Seasonal Fishing Guide: What to Catch in Jaco and Los Sueños Throughout the Year
Located on Costa Rica’s stunning Central Pacific Coast, the Jaco and Los Sueños area is one of the top sportfishing destinations in the world. With warm tropical waters, nutrient-rich currents, and easy access to deep ocean trenches, this region offers incredible year-round fishing for both offshore and inshore enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler chasing trophy marlin or a first-timer hoping to reel in a roosterfish, there’s always something biting. Here’s a month-by-month guide to what you can expect to catch in Jaco and Los Sueños throughout the year.
January to April – Peak Billfish Season
These are the prime months for big-game fishing offshore, especially for anglers targeting billfish.
- Sailfish: Abundant and active. This is the height of sailfish season, with multiple bites a day being common.
- Marlin: Blue marlin are present, and you may also hook into striped or black marlin.
- Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): Still lingering from the late rainy season, especially in January and February.
- Yellowfin Tuna: Sporadic but possible offshore, especially near dolphin pods.
- Inshore: Roosterfish, snapper, jacks, and mackerel are consistent and productive.
Best For: Offshore enthusiasts and tournament anglers.
Bonus: The famous Los Sueños Signature Triple Crown Billfish Series runs during this time.
May to June – Transition Season, Tuna Time
As the dry season shifts into the first rains, the fishing remains strong with new species becoming more prevalent.
- Yellowfin Tuna: Action heats up, especially around spinner dolphins. Large tuna over 100 lbs are common.
- Dorado: Numbers drop slightly but can still be found near floating debris.
- Marlin: More consistent sightings of blue and black marlin as bait schools grow.
- Inshore: Excellent for roosterfish and cubera snapper, particularly around rocky points and river mouths.
Best For: Those looking for variety and fewer crowds on the water.
Tip: Ask your captain to keep an eye out for birds diving and dolphins feeding—tuna are usually right there.
July to August – Marlin and Mixed Action
These are some of the most underrated months for fishing in Jaco and Los Sueños.
- Blue & Black Marlin: Strong numbers offshore with solid hookups reported regularly.
- Yellowfin Tuna: Still active and often massive.
- Dorado: Starts increasing again, especially as offshore storms push debris into the current lines.
- Inshore: Roosterfish action stays hot, especially on live bait. Snapper and jacks are also consistent.
Best For: Big game action with great odds for marlin and tuna.
Bonus: Slightly lower lodging rates during this shoulder season make it a great value.
September to October – Dorado & Tuna Season
Though this is Costa Rica’s rainiest time of year, don’t let that deter you—fishing can be fantastic, especially for mahi-mahi.
- Dorado (Mahi-Mahi): Peak time. These colorful, hard-fighting fish are plentiful, especially near floating logs and debris.
- Yellowfin Tuna: Still abundant and often caught on poppers and live bait.
- Marlin: Around in smaller numbers, but still possible.
- Inshore: Roosterfish, jacks, and snapper continue to provide steady action.
Best For: Dorado lovers and those seeking a budget-friendly trip with great catches.
Travel Tip: Afternoon showers are common, but mornings are typically clear and calm—ideal for fishing.
November to December – The Rebound Begins
As the rainy season begins to fade, the ocean starts to stabilize—and the fishing starts to ramp up again.
- Sailfish: Numbers begin increasing, setting the stage for the high season in January.
- Marlin: Good chance at blues and the occasional black marlin.
- Dorado: Still going strong and often found close to shore.
- Tuna: Remains good, particularly in early November.
- Inshore: Excellent time for roosterfish and big snappers.
Best For: A mix of offshore and inshore action with improving weather.
Bonus: Beautiful sunsets and great early-season fishing conditions.
Inshore Fishing Year-Round
While the offshore scene is seasonal, inshore fishing in Jaco and Los Sueños is productive year-round. These waters are home to a variety of strong, aggressive species:
- Roosterfish: Iconic and highly sought-after. Found close to shore near rocky outcrops and river mouths.
- Cubera Snapper: Powerful bottom dwellers, often caught near reefs and structures.
- Jack Crevalle: Hard fighters, often in schools, making for fast action.
- Mackerel & Snook: Available seasonally and fun to catch on light tackle.
Inshore trips are ideal for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a half-day adventure close to shore. Many trips depart early morning and return by lunch, giving you the rest of the day to enjoy the beach or explore the area.
When Should You Plan Your Fishing Trip?
The truth is, there’s no bad time to fish in Jaco and Los Sueños—but what you want to catch will determine the best time to visit. Here’s a quick reference:
| Month | Best Species |
|---|---|
| Jan – Apr | Sailfish, Marlin, Dorado |
| May – Jun | Yellowfin Tuna, Roosterfish |
| Jul – Aug | Marlin, Tuna, Snapper |
| Sep – Oct | Dorado, Tuna, Inshore Mix |
| Nov – Dec | Sailfish, Roosterfish, Dorado |
Fish with the Best in Jaco and Los Sueños
Whether you’re fishing offshore for marlin or casting near the rocks for a trophy roosterfish, Jaco and Los Sueños offer unmatched variety, skilled local crews, and some of the most scenic fishing grounds in the world.
Book your Costa Rica fishing charter today, and let the seasons guide your catch. From high-flying sailfish in January to dorado-filled waters in September, Jaco delivers 12 months of unforgettable sportfishing.
