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Costa Rica Sport Fishing Tours: An Angler's Paradise

Costa Rica
Sport Fishing Tours: An Angler's Paradise

Costa Rica's stunning coastlines, rich marine biodiversity, and abundant freshwater ecosystems make it a world-renowned destination for sport fishing enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice looking to cast your first line, the country offers a diverse range of sport fishing experiences that cater to all levels of expertise. In this article, we'll delve into the exciting world of Costa Rica's sport fishing tours, exploring inshore and offshore opportunities as well as the freshwater fishing adventures that await.

Sportfishing 38 Foot Topaz-Talking Fish - Half Day
Central Guanacaste ・ Tamarindo
Today you will enjoy a half day of Inshore fishing on a 38 foot boat

Today you will enjoy a half day of Inshore fishing on a 38 foot boat. You will be fishing for Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This half day tour includes boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, soft drinks and beer on board. Valid for up to 6 to 7 anglers. IMPORTANT! This service does not include the $17 USD fishing license which must be paid online following this link: http://www.incopesca.go.cr/carnets/tramites/SolicitudTraducido.aspx. Please contact your travel advisor if you need any assistance.

From
$710
Per Person
Overall
95%
8 Guest
Ratings
Sport Fishing on Lake Arenal - Full Day
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3 ・ Nuevo Arenal ・ Chachagua Rainforest Hotel
Today you will enjoy a full day of guided sport fishing on Lake Arenal fishing for species such as Guapote and Machacca
Today you will enjoy a full day of guided sport fishing on Lake Arenal fishing for species such as Guapote and Machacca. Guapote bite similar to small mouth bass and many fishermen refer to them as Rainbow Bass due to their colorings, size, and appetite. Both species grow up to 10 pounds or more, with average weights in the 3 to 4 pound range. This full day, 8 hour tour includes transportation, guide, boat, tackle, gear, snacks and water.
From
$294
Per Person
Overall
90%
2 Guest
Ratings
Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching Tour
Punta Islita ・ Nosara ・ Samara and Carrillo
Today you will be picked up from your hotel and taken on an exciting combination ocean adventure tour where you can snorkel and go dolphin
Today you will be picked up from your hotel and taken on an exciting combination ocean adventure tour where you can snorkel and go dolphin watching. You’ll arrive at Samara Beach where an open boat will be waiting. You’ll receive life jackets and board the boat to head approximately 6 miles offshore to a living coral reef. Your bilingual guide will help you spot any wildlife as well as take you on a guided snorkeling trip when you reach the coral reef. Bottled water will be available and, at some point, a fruit snack will be offered. After snorkeling, you will have the opportunity to watch for dolphins as you head back to shore by boat. This tour includes boat transport, bilingual guide, snorkeling gear, bottled water, fresh fruit and transportation from Punta Islita, Nosara, and Samara. One way transportation from your hotel to the beach can take between 10 and 45 minutes depending on where you are staying. Combined time for round trip boat ride, snorkeling and round trip transportation to your hotel can take between 3.5 and 4 hours. Please wear your bathing suit and sun protective clothing as the sun can be quite strong when you are out in an open boat. You’ll also want to have a towel, sunblock, sunglasses, camera and maybe your binoculars. This is a perfect opportunity to take photos with an underwater camera if you have one.
From
$68
Per Person
Overall
84%
14 Guest
Ratings
Offshore Sport Fishing 29 Ft. Boat - Full Day
Tamarindo ・ Playa Hermosa, Coco, Southern Papagayo ・ Papagayo Peninsula ・ Playa Grande ・ Central Guanacaste
Today you will enjoy a full day of offshore sport fishing on a 29 foot boat

Today you will enjoy a full day of offshore sport fishing on a 29 foot boat. You will be fishing for Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This full day, 8 hour tour includes transportation, boat captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, soft drinks and beer on board. Valid for up to 5 anglers. IMPORTANT! This service does not include the $17 USD fishing license which must be paid online following this link: http://www.incopesca.go.cr/carnets/tramites/SolicitudTraducido.aspx. Please contact your travel advisor if you need any assistance.

From
$777
Per Person
Overall
83%
15 Guest
Ratings
Sportfishing 38 Foot Topaz-Talking Fish - Full Day
Central Guanacaste ・ Tamarindo ・ Playa Grande ・ JW Marriott Guanacaste
Today you will enjoy a full day of Offshore fishing on a 38 foot boat

Today you will enjoy a full day of Offshore fishing on a 38 foot boat. You will be fishing for Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This full day tour includes transportation, boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, soft drinks and beer on board. Valid for up to 6 to 7 anglers. IMPORTANT! This service does not include the $17 USD fishing license which must be paid online following this link: http://www.incopesca.go.cr/carnets/tramites/SolicitudTraducido.aspx. Please contact your travel advisor if you need any assistance.

From
$1134
Per Person
Overall
50%
1 Guest
Ratings
Private Lupo Blue Boat and Yacht Charter - Half Day
Central Guanacaste ・ Tamarindo ・ Papagayo Peninsula ・ Playa Hermosa, Coco, Southern Papagayo
Embark on a thrilling half-day maritime adventure with our Private Boat Charters! Ready for an unforgettable experience on the water? Whether you're keen on fishing,

Embark on a thrilling half-day maritime adventure with our Private Boat Charters! Ready for an unforgettable experience on the water? Whether you're keen on fishing, snorkeling, or enjoying a serene sunset cruise, we offer a variety of options to craft lasting memories. Sail along the stunning Guanacaste coastline near Flamingo Beach, where each charter is tailored to your desires—perfect for romantic escapes, family outings, or fun trips with friends. Our boats come fully equipped for comfort and entertainment, staffed by a dedicated crew ready to cater to your every need, from gourmet meals to guiding you through hidden coves and vibrant marine life around Catalinas Island. Book your private charter today and discover the joy of the ocean with us—whether it's a special celebration or just the thrill of exploration. Includes: open bar, meal, paddle boards, snorkeling equipment, inshore fishing, and transportation.

From
$671
Per Person
Tortuga Island Exploration With Fishing and Beaches and Snorkeling
Herradura ・ Jaco
Embark on a thrilling full-day charter from Jaco to the stunning Tortuga Island, blending the excitement of inshore fishing with the beauty of the island's

Embark on a thrilling full-day charter from Jaco to the stunning Tortuga Island, blending the excitement of inshore fishing with the beauty of the island's beaches and snorkeling opportunities. As you sail along the scenic Pacific coastline, our experienced captain and crew will guide your fishing adventure, where you might spot dolphins, manta rays, turtles, and seasonal humpback whales. At Tortuga Island, dive into turquoise waters for a snorkeling tour amidst volcanic reefs teeming with colorful marine life, including angelfish and rays, with all equipment provided. Savor a freshly prepared lunch of whole chicken with sides on the boat, then spend the rest of your day hiking island trails, relaxing on white sands, or enjoying water activities, with options to visit a souvenir shop or rent additional equipment. This private tour ensures a comprehensive, enjoyable experience, including BBQ lunch, beverages, snacks, as well as all fishing gear, bait, tackle, and essential safety equipment, all under the guidance of our skilled crew. Note that this tour does NOT include your fishing license which you are responsible for purchasing.

From
$70
Per Person
Sport Fishing Offshore 36 Foot Boat - Full Day
Jaco ・ Herradura
Join us for an exhilarating deep-sea fishing adventure with our offshore charters from Los Suenos and Jaco, Costa Rica, where Captain Gerardo and his skilled

Join us for an exhilarating deep-sea fishing adventure with our offshore charters from Los Suenos and Jaco, Costa Rica, where Captain Gerardo and his skilled crew on La Patrona await to guide you through the world-renowned waters for pelagic fishing. Our base at Jaco beach, famed as the sailfish capital, offers year-round opportunities to catch a variety of species like marlin, mahi-mahi, tuna, and wahoo, just 30 miles from Los Suenos Marina. Whether you’re a novice eager for your first sailfish or an experienced angler dreaming of a marlin, we employ diverse tactics based on the latest conditions and local insights for an optimal fishing experience. At La Patrona, marlin fishing, the ultimate challenge due to its size and elusive nature, is our specialty, and we ensure a top-notch experience with all necessary gear and amenities. Your full-day charter is not just about fishing; it includes a tasty BBQ chicken meal, a selection of beverages, snacks, all fishing equipment, and safety gear, ensuring a memorable day of sport fishing in the stunning Pacific waters. Note that this tour does NOT include your fishing license which you are responsible for purchasing. 

From
$961
Per Person
Sport Fishing Inshore 36 Foot Boat - Full Day
Herradura ・ Jaco
Discover the unique experience of inshore sport fishing from Jaco and Los Suenos Marina, where a peaceful drift just 7-10 miles offshore using live bait

Discover the unique experience of inshore sport fishing from Jaco and Los Suenos Marina, where a peaceful drift just 7-10 miles offshore using live bait contrasts with distant offshore adventures. Aboard La Patrona, you have the exciting opportunity to catch species like Roosterfish, Jack Crevalle, Spanish Mackerel, and Snook, with Roosterfish being a favorite for its challenging fight and others like Spanish Mackerel and Snook prized for their taste. Ideal for families, especially those with young children, inshore fishing offers a manageable yet thrilling experience, perfect for capturing the moment a child reels in their first fish. Your full-day charter includes a delightful BBQ chicken meal, a selection of beverages, fresh fruit, and snacks, alongside all necessary fishing equipment, bait, tackle, and safety gear, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience under the guidance of an experienced crew, making your inshore fishing adventure both enjoyable and memorable. Note that this tour does NOT include your fishing license which you are responsible for purchasing.

From
$116
Per Person
Sport Fishing Inshore 36 Foot Boat - Half Day
Herradura ・ Jaco
Discover the unique experience of inshore sport fishing from Jaco and Los Suenos Marina, where a peaceful drift just 7-10 miles offshore using live bait

Discover the unique experience of inshore sport fishing from Jaco and Los Suenos Marina, where a peaceful drift just 7-10 miles offshore using live bait contrasts with distant offshore adventures. Aboard La Patrona, you have the exciting opportunity to catch species like Roosterfish, Jack Crevalle, Spanish Mackerel, and Snook, with Roosterfish being a favorite for its challenging fight and others like Spanish Mackerel and Snook prized for their taste. Ideal for families, especially those with young children, inshore fishing offers a manageable yet thrilling experience, perfect for capturing the moment a child reels in their first fish. Your full-day charter includes a delightful BBQ chicken meal, a selection of beverages, fresh fruit, and snacks, alongside all necessary fishing equipment, bait, tackle, and safety gear, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience under the guidance of an experienced crew, making your inshore fishing adventure both enjoyable and memorable. Note that this tour does NOT include your fishing license which you are responsible for purchasing.

From
$116
Per Person
Adventure Fishing - Private
Samara and Carrillo
Embark on an unforgettable fishing expedition with Samara Adventures in Costa Rica's vibrant waters

Embark on an unforgettable fishing expedition with Samara Adventures in Costa Rica's vibrant waters. Our seasoned guides lead you to prime spots along the coast, promising an array of catches including jacks, snapper, grouper, and mackerel. Whether you're a novice or seasoned angler, our team equips you with top-notch gear and invaluable fishing techniques for a fruitful excursion. Witness the thrilling yellowfin tuna bite in early May, followed by the arrival of Dorado as the rains usher in July and August. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Wahoo when the waters are crystal clear. Year-round, our inshore fishing excels, boasting a spectacular array of cubera snapper, roosterfish, amberjack, and more. Your adventure includes all necessary equipment and bait, ensuring a seamless and successful outing. Let Samara Adventures be your gateway to an unparalleled fishing escapade in Costa Rica's stunning waters.

From
$225
Per Person
Inshore Sportfishing Half Day - Private
Samara and Carrillo
Experience the ultimate fishing adventure with Samara Adventures in Costa Rica's stunning Samara region

Experience the ultimate fishing adventure with Samara Adventures in Costa Rica's stunning Samara region. Our seasoned guides will escort you to prime coastal spots teeming with an array of fish species, from jacks and snapper to grouper and mackerel. Equipped with top-of-the-line gear and armed with insider fishing techniques, we ensure a fruitful excursion. Witness the thrilling arrival of yellowfin tuna in May, followed by Dorado during the rainy season in July and August. Clear waters beckon the elusive Wahoo, while inshore fishing delights year-round with cubera snapper, roosterfish, and more. All fishing gear and bait are provided for your convenience. For an unmatched fishing journey in Samara, trust Samara Adventures' seasoned guides to deliver an unforgettable experience, every time.

From
$225
Per Person
Offshore Sport Fishing 35 Foot Boat - Full Day
Tamarindo ・ Central Guanacaste ・ Playa Hermosa, Coco, Southern Papagayo ・ Playa Grande ・ Papagayo Peninsula
Today you will enjoy a full day of offshore sport fishing on a 35 foot boat

Today you will enjoy a full day of offshore sport fishing on a 35 foot boat. You will be fishing for Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This full day, 8 hour tour includes transportation, boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, soft drinks and beer on board. Valid for up to 6 anglers. IMPORTANT! This service does not include the $17 USD fishing license which must be paid online following this link: http://www.incopesca.go.cr/carnets/tramites/SolicitudTraducido.aspx. Please contact your travel advisor if you need any assistance.

From
$1625
Per Person
Inshore Sport Fishing 28 Foot Boat - Full Day JP
Manuel Antonio
A full day of inshore sport fishing on a 28-foot boat
A full day of inshore sport fishing on a 28-foot boat. You will be fishing for Blackfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish, and Wahoo just to name a few. This full-day, 8-hour tour includes transportation, boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, Snacks, fruit, water, sodas, and beer on board. Valid for up to 4 anglers. Does not include 17 Dollar fishing license which must be paid in person on arrival.
From
Call Now
Per Person

Inshore Sport Fishing

Location: Pacific and Caribbean Coasts

Inshore sport fishing in Costa Rica typically takes place along the Pacific and Caribbean coastlines. These calmer waters are ideal for targeting a variety of prized species, making inshore fishing a thrilling and accessible option for anglers of all levels.

Key Target Species:

Roosterfish: Known for their distinctive head crests, roosterfish are prized for their powerful fights and make for a challenging catch.

Snook: Snook thrive in Costa Rica's mangrove estuaries and are famous for their elusive behavior and robust battles.

Tarpon: Found in both coastal and freshwater environments, tarpon are known for their impressive leaps and stamina.

Snapper: A variety of snapper species inhabit the inshore waters, providing excellent table fare and exciting fishing.

Jacks: Amberjack and other jack species are known for their brute strength and speed.

Inshore sport fishing charters often include skilled local guides who are familiar with the best spots and techniques for landing these coveted species. Whether you're casting from the shoreline, navigating estuaries, or trolling near reefs, inshore fishing promises thrilling action and breathtaking coastal views.

Offshore Sport Fishing

Location: Pacific Coast

Offshore sport fishing in Costa Rica is synonymous with world-class deep-sea adventures. The Pacific coast, particularly around the areas of Quepos, Los Sueños, and the Papagayo Peninsula, offers some of the best offshore fishing opportunities in the world.

Key Target Species:

Billfish: Costa Rica is famous for its billfish population, including sailfish and marlin. The country holds numerous records for billfish catches.

Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): These dazzling and acrobatic fish provide exciting action and delicious table fare.

Tuna: Yellowfin and bigeye tuna are prized for their size and fighting prowess.

Wahoo: Known for their speed, wahoo are a challenging catch.

Sharks: Various shark species, including hammerhead and mako, offer thrilling battles for experienced anglers.

Offshore fishing charters often involve deep-sea trolling and may take you miles from the coast to the rich fishing grounds that attract these trophy species. Charter boats are equipped with top-notch gear, experienced crews, and the expertise needed for a successful deep-sea excursion.

Freshwater Sport Fishing

Location: Inland Rivers and Lakes

While Costa Rica is renowned for its coastal fishing, the country also boasts excellent freshwater fishing opportunities. Inland rivers and lakes provide serene settings for anglers to connect with nature and reel in impressive catches.

Key Target Species:

Rainbow Bass (Guapote): This aggressive predator is a favorite among freshwater anglers in Costa Rica.

Machaca: Known for their acrobatic leaps, machaca are a challenging catch found in freshwater rivers.

Tarpon: Tarpon also venture into freshwater rivers, offering anglers a unique opportunity to land these mighty fish away from the coast.

Freshwater fishing excursions often involve casting from riverbanks or navigating pristine waterways by boat. The lush surroundings and diverse birdlife add to the appeal of these inland fishing adventures.

Practical Tips for Sport Fishing in Costa Rica

Charter Selection: Choose a reputable fishing charter with experienced guides and well-maintained boats.

Fishing Seasons: Research the best time to target your desired species, as fishing seasons vary throughout the year.

Catch and Release: Embrace catch and release practices to preserve Costa Rica's valuable fish populations.

Fishing Licenses: Ensure you have the necessary fishing licenses, which are typically provided by charter operators.

Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and appropriate clothing are essential for a comfortable day on the water.

Respect the Environment: Follow sustainable fishing practices and adhere to local regulations to protect Costa Rica's marine and freshwater ecosystems.

In Conclusion

Costa Rica's sport fishing tours offer an unforgettable blend of adrenaline-pumping action and natural beauty. Whether you're battling billfish in the deep blue Pacific, casting for snook in tranquil estuaries, or pursuing rainbow bass in pristine freshwater rivers, this Central American paradise has something to offer every angler. With experienced guides, top-quality equipment, and a commitment to conservation, Costa Rica is your gateway to extraordinary sport fishing adventures in one of the world's most biodiverse and picturesque settings. So, pack your fishing gear, prepare for epic battles, and get ready to make unforgettable memories on the waters of Costa Rica.