End of March Fishing Report – The Bite is Still On in Jaco and Los Sueños!
March might be winding down, but here in Jaco and Los Sueños, the fun is far from over. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s too late to book that fishing trip of a lifetime, let us set the record straight: the action is red hot both inshore and offshore, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down.
Whether you’re chasing that dream roosterfish close to the rocks or heading deep offshore for the thrill of a marlin strike, this time of year delivers non-stop excitement, bent rods, and plenty of smiles.
Inshore Fishing: Roosterfish and More Making Waves
Let’s start with the inshore game – and it’s a solid one right now. Roosterfish are in full swing, prowling the shallows and giving anglers epic battles on light tackle. These fish are what Costa Rican inshore fishing is all about – strong, aggressive, and iconic. If you’ve got a roosterfish on your bucket list, there’s no better time to check that box.
But it’s not just the roosters showing up.
Jack Crevalle is crushing live bait, ripping drag, and giving that heart-pounding fight for which they’re known. These underrated bruisers are loads of fun and offer a great shot at consistent action throughout the day.
We’re also seeing solid snapper action right now – both cubera and mullet snapper. The rocky structures and reef lines are holding fish, especially early in the morning or on a moving tide. Whether you’re jigging, using live bait, or dropping down some cut sardine, the snapper bite has been producing quality fish.
Mackerel have also been in the mix, slashing baits and making quick work of smaller offerings. Fast, flashy, and great on the grill – they’re a welcome addition to the day’s catch. And let’s not forget about needlefish (or “neil fiz” as the locals say). These prehistoric-looking predators are always entertaining when they hit the surface and put on an aerial display.
All in all, inshore trips this month are offering action-packed half-day or full-day adventures, perfect for anyone looking to stay closer to land but still get in on the serious fun.
Offshore Fishing: Marlin, Sails, Tuna, and More
Now, for those of you who like to go big, offshore is where it’s at right now.
Marlins are still around – both blue and striped, and while they’re not every-day guarantees, when they show up, they bring the fireworks. Hooking into one of these pelagic beasts is a moment you’ll never forget. There’s just something about that electric first run and wild acrobatics that makes your heart race.
Sailfish, though? They’re the real stars of the offshore show in March. The bite has been steady, with multiple shots per day for boats working the 20-35 mile range. These fish are fast, flashy, and make for phenomenal catch-and-release experiences. If you’re looking to load up on billfish, this is your moment.
But don’t sleep on the mahi-mahi (dorado). While they’re not as thick as they were in November and December, there are still some solid fish cruising the current lines, especially around floating debris or weed patches. And when you find them, it’s game on – quick hits, hard runs, and delicious fillets for dinner.
Wahoo have been showing up as well, especially around the deeper pinnacles and submerged structures. These toothy torpedoes are one of the fastest fish in the ocean and are known for their explosive strikes. High-speed trolling or deep-diving plugs have been the ticket for those targeting them.
And of course, yellowfin tuna are hanging strong. These fish can be found busting bait under birds or following pods of spinner dolphins. Whether you’re casting poppers, trolling cedar plugs, or live baiting, the tuna bite is ON. Fish from 20 to 100+ pounds are being caught regularly, and the fight is as good as it gets. Plus, there’s nothing better than bringing home a cooler full of fresh tuna steaks after a long day on the water.
Weather & Water Conditions
The weather has been exactly what you’d hope for during the dry season – sunny skies, calm seas, and light winds. March typically offers some of the most reliable fishing conditions of the year, and this season has been no exception. Water temps offshore have been hovering in the ideal range, and the clarity has been beautiful.
Inshore, the visibility has been great as well, especially on the incoming tides. The water is warm, clean, and teeming with bait – which means plenty of predators are sticking around.
What’s Working Right Now?
- Inshore Tactics:
Live sardines and moonfish are top choices for roosterfish and snapper. For jacks and mackerel, try surface plugs or spoons retrieved quickly. Jigging near rock formations is also putting fish in the boat. - Offshore Setups:
Circle-hooked ballyhoo for sailfish and marlin remains the standard, and teasers are pulling fish into the spread on a regular basis. Tuna are crushing topwater poppers and live bait, especially when worked around dolphin pods. Don’t forget a high-speed lure or deep diver if you want to try for wahoo.
There’s Still Time!
If you’re sitting on the fence about booking a trip, don’t wait. The end-of-March bite is still firing, and April looks promising too.
Whether you’re planning a full day offshore chasing pelagics or a half-day inshore exploring the coastline and targeting roosterfish, Costa Rica’s Central Pacific is delivering the goods. There’s no offseason here – just waves of different species and opportunities depending on the month.
And it’s not just about the fishing – it’s about the whole experience. Watching the sun rise over the Pacific as you head out of Los Sueños Marina or the Jaco coast. The dolphins are riding your wake. The first hookup of the day. Sharing fresh-caught sashimi on the ride home. Ice-cold beers at the dock while you swap stories from the water.
This is what fishing in Costa Rica is all about.
So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to experience something unforgettable while you’re here in paradise, now’s the time to get out there.
The fish are waiting – are you coming?
Want to book a last-minute trip or plan something for April? Get in touch now and let’s make it happen. Tight lines!
