If you’re a fishing enthusiast, Costa Rica is a must-visit destination. With its diverse coastline and abundant marine life, this Central American country offers some of the best fishing spots in the world. Whether you’re looking for big game fishing or fly fishing, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top fishing destinations in Costa Rica to add to your bucket list.
The Pacific Coast: Quepos and Los Suenos.
The Pacific coast of Costa Rica is known for its world-class sport fishing, and Quepos and Los Suenos are two of the top destinations. Quepos, located in the central Pacific region, is home to the famous Marina Pez Vela and offers a variety of fishing charters for both inshore and offshore fishing. Los Suenos, located in the Puntarenas province, is a luxury resort and marina that offers some of the best offshore fishing in the world, including marlin, sailfish, and tuna. Both destinations offer a range of accommodations and amenities for anglers.
The Caribbean Coast: Tortuguero and Barra del Colorado.
While the Pacific coast may be more well-known for its fishing, the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica also offers some great spots for anglers. Tortuguero, located in the Limon province, is a remote and beautiful destination that offers both river and ocean fishing. The area is known for its tarpon fishing, as well as for snook, snapper, and other species. Barra del Colorado, also in Limon, is another top destination for tarpon fishing, as well as for rainbow bass and other freshwater species. Both destinations offer a unique and unforgettable fishing experience in a stunning natural setting.
The Northern Region: Arenal Lake and Rio San Juan.
The Northern Region of Costa Rica offers some of the best freshwater fishing in the country. Arenal Lake, located near the Arenal Volcano, is a popular destination for anglers looking to catch rainbow bass, also known as guapote. The lake is also home to other species, such as machaca and tilapia. The Rio San Juan, which forms part of the border between Costa Rica and Nicaragua, is another great spot for freshwater fishing. Anglers can catch guapote, mojarra, and other species in this beautiful and remote area.
The Southern Region: Golfito and Puerto Jimenez.
The Southern Region of Costa Rica is known for its world-class sport fishing. Golfito, located on the Pacific coast, is a popular destination for anglers looking to catch marlin, sailfish, and tuna. The nearby waters of Zancudo and Pavones are also great spots for fishing. Puerto Jimenez, located on the Osa Peninsula, is another top destination for sport fishing. Anglers can catch a variety of species, including marlin, sailfish, and dorado. The area is also known for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Offshore Fishing: Cocos Island and Isla del Coco.
For the ultimate offshore fishing experience, head to Cocos Island and Isla del Coco. These remote islands are located about 300 miles off the coast of Costa Rica and offer some of the best big-game fishing in the world. Anglers can catch a variety of species, including marlin, tuna, and wahoo. The waters around the islands are also home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles. Keep in mind that fishing around these protected islands requires a permit and a licensed guide.