Free Trip Planning!
Reel in the fun of fishing the Pacific and Caribbean coasts for Marlin to Tarpon while enjoying your Costa Rican vacation

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.

Inshore Sport Fishing 33 Foot Boat - Half Day
Manuel Antonio
Cast your line into the rich waters of the Pacific on this action-packed half-day inshore sport fishing charter aboard a spacious 33-foot boat

Cast your line into the rich waters of the Pacific on this action-packed half-day inshore sport fishing charter aboard a spacious 33-foot boat. With the help of your professional captain and mate, you’ll target prized game fish such as Roosterfish, Snapper, Blackfin Tuna, Wahoo, and Dorado (Mahi Mahi). This 4-hour private excursion is valid for up to 6 anglers and comes fully equipped with top-tier bait and tackle, round-trip transportation, and a cooler stocked with snacks, fresh fruit, water, sodas, and beer. Please note that the required $17 personal fishing license is not included in the tour price; for a smooth departure, we recommend purchasing it online in advance at http://www.incopesca.go.cr/carnets/tramites/SolicitudTraducido.aspx.

From
$605
Per Person
Overall
100%
2 Guest
Ratings
Sport Fishing for Rainbow Bass & Machacca on Lake Arenal - Full Day
Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Arenal Zone 3 ・ Nuevo Arenal ・ Chachagua Rainforest Hotel
Cast off for a memorable angling expedition on Lake Arenal, where the thrill of the strike is rivaled only by the spectacular volcanic backdrop! On

Cast off for a memorable angling expedition on Lake Arenal, where the thrill of the strike is rivaled only by the spectacular volcanic backdrop! On this full-day sport fishing adventure, you will battle the region’s fiercest freshwater fighters: the acrobatic Machaca and the legendary Guapote (Rainbow Bass), a species revered by anglers for their dazzling colors and aggressive, smallmouth-bass-style fight. Whether you are hauling in the average 3 to 4-pounders or chasing a trophy-sized giant weighing over 10 pounds, our expert guides know exactly where to find the action. This complete 8-hour experience comes fully equipped with round-trip transportation, a professional boat, top-tier tackle and gear, plus snacks and water to keep you fueled for the big catch.

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
$79
Per Person
Overall
85%
15 Guest
Ratings
Sportfishing Offshore on a 29 Foot Boat - Full Day
Central Guanacaste ・ Tamarindo ・ Playa Grande ・ Papagayo Peninsula ・ Playa Hermosa, Coco, Southern Papagayo
Prepare for a world-class angling adventure on this full-day offshore sport fishing charter aboard a spacious 29-foot vessel, perfectly suited for battling the Pacific’s legendary

Prepare for a world-class angling adventure on this full-day offshore sport fishing charter aboard a spacious 29-foot vessel, perfectly suited for battling the Pacific’s legendary big game. With the expertise of a professional captain and mate, you will spend 8 action-packed hours targeting trophies such as Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, Roosterfish, and Dorado (Mahi Mahi). This private excursion accommodates up to 5 anglers and covers all your needs for a successful day on the water, including round-trip transportation, high-quality bait and tackle, a delicious lunch, soft drinks, and cold beer. Important: The required personal fishing license (approx. $17 USD) is not included and must be purchased online prior to your trip at http://www.incopesca.go.cr/carnets/tramites/SolicitudTraducido.aspx; please contact your travel advisor if you require assistance.

From
$882
Per Person
Overall
83%
15 Guest
Ratings
Inshore Sport Fishing 28 Foot Boat - Half Day
Uvita ・ Dominical ・ Manuel Antonio
Cast your line for a trophy catch on this action-packed half-day inshore sport fishing charter! Aboard a fully equipped 28-foot boat, you and your group

Cast your line for a trophy catch on this action-packed half-day inshore sport fishing charter! Aboard a fully equipped 28-foot boat, you and your group (up to 4 anglers) will battle some of the Pacific’s most sought-after species, including Blackfin Tuna, Snapper, Roosterfish, Wahoo, and Dorado (Mahi Mahi). This 4-hour tour includes everything you need for a perfect day on the water: round-trip transportation, an expert captain and mate, all bait and tackle, plus a cooler stocked with snacks, fresh fruit, sodas, water, and beer. Please note that the required $17 fishing license is not included; you may purchase it at the Marina before departure or save time by paying online here: http://www.incopesca.go.cr/carnets/tramites/SolicitudTraducido.aspx

From
$426
Per Person
Overall
80%
6 Guest
Ratings
Offshore Sport Fishing 28 Foot Boat Full Day
Uvita ・ Dominical ・ Manuel Antonio
Head into the deep blue for the ultimate angling challenge with this full-day offshore sport fishing expedition! Aboard a 28-foot boat, you will target the

Head into the deep blue for the ultimate angling challenge with this full-day offshore sport fishing expedition! Aboard a 28-foot boat, you will target the Pacific's legendary big game, including Marlin, Sailfish, and Yellowfin Tuna, alongside favorites like Dorado (Mahi Mahi), Snapper, Roosterfish, and Wahoo. This intense 9-hour adventure is valid for up to 4 anglers and comes fully loaded with a professional captain, top-tier bait and tackle, safety equipment, and plenty of refreshments—including a full lunch, snacks, fruit, sodas, water, and beer. Round-trip transportation is provided, but please note the $17 fishing license is not included; you can purchase it at the Marina before departure or save time by paying in advance via this link: http://www.incopesca.go.cr/carnets/tramites/SolicitudTraducido.aspx

From
$738
Per Person
Overall
75%
2 Guest
Ratings
Sportfishing Offshore on a 35 Foot Boat - Full Day
Central Guanacaste ・ Tamarindo ・ Playa Grande ・ Papagayo Peninsula ・ Playa Hermosa, Coco, Southern Papagayo
Step aboard a spacious 35-foot sport fishing vessel for an adrenaline-fueled, full-day offshore adventure in Costa Rica’s world-renowned Pacific waters

Step aboard a spacious 35-foot sport fishing vessel for an adrenaline-fueled, full-day offshore adventure in Costa Rica’s world-renowned Pacific waters. With plenty of room for up to 6 anglers, you and your group will spend 8 action-packed hours hunting for the ocean’s most coveted trophies, including Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, and Dorado (Mahi Mahi). Your private charter comes fully equipped for a seamless day on the water, providing expert guidance from a professional captain and mate, top-of-the-line bait and tackle, and a refreshing spread of lunch, soft drinks, and cold beer. Important: The required personal fishing license (approx. $17 USD) is not included and must be purchased online prior to your trip at http://www.incopesca.go.cr/carnets/tramites/SolicitudTraducido.aspx; please contact your travel advisor if you require assistance.

From
$1837
Per Person
Inshore Fishing - Half Day
Ojochal ・ Uvita ・ Dominical
Today you will go on a half day of inshore sport fishing along the Pacific coast

Today you will go on a half day of inshore sport fishing along the Pacific coast. Common catches include mahi mahi, blackfin tuna, wahoo, and roosterfish. This fun filled private half day tour includes boat, equipment and beverages. Valid for up to 4 anglers. Does not include 30 Dollar fishing license which must be paid in person on arrival.

Transportation can take between 15 and 45 minutes to get from your hotel to the beach depending on your hotel’s location and traffic.

From
Call Now
Per Person
Fishing Tour Full Day - Private
Ojochal ・ Uvita ・ Dominical
Today you will be fishing for Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few

Today you will be fishing for Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This full day, 8 hour tour includes boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, and soft drinks on board. Valid for up to 4 anglers. Does not include 30 Dollar fishing license which must be paid in person on arrival. It can take between 15 and 45 minutes to get from your hotel to the beach depending on your hotel’s location and traffic, so please plan accordingly.

From
Call Now
Per Person
Sport Fishing Half Day
Uvita ・ Dominical
Today you will go on a half day of sport fishing along the coast of Costa Ballena
Today you will go on a half day of sport fishing along the coast of Costa Ballena. Common species caught include mahi-mahi, dorado, roosterfish, and snapper. This fun filled half day adventure includes boat, captain, equipment, and snacks. It does not include the fishing license which is $25 per person, payable to the operator. Extra cost would apply if you are staying in Dominical.
From
Call Now
Per Person
Sport Fishing Full Day
Uvita ・ Dominical
Today you will go on a full day of sport fishing off of the coast of Costa Ballena
Today you will go on a full day of sport fishing off of the coast of Costa Ballena. You will be fishing for species such as mahi-mahi, sail fish, dorado, and yellow fin tuna. This fun filled day of fishing includes boat, captain, lunch, and fishing equipment. It does not include the fishing license which is $25 per person, payable to the operator. Extra cost would apply if you are staying in Dominical.
From
Call Now
Per Person
Sport Fishing 22 Foot Boat - Full Day
Laguna Lodge ・ Manatus Hotel ・ Mawamba Lodge ・ Tortuga Lodge and Gardens ・ Tortuguero - Grupo Pachira
Come catch Tarpon, four varieties of Snook, Rainbow Bass, Jack Cravelle and more aboard of 22 ft Boat

Come catch Tarpon, four varieties of Snook, Rainbow Bass, Jack Cravelle and more aboard of 22 ft Boat. This full day tour includes a central console, two swivel chairs, spacious front platform for casting flies, radio and compass. 

From
$404
Per Person
Offshore Sport Fishing Full Day on 35 ft Boat
Drake Bay
Today you will go on a full day offshore sport fishing tour aboard The Real Escape
Today you will go on a full day offshore sport fishing tour aboard The Real Escape. This is a 35 ft CABO Sport Fishing Yacht with twin 450 hp CAT diesel engines that is fully equipped with high quality fishing equipment, air conditioned salon area, kitchen and bathroom. This boat is normally captained by Willy Atencio, a seasoned charter captain from Drake Bay. This trip will take you out in search of Sailfish, Marlin and Mahi-Mahi, which are typically 15-25 miles offshore. This full day trip includes lunch, water, soda, beer, juices, fruit and cookies. It does not include gratuities or the $25 per person fishing license which must be paid at the dock.
From
Call Now
Per Person
Offshore Sport Fishing Full Day on 26 ft Boat
Drake Bay
Today you will go on a full day offshore sport fishing tour aboard The Real Time
Today you will go on a full day offshore sport fishing tour aboard The Real Time. This is a 26 ft custom built center console boat with a Yamaha 250 HP four-stroke engine. The Real Time is a no-frills boat that is built for catching fish off of Drake Bay. It is equipped with a Garmin Chartplotter, satellite technology for 3D imaging to 2,000 feet and comes stocked with high quality fishing gear and outriggers. This trip will take you out in search of Sailfish, Marlin and Mahi-Mahi, which are typically 15-25 miles offshore. This full day trip includes lunch, water, soda, beer, juices, fruit and cookies. It does not include gratuities or the $25 per person fishing license which must be paid at the dock.
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.