Costa Rica Fishing:
Best Charters, Seasons & Top Tours for Anglers
From battling marlin offshore to chasing roosterfish along volcanic shores, Costa Rica fishing offers some of the world’s most thrilling angling adventures. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman or first-timer, Costa Rica’s Pacific and Caribbean waters are teeming with opportunities to reel in unforgettable memories.
Book the Best Fishing Trips in Costa Rica
Top Fishing Charters
Why Go Fishing in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica fishing is renowned globally thanks to its unique geography, warm tropical climate, and protected marine ecosystems.
​
The country offers:
-
Two productive coasts: the Pacific (more developed for sportfishing) and the Caribbean
-
Consistent fishing seasons throughout the year
-
World-class marinas like Marina Pez Vela in Quepos and Los Sueños in Herradura
-
Sustainable, catch-and-release culture for billfish and roosterfish
​
With calm waters and expert local crews, it’s no wonder Costa Rica has become a bucket-list destination for anglers from around the world.
Costa Rica’s strategic location between two oceans and a vast network of rivers and lakes creates an unparalleled diversity of fish species.
You can go from catching tarpon in the Caribbean to landing a trophy marlin on the Pacific coast — all within the same country.
Whether you're fly fishing the jungle rivers of Tortuguero or trolling offshore in the Central Pacific, Costa Rica offers a fishing experience for every style and skill level.
Top Costa Rica Fishing Destinations
Quepos & Marina Pez Vela
Premier location for both offshore and inshore fishing. Famous for its billfish season and roosterfish action.
Marina Papagayo
Calmer waters, family-friendly trips, great for mahi-mahi and roosterfish in the Gulf of Papagayo.
Luxury charters and high-end sportfishing crews just 1.5 hours from San José.
Tamarindo & Marina Flamingo
Easy access from Liberia. Great mix of offshore and inshore fishing.
Marina Bahia Golfito
Wilder, more remote. Big fish action in the pristine setting of Osa Peninsula
Best Time for Fishing in Costa Rica
One of the best things about fishing in Costa Rica is that it’s a year-round adventure. Thanks to the country’s consistently warm tropical climate and rich marine biodiversity, there’s always something biting—no matter when you visit.
​
That said, certain species are more abundant during specific months, so it’s worth planning your trip around your dream catch.
Whether you’re after Sailfish on the Pacific Coast or Tarpon in the Caribbean, timing can make a big difference.
Explore the quick overview below to help align your trip with peak fishing times:​
-
Roosterfish: Year-round (Peak: Nov–Mar)
-
Yellowfin Tuna: All year
-
Marlin: August – December
-
Tarpon (Caribbean): September – May
-
Mahi-Mahi: May – October
-
Sailfish : December – April (Pacific)
​​
No matter when you visit, there’s always something biting in Costa Rica.
Types of Fishing
Inshore Fishing
-
Perfect for beginners and families
-
Target species: roosterfish, snapper, jacks, snook
-
Typically within 3 miles of shore
-
Ideal for experienced anglers chasing big game
-
Target species: marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi
-
Full-day trips often go 10-30 miles offshore
Freshwater Fishing
-
Popular around Lake Arenal and mountain rivers
-
Target species: guapote, machaca, rainbow bass
Fly fishing
-
Best on Caribbean coast, jungle rivers, or remote beach areas
-
Target species: tarpon, snook, bonefish
Discover all our best fishing advices in our travel blog
We’re constantly exploring new parts of Costa Rica to bring you the best recommendations.
