Offshore
Pacific Sailfish
Sailfish are the signature offshore species of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific. Famous for their speed, aerial displays and long runs, they are one of the primary reasons anglers travel to Jacó.
Costa Rica Sportfishing
Fish Species You Can Catch in Jacó, Costa Rica
The Pacific waters off Jacó and Playa Herradura offer two completely different fisheries. Head offshore for sailfish, marlin, yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi, or stay closer to Costa Rica’s dramatic coastline for roosterfish, snapper, grouper and other powerful inshore species.
Blue Water Fishing
Offshore Species
Jacó’s offshore fishery is famous for Pacific sailfish and marlin, but the same waters also produce yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi and other pelagic game fish.
Explore Offshore Fishing →
Reefs, Islands & Coastline
Inshore Species
Closer to shore, anglers target roosterfish, snapper, grouper, jacks and other species around rocky points, reefs, islands and beaches.
Explore Inshore Fishing →
Offshore Game Fish
Species Found Offshore From Jacó
For billfish, tuna and mahi-mahi, boats leave Herradura Bay and head into the productive Pacific waters beyond the coastline.
Offshore
Marlin
Blue, black and occasionally striped marlin move through Costa Rica’s Pacific waters. These powerful billfish represent one of sportfishing’s biggest challenges and can appear throughout different periods of the year.
Offshore
Mahi-Mahi / Dorado
One of the most colorful fish in the Pacific, mahi-mahi are aggressive feeders, strong fighters and excellent table fare. They are often found around current lines, floating debris and areas holding bait.
Offshore
Yellowfin Tuna
Yellowfin tuna are fast, powerful and one of Jacó’s most exciting offshore targets. Schools are frequently associated with bait activity and spinner dolphins in Costa Rica’s Pacific waters.
Want Sailfish or Marlin?
Choose an offshore fishing trip and, whenever possible, give yourself a full day. Offshore trips provide your captain more time to locate bait, current edges and productive water.
Read the Jacó Offshore Fishing Guide →
Inshore Game Fish
Species Found Along the Jacó Coast
Rocky shoreline, islands, reefs and other structure create a completely different fishery only a short run from Herradura Bay.
Inshore
Roosterfish
Roosterfish are Costa Rica’s iconic inshore game fish. They patrol beaches, rocky points and islands and are known for aggressive strikes, powerful runs and the unmistakable comb-like dorsal fin.
Inshore
Snapper
Snapper live around reefs and rocky structure where powerful fish can quickly turn a fight into a battle to keep them away from the bottom. Cubera snapper are among the most respected inshore species.
Inshore
Grouper
Grouper are powerful bottom-oriented fish found around reefs, rocks and other structure. The challenge is stopping the fish before it reaches cover.
Inshore Variety
Jacks, Amberjack & More
Jacó’s inshore waters can also produce jack crevalle, amberjack, Spanish and Sierra mackerel, needlefish, rainbow runner and other coastal species depending on the conditions.
Fishing Calendar
When Should You Fish in Jacó?
There is fishing throughout the year, but the best trip depends on the species you most want to catch.
| Species | Fishing Area | General Availability | Trip Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sailfish | Offshore | Peak Dec – Apr | Full Day |
| Marlin | Offshore | Possible throughout the year | Full Day |
| Yellowfin Tuna | Offshore | Year-Round Opportunities | Full Day |
| Mahi-Mahi | Offshore | Year-Round Opportunities | Full Day |
| Roosterfish | Inshore | Year-Round | Half or Full Day |
| Snapper | Inshore | Year-Round | Half or Full Day |
| Grouper | Inshore | Year-Round Opportunities | Half or Full Day |
Your Vacation Dates Matter More Than a Calendar
Fish move with currents, bait and water conditions. If your Costa Rica dates are already set, tell us when you’ll be in Jacó and what you’d most like to catch. We can recommend whether offshore or inshore fishing makes the most sense during your stay.
Explore Our Fishing Information Guides →
Responsible Sportfishing
Catch, Release & Fish for Dinner
Different species are handled differently. Your captain and mate will guide you through the process during your charter.
Billfish & Roosterfish
Sailfish, marlin and roosterfish are sportfish that should be released. Enjoy the fight, get your photos and allow these fish to return to the water.
Excellent Table Fish
Species such as yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi and many snapper can provide excellent fresh fish when legally and responsibly retained. The crew can help clean appropriate catch.
Choose Your Adventure
Which Fishing Trip Should You Book?
Choose Offshore If…
Your bucket-list fish is sailfish or marlin, or you want the chance to find tuna and mahi-mahi in Costa Rica’s blue water.
Offshore Fishing Guide →Choose Inshore If…
You want roosterfish, snapper and varied action closer to shore, or prefer spending less time running offshore.
Inshore Fishing Guide →
Learn Before You Fish
Jacó Fishing Guides
Learn more about the fishery before choosing your boat and fishing dates.
Offshore Fishing in Jacó
Sailfish, marlin, tuna and mahi-mahi.
Inshore Fishing in Jacó
Roosterfish, snapper and coastal species.
Best Time & Fishing Information
Plan around the season and your target species.
First Time Fishing?
See why beginners are welcome aboard.
Jacó vs Los Sueños
Understand the different departure options.
Compare Fishing Boats
Find the right charter for your group.
Choose a Boat
Popular Jacó Fishing Charter Options
The best boat depends on your group size, fishing style, comfort preferences and budget.
Small Group / Great Value
28ft Mathis
A center-console option well suited to inshore fishing and smaller groups.
View 28ft Charter →
Comfort + Offshore Capability
32ft Fish Whistle
A Carolina sportfishing boat with restroom, shaded seating and a traditional offshore fishing setup.
View 32ft Carolina →
See All Options
Fishing Fleet
Compare available boats for offshore and inshore fishing from the Jacó and Herradura area.
Compare the Fleet →
Your Costa Rica Fishing Trip
What Do You Want to Catch?
Tell us your travel dates, number of anglers, where you’re staying and the fish at the top of your list. We’ll help you choose the right boat and decide whether an offshore or inshore charter gives you the best opportunity.
Plan My Fishing Trip