SPORT FISHING IN TAMARINDO
The waters in front of Tamarindo Beach are the primary fishing grounds for the northwest Pacific coast sportfishing fleet. Tamarindo itself faces a major shore ward sweep of the continental shelf and the 100 fathom line. For this reason, our run time to deep, blue-water fishing(10-30 min.) is less than that of other locations.
Although we have excellent fishing year ’round, our peak seasons are April-August and November-March. April-August is the traditional fishing season in this area, as fishing takes place directly in front of Tamarindo, often only a ten minute run away.
Half day charters fish closer to shore with lighter tackle in search of mackeral, dolphinfish, wahoo, tuna and other species, or bottom fishing for amberjack, snapper, shark or roosterfish.
Full day charters move offshore in search of large dolphinfish, giant tuna, sailfish, and blue, black and striped marlin. More abut Tamarindo Fishing Here, check to book with the experts
November-March is the “high season” tourist-wise. The weather is characterized by high offshore winds which frequently preclude deep water fishing in front of Tamarindo because of rough seas.
Half day charters on the smaller boats during this period spend time offshore only as weather permits, returning to fish the shoreline for roosterfish and other species if winds build.
Full day charters run 30-60 minutes to the south to find calm waters which are protected from the wind. This area to the south hosts dolphinfish, wahoo, giant tuna, sailfish, and blue, black,and striped marlin during this time of year.
There is no particular “season” as regards what species are available. For instance, September and October are generally the height of the rainy season, and vacation time for many of us, yet we often experience superb fishing during these months. All species mentioned above, and more, may be caught at any time of the year.
All Captains are experienced professionals, and as a group represent the most comprehensive body of local knowledge of these waters available in Costa Rica. Our primary concern is conservation. Catch-and-release is practiced on all billfish; with food species the practice is catch what you can eat and release the rest. We need and welcome any support offered for conservation efforts in order to protect the incredible resource we share.