These are common FAQs that we receive. Contact us at info@crfishingcharters.com if you have more questions.
Do you need a license to fish in Costa Rica?
Yes, visit our fishing license page for instructions on how to get your fishing license online.
Is fishing good in Costa Rica?
Yes, Costa Rica has become a major sportfishing center in recent years. The oceans are home to a large number of fish throughout the year! The Pacific coast of Costa Rica is well known for offshore and inshore species such as Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi-mahi, Snapper, and many more.
How much does it cost to go fishing in Costa Rica?
It depends of the type of the boat, duration of the trip and the pick up location. We range from the $350 USD ish to the $3,500 USD ish. Please visit our fishing charters catalog for an updated pricing list.
How much do you tip a fishing charter in Costa Rica?
Between 10% and 20% depending on the level of satisfaction.
What is the best time of year to fish in Costa Rica?
The peak season for fishing has such a wide range. This means you won’t leave disappointed because there is always something to fish. If your fishing trip is a few days away, our recommendation is to give us a call or email us to give you feedback on the current fishing action. Also you can follow our Instagram account since we post the latest catches.
Does Costa Rica have good deep sea fishing?
Absolutely. The continental shelf off the coast of Costa Rica is shallow, making it a short trip to deep, nutrient-rich fishing grounds, where some of the world’s most incredible fish live such as Marlin, Sailfish, Yellow Fin Tuna and Wahoo.
What side of Costa Rica is better for fishing?
Depends of your target and experience expectation. Pacific is better for Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi-mahi, Snapper and there are world-class marinas where the fishing charter will be waiting for you. Caribbean has amazing tarpon fishing.
What part of Costa Rica has the best fishing?
For their variety and availability of species (Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi-mahi and Wahoo), our top 4, in no particular order:
North Pacific
Central Pacific
What fish do you catch in Costa Rica?
Mainly these species:
- Offshore: Black Marlin, Striped Marlin, Blue Marlin, Mahi Mahi (Dolphin), Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna.
- Inshore: Rooster Fish, Red Snapper, Cubera Snapper, Jack Crevalle, Pompano, Triggerfish, Grouper.
- Caribbean only: Tarpon
Check our list of all the species you could catch in Costa Rica.
Can you keep the fish you catch in Costa Rica?
It depends on the species. Billfish are protected by law. The rest are good to keep.
Is fishing in Tamarindo good?
Yes. The reason is because it is located in Guanacaste, so the continental shelf is right off the coast, meaning that you’ll spend a lot less time hanging around and a lot more time deep sea fishing.
What fish can you catch in Tamarindo?
Offshore: Marlin, Mahi Mahi (Dolphin), Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna.
Inshore: Rooster Fish, Red Snapper, Cubera Snapper, Jack Crevalle, Pompano, Triggerfish, Grouper.
Can you spearfish in Costa Rica?
Yes, as long as you follow these rules found in the Costa Rican law:
- Obtain a spearfishing license from Incopesca. By doing so, you are providing a sworn statement indicating that you are aware of the risks and that you are qualified to carry spearfishing.
- Go underwater only with lung sport (like snorkeling). Underwater fishing using diving equipment such as oxygen tanks is not allowed.
- Carry a maximum of two spearguns, whether they are rubber bands, compressed air, or one of each type. Flashlights, knives, net cloth bags or catchers are allowed as well.
- Fishermen must be at least 18 years old.
- Limited to a maximum of 5 fishes per trip or day of fishing and must be destined for self-consumption.
- Fish size must be larger than the size at first sexual maturity.
- Spearfishing is not allowed in National Parks and Protected Wilderness Areas.
Can you fish from shore in Costa Rica?
Yes, you can bring your fishing poles or do it the local way by using a “yo-yo”. Also there are shore fishing lessons available.
Do you need a fishing license to fish from shore in Costa Rica?
No, it is not required to obtain a fishing license for shore fishing. It is only required for fishing charters inshore/offshore and spearfishing.
Are there redfish in Costa Rica?
Yes, the common species are: Red Snapper, Cubera Snapper, Red Grouper, Spotted Rose Snapper,
Are there Barracudas in Costa Rica?
Yes, specially in the Pacific Ocean.
How do you catch Roosterfish in Costa Rica?
Most rooster fishing guides generally use some type of artificial surface bait/tackle thrown at medium-high speed, which really entices the roosterfish to attack. Metal spoons, poppers, chuggers and cigar-like surface cruisers can be used for the best surfcasting results.
It can be fished near rocky outcrops and in areas of surf action on Pacific beaches along the Costa Rican coast, especially to the south, near Sierpe.
Are there tarpon in Costa Rica?
Yes, only in the Caribbean coast.
Where is best tarpon fishing in Costa Rica?
In the Caribbean side, at the Tortuguero area.
What do you wear deep sea fishing in Costa Rica?
Sunscreen, flip-flops, polarized sun glasses, cap/hat, long sleeve fishing shirts, light clothing.
Is it safe to go fishing in Costa Rica?
Absolutely. Costa Rica is know for the place to fish in Latin America. Crews must be trained in order to obtain their fishing license and the country is in a hurricane-free area.
Can Tourists fish in Costa Rica?
Yes, they need to obtain a fishing license. We also recommend to be aware of the Costa Rica Fishing Regulations.
