15 Best Fishing in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is famous for its breathtaking coastlines, rich marine life, and diverse fishing opportunities. Whether you’re seeking deep-sea adventures or serene inland waters, Costa Rica is the ultimate destination for anglers. With stunning Pacific and Caribbean coasts, along with inland lakes and rivers, it’s a paradise for all fishing enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed look at the 15 best fishing in Costa Rica, each offering something unique for your next fishing adventure.

1. Los Sueños Marina

Located on the Central Pacific coast, Los Sueños Marina is one of Costa Rica’s largest and most luxurious marinas. It’s known for its top-tier fishing charters and the abundance of billfish, including marlin and sailfish. The world-class infrastructure also makes it a favorite spot for anglers from around the globe.

Why Choose It

• Largest and best-equipped marina in Costa Rica.
• Home to several fishing tournaments, making it ideal for competitive anglers.
• Easy access to deep-sea fishing waters.

Fishing Experience

At Los Sueños, you’ll find thrilling opportunities for offshore fishing. The Pacific waters here are teeming with sailfish, marlin, and dorado. Deep-sea charters from Los Sueños ensure a day filled with action, especially during the peak seasons.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Luxurious amenities.
• Excellent for billfish.
• Proximity to top hotels and resorts.

Cons:

• Crowded during peak seasons.
• Expensive compared to other marinas.

2. Crocodile Bay Sportfishing Resort

Situated on the Osa Peninsula, Crocodile Bay Resort is renowned for its combination of luxury and exceptional sportfishing. It’s an all-inclusive resort offering deep-sea adventures targeting marlin, sailfish, and dorado.

Why Choose It

• Known for its world-class customer service and luxury accommodations.
• Provides a complete fishing package, including equipment, guides, and meals.
• Close to Corcovado National Park, offering non-fishing activities too.

Fishing Experience

Anglers at Crocodile Bay enjoy one of the finest offshore fishing experiences. Marlin and sailfish are in abundance, while the inshore waters offer chances to catch roosterfish and snapper. Fishing here is highly productive year-round.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• All-inclusive service.
• Great variety of inshore and offshore species.
• High-quality boats and equipment.

Cons:

• Expensive, tailored more for luxury travelers.
• Remote location.

3. Tamarindo Sportfishing

Tamarindo, located in Guanacaste, is a popular beach town offering a mix of deep-sea and inshore fishing charters. It’s perfect for those looking to combine a laid-back beach holiday with world-class fishing.

Why Choose It

• Beautiful beach town with plenty of other activities.
• A wide variety of charter options available.
• Close proximity to some of the best fishing spots in Costa Rica.

Fishing Experience

Tamarindo is known for its variety of fishing options. Deep-sea fishing for marlin and sailfish is popular, while inshore waters are home to roosterfish, snapper, and dorado. Many charters cater to both experienced and novice anglers.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Relaxed atmosphere.
• Variety of fishing options.
• Affordable charter rates.

Cons:

• Smaller town with limited luxury amenities.
• Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.

4. Marina Papagayo

On the Papagayo Peninsula in Guanacaste, Marina Papagayo is a luxurious fishing destination offering exceptional accommodations alongside top-tier fishing for roosterfish, snapper, and grouper.

Why Choose It

• Luxurious marina with high-end facilities.
• Great for targeting roosterfish.
• Close to other tourist attractions and upscale resorts.

Fishing Experience

At Marina Papagayo, the focus is on both inshore and offshore fishing. Roosterfish, snapper, and grouper are commonly caught, but the deep waters nearby also yield marlin, sailfish, and dorado.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Upscale marina and facilities.
• Excellent inshore fishing for roosterfish.
• Close to luxury resorts.

Cons:

• Higher cost.
• More suited for luxury travelers.

5. Quepos

Quepos, a small fishing town on the Central Pacific coast, is home to one of the most renowned sportfishing communities in Costa Rica. It’s famous for its sailfish season and hosts international fishing tournaments every year.

Why Choose It

• Known for sailfish and marlin.
• Great location for fishing enthusiasts and vacationers.
• Strong sense of community and fishing culture.

Fishing Experience

Quepos is famous for its billfish population, especially sailfish and marlin. The waters here provide exceptional fishing opportunities throughout the year, with the peak sailfish season between December and April.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Famous for sailfish.
• Home to international fishing tournaments.
• Friendly local fishing community.

Cons:

• Smaller town, fewer luxury options.
• Gets busy during fishing tournament season.

6. Lake Arenal

Lake Arenal, Costa Rica’s largest lake, is famous for freshwater fishing. Its location near the Arenal Volcano makes it a scenic fishing destination where anglers can catch rainbow bass, guapote, and machaca.

Why Choose It

• Perfect for freshwater fishing enthusiasts.
• Scenic backdrop of the Arenal Volcano.
• Calm, peaceful fishing environment.

Fishing Experience

Fishing in Lake Arenal is focused on freshwater species. The rainbow bass (guapote) is the lake’s most sought-after fish, offering anglers a rewarding challenge. The tranquil waters also make it an excellent spot for a relaxing day of fishing.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Beautiful scenery.
• Great for freshwater fishing.
• Calm, peaceful environment.

Cons:

• Fewer fishing charters.
• Limited variety of fish compared to the ocean.

7. Corobici River

Located in the Guanacaste region, Corobici River offers anglers an opportunity to enjoy fly fishing for tarpon and other freshwater species in a serene setting.

Why Choose It

• Excellent for fly fishing enthusiasts.
• Quiet and scenic fishing location.
• Good for targeting tarpon and other freshwater species.

Fishing Experience

Fly fishing along the Corobici River is a peaceful experience. Tarpon and guapote are common catches, and the calm waters make it ideal for those looking for a more relaxed and tranquil fishing trip.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Scenic and quiet.
• Ideal for fly fishing.
• Variety of freshwater species.

Cons:

• Fewer fishing charters available.
• Not suitable for those seeking deep-sea fishing.

8. Tempisque River

The Tempisque River, also in Guanacaste, is another great freshwater fishing destination. It’s home to snook, guapote, and other native species, making it an interesting spot for anglers who love river fishing.

Why Choose It

• Great for river fishing.
• Close to other tourist attractions in Guanacaste.
• Peaceful environment.

Fishing Experience

Fishing on the Tempisque River offers a mix of species, from snook to guapote. The river’s calm waters provide a laid-back fishing experience, and it’s a favorite among local anglers for a weekend trip.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Quiet and peaceful.
• Good variety of freshwater fish.
• Great for snook fishing.

Cons:

• Limited to freshwater fishing.
• Not a top tourist destination.

9. Playa Flamingo

Playa Flamingo is one of the most scenic beaches on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast and a top destination for offshore fishing. It’s famous for marlin, sailfish, and other deep-sea species.

Why Choose It

• Stunning beach location.
• Excellent offshore fishing.
• Plenty of tourist activities nearby.

Fishing Experience

Offshore fishing in Playa Flamingo is a thrilling experience, with plenty of marlin, sailfish, and dorado to be caught. The charters here are well-equipped, offering both half-day and full-day trips for anglers of all levels.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Beautiful beach town.
• Thriving fishing community.
• Great mix of inshore and offshore species.

Cons:

• More of a tourist destination, can be busy.
• Expensive charters during peak seasons.

10. Golfito

Nestled in the Southern Pacific region, Golfito is known for its calm waters and pristine environment. This fishing town is famous for marlin, sailfish, tuna, and other deep-sea species.

Why Choose It

• Pristine waters and untouched environment.
• Great variety of fish species.
• Less crowded than some other fishing destinations.

Fishing Experience

Golfito offers some of the best deep-sea fishing experiences in Costa Rica. The waters are home to marlin, sailfish, and tuna, while the town itself retains its authentic charm. For anglers seeking a quieter location, Golfito is a great option.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Less crowded than other spots.
• Beautiful, unspoiled surroundings.
• Good mix of species.

Cons:

• Fewer luxury amenities.
• Remote location.

11. Drake Bay

Located on the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay is a secluded and remote destination, offering a unique fishing experience. Roosterfish, snook, and snapper are common here, and the surrounding natural beauty is unmatched.

Why Choose It

• Remote and less touristy.
• Ideal for inshore fishing.
• Close to Corcovado National Park.

Fishing Experience

Fishing at Drake Bay is a memorable experience. The quiet, untouched waters offer plenty of inshore fishing opportunities for roosterfish and snook, and the natural surroundings are breathtaking.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Secluded and peaceful.
• Great for inshore fishing.
• Natural beauty.

Cons:

• Difficult to access.
• Limited accommodations and amenities.

12. Puerto Viejo

On the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo offers a completely different fishing experience. The waters here are home to tarpon, snook, and other tropical species, making it a popular spot for anglers seeking variety.

Why Choose It

• Unique Caribbean fishing experience.
• Great for catching tarpon and snook.
• Lively town with plenty of activities.

Fishing Experience

Fishing in Puerto Viejo offers a unique Caribbean flavor. The waters are abundant with tarpon and snook, providing a different experience from the Pacific coast. The town is also full of life, offering a mix of fishing and vibrant culture.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great tarpon fishing.
• Lively atmosphere.
• Different from the Pacific coast experience.

Cons:

• Weather can be unpredictable.
• Limited inshore fishing.

13. Tortuguero

Tortuguero, located on the Caribbean coast, is known for its lush jungle environment and superb fishing for tarpon. It’s a remote location, but offers an unforgettable fishing adventure.

Why Choose It

• Unique fishing in a jungle setting.
• Excellent tarpon fishing.
• Off the beaten path, perfect for adventure seekers.

Fishing Experience

Tortuguero offers unparalleled fishing opportunities for tarpon. The rivers and lagoons here are ideal for freshwater fishing, and the surrounding rainforest adds to the allure of the location.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great for tarpon fishing.
• Unique jungle environment.
• Off-the-beaten-path destination.

Cons:

• Hard to reach.
• Limited fishing variety.

14. Nicoya Peninsula

The Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific coast is a versatile fishing destination, offering both inshore and offshore fishing opportunities. Roosterfish, snapper, and marlin are just some of the species you can catch here.

Why Choose It

• Versatile fishing options.
• Beautiful coastal scenery.
• Ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers.

Fishing Experience

The Nicoya Peninsula provides plenty of options, from inshore fishing for roosterfish to offshore trips targeting marlin and sailfish. The waters are rich in marine life, making it a favorite for many anglers.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Beautiful coastal scenery.
• Great variety of fishing options.
• Good for beginners.

Cons:

• Some areas can be remote.
• Less developed than other regions.

15. Jaco

Jaco is a bustling beach town on the Pacific coast that serves as an excellent base for fishing trips. With a variety of charters available, it’s a great destination for all types of anglers.

Why Choose It

• Lots of charter options.
• Bustling town with plenty to do.
• Great access to both inshore and offshore fishing.

Fishing Experience

Fishing in Jaco provides access to a variety of fish, including roosterfish, marlin, and sailfish. The town’s proximity to prime fishing grounds makes it a convenient spot for planning day trips and multi-day adventures.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Plenty of charter options.
• Easy access to prime fishing spots.
• Lively town with lots of activities.

Cons:

• Can be crowded.
• Less secluded than other spots.

Read Also: 15 Best Costa Rica Resorts for Adults

Final Words

Costa Rica offers an incredible array of fishing destinations that cater to all types of anglers. From the luxurious marinas on the Pacific coast to the tranquil inland lakes and rivers, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re after deep-sea adventures or peaceful freshwater fishing, Costa Rica’s waters won’t disappoint. Just remember to plan ahead, choose your location wisely, and get ready for an unforgettable fishing experience!