Offshore Fishing in Costa Rica: The Ultimate Big Game Adventure
Costa Rica is a world-renowned destination for offshore fishing, offering unmatched biodiversity, year-round game fish action, and some of the most skilled captains and crews in the sportfishing industry. With both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea hugging its coastlines, Costa Rica provides an offshore fishing experience that attracts seasoned anglers, adventure travelers, and trophy hunters alike.
Whether you’re targeting massive blue marlin off Los Sueños, chasing schools of yellowfin tuna near Quepos, or seeking the acrobatic sailfish in the waters off Tamarindo, offshore fishing in Costa Rica promises a thrilling experience in one of the most beautiful settings on earth.
Why Offshore Fishing in Costa Rica?
1. Year-Round Big Game Opportunities
Costa Rica’s unique location near the equator ensures consistent water temperatures and stable fishing conditions throughout the year. There is no true “off-season” here. Depending on when and where you fish, you can target:
- Marlin (Blue, Black, and Striped) – Best from September to March
- Pacific Sailfish – Peak season runs from December to April
- Yellowfin Tuna – Abundant year-round, especially June through October
- Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) – Most common during the rainy season (May to November)
- Wahoo – Spotted sporadically throughout the year, often around offshore islands and seamounts
This constant activity means offshore fishing in Costa Rica offers incredible opportunities regardless of when you visit.
2. Diverse Fishing Grounds
Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline spans over 600 miles and is home to numerous world-class offshore fishing grounds, including:
- Los Sueños Marina (Playa Herradura) – Considered the sportfishing capital of Central America
- Quepos (Marina Pez Vela) – Hosts top billfish tournaments like the Offshore World Championship
- Tamarindo & Flamingo (Guanacaste) – Excellent offshore structure, seamounts, and blue water access
- Drake Bay & Golfito – Untouched and remote, offering productive offshore fishing far from crowds
Each of these regions provides quick access to deep blue water and underwater structures that attract pelagic species.
3. Professional Charters and Crews
Costa Rica is home to a large fleet of professional offshore fishing charters, ranging from 25’ center consoles to luxurious 60’ sportfishing yachts. Many captains are bilingual, IGFA certified, and have decades of experience fishing these waters. The boats are typically equipped with:
- Outriggers and downriggers
- Tuna tubes and live bait wells
- GPS, sonar, and radar
- Fighting chairs
- Air-conditioned cabins and full bathrooms (on larger vessels)
Whether you’re a first-timer or a tournament pro, you’ll find a charter that matches your expectations and budget.
Top Offshore Fishing Destinations in Costa Rica
Los Sueños / Playa Herradura
Located just 1.5 hours from San José, Los Sueños Resort and Marina is the epicenter of offshore fishing in Costa Rica. It’s the launching point for many high-end charters and is home to the famous Signature Triple Crown Billfish Tournament.
Target species: Blue Marlin, Black Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Mahi-Mahi
Best time: December to April for sailfish; September to March for marlin
Quepos / Marina Pez Vela
Just south of Los Sueños, Quepos is known for its consistent offshore action and the impressive Marina Pez Vela. It’s a top choice for anglers looking to fish in comfort and proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park.
Target species: Sailfish, Tuna, Dorado, Wahoo
Best time: December to May for sailfish; June to October for tuna and mahi-mahi
Tamarindo & Flamingo (North Pacific)
The Guanacaste coast is known for its calm waters and productive offshore grounds. Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo provide quick access to deep water, as well as options for multi-day trips.
Target species: Striped Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado
Best time: May to September for tuna and mahi-mahi; December to March for billfish
Osa Peninsula / Drake Bay
For remote offshore adventures, the waters off Drake Bay and the Osa Peninsula are second to none. With limited fishing pressure and proximity to the Cano Island seamounts, this is a dream for serious anglers.
Target species: Large Marlin, Tuna, Sailfish
Best time: October to March
Offshore Fishing Techniques Used in Costa Rica
Offshore fishing in Costa Rica employs a range of techniques designed to maximize hookups and adapt to changing conditions. The most common include:
1. Trolling with Artificial Lures
High-speed trolling with skirted lures is effective for covering large distances and locating roaming species like marlin and wahoo.
2. Live Baiting
Once fish are located, live baiting is often used to entice strikes from more finicky pelagics. Slow-trolled bonito or blue runners are popular choices.
3. Teaser and Pitch Bait
This tournament-style technique involves pulling hookless teasers to bring fish into the spread, then casting a rigged bait once a fish is spotted. It’s thrilling and highly effective for sailfish and marlin.
4. FAD Fishing (Fish Aggregating Devices)
Costa Rica is one of the few countries that offers multi-day offshore trips to FADs, where anglers can catch multiple marlin per day. These deep-water devices attract pelagics from miles away and offer some of the best marlin fishing on the planet.
What to Expect on a Costa Rica Offshore Fishing Trip
Full-Day Trips
Most offshore charters are full-day trips (7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.), allowing time to reach deep water (usually 15–30 miles offshore) and fish multiple areas. Inclusions often consist of:
- All tackle, rods, and reels
- Bait and teasers
- Captain and crew
- Snacks, lunch, beer, water, and soft drinks
- Fishing license (sometimes extra)
Multi-Day Trips
Hardcore anglers may want to book 2–4 day offshore adventures to reach FADs or remote seamounts 60–120 miles offshore. These trips are usually done on larger yachts and may include overnight stays on the water.
Group Sizes & Boat Options
You can choose from a wide range of vessels based on your group size and preferences:
- Center Consoles (25–30ft): Best for small groups or budget-friendly outings
- Sportfishing Yachts (36–45ft): Ideal for comfort and multi-species fishing
- Luxury Charters (50ft+): Premium amenities and long-range capability
Offshore Fishing Regulations in Costa Rica
Costa Rica enforces catch-and-release practices for all billfish species (marlin and sailfish). Crews are highly trained in proper handling to ensure the safe release of your catch.
Things to know:
- A fishing license is required and can be purchased online through INCOPESCA or through your charter operator
- Tunas and mahi-mahi can be kept within size and bag limits
- Circle hooks are mandatory for all natural baits targeting billfish
These conservation efforts help maintain healthy populations and make Costa Rica one of the best-managed sportfishing destinations globally.
Best Time for Offshore Fishing in Costa Rica (Seasonal Breakdown)
| Month | Marlin | Sailfish | Tuna | Mahi-Mahi | Wahoo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Excellent | Peak | Good | Good | Fair |
| February | Excellent | Peak | Good | Good | Fair |
| March | Excellent | Peak | Good | Fair | Fair |
| April | Good | High | Excellent | Fair | Fair |
| May | Good | Declining | Peak | Peak | Good |
| June | Good | Fair | Peak | Peak | Good |
| July | Good | Fair | Peak | Peak | Good |
| August | Excellent | Fair | Peak | Peak | Good |
| September | Peak | Fair | Excellent | Excellent | Fair |
| October | Peak | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| November | Excellent | Rising | Good | Excellent | Fair |
| December | Excellent | Peak | Good | Good | Fair |
Where to Stay When Offshore Fishing in Costa Rica
If you’re planning a fishing trip, the following resorts and towns offer both convenience and comfort:
- Los Sueños Resort & Marina (Playa Herradura): Luxury condos, golf, restaurants, and direct marina access
- Manuel Antonio / Quepos: A mix of boutique hotels, beachfront villas, and eco-lodges
- Tamarindo & Flamingo: Surf towns with a fun nightlife scene and modern accommodations
- Osa Peninsula / Drake Bay: Remote eco-lodges and all-inclusive fishing resorts
Many fishing packages include transportation, meals, and accommodations for a seamless travel experience.
Book Your Offshore Fishing Charter in Costa Rica
Offshore fishing in Costa Rica is more than just a sport—it’s a full-sensory experience set against the backdrop of pristine coastlines, exotic wildlife, and adrenaline-pumping action. Whether you’re planning a day trip out of Los Sueños, a multi-day marlin hunt to the FADs, or a family adventure from Quepos, Costa Rica offers the ultimate saltwater playground.
Ready to go offshore?
Reach out to a trusted local operator with a proven track record, experienced captains, and top-tier boats to ensure you get the most out of your adventure.