Anglers from around the world flock to Costa Rica. But you don’t have to be an expert fisherman to enjoy sportfishing in Costa Rica. Just the experience of being out on the sapphire ocean with the tropical sun above and the verdant coastline in the distance is reason enough to venture offshore. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-timer or an avid fisherman – you’ll find something on Costa Rica’s waters. The equipment, captains, crews, and expertise are truly impressive, and when combined with everything else that Costa Rica has to offer, you have the making of a pretty special experience.
Popular Sportsfishing Destinations in Costa Rica
The entire Pacific coast is great for fishing. In the North Pacific, you’ll find hard-fighting roosterfish, marlin, tuna, and dorado. You might even catch all four in one trip.
In the Central and South Pacific, which spans from Jacó and the Los Sueños Marina down to Golfito, sailfish are abundant. In fact, any of the country’s famous fishing tournaments are held in this region. If you aren’t looking for competition, there are plenty of tasty dorado you can fish for dinner. Some captains will target grouper, roosterfish, and snapper, too.
Fish, explore, travel, and enjoy Costa Rica. Free vacation planning!
On the northern Caribbean coast, you’ll find some of the best tarpon fishing in the world. Tarpon average around 100 pounds here, and it’s not uncommon to catch tarpon weighing over 200 pounds.
Freshwater fishing is great year round, too. Lake Arenal, Caño Negro, and Río Savegre are popular spots for machaca, roncadora, snook, blue tilapia, and more.
Because Costa Rica is so small, you can incorporate several different fishing destinations into your vacation. So where do you start?
The Ultimate Guide to Fishing in Costa Rica
