The 2026 Guide to Costa Rica Fishing Tours: Jaco & Los Sueños Revealed
For serious and amateur anglers, as well as adventure-seeking families in the USA, there is one destination that consistently tops the bucket list: the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
Specifically, the waters off Jaco Beach and Los Sueños Resort are legendary. Known globally as the “Billfish Capital of the World,” this region offers flat seas, short run times to the fishing grounds, and an abundance of marine life that rivals anywhere on the planet.
Whether you are chasing a Grand Slam, planning the ultimate bachelor party, or introducing your family to the joy of offshore sportfishing, this guide covers everything you need to know for a successful 2026 fishing expedition.
Why Jaco & Los Sueños? The Angler's Paradise
Forget rough seas and long, boring boat rides. One of the biggest advantages of the Costa Rica fishing tours in this zone is geography. The continental shelf drops off drastically just 20 to 30 miles offshore, meaning you start fishing sooner.
But it’s not just about the bite; it’s about the infrastructure. Los Sueños Marina is a world-class facility that hosts some of the most competitive tournaments on earth. When you book a charter here, you are stepping onto boats maintained to US Coast Guard standards, captained by local legends who know exactly where the fish are biting.
Pro Tip: For the most up-to-date charter rates and boat specifications, we recommend visiting our fishing tour operator JacoVIPVacations.com. They work hand in hand with us to ensure you get the best captains in the marina.
Target Species: What Can You Catch?
The biodiversity here is staggering. Depending on the season, here is what you can expect to target:
Offshore Giants (Big Game)
- Pacific Sailfish: The star of the show. It is common to raise double-digit sailfish in a single day during peak season (December – April).
- Marlin (Blue, Black, and Striped): The ultimate prize. While they can be caught year-round, the density increases significantly in the dry season.
- Yellowfin Tuna: Pound-for-pound, the hardest fighting fish in the ocean. Plus, they make for an incredible dinner (more on that later).
- Mahi-Mahi (Dorado): Beautiful, acrobatic, and delicious.
Inshore Fighters
Don’t overlook the inshore experience! Just minutes from the marina, you can battle:
- Roosterfish: Iconic to Costa Rica, these exotic fish with their comb-like dorsal fins are aggressive fighters and make for amazing photos.
- Cubera Snapper & Grouper: Bottom dwellers that will test your strength.
Choosing the Right Charter
Your boat makes or breaks the trip. That is why we exclusively partner with the best fishing charter boat providers available in Jaco & Los sueños. They don’t just book boats; they manage the experience.
Whether you need a 26’ Center Console for a quick inshore roosterfish hunt or a luxurious 50’ Viking with AC and a full salon for a corporate retreat group, their fleet is vetted for safety, gear quality (Penn & Shimano), and bilingual crews.
Where to Stay: Los Sueños Resort vs. Jaco Beach
After a long day on the water, where should you drop your bags and enjoy your catch? At Jaco Tour Desk, we offer premium vacation rentals tailored to your group’s vibe.
1. Los Sueños Resort & Marina
- Best For: Angler groups and families seeking quiet luxury.
- The Vibe: American-style luxury condos and villas. You can often walk or take a quick golf cart ride straight to your boat. It is manicured, private, and exclusive.
2. Jaco Beach Vacation Rentals
- Best For: Large groups, party groups or nightlife lovers, and groups wanting “feet in the sand” access.
- The Vibe: Private beachfront villas and beach houses. You are minutes from the marina but right in the heart of the action with restaurants, casinos, and nightlife at your doorstep.
The "Hook to Cook" Experience & VIP Add-Ons
A Jaco fishing tour with Jaco Tour Desk and partners is about more than just the sport, it’s about the lifestyle. We specialize in curating the “après-fish” experience.
- Private Chef Services (Hook to Cook): Imagine returning to your villa with a bag of fresh Tuna or Mahi. Our private chefs will meet you there to prepare the ultimate feast—Sashimi, Ceviche, and grilled catches—served right at your dining table.
- Pool Parties: For fishing groups looking to party and bachelor party groups, we can organize a private pool party at your rental with DJ services and hospitality staff.
- In-Villa Massages: The perfect remedy for sore arms after fighting a 100lb Sailfish.
Seamless Transportation: We handle all logistics, from high-end airport transfers to daily private vans taking you from your Jaco rental to the Los Sueños docks.
The All-Inclusive Advantage
Why stress over logistics? The smartest way to travel in 2026 is booking an All-Inclusive Fishing Package.
By booking directly with Jaco Tour Desk, you get a single point of contact for:
- Luxury Lodging.
- Fishing Charters (via JacoVIPVacations).
- Airport & Local Transport.
- Pre-arrival shopping for groceries & Chef Services.
- Adventure Tours (ATVs, Ziplining, Crocodile Tour, Tortuga Island, and many more Jaco Tours).
We bundle everything into one easy price, ensuring your trip is hassle-free from the moment you land at SJO Airport
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes, every angler on the boat requires a Costa Rican fishing license. These can be purchased easily at the marina entrance or online before your trip. Our concierge team can help guide you through this.
What i s the best time of year to fish in Costa Rica?
Fishing is excellent year-round. However, “Peak Season” for Billfish is generally December through April. “Green Season” (May – November) offers incredible Tuna and Mahi-Mahi action and fewer crowds.
Can we keep the fish?
Billfish (Sailfish and Marlin) and Roosterfish are strictly Catch and Release by law to preserve the fishery. However, food fish like Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, Snapper, and Grouper can be kept, filleted by the crew, and cooked by your private chef!
Is this trip suitable for families?
Absolutely. The waters in the morning are typically very calm. We can arrange shorter half-day trips for families with children, combining a bit of fishing with sightseeing along the beautiful coastline.
Ready to Reel in the Adventure?
Costa Rica offers a fishing vacation experience that is unmatched in the Western Hemisphere. Whether you are looking to break a record or just break away from the office, Jaco Tour Desk is your local expert on the ground.
Don’t let the big one get away. Contact us and enjoy not only the best Jaco Fishing tours but a complete fishing vacation experience.