
Sport Fishing at the Pacific Central Coast
Herradura is home to one of the finest sport fishing destinations in Costa Rica, offering an unforgettable experience for both novice and experienced anglers. Located near the prestigious Los Sueños Marina, this area is known for its rich marine biodiversity and year-round fishing opportunities.
Join us for an exciting fishing adventure where you’ll have the chance to catch some of the most sought-after species, including marlin, sailfish, tuna, dorado (mahi-mahi), and roosterfish. Whether you prefer inshore or offshore fishing, our experienced captains and crew will take you to the best fishing spots using top-quality equipment and techniques.
Our boats are fully equipped with modern fishing gear, comfortable seating, and all the necessary safety equipment to ensure a successful and enjoyable trip. We offer half-day and full-day fishing.
The best fishing seasons vary depending on the species and region. For example, sailfish are abundant off the Pacific coast between December and April, while marlin is at its peak from September to November. In the Caribbean, tarpon is most frequent from January to May and from September to October.
The country’s scenic beauty, the abundance of fish in marine waters, along with a focus on responsible and sustainable fishing, make Costa Rica a unique destination for sport fishing enthusiasts. Without a doubt, it is a paradise where the thrill of fishing combines with lush nature and top-notch service.
Costa Rica is a country with a strong conservation spirit dedicated to the sustainable use of its species. For species such as billfish, which include various marlin species and sailfish, fishing is conducted under a catch-and-release policy in the water.
Marlin
Tuna
Rooster Fish
Mahi-mahi
Wahoo
Sailfish
Marlin
The marlin is one of the most iconic and sought-after sport fishing species in Costa Rica. There are three main types: blue marlin, black marlin, and striped marlin. They’re known for their large size, streamlined bodies, and long, sharp bills used to hunt prey. In Costa Rica, marlin are mainly found in the Pacific, with top spots like Quepos, Jacó, Herradura, Guanacaste, and the Osa Peninsula. They prefer deep, warm waters, often near underwater mountains or currents full of small fish and squid. Blue and black marlin are most common from December to April; striped marlin are more abundant from May to September. Marlin are prized for their strength and impressive jumps. Costa Rica promotes sustainable fishing with a “catch and release” policy to protect marlin and support sport fishing tourism.
Tuna
There’s never a shortage of Yellow Fin tuna on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Year-round, you’re bound to catch these guys weighing in at 100 pounds or more; big game tuna is the norm, but if you want to really see some huge results look for 200-pounders during the months of June through September.
Rooster Fish
The Rooster fish (Nematistius pectoralis) is an iconic species in the Pacific waters of Costa Rica, highly prized by sport fishermen due to its size, strength, and spectacular appearance. Rooster fish Characteristics Appearance: It stands out for its dorsal fin, which resembles a crest made up of seven long, curved spines, giving it its name. Size: It can grow over 1.5 meters (5 feet) in length and weigh up to 50 kg (110 lbs). Coloration: Its body is silvery with bluish and dark reflections, featuring vertical stripes along its sides. Habitat and Distribution in Costa Rica Found in the warm waters of the Costa Rican Pacific, from the Gulf of Papagayo to the Osa Peninsula, including Jacó and Quepos. Prefers coastal areas, reefs, estuaries, and sandy-bottom regions. Importance in Tourism and Sport Fishing One of the most sought-after fish in sport fishing, known for putting up an intense fight when hooked. In Costa Rica, catch-and-release fishing is practiced to promote sustainable tourism.
Mahi-mahi
The dorado fish (Coryphaena hippurus), also known as mahi-mahi or dorado, is one of the most prized species in sport fishing in Costa Rica. It is characterized by its elongated, compressed body, prominent head, and vibrant coloration with golden, green, and blue tones. It is a fast and agile fish, capable of putting up a great fight when caught. In Costa Rica, the dorado is primarily found in the Pacific Ocean, especially in areas such as Quepos, Jacó, Herradura, Guanacaste, and the Osa Peninsula. It typically inhabits warm waters and is commonly seen near floating objects or algae banks, where it feeds on small fish and squid. The best season for dorado fishing in Costa Rica is from May to December, when the rainy season increases the amount of floating debris in the sea, attracting these fish. In addition to its sporting value, the dorado is highly appreciated for its delicious and versatile meat in Costa Rican cuisine. Costa Rica promotes sustainable fishing and adherence to regulations to preserve this species and maintain balance in the marine ecosystem.
Wahoo
Wahoo can be a cool surprise anytime of the year. Not typically targeted, wahoo is usually a nice bonus catch while trolling for tuna or marlin. Many wahoo never make it to the boat, due to their sharp teeth; such disappointments can be avoided by using wire leaders.
Sailfish
The sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus) is one of the most iconic species in sport fishing in Costa Rica. It is distinguished by its impressive sail-like dorsal fin and its elongated bill, similar to that of a swordfish. It can reach speeds of up to 110 km/h, making it one of the fastest fish in the ocean. In Costa Rica, it is commonly found in the Pacific, especially in areas like Quepos, Jacó, Herradura, and Guanacaste, where warm waters rich in marine life create the perfect environment for this species. The best season for sailfish fishing in the country is from December to May when there is a higher concentration of these fish near the coast. This fish is highly valued in sport fishing due to its size, strength, and spectacular jumps out of the water when caught. Costa Rica promotes responsible fishing and the “catch and release” practice to conserve the sailfish population and ensure the sustainability of sport fishing tourism.
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Contact Information
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Phone
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E-Mail
info@crbyh.com