Sportfishing
Sportfishing from Playa Flamingo
Deep water sits close to shore here, and the Gulf of Papagayo is right next door. That means good fishing a few minutes out from the marina, and big-game water within reach on a longer day.
Every charter is private, so the boat and crew are just for your group. First timers are welcome. The crew handles the gear, the bait and the driving, and helps you land the fish.
Staying close by makes an early start easy. Our homes in Playa Flamingo are a few minutes from the marina.
Inshore or offshore
Two ways to fish
Most trips are one or the other. Pick based on how long you want to be out and what you're hoping to catch.
Inshore fishing
Along the coast and around the rocky islands, where the water is calmer and there's plenty of action. Roosterfish are the fish everyone wants, and snapper, grouper, amberjack, bonito and jacks are common too. A good pick for families, first timers and half days.
Offshore fishing
A longer run into deep water for sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi (dorado) and yellowfin tuna. Usually a full day, and your best shot at a really big fish. Sailfish and marlin are catch and release.
Not sure which? Tell us who's coming and how long you want to be out, and we'll suggest one.
What to expect
How the day usually goes
Early start
Most boats leave between 6 and 7 in the morning, from the Flamingo Marina, the boat launch or the beach at Potrero.
The run out
Inshore trips are fishing within minutes. Offshore runs take longer, and the captain picks the spot based on that day's conditions.
Fishing
The crew rigs the lines, finds the fish and talks you through the fight. You don't need any experience, just a bit of patience.
Back on land
Half days are usually back around midday, which leaves the afternoon for the beach. Full days come in early to mid afternoon.
Best time to go
What's biting, by season
The fishing here is good all year. What changes is the weather and which fish are around.
All year
Inshore fishing is steady every month, and roosterfish are around year-round.
Dry season, December to April
Sunny, with some wind. Offshore stays strong, especially for sailfish, marlin and mahi-mahi. Windy days can push bait close to shore, which helps the inshore bite.
Green season, May to November
Rain brings nutrients into the water, and often brings yellowfin tuna, snapper and wahoo closer in. Rain usually comes in the afternoon, so morning trips stay dry most days.
Local tip: Christmas, New Year and Easter week are the busiest weeks on the water. If your trip lands on one of them, book the boat when you book your flights.
Good to know
Before you go
We work with a few different boats and captains, and each one does things a little differently. These are the basics, and we'll confirm the details for your boat.
What's included
Usually the boat, captain and crew, rods and tackle, bait, and water or soft drinks. Some boats add lunch or beer. We'll confirm what yours includes, including the fishing license.
What to bring
A hat, polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen and a light long-sleeve shirt. If you get seasick, take something before you leave and eat a light breakfast.
Keeping your catch
Sailfish and marlin are released. Other fish can sometimes be kept, depending on the boat and the species. Ask us and we'll find out before the day.
Who it suits
Groups who want a private day on the water, anglers chasing big game, families trying it for the first time, and anyone who loves the ocean but doesn't want to swim.
Getting there
Boats leave from Playa Flamingo and Potrero, a few minutes from Brasilito and Conchal and about 40 minutes from Tamarindo.
Questions
Fishing trip FAQ
Do I need any fishing experience?
No. The crew sets everything up and coaches you through it. Plenty of people catch their first fish on these trips.
Is a half day long enough?
For inshore fishing, yes. A half day of about 4 to 5 hours is plenty for roosterfish, snapper and jacks. If you want to go offshore for sailfish or marlin, plan on a full day.
Can kids come?
Yes. An inshore half day is the easiest way to fish with kids, since the water is calmer and you're never far from shore. Tell us their ages and we'll match you with the right boat.
Is green season a bad time to fish?
Not at all. The ocean stays productive from May to November, and some fish like yellowfin tuna and wahoo often come closer in. Book a morning trip and you'll usually miss the rain.
What happens if the weather turns?
The captain makes the call on the day. If it isn't safe to go out, we'll help you move the trip to another day.
Book it
Ready to get a line in?
Send us your dates, group size and whether you're thinking inshore or offshore. We'll suggest a boat and send over the details.
Part of the group would rather swim? The catamaran and snorkel trip leaves from the same coast, and divers can head out to the Catalina Islands. Staying elsewhere? Here's how far each Gold Coast town is from the marina.