About Sportfishing in Costa Rica
Sportfishing is one of the most popular tourist activities in Costa Rica due to the wide variety of species available for catch, as well as its unique location on the Pacific Ocean.
The fishing near Jaco beach is world-class due to its proximity to Quepos and the fact that it’s en route to the Cocos Island national park.
There are several types of sportfishing in Jaco- you can do both inshore and offshore fishing. Deep-sea fishing is second to none in Costa Rica. Seamount fishing (where the rod is static on the boat and you fish while the boat trolls the ocean) is a popular option as well. Some fishing charters also offer fly fishing, although not as common.
One of the most popular places to leave for your excursion is just north of Casa Overlook, at the Marriott Los Suenos Marina near Herradura Bay.
Costa Rica Sportfishing – What To Expect
You can do anything from half-day fishing excursions to multi-day trips where you stay on the boat and fish a ton.
Generally, your guide will meet you in a predetermined location and take you to the dock or marina where you will meet your captain and crew.
Some tours include food, water and even alcoholic beverages- it is best to check with your specific tour operator before booking if you are wanting these services to be included.
If you would like a private tour, you will need to specify in advance. Most often, private tours come at a higher cost.
Make sure that your boat has all of the safety measures in place such as life jackets for everyone, permission to fish in open water, tourist insurance and correct licensing. These safety measures are all required by Costa Rican law, and you are more than welcome to ask your tour operator to show you the documents before you leave the dock.
Most all tour operators have all of the fishing equipment you will need for your adventure, but you are also more than welcome to bring your own equipment.
Jaco Fishing- Species You Can Catch
Some of the best fish in the world can be found in Costa Rica. A few of the most popular species include:
- Blue Marlin
- Black Marlin
- Sailfish
- Yellowfin Tuna
- Dorado
- Snapper
- Wahoo
- Rooster fish
- Mahi Mahi
It is not necessarily customary for the fisherman (you) to keep the catch, but if you would like to you can let your guide know. Sometimes you will need to pay for the fish as the cost of the fish is not included in the trip- some guides will earn extra income from the sale of the fish locally.
What To Bring
As weather is unpredictable in the deep sea, it is important to bring the following:
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Sturdy shoes (not flip flops)
- Sunglasses
- Water and snacks (unless provided)
- Raincoat or rain gear (optional)
- Your own fishing gear (optional)
Recommendations
There are two primary marinas near Jaco.
Los Sueños Resort and Marina is a hotspot for both inshore and offshore fishing. Costa Rica’s waters literally teen with big game: dorado averaging 40 lb, yellowfin tuna that push the 300lb mark and one of the largest concentrations of big Pacific sailfish found anywhere.
In fact, Costa Rica boasts one of the healthiest billfish fisheries in the world, with 20-fish days being a common occurrence. Unusually calm waters and short rides to the fishing grounds cement the country’s place at the top of the big game fishing destinations.
Those in search of an unforgettable sport fishing experience need to look no further than Los Sueños Marina, home to an extensive charter fleet certified by the Costa Rican Ministry of Tourism.
It is not just the offshore fishing that is good in this area, the inshore fishing offers a great opportunity for 50lb+ roosterfish and 40lb+ dorado. You can try your hand at trying to catch these on a fly rod as well as regular spinning rods.
Upcoming tournaments in Los Suenos
2022 TOURNAMENT DATES
January: Ladies Only 25th, Triple Crown 26-29
February: Ladies Only 22nd, Triple Crown 23-26
March: Ladies Only 29th, Triple Crown 30Mar-2Apr
Quepos Marina
Essence
OF MARINA PEZ VELA
THE MARINA HAS ONE OF THE MOST SPECTACULAR NATURAL SETTINGS ANYWHERE ON THE PLANET WITH RAINFOREST COVERED MOUNTAINS, TEEMING WITH WILDLIFE, CASCADING DOWN TO THE TURQUOISE WATERS OF THE PACIFIC.
A WORLD CLASS MARINA, YACHT YARD AND COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT WITH ROOTS FIRMLY PLANTED IN THE HISTORY, CULTURE AND STUNNING NATURAL BEAUTY OF THE QUEPOS/MANUEL ANTONIO AREA.
Upcoming tournaments in Quepos
14 – 16 JAN
ALL DAY
Pelagic Rock Star Offshore Tournament 2022
5 FEB
ALL DAY
17 – 19 FEB
ALL DAY
Pescadora Billfish Championship 2022
5 MAR
ALL DAY
