Sport Fishing Costa Rica: The Pacific Season Calendar

Costa Rica's Pacific coast is one of the world's premier sport fishing destinations, and for good reason. The convergence of warm tropical currents, nutrient-rich upwellings, and underwater topography creates a fishery that produces year-round action — no off season, no dead months. That said, understanding what's running and when makes the difference between a good day and an extraordinary one.

December through April: Peak Billfish Season

This is the marquee window for offshore fishing in Guanacaste. Sailfish are present in large numbers, with boats regularly releasing 5 to 15 fish per trip during peak weeks in January and February. Blue marlin become more frequent from March through April as water temperatures rise. Striped marlin are also encountered. The offshore seamounts 20 to 40 miles out produce the best action, and our captains know every productive structure by heart.

Inshore, this is also prime roosterfish season. These powerful, acrobatic fish are found along rocky points and sandy beaches from Tamarindo to Papagayo. Roosterfish are a prized catch-and-release target and fight hard on light tackle. Snapper and grouper round out the inshore action.

May through July: Transition Season

As the green season begins, offshore fishing transitions. Sailfish numbers decline but dorado (mahi-mahi) start appearing in greater numbers, especially around floating debris and current lines. Yellowfin tuna begin their run, with fish in the 30 to 80 pound range common around the seamounts. This is an underrated period — fewer boats on the water, excellent tuna action, and early dorado arriving.

Inshore, roosterfish remain active, and snapper fishing is excellent. The nutrient input from early rains actually improves inshore productivity.

August through November: Dorado and Tuna Peak

This is dorado season in its full glory. Schools of mahi-mahi are found throughout the offshore waters, often stacked around logs and debris lines. Individual fish range from 15 to 50+ pounds, and limits are common. Yellowfin tuna are also peaking, with larger fish — 80 to 150 pounds — showing up on the seamounts. This period offers arguably the best variety of any season: dorado, tuna, wahoo, and occasional marlin all in the same trip.

Inshore fishing remains productive with roosterfish, snapper, and jack crevalle. The calmer morning conditions of green season actually make for very comfortable inshore trips.

Tackle and Preparation

All Costa Charter sport fishing vessels are equipped with tournament-grade tackle: Penn International and Shimano reels, custom rods rated for the target species, and a full spread of lures and rigging. Live bait (ballyhoo, sardines, and goggle eyes) is sourced fresh each morning. Fighting chairs are standard on our offshore boats. We handle fishing licenses for all guests — it's included in your charter.

Booking Your Fishing Charter

Offshore trips depart at first light (typically 5:30am) and return by early afternoon. Half-day inshore trips are available with more flexible scheduling. We recommend booking at least one week in advance during peak billfish season (December through March) and 48 hours during other months. Contact us with your preferred dates and target species, and we'll match you with the right captain and vessel.