We did a half day trip with Captain Mendez. The day started a little later than expected due to motor issues with the boat; however, Captain Mendez was very prompt with letting us know and keeping us updated. We ended up staying out on the water longer than the “half day” description as a make-up for starting late. We caught a big needle fish and he filet’d it and made fresh ceviche which was amazing (I’ve never liked raw fish). We also caught several sea bass and grouper which they filet’d for us as well. Captain Mendez was clearly very knowledgeable about the fishing spots and him and his son were very friendly throughout the trip. As an added bonus, they cut up fresh pineapple for us and provided sandwiches, snacks, waters, soft drinks, and best of all, cerveza. I highly recommend doing a trip with Captain Mendez, it was a blast!

Our fishing trip was amazing! Captain Mendez went above and beyond to make our trip a once in a lifetime experience! Friendly, professional, knowledgeable and hard working! The crew was great, the fishing was a success, and the sashimi was out of this world! Couldn’t have asked for a better experience. If you’re on the fence, do not hesitate to book with Captain Mendez! 10/10 recommend!

Perfect half day trip especially if you have a mixed crew of new and experienced people. Juan Carlos made our pickup super easy, had all tackle and gear prepped, and even though the fish caught were light we caught a monster that was more than enough by itself.

His on boat sushi was amazing!!

Great value for your money and great experience.

We booked a half day AM trip with Captain Juan Carlos out of Playa Hermosa with short notice in October. He communicated well and was detailed about what we needed to bring, what time to arrive and where to meet. He also was flexible on payment method (Cash vs Card).

Our fishing trip started at 6:30 AM and we were picked up on Playa Hermosa beach by Juan Carlos and his son who was the first mate for the trip. They were both friendly and welcoming and the boat was ready to go with fuel, bait and snacks when we boarded. We ended up targeting Mahi Mahi (Dorado) for our trip, as that was the species that Juan Carlos suggested for the best success.

We had an amazing time actively fishing with Juan Carlos and his son and ended up hooking 4 fish in a quick span once we got to where the fish were biting. Both Juan Carlos and his son were great on the boat and helped us with the catch and were as stoked as we were when the fish came on board!!

Bumping Reggaeton music back to the beach, Juan Carlos prepared some fresh local pineapple for us and some fresh sashimi to share and we talked about our plans for the rest of the evening. The Captain recommended getting our fish cooked for us at a local Soda (Costa Rican Restaurant) ran by his family steps away from the surf. We wisely followed his recommendation and not only had a fantastic day of fishing but a wonderful Costa Rican meal.

Gracias y Pura Vida Juan Carlos!!

The trip was awesome. We caught some Bonita and lady fish in the morning then set out for a big rooster. My only goal this trip was to catch a rooster on top water and it happened! I asked the guys if I could bring my rod and a few lures which they had no problem. Most other guided trips I have been on frown upon you using any kind of artificial lures. Other guides usually just want you to sit back and wait, which to me is way to boring. They let me cast off the front deck while we slowly trolled with live bait. We hooked into a rooster almost right away and my wife was able to reel it in. Shortly after I had a big top water blow up and and reeled in another nice rooster! We then trolled in deeper water on our way back and caught a tuna. The boys had us fresh fruit, beer, water and other snacks for us the whole time. Overall it was a great trip. Will book again