Sport fishing boat on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica
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Sport Fishing

Santa Elena Gulf & Gulf of Papagayo, Guanacaste

About This Tour

These trips focus on Pacific sport fishing in the waters off Guanacaste, with options that suit shorter outings as well as longer offshore days. Yellowfin tuna, roosterfish, wahoo, mahi mahi, sailfish, and snapper are among the species anglers may target depending on season, conditions, and the type of trip.

Fishing here offers:

  • Deep offshore waters close to shore
  • Rocky reefs and underwater pinnacles
  • Healthy populations of game fish
  • Stunning coastal scenery and marine wildlife

You may even encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and whales while out on the water.

What's Included

  • Fishing gear
  • Beach of your convenience — transportation can be provided if needed
  • Drinks
  • Snacks

Duration Options

Half Day

4 Hours

Perfect for those short on time. Head out to the best local fishing spots along the Pacific coast.

¾ Day

6 Hours

The most popular option — enough time to reach the deeper offshore spots where the big game fish roam.

Full Day

8 Hours

The ultimate fishing experience. Cover the most ground and have the best chance at trophy fish.

Choose Your Fishing Style

Sport Fishing

From $500 USD (half day)

Sport fishing here is really about choosing the right format for the day. Some travelers want a focused offshore run, while others want a shorter outing that still gives them time on the water. The Santa Elena Gulf and Gulf of Papagayo routes support both styles without pretending every trip is the same.

Common Species

  • Fin Tuna
  • Roosterfish
  • Mahi-mahi (Dorado)
  • Wahoo
  • Sailfish
  • Snapper species

Jigging

From $350 USD (half day)

Jigging is a fishing technique where anglers drop a heavy metal lure (called a jig) deep into the water and then rapidly retrieve it with an up-and-down motion. This motion mimics an injured baitfish, triggering aggressive strikes from predatory species. Unlike trolling, jigging is more hands-on and physical, making it a favorite for anglers who enjoy active fishing and powerful fights. Jigging is one of the most exciting and productive fishing techniques used along the northwest Pacific coast of Costa Rica, especially around rocky reefs, deep drop-offs, and offshore pinnacles. This region — particularly around the Santa Elena Gulf and the Gulf of Papagayo in Guanacaste — offers excellent conditions for both vertical jigging and speed jigging thanks to strong currents, deep water close to shore, and abundant predator fish.

Common Species

  • Fin Tuna – fast and incredibly strong fighters
  • Cubera Snapper – massive reef predators that hit jigs hard
  • Amberjack – extremely powerful and common around deep structure
  • Grouper species
  • Jack Crevalle
  • Occasionally other pelagic species

What to Bring

  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Light layers (mornings can be cool on the water)
  • Camera or GoPro
  • Motion sickness medication if needed
  • Comfortable closed-toe shoes

Good to Know

Catch-and-release is always an option. We respect the Pacific coast's ecosystem.

Priced per boat — ideal for groups of 2–6 people.

Best season for Rooster Fish and Tuna: December–April. Mahi Mahi year-round.

You may encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and whales on your time on the water.

Certain fish you catch can be kept — and we can prepare some of it fresh on the spot as an authentic ceviche for you to enjoy right there on the water.