Fishing Seasons
The Essential Costa Rica Fishing Calendar
This Costa Rica Fishing Calendar will give you an idea of what you can expect to catch in your upcoming fishing vacation in the country.
Costa Rica Fishing Calendar
Plan Your Trip Around the Best Fishing Seasons
Costa Rica is a fisherman’s paradise, a country where something is always biting. With its tropical climate, rich waters, and two stunning coastlines, anglers can enjoy world-class fishing all year round.
This Costa Rica Fishing Calendar will help you plan your trip around peak seasons, species availability, and local conditions. Whether you want to fish for sailfish offshore, battle roosterfish inshore, or catch tarpon on the Caribbean coast, this guide shows you when and where to go for the best results.
Why a Fishing Calendar Matters
Fishing in Costa Rica is good year-round, but each season offers unique opportunities. Water temperature, currents, rainfall, and bait migrations change slightly from month to month, affecting where certain fish gather. Knowing the seasonal patterns helps you:
Choose the right charter and location (Jaco, Los Sueños, Quepos, Tamarindo, or Caribbean).
Target your dream species: marlin, sailfish, tuna, roosterfish, mahi-mahi, and more.
Balance weather and comfort, dry season versus green season conditions.
Optimize your travel plans for fishing and leisure.
Our team at Costa Rica Fishing Experts tracks the bite year-round and updates this calendar with real data from local captains.
Understanding Costa Rica’s Seasons
The Dry Season (December to April)
This period, known locally as “verano”, brings clear skies, calm seas, and ideal conditions on the Pacific coast. It’s the prime season for sailfish and marlin, with heavy offshore action around Los Sueños and Quepos. Great visibility and lighter winds make this the most comfortable time for visitors.
The Green Season (May to November)
Also called the rainy season, it’s greener, quieter, and more affordable, but don’t be fooled; the fishing is often spectacular. Offshore, tuna and mahi-mahi dominate; inshore, roosterfish and snapper feed aggressively. Afternoon rains usually start after 3 p.m., so morning trips remain calm and productive.
Costa Rica Fishing by Month
Below is a detailed look at what to expect each month.
January
Conditions: Peak dry season, light winds, calm seas, sunny skies.
Offshore: Sailfish arrive in large numbers near Los Sueños and Quepos; blue and striped marlin mix in. Dorado and yellowfin tuna are present.
Inshore: Excellent roosterfish, jacks, and cubera snapper near Herradura and the Nicoya Gulf.
Hotspots: Los Sueños, Jacó, Quepos, and Tamarindo.
Tip: Book early; January is high season for fishing and tourism.
Plan your January fishing trip with Costa Rica Fishing Experts today.
February
Conditions: Still dry, seas extremely calm, offshore visibility excellent.
Offshore: The famous sailfish bite peaks, with some boats raising 10 to 20 sails in a day. Blue marlin remain active.
Inshore: Roosterfish and big red snapper thrive in the warm coastal waters.
Tip: Ideal month for first-timers and family charters, predictable weather and steady action.
March
Offshore: A mix of sailfish, dorado, and occasional marlin.
Inshore: Roosterfish, jack crevalle, and snapper bite strongly around rocky reefs.
Regions: Central Pacific remains dominant, though northern areas (Tamarindo, Flamingo) offer great calm-sea charters.
Note: Dry, sunny, and perfect for multi-day trips to seamounts (FAD fishing).
April
During the transition month between dry and green seasons, water becomes slightly warmer, and occasional showers occur.
Offshore: Marlin become more common; sailfish remain strong. Tuna and dorado start to increase.
Inshore: Peak for roosterfish, snook, and cubera snapper near river mouths.
Best Areas: Los Sueños, Quepos, Osa Peninsula.
May
The green season begins, but morning conditions are still great.
Offshore: Blue and black marlin, mahi-mahi, and yellowfin tuna start to dominate.
Inshore: Excellent variety, roosterfish, snapper, jacks.
Bonus: Fewer tourists, better charter availability, and lower hotel rates.
Tip: Bring a light rain jacket; showers usually pass quickly.
June
Weather: Warm, tropical mornings; occasional rain in the afternoons.
Offshore: Tuna schools arrive in large numbers—look for spinner dolphins offshore.
Inshore: Snook move toward river mouths; roosterfish feed heavily along beaches.
Destination Highlight: Quepos and Golfito for mixed offshore/inshore trips.
Local Tip: Early-morning departures offer calm seas and stunning sunrise views.
July
Conditions: Stable seas, scattered showers; excellent overall fishing.
Offshore: Marlin (especially blue) active offshore; tuna bite remains strong.
Inshore: Roosterfish, cubera snapper, and mackerel dominate the bite near Jaco and Herradura.
Special Note: A “mini dry season” often occurs—less rain, great conditions.
August
Weather: Similar to July—warm, productive waters.
Offshore: Tuna, mahi-mahi, and marlin remain consistent.
Inshore: Roosterfish and snapper continue to bite steadily.
Why Go: Mid-season offers fewer crowds but still top-notch fishing.
September
This is the rainiest month, but that doesn’t stop local anglers.
Offshore: Black marlin peak near the southern Pacific (Osa, Golfito).
Inshore: Snook and cubera snapper thrive near river mouths and estuaries.
Bonus: Dorado (mahi-mahi) arrive in huge schools offshore.
Tip: For afternoon storms, book early-morning charters.
October
Conditions: Similar to September; heavy rain but calm mornings.
Offshore: Dorado and marlin action continues, especially in southern waters.
Inshore: One of the best months for snook fishing; roosterfish remain steady.
Travel Advantage: Off-season pricing and open availability.
Local Tip: A great month for photographers—lush scenery and fewer boats.
November
A transition month as rains begin to fade and seas calm again.
Offshore: Sailfish return, marking the start of high season. Dorado and tuna are plentiful.
Inshore: Excellent mix of species near Herradura and Quepos.
Ideal For: Anglers who prefer less crowded marinas but optimal conditions.
December
Weather: The dry season begins; perfect blue skies and calm Pacific seas.
Offshore: The famous Los Sueños sailfish bite begins, along with marlin and dorado.
Inshore: Roosterfish and snapper strongly return.
Holiday Season: Book early; charters fill up quickly.
Celebrate the holidays with a Costa Rica fishing adventure!
Costa Rica Fishing Calendar Summary Chart
Regional Fishing Seasons at a Glance
Central Pacific (Jaco, Los Sueños, Quepos)
Peak Season: December to April (sailfish, marlin)
Green Season: May to November (tuna, dorado, roosterfish)
Year-round: Roosterfish, snapper, jack crevalle
Northern Pacific (Tamarindo, Flamingo, Papagayo)
Peak: January to April (calm seas, great for marlin and dorado)
Rainier: May to October (good inshore action, fewer crowds)
Southern Pacific (Golfito, Osa Peninsula)
Best Months: May to October for black marlin, dorado, and tuna
Inshore: Snook, roosterfish, and cubera snapper all year
Caribbean Coast
Tarpon: September to November is prime
Snook: Year-round, especially near Barra del Colorado and Parismina
Fishing Calendar FAQs
What’s the best month to fish in Costa Rica?
It depends on your goals. December to April is best for billfish and calm weather. May to September is ideal for tuna, dorado, and roosterfish. September to November is good for snook and tarpon.
Is fishing good during the rainy season?
Yes. Mornings are often calm and productive. Many locals like the green season because of fewer boats and more active fish.
Can I fish on both coasts during one trip?
Yes! The Pacific and Caribbean are only a 4 to 5-hour drive apart. Some travelers split their stay between Jaco (Pacific) and Tortuguero (Caribbean).
What’s the best location for year-round fishing?
The Central Pacific (Los Sueños, Jaco, Quepos) offers the most reliable fishing and the easiest access to both offshore and inshore species.
Tips for Planning Your Trip
Book early for the high season (December to April), as charters fill up quickly.
Consider the green season for better prices and less traffic.
Choose your target species first, then plan your travel dates to match their peaks.
Check moon phases, as full moons can affect bite times.
Combine fishing with tours like waterfalls, surfing, zip-lining, and massages for the perfect vacation.
Always use licensed captains and professional charters for safety and to follow conservation rules.
Why Book with Costa Rica Fishing Experts
Our locally based team provides real-time fishing updates from captains along the coast.
You’ll have access to top boats in Los Sueños, Jaco, Quepos, Tamarindo, and Golfito.
We offer clear pricing, flexible packages, and bilingual crews.
We can arrange airport transfers, lodging, and private chef or massage services upon request.
Our goal is to make your trip smooth, exciting, and unforgettable, both on and off the water.
Ready to Plan Your Fishing Trip?
Don’t just dream it; fish it.
Check availability for your preferred dates, and we’ll connect you with the ideal boat and crew.
Contact Costa Rica Fishing Experts today or visit our Jaco Fishing Charters and Los Sueños Fishing Charters pages to explore trip options.
Costa Rica Fishing Experts – Trusted Local Knowledge, World-Class Fishing
From sailfish season to summer tuna runs, every month is fishing season in Costa Rica. We’ll help you make the most of it.
Fishing Vacations
One of the biggest draws of Costa Rica is its year-round fishing potential. The Pacific Coast, particularly near Jaco, Los Sueños, and Quepos, provides great offshore fishing almost all year. Sailfish are plentiful from December to April, and marlin can be found in many months. For inshore fishing, you can catch species like roosterfish and snapper consistently all year round.
Half day Fishing
Half-day fishing trips are better for inshore fishing since they give you more time to go out than a full day, but this also depends on the season.
Full day Fishing Trip
A full day is excellent for offshore. It will give you enough time to go out for Tuna, Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo, and Mahi-Mahi; it is a favorite for hardcore fishermen.
Fishing Packages
These are customizable packages that can accommodate any group, and it’s great for people who want the whole experience of Costa Rica Fishing at its best
Costa Rica Fishing Calendar, Fishing Seasons, Best Fishing Months
If you research fishing options in Costa Rica, you will find many packages for sport fishing. As a customer, how do you decide which one to pick? We not only offer the best rates, but our long-standing relationships with top charter operators also allow us to provide the best fishing trips, including private transportation.
As charter boat operators in Costa Rica, we understand what you need. Sometimes, getting to the fish requires more fuel.
Our goal is to bring you closer to where the fish are, with the best crew. We have both large and small boats equipped for success. They can work together to give you a memorable fishing adventure.
At Costa Rica Fishing Experts, we provide great options. We can adjust our Costa Rican boats and country houses menu as necessary. While our teams and owners ensure the quality remains high, this distinction can make the difference between a fantastic fishing experience and a disappointing boat trip.
Find The Best Fishing Season in Costa Rica For Your Trip
Costa Rica Deep Sea Fishing Calendar – Fishing Chart
April Sailfish numbers drop mid-month, and some Marlin begin to appear.
May
Slower for Billfish; typically, we start seeing schools of spinner dolphins with yellowfin tuna.
June
Slower for billfish, spinner dolphins and Yellowfin tuna,
The Fish
Offshore Fish Species
Blue Marlin
The Blue Marlin is one of the most sought-after and iconic game fish in the waters of Costa Rica. Known for its incredible size, strength, and speed, the Blue Marlin offers an exhilarating experience for sportfishing enthusiasts. Here's some information specific to Blue Marlin fishing in Costa Rica:
Striped Marlin
The Striped Marlin is a popular and highly prized game fish in Costa Rica, known for its speed, beauty, and acrobatic fighting style. While smaller than the Blue and Black Marlins, the Striped Marlin offers a thrilling experience for sportfishing enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed look at Striped Marlin fishing in Costa Rica:
Black Marlin
The Black Marlin is another highly prized species for anglers in Costa Rica, though it is less common than its cousin, the Blue Marlin. Known for its brute strength and impressive size, the Black Marlin offers a unique challenge to sportfishing enthusiasts. Here is some detailed information about Black Marlin fishing in Costa Rica:
Sailfish
The Sailfish is one of the most iconic and sought-after game fish in Costa Rica’s waters, particularly on the Pacific coast. Known for their spectacular speed and stunning sail-like dorsal fins, sailfish are a top prize for anglers from around the world. Here is a detailed look at sailfish fishing in Costa Rica:
Mahi Mahi
The Sailfish is one of the most iconic and sought-after game fish in Costa Rica’s waters, particularly on the Pacific coast. Known for their spectacular speed and stunning sail-like dorsal fins, sailfish are a top prize for anglers from around the world. Here is a detailed look at sailfish fishing in Costa Rica:
Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin Tuna is one of the most popular and sought-after game fish in Costa Rica, known for its incredible speed, power, and high-quality meat. It is a prized catch for sportfishing enthusiasts who enjoy the challenge of battling this fast and strong fish. Here's a detailed overview of Yellowfin Tuna fishing in Costa Rica:
Blue Marlin
A Blue Marlin has an elongated body, a spear-like snout or bill, and a long, rigid dorsal fin extending forward to form a crest.Marlin prefers the higher temperature of surface waters, feeding on mackerel and tuna, but will also dive deep to eat squid. They are among the fastest fish in the ocean and use their spears to slash through dense schools, returning to eat their stunned and wounded victims.
Inshore Fish Species
Red Snapper
The Red Snapper or Pargo commonly inhabits waters 30 to 200 feet deep or more. All feature a sloped profile, medium-to-large scales, a spiny dorsal fin, and a laterally compressed body.The coloration of the red snapper is light red, with more intense pigment on the back. A red snapper attains sexual maturity at 2–5 years old. An adult snapper can live for over 50 years and weigh 50 pounds.
Amberjacks
Amberjacks are the largest of the jacks. They usually have dark stripes extending from the nose to the front of their dorsal fins.They have no scutes and soft dorsal bases less than twice the length of the anal fin bases. They are usually 40 pounds or less and are found associated with rocky reefs, debris, and wrecks, typically in 10 to 40 fathoms.
Snook
Snook or Robalo are caught year-round in the rivers and river mouths on the Pacific and Caribbean Coast; Snook is also seen in some of the rivers, lakes, and lagoons along the Costa Rica / Nicaragua border.There are lots of massive Snook caught every year in Costa Rica. They average 5 lbs., with record catches up to 30 lbs. If you catch a run, you can get into great fishing and eating.
Roosterfish
The roosterfish is a game fish from Baja, California, to Peru. It is distinguished by its “rooster comb,” seven very long dorsal fin spines. Roosterfish can reach over four ft. in length and over 100 lb.The weight of the average fish hooked is about 20 to 50 lbs. The fish is a popular game fish, but like most fish in the jack, the family is not considered a good-eating fish.
Cubera Snapper
Cubera snapper is a subtropical species with an elongated and slender body, long pectoral fin, continuous dorsal fin, and relatively truncate-shaped caudal fin. Its mouth has thick lips and large teeth. The maximum reported size is 160 cm. The species is reef-associated, living inshore or nearshore over rocky ledges and overhangs. It usually occurs at depths ranging from 18 to 55 m.
Sierra Mackeral
The Paci? Sierra Mackerel is found along the coasts of Mexico and Central America. A member of the Scombridae family of mackerel, the Paci?c Sierra Mackerel is an eastern Paci? that is excellent to eat. It is marketed as fresh and frozen. It resembles the Spanish mackerel in appearance, and the all-tackle world record is Ecuadorian. Sh of 18 pounds caught in 1990.
Fishing Methods
There are probably as many fishing techniques and tricks in Costa Rica as there are anglers on the water. However, the basics of sport fishing come down to a few reliable methods that have worked since humans began using hooks and lines. If you master these methods, you will become a successful angler.
Beam trawl:
In this trawl, the net’s mouth is held open by a beam mounted on guides or skids that move along the seabed. The trawls are modified to be more effective with tickler chains for sand or mud, or heavy chain matting for rough ground. These elements drag along the seabed in front of the net, stirring up the fish and encouraging them to rise into the net. Although electrified ticklers are available and less harmful to the seabed, they are still in experimental use. Research is ongoing to determine whether square-mesh panels fitted to the lower part of the net can reduce the impact of beam trawling on seabed communities.
Still-fishing:
Still-fishing is one of the simplest and most effective methods in Costa Rica. As the name suggests, this method involves placing your bait in the water and waiting for a fish to bite. You can use this technique from a boat, a dock, a jetty, or the shore. Depending on the water depth and the fish you want to catch, you can fish near the surface, at mid-water, or right on the bottom. A float or bobber can help you feel the bites near the surface, while sinkers can help you fish deeper.
Demersal otter trawl:
The demersal or bottom trawl is a large, cone-shaped net pulled across the seabed. The wings of the net are kept open by otter boards or doors. Fish are herded between these boards and along the spreader wires or swept into the mouth of the trawl, where they swim until they are exhausted. Once tired, they drift back through the net funnel, along an extension, and into the cod-end, where they are captured.
Casting:
The term casting has two meanings in fishing. It refers to using a rod, reel, and line to place your bait or lure into the water. It also describes a specific method, rather than still-fishing or other techniques.
Sometimes, using a moving lure works best, especially for certain fish species. Other times, you may need to drop a lure in a specific spot, like next to a submerged stump 30 feet from shore or under a tree hanging over the water. In these cases, casting offers the best chance of catching fish. This method involves casting and retrieving, usually with an artificial lure, to fish areas where fish might be hiding and to entice them to bite. Common lures for casting include spinners, wobbling spoons, plugs, and spinnerbaits.
Trolling:
Many of the lures used in casting also work for trolling, another method that requires movement. Trolling involves dragging a lure, bait, or bait-and-lure combination through the water with a boat, rather than casting and retrieving, to create movement.
Jigging:
Some artificial lures work best when moved in an up-and-down motion, a method called jigging. Lifting and lowering the rod tip creates this motion. Deadheads are the most common type of jig. However, for some species, such as saltwater salmon and bottom fish, the jigging lure may be a long, thin piece of lead or other metal shaped like a herring or other baitfish.
Fly Fishing:
Artificial flies are made from fur, feathers, thread, tinsel, and other materials tied to a hook to imitate an insect, grub, minnow, or other small morsel that fish might eat. These flies are usually very light and can’t be cast like heavier lures. Therefore, special lines, rods, and reels designed for fly fishing are typically used.
Dive-caught:
Free diving with a mask and snorkel or scuba diving is a traditional way to access lobster, abalone, seaweed, sponges, and various reef fish, including groupers and snappers. In deeper waters, air pumped from the surface is used in helmet diving systems.
Gill Nets:
Gill nets are walls of netting set at or below the surface and can operate at varying depths. Gill netting is one of the oldest forms of fishing, used for thousands of years. Gill nets catch fish that swim through their openings. The fish’s head can pass through the mesh, but its body gets entangled as it tries to back out. The mesh size depends on the species and size being targeted.
Conclusion:
Costa Rica provides year-round fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. From thrilling sailfish and marlin seasons on the Pacific coast to exciting roosterfish and snook fishing on the Caribbean coast, there is no shortage of fishing adventures. By understanding the fishing seasons in Costa Rica and working with local guides, you can increase your chances of targeting specific fish species and create lasting memories. Remember to follow fishing regulations and practice responsible fishing to preserve the beauty and sustainability of Costa Rica’s marine ecosystems for future generations.