom drop. An outstanding session on the water... though a true angler always leaves hungry for one more bite. Summary of Captures & Trip Highlights: Location / Spot: Offshore Spinner Dolphin Pods & Inshore Reefs Target Species: Yellowfin Tuna & Pacific Red Snapper (Pargo/Huachinango) Featured Catch: 1x Yellowfin Tuna (~33.5"–37.5" Length / ~30–45 lbs) Bottom Harvest: 15x Red Snappers (Pargo) Angler Profile: Experienced multi-water angler (Freshwater & Saltwater veteran) Tactics: Live bait trolling alongside dolphin pods & deep bottom structure fishing #SportfishingCostaRica #YellowfinTuna #RedSnapper #PlayaHerradura #PuraVida #AnglerLife #OffshoreFishing #InshoreFishing #CatchAndCook #PacificFishing #CostaRicaCharters
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An angler proudly displaying a large Barracuda while fishing on a sunny day in open waters.

Trophy Barracuda for the feast!

Sep 8, 2026 • Playa Herradura
The only boat out of Herradura—and a trophy Barracuda for the feast! We kept our winning streak alive as the only charter boat pushing out of Herradura Bay, fueled by pure energy, high spirits, and a tank full of prime live bait. We had two passionate anglers on board who, despite being new to the sport, trusted our crew completely to make magic happen on the water. The morning started fast and chaotic with relentless needlefish striking the lines—tricky predators that steal bait, test your patience, and leave you fighting for every hookup. But persistence paid off when a rare, top-tier predator hit: we landed a massive Barracuda measuring between 3.6 and 4.2 feet and weighing an estimated 22 to 31 pounds! A monster catch that will yield incredible fresh ceviche and a savory fish soup for tonight's dinner. Summary of Captures & Trip Highlights: Status: Sole charter vessel operating out of Herradura Bay Trophy Catch: 1x Giant Pacific Barracuda (~3.6–4.2 ft / ~22–31 lbs) Action & Tactics: Active live bait trolling; heavy needlefish presence on the surface Harvest Plan: Fresh ceviche and fish soup for the guests' evening dinner #SportfishingCostaRica #Barracuda #PlayaHerradura #InshoreFishing #CatchAndCook #PacificFishing
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Angler proudly displaying a vibrant Red Snapper while fishing offshore, showcasing a successful day on the water.

Tactical navigation, heavy chop, and fre

Sep 6, 2026 • Playa Herradura
Reading the ocean conditions and tracking recent bite alerts, we set our sights straight for the famous "26" spot. We had five awesome guys onboard who came ready for an adventure, and after hearing reports of action in the surrounding area, we pushed out to give them their shot at a trophy. Though the sailfish proved elusive, a true crew adapts on the fly. We shifted strategies and headed straight to our secret reef structure to put food on the table. The conditions were tough—high winds and heavy swells meant the captain had to keep the engines engaged, holding position against the waves just to keep us locked over the target zone. The effort paid off: the crew brought up 6 quality Red Snappers (Pargo Rojo). No matter what the Pacific throws at us, working hard to exceed expectations and bring home a successful trip is what it's all about! ?? Summary of Captures & Trip Highlights: Location: The "26" Spot & Secret Inshore Reef Target Species: Offshore Billfish & Inshore Reef Predators Harvest: 6x Pacific Red Snappers (Pargo Rojo) Conditions & Tactics: High wind & heavy chop; active vessel maneuvering to hold bottom structure Group: 5 Guests (Full-service adventure) #SportfishingCostaRica #PargoRojo #RedSnapper #PlayaHerradura #AnglerLife #InshoreFishing #PuraVida #CostaRicaCharters
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Angler proudly displaying a vibrant Red Snapper while fishing on a boat in open waters.

Back out on the water for another "Celeb

Aug 30, 2026 • Playa Herradura
Despite a few unexpected mechanical hiccups along the way, our crew adapted quickly and solved every challenge on the spot to keep the mission on track. We are proud to deliver top-tier offshore experiences for our local Tico anglers, showing that our local fishermen get the exact same high-level opportunities, gear, and service as any international guest visiting Costa Rica. We charted a direct course 20+ miles offshore, targeting the proven hot spots that delivered success over the past few days. Staying persistent in deep waters paid off big time, bringing home a high-grade harvest for the group. We are deeply grateful to these guys for coming out, trusting our team, and bringing incredible energy to the vessel. Summary of Captures & Trip Highlights: Distance & Location: 20+ Miles Offshore Red Snapper (Pargo Rojo): 9 Quality Units Harvested Rabbitfish (Conejo): 6 Units Harvested Charter Type: Half-Day Morning Offshore Expedition Crew Operations: Rapid technical troubleshooting & uninterrupted full-service execution #SportfishingCostaRica #Pargo #SnapperFishing #PlayaHerradura #BottomFishing #CatchAndCook #AnglerLife #PuraVida
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Angler proudly displaying a large Red Snapper while fishing offshore, showcasing a beautiful day on the water.

Social Media & Journal Entry

Aug 29, 2026 • Playa Herradura
Another strong afternoon on the water, proving once again to our North American anglers how unpredictable and rewarding the Pacific can be—or as we say here in Tiquicia, they got completely handed a fishing masterclass by the ocean! After a solid morning trip, the afternoon crew stepped up and surpassed the early tally, landing over 13 heavy-caliber fish. Every single piece boasted fantastic size, yielding more than enough prime fillets to feed eight starving anglers for a massive dinner feast tonight. What an incredible way to close out the day. Summary of Captures & Trip Highlights: Total Catches: 13+ large-caliber fish landed on the afternoon session Morning vs. Afternoon: Outperformed the morning trip's total catch volume Harvest: Premium fillets secured to feed a group of 8 hungry guests Trip Type: Half-Day Afternoon Offshore Charter #SportfishingCostaRica #Pargo #SnapperFishing #PlayaHerradura #BottomFishing #CatchAndCook #AnglerLife #PuraVida
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