Private Full-Day Sport Fishing from San José — Central Pacific Costa Rica
Board a deluxe boat after pickup in San José for an eight‑hour private sportfishing trip on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific. Target Roosterfish, Sailfish, Dorado and tuna with a professional crew, lunch included.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring motion‑sickness medication
Seas can be choppy in the open Pacific—take remedies an hour before departure if you’re prone to seasickness.
Sun protection is mandatory
Wide‑brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses protect you on the reflective water.
Footwear for wet decks
Choose closed, non‑marking shoes with good grip—flip‑flops are unsafe on a working fishing boat.
Communicate target species
Tell the captain your priority species early so they can plan trolling or bottom‑fishing tactics.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early‑morning bird activity near coastal estuaries—good for photos before lines go in
- •Small coastal sodas (cafes) in Jaco or Herradura serve fresh ceviche and are worth a post‑trip stop
Wildlife
- •Brown pelican
- •Spinner dolphins
Conservation Note
Many operators practice catch‑and‑release for sport species and use circle hooks; avoid single‑use plastics and follow crew instructions to minimize fish handling stress.
The Central Pacific coast grew from simple fishing villages to a mix of commercial ports and sportfishing hubs; nearby towns expanded as tourism routes from San José developed in the late 20th century.
What to Bring
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Cut glare to read water and protect your eyes during long exposure to reflected sun.
Non‑marking deck shoesEssential
Provide grip and protect feet on wet boat surfaces.
Lightweight sun clothing & hatEssential
Long sleeves and a hat reduce sunburn during extended hours on deck.
Small dry bag or waterproof phone caseEssential
Keep valuables and electronics dry during spray and boat motion.
Common Questions
How long is the trip and what’s included?
This is an 8‑hour private charter with hotel pickup from San José; the price typically includes boat, captain and crew, fishing license, lunch, soft drinks and basic tackle.
Can beginners fish on this trip?
Yes—professional crew provide instruction and handle heavy lifting; basic stamina helps for repeated fights.
What species can I expect to catch?
Common targets include Roosterfish, Dorado (Mahi Mahi), Tuna, Wahoo, Snapper, Grouper, Amberjack and sometimes Sailfish, depending on season and location.
What is the cancellation policy?
This operator lists all sales final with no refunds; trips can be canceled by the company for bad weather—confirm terms at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Jaco, Puntarenas
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; ability to stand, brace for fights, and move around a boat comfortably
Ready to Explore Jaco?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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