Best Fishing Season In Costa Rica
Only a few locations around the globe rival Costa Rica when it comes to world-class sportfishing. With two spectacular coasts, warm tropical waters, and an awe-inspiring variety of marine life, this central American destination is a sportfishing paradise for both seasoned and first-time anglers coming here to experience some of the most thrilling fishing in the world. From sailfish and marlin to mahi-mahi and roosterfish, big game fishing opportunities never end in Costa Rica. However, what you catch, and where you should fish depends entirely on the season and the coast you choose.
This article explores the different fishing seasons across Costa Rica, the best times and regions to book your fishing charter, what weather and species to expect, and some tips from the crew at Chino Salsa to plan your fishing trip for the most rewarding experience.
Why Costa Rica is a Bucket-List Fishing Destination
Costa Rica is one of the world’s premier sportfishing destinations for every kind of angler, and that’s not because of luck. It’s geography, climate, and conservation coming together in perfect balance. With the Pacific Ocean on the west and the Caribbean Sea on the east, the country offers access to two entirely different marine ecosystems within a few hours of drive. Each coast is rich with marine life, featuring warm waters that attract migratory pelagic species all year-round.
On the Pacific side, the deep offshore waters are home to some of the legendary big-game fishes like sailfish, marlin, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and dorado. Inshore, there is roosterfish, snapper, grouper, and amberjack, perfect for those who enjoy fishing near the coast while enjoying the scenic views of the rugged coastline. On this side of the coast, runs are typically short from major marinas and beach launches, so you spend more of your day fishing and less of it riding. Add easy air access (SJO and LIR), modern marinas, seasoned bilingual crews, and strong conservation practices, and you’ve got a destination that’s welcoming for first-timers, exciting for veterans, and endlessly repeatable.
The Caribbean coast, although less developed, offers equal excitement but a completely different experience. The fresh water from the powerful rivers in the north, like the Río San Juan, Río Colorado, and Tortuguero, flows through the dense rainforest of Costa Rica, picking up nutrients, creates a nutrient-rich mix of fresh and saltwater that attracts large, predatory fish like tarpon, snook, and jack crevalle. Fishing here often happens in the tranquility of the lagoons or river mouths, surrounded by lush jungle and incredible wildlife.
Best Fishing Season In Costa Rica
Best Times & Species Across Costa Rica (Seasonal Breakdown):
December – April (Pacific Dry Season; Caribbean Breezy)
This is the easiest time of year to plan a fishing trip on the Pacific side. Mornings are usually clear, seas are calmer, and favourable for offshore trips. Great time for beginners and families.
Best Region: The North Pacific Coast around Papagayo, Playas del Coco, Playa Flamingo, Tamarindo, and Nosara/Sámara enjoys excellent conditions in this window.
Weather: This is the classic “dry season” in Guanacaste. Expect sunny days, calm seas, minimal rain, and excellent visibility. Sea conditions are generally favorable for offshore trips.
Fishes you can catch during Costa Rica Dry Season:
- Sailfish
- Marlin (blue, black, striped)
- Yellowfin tuna
- Mahi-mahi (dorado)
- Roosterfish and inshore species
How long to book the charter:
Full Day Fishing Trip: Book a full day 8-10 hours fishing trip to cover more ground and catch some big-game fish.
¾ Day Fishing Trip: Booking a 6 hour fishing trip is a viable option, especially if the sea conditions seem unpredictable.
Special Notes:
- Consider booking an early morning charter as afternoon showers become more common.
- It is very important to book an experienced charter during this season. Your local captain may target floating weeds or trash lines for mahi-mahi as the debris and run-off from rivers draws game fish.
Suggestion for planning:
Before you book your charter, ask your captain if they plan to fish along floating debris lines (known as “weed lines”), since these often attract mahi-mahi and other species. Carry a light rain jacket and aim for an early morning start to make the most of the calm conditions.
August – November (Green / Wet Season)
During this time, the country turns lush and the ocean is filled with life. Some days will be incredible for fishing, while others may bring strong winds, showers and unpredictable seas. However, this naturally brings strong opportunities for big game action and less crowds. Well-seasoned captains like Captain Gerardo, aka “Comie”, who are familiar with the “green season” would know how to navigate the conditions.
Best Region: The North Pacific region near Playa Flamingo, Tamarindo, and Papagayo remains excellent for fishing during this season, especially for certain species.
Weather: This time of the year brings most of the rain in Costa Rica. Expect frequent rains in the afternoons, with sea conditions often challenging due to wind, swells, and low visibility.
Fishes you can catch during Costa Rica Green / Wet Season:
- Marlin (especially blue and black)
- Yellowfin tuna
- Mahi-mahi/dorado
- Roosterfish, snapper and other inshore species
How long to book the charter:
Full Day Fishing Trip: For the best shot at catching a trophy offshore fish, book a full day 8-10 hours fishing trip to cover more ground.
¾ Day Fishing Trip: If you prefer a safer, shorter outing, booking a 6 hour fishing trip is a viable option, especially if the sea conditions seem unpredictable.
Special Notes:
- Since the seas may be rougher during this period, choose a stable fishing charter boat with a well-seasoned crew and local captain.
- Consider scheduling your trip early in the morning as afternoons are less reliable.
- Check the weather/cancellation policy ahead of time.
Suggestion for planning:
Carry rain protection, non-slip footwear, and possibly seasickness prevention if you are sensitive. Choose a deep sea or nearshore fishing experience based on your experience and comfort level.
Tips to Pick the Best Fishing Time for Yourself:
- If you want the most suitable and easiest weather conditions with great big-game opportunity, plan your fishing charter for anytime between December and April
- If you’re flexible and want high chances for mahi-mahi and tuna at slightly lower cost, consider May-July.
- If you’re adventurous, comfortable with variable conditions, and want strong big-game chances with fewer crowds, go for August to November.
- Make sure to choose charter length appropriate for your target species and sea conditions (full day to maximize your chances for a trophy catch, ¾ or half day for inshore/family).
Quick Species-by-Season Cheat Sheet
- Sailfish: Peak December to April in the Pacific; present in smaller numbers in other months.
- Blue/Black Marlin: Best May to November, with notable spikes in September and November on Pacific seamount/edge plays; still possible December to April.
- Dorado (Mahi): Excellent June to December, often peaking in September and November with debris/weed-lines.
- Yellowfin Tuna: Year-round; dependable May to November, but pods can show in any month.
- Wahoo: More frequent May to August around structure and temperature breaks.
- Roosterfish: Year-round inshore Pacific; especially lively May to October.
- Cubera Snapper/Grouper: Year-round on reefs/rocks; calmer mornings help.
- Tarpon (Caribbean): Best in September and October during the calm window; still good in May to July and November in the right conditions.
- Snook (Caribbean & select Pacific rivermouths): Strong around river mouths on tide/clarity swings, with local peaks in the green season.
