Plenty of action awaits the angler in Costa Rica both off her coasts and within inland waterways. Sailfish and Marlin are so plentiful off the Pacific coast that many fishermen release several of each fish when they go out, and they are so big that 1,000 pound black marlin and 250-pound sailfish await seasoned sea veterans. Fully equipped, well-rigged sport fishing outfitters line the coast, waiting to share their knowledge and savvy with you for an unforgettable angling experience.
The major areas for fishing in Costa Rica are (according to the ICT):
Northern Pacific - Cabo Blanco to the Gulf of Papagayo
Numerous outfitters have their base in this region, from Coco's beach, Tamarindo, Ocotal to Samara and Carrillo. Fishing here is usually excellent throughout the year, and the pristine
beaches that line the coast are a nice bonus. Look for gigantic tuna – each year somebody pulls out a 400 pounder.
Central Pacific - Cabo Blanco to Drake Bay
Outfitters are based in Puntarenas, Jacó, and Drake Bay, but the center of sportfishing activity is Quepos. Inshore and offshore fishing is good year-round, with billfish abundant from December to early May. The great variety of fish and abundant inshore nightlife attracts many to Quepos, and a respite to any of the regions national parks helps get your land legs back.
Southern Pacific - Golfito and Playa Zancudo
This vast region only hosts a handful of sport fishing operators. This area, however, can easily produce a dozen sailfish and a few marlins in key spots during the peak. Plenty of other species populate
the southern Pacific waters, making every day a great adventure. Dozens of IGFA records have come from this region. Fish snook near Zancudo, and look for it all at Golfito's two "marinas."
Caribbean
Fishing in the Caribbean has greatly developed in the last 10 years, producing a number of excellent luxury lodges. Near the Barra del Colorado anglers pull out several tarpon a day. The canals and rivers of the region are famous for fishing, and the wildlife that observes from the surrounding jungle make a nice fan club. Tarpon and snook are the main catches here year-round. The weather is the main factor here, which can change dramatically each day. The ICT says "if the river drops or the surf is low enough to let you outside the river mouth, it's likely you'll catch fish." Get out there and throw a line in.
