Fishing the Mangrove Canals of Isla Damas: Manuel Antonio Day Tour
Glide through dark tannin channels and fish for snappers and jacks beneath a canopy of mangroves while capuchin monkeys watch from the branches. This half-day boat tour from Manuel Antonio pairs easy fishing with wildlife viewing in one of Costa Rica’s productive estuaries.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring polarized sunglasses
Polarized lenses cut surface glare and help you spot baitfish and structure in tannin-stained mangrove water.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen
You’ll be exposed to sun and reflected light — choose a reef-safe formula to protect marine life in this nursery habitat.
Motion-sickness prep
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication or use acupressure bands before boarding—the canals can be choppy in wind.
Small-group etiquette
Boats are limited to a few guests; listen to the guide, keep movements slow near wildlife, and store gear compactly.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle into the narrowest side channels at low tide for close bird encounters
- •Ask the guide about nearby mangrove seedlings and eelgrass beds that indicate healthy nurseries
Wildlife
- •White-faced capuchin monkey
- •Great blue heron
Conservation Note
Mangroves are protected nursery habitats — practice catch-and-release when possible, avoid trampling roots, and use reef-safe products to limit pollution.
Isla Damas and the Quepos coastline have long been used by small-scale fishers; the mangroves serve as vital nurseries that supported local fishing communities before tourism grew.
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Helps you see fish and underwater structure through glare.
Light rain shell or windbreaker
Protects against spray and sudden tropical showers, especially in the wet season.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Reduces UV exposure while protecting sensitive estuary ecosystems.
Non-slip water shoes
Provide traction boarding small boats and walking muddy mangrove edges.
Common Questions
Do I need prior fishing experience?
No — guides provide tackle, bait and instruction; this trip is beginner-friendly.
Will I see monkeys and birds?
Yes — white-faced capuchins, herons, egrets and kingfishers are commonly seen along the canals.
Is transport from Manuel Antonio included?
Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off in the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area; confirm your pickup when booking.
What is the catch policy?
Guides typically follow local regulations and encourage selective or catch-and-release practices; verify species-specific rules with your guide.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Quepos, Puntarenas
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels: mostly seated boat time with occasional stepping on/off and light casting.
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