The 7 Best Fishing Resorts in Costa Rica

Welcome to this blog post on “Fishing Resorts in Costa Rica”. Costa Rica boasts a number of marina that are renowned among the international fishing community.

Combining luxurious 5-star resorts, fully furnished upscale condos, and private villas with an on-site marina creates an unbeatable setup. These types of properties are commonly referred to as ‘fishing resorts' due to their luxurious accommodations and extensive range of amenities that cater to both anglers and non-anglers.

These amenities include lavish pools, spas, multiple on-site restaurants, convenience stores, boutique shops, as well as tennis courts and championship 18-hole golf courses.

If you are planning a fishing adventure, we've put together a list of the seven best fishing resorts in Costa Rica. These resorts offer world-class fishing, luxurious accommodations, and unparalleled hospitality, making them the perfect choice for any angler looking for an unforgettable experience.

From the stunning Crocodile Bay Resort to the luxurious Westin Playa Conchal Resort, each of these fishing resorts has something unique to offer. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you'll find plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish species, including marlin, sailfish, tarpon, and more.

So, pack your bags, grab your fishing gear, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. But before we proceed, why not check out our previous post on Resorts in Costa Rica on the Caribbean Side. I believe you will find it interesting.

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Fishing Resorts in Costa Rica

Offering anglers an incredible variety of fish species and some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, Costa Rica is the perfect place to cast a line and reel in a big catch. Here are the seven best fishing resorts in Costa Rica that you won't want to miss.

1. Crocodile Bay Resort

Crocodile Bay Resort is the premier choice for visitors exploring the Golfo Dulce area, Costa Rica. As one of the best fishing resorts in Costa Rica, it offers a wide range of services, catering to both fishermen and eco-tourists. It boasts an impressive fleet of 33′ Strikes, 27′ Rambos, and various other smaller boats for fishing inshore, in estuaries, and in rivers.

We strongly recommend Crocodile Bay Lodge for serious anglers. However, it also has accommodations that appeal to couples and families with non-fishing members. The lodge offers upscale facilities, as well as non-fishing activities, making it an ideal choice for all types of visitors.

How to Arrive: 50 minute private charter flight from San Jose after spending your first night in the capital.
Accommodations: 34 rooms including Standard and Deluxe Rooms, a private1-bedroom suite, or a 3-bedroom villa.
Includes: 3 meals a day, wine with dinner, cash bar, pool, jacuzzi, 5,000 sq ft spa, host of eco tours.

Boat Fleet: Crocodile Bay claims to have the largest private sport fishing fleet in Central and South America. From their 800 ft private dock they offer 24′ and 25′ Boston Whaler Outrage for small groups and 33′ and 35′ Strike boats for larger parties.

Target Species: Marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, dorado offshore. Roosterfish, cubera snapper, jacks, snook inshore.
The best time to fish at the Crocodile Bay Resort is from December through July.

2. Los Sueños Resort

The premier resort and marina in Costa Rica is called Los Sueños. It is a hub for some of the best charter boats, private yachts, and fishing captains in the country. This makes it a paradise for seasoned tournament anglers, vacationing anglers, and even those in your group who don't enjoy fishing.

The entire property is surrounded by lush, manicured gardens and every condo complex comes with an air-conditioned gym and pool area. The luxury condos are fully furnished with all modern amenities, including air conditioning, international cable TV, wifi, a full kitchen, a washer & dryer, and maid service.

For larger groups or those who prefer more exclusivity, private villas ranging from 3 bedrooms to 8 bedrooms are available. These villas feature expansive common areas, private pools, and all the creature comforts that come with the condos.

The Los Sueños Marina was built in Herradura Bay because of its easy access from San Jose and the SJO Airport. However, its location also makes it a perfect spot for offshore sport fishing. Costa Rica is known as “the billfish capital of the world” because of the incredible numbers of sailfish and marlin caught here every year.

The fishing is so good that Los Sueños Marina hosts the most prestigious billfish tournament in the country every January, February, and March – the Los Sueños Triple Crown. The marina has 201 slips and fishing boats ranging in size from economical 27′-31′ sport fishers to 50′-60′ tournament yachts, making it possible to find an option that fits any budget and level of experience.

Distance from Airport: 75 minutes from the SJO Airport.
Distance from the Fishing: Los Sueños marina is .25 to .75 miles away from the condos and villas on site, and renting a golf cart is recommended for easy transportation.
Accommodations: Fully furnished 1, 2, and 3 bedroom luxury condos and private 3-8 bedroom villas
On-Site Amenities: 2-acre beach club, 18-hole golf course, tennis court, spa, 12 restaurants, and marina village.

The best time to fish at the Los Sueños Resort & Marina is from November through July.

Read also: 10 Best Resorts in Costa Rica for Couples

3. Marina Pez Vela Villas

In 2010, the old and dangerous cement pier, also known as “El Muelle,” in the classic Costa Rican fishing town of Quepos was replaced with the state-of-the-art Marina Pez Vela, bringing the town into the 21st century.

The Marina Pez Vela offers a commercial plaza that features several amenities, including multiple restaurants and bars, a salon, tour operators, real estate office, convenience store, and several boutique shops.

Moreover, on the second level of the plaza, you'll find the brand new Marina Pez Vela Villas, offering luxury fully furnished condos with two or three bedrooms and bathrooms, equipped with air conditioning, international cable TV, WiFi, full kitchen, washer & dryer, and large balconies.

The Marina Pez Vela Villas are just a few steps away from the fishing boats in the morning and the lively nightlife in the evening, making it an ideal location for those who want to experience the marina and sport fishing lifestyle fully. Guests can enjoy access to the guest-only rooftop pool area, making their stay even more enjoyable.

If you want to immerse yourself in the marina and sport fishing experience, there are few places in Costa Rica that can offer you a closer proximity to the action than the Marina Pez Vela Villas.

Since the 1980s, people who enjoy inshore and offshore sport fishing have been traveling to Quepos, a charming Costa Rican fishing town. Before the opening of Los Suenos Marina in 2001, Quepos was known as the place to be if you were looking to catch your first billfish. Quepos used to even host an annual fly fishing tournament because of how good the billfishing was.

However, the old cement pier with its floating dock was notoriously treacherous, which made it difficult for anglers. Luckily, the state-of-the-art Marina Pez Vela has now replaced it, and it features a 195-slip marina, a commercial plaza with multiple restaurants and bars, a salon, tour operators, real estate office, convenience store, and several boutique shops.

The brand new Marina Pez Vela Villas, which are located on the second level of the plaza, offer fully furnished luxury 2-bedroom/2-bathroom and 3-bedroom/3-bathroom condos with AC, international cable TV, wifi, full kitchen, washer & dryer, and large balconies.

Additionally, the Marina Pez Vela offers excellent offshore and inshore fishing opportunities. Anglers can walk the docks of the 195-slip marina and have access to some of the most affordable offshore fishing trips in Costa Rica. Smaller groups can rent 27′-31′ sport fishers, while 40′-60′ tournament yachts are available for the more experienced anglers.

The calm waters off of Quepos offer phenomenal offshore fishing opportunities just 20-30 miles from the marina, and some of the best inshore fishing in the country for snappers, jacks, big Pacific snook, and the famous roosterfish.

The marina has been the host of the Offshore World Championship every year since 2013. If you're a fishing enthusiast who wants to immerse yourself in the marina and sport fishing lifestyle, the Marina Pez Vela is one of the best places in Costa Rica to experience it all.

Distance from Airport: 2.5 hr drive or 30 minute domestic flight from the SJO Airport
Distance from the Fishing: The Marina Pez Vela Villas are literally 150 ft away from the docks.
Accommodations: Eight fully furnished 2 and 3 bedroom luxury condos
On-Site Amenities: Rooftop pool and a vibrant marina village with several restaurants, tour operators, convenience store, salon, and boutique shops including the first and only international Pelagic store. Outdoor movies for kids when weather permits.

The best time to fish at the Marina Pez Vela is from November through July.

4. Pachira Lodge

Pachira Lodge is a top-rated fishing resort located in the heart of Costa Rica. Known for its world-class fishing and unparalleled hospitality, Pachira Lodge is a dream destination for any angler.

Situated in the Tortuguero region of Costa Rica, Pachira Lodge offers a unique and unforgettable fishing experience. The resort is located right on the edge of the Tortuguero National Park, which is home to some of the most diverse and abundant marine life in the world.

The lodge's location makes it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding rivers, canals, and lagoons, all of which are teeming with fish.

At Pachira Lodge, anglers can expect to catch a wide variety of fish, including tarpon, snook, rainbow bass, and more. The lodge's expert guides are knowledgeable about the best fishing spots in the area and can help anglers of all levels catch their dream fish.

Aside from the fantastic fishing, Pachira Lodge is also known for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional service. The resort features spacious and comfortable rooms, each with its own private bathroom and balcony. Guests can also enjoy the resort's swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, which serves up delicious meals and refreshing drinks.

For those who want to explore beyond the fishing, Pachira Lodge offers a variety of activities, including guided nature walks, boat tours, and bird watching. The lodge's location also makes it a prime spot for turtle nesting and hatching, which takes place on the nearby beaches.

Overall, Pachira Lodge is a top-rated fishing resort in Costa Rica that offers an unforgettable experience for anglers of all levels. With its prime location, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service, it's no wonder why Pachira Lodge is considered one of the best fishing resorts in the country.

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5. Westin Playa Conchal Resort

The Westin Playa Conchal Resort is a luxurious fishing resort located on the northwestern coast of Costa Rica. This stunning resort offers anglers an unforgettable fishing experience, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and world-class amenities.

The resort is situated on a stretch of pristine beach, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is located near several renowned fishing spots, including the Catalina Islands, which are known for their abundant populations of billfish, tuna, and mahi-mahi.

Anglers at the Westin Playa Conchal Resort can choose from a variety of fishing options, including inshore, offshore, and bottom fishing. The resort's experienced and knowledgeable guides can take guests to the best spots for catching a wide range of fish species, including marlin, sailfish, roosterfish, and snapper.

Aside from the fantastic fishing, the Westin Playa Conchal Resort also offers a host of other amenities and activities. The resort features luxurious accommodations, including spacious rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with modern amenities and private balconies or terraces. Guests can also enjoy the resort's swimming pools, spa, restaurants, and bars, which offer a wide variety of dining and entertainment options.

For those who want to explore beyond the fishing, the Westin Playa Conchal Resort offers a variety of activities, including golfing, surfing, and hiking. The resort is also located near several national parks, including the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and the Palo Verde National Park, which offer a wealth of opportunities for nature and wildlife viewing.

6. Silver King Lodge

Silver King Lodge was established in 1992 and is situated in a breathtaking location, overlooking the stunning Rio Colorado. The Lodge boasts an array of luxurious amenities, including a Jacuzzi, a swimming pool featuring a magnificent eight-foot waterfall, as well as additional Jacuzzi and sauna facilities. Guests can indulge in delicious buffet-style meals, served on-site.

The air-conditioned duplex-style rooms feature satellite TV, free Wi-Fi (although limited in bandwidth), and en-suite bathrooms with an ample supply of hot water. Each room has two queen-size beds, rod racks for fishing enthusiasts, and spacious walk-in closets. The Lodge also offers a complimentary daily laundry service for the convenience of their guests.

The Lodge can accommodate up to 24 guests, ensuring a tranquil and intimate experience for all. The jungle surrounding the Lodge is home to numerous species of monkeys and birds, providing guests with the opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

The Lodge's team is dedicated to providing exceptional service, ensuring guests have a memorable and rejuvenating stay at Silver King Lodge.

At Silver King Lodge, guests can take advantage of the twelve meticulously maintained 23-foot closed transom deep V-hull fiberglass boats, each powered by 150 HP Yamaha motors. These boats are equipped with top-of-the-line fish finders, a 25-watt marine radio, and all necessary safety equipment.

These boats are capable of crossing the river mouth even in adverse conditions and venturing offshore in search of wahoo, tuna, and dorado.

In addition to the larger boats, the Lodge also has four 16-foot aluminum Tracker skiffs, complete with foldable Bimini tops. These skiffs are perfect for exploring the rainforest streams and lagoons, where guests can try their hand at fishing for guapote, snook, mojarra, and machaca.

Each skiff is thoughtfully designed and equipped to ensure an unforgettable and productive fishing experience.

Silver King Lodge best tarpon fishing months occurring from mid-March to early May and late August through early November. Guests can also look forward to excellent tuna and wahoo fishing during their stay. The Lodge's location also makes it possible to target other inshore species such as snook, Spanish mackerel, Jack Crevalle, cubera snapper, barracuda, and tripletail, all of which are abundant in the area.

For those who love to fish in freshwater, the tropical rainforest streams and lagoons offer opportunities to catch tackle-busting guapote, as well as mojarra and machaca. These species are known to put up a good fight and provide a thrilling angling experience.

Thanks to the Lodge's strategic location near the mouth of the Rio Colorado, guests have quick and easy access to some of the most productive tarpon waters on the Caribbean coast. This prime location ensures that guests can maximize their fishing time and take advantage of the Lodge's expert fishing guides, who have an intimate knowledge of the surrounding waters and are dedicated to helping guests achieve their angling goals.

Read also: 19 Best Family Friendly Resorts in Costa Rica

7. Rio Parismina Lodge

For the past 30 years, the Rio Parismina Lodge has been a top-rated destination for anglers who love to fish for tarpon and snook in Costa Rica. The founder, Judy Heidt, who herself holds a world record, continues to lead the operation with great success.

The lodge is nestled on 50 acres of lush tropical jungle, providing a serene and comfortable stay for its guests. Rio P offers 12 rooms, with each guest assigned their own boat and local tarpon guide for the week, ensuring an intimate and personalized fishing experience.

The maximum group size is limited to 24, so you can enjoy the camaraderie of fellow anglers while experiencing the remote fishing lodge vibe.

The Rio Parismina Lodge is an all-inclusive resort that serves three delicious meals a day and has a full open bar as part of its fishing package. The lodge prides itself on delivering the best fishing experience by offering access to some of the best tarpon and snook fishing spots in the world. The lodge is located just a few miles from five different river mouths, where you can find trophy fish every day you hit the water.

The lodge's custom-built 21-foot deep-V hull boats provide a fast and spacious ride, easily navigating the waves of the river mouth. For exploring the freshwater rivers and canals that are home to exotic species like machaca and rainbow bass, as well as tarpon and snook, Rio P has a fleet of 10-foot John boats.

Anglers flock to Rio P for the opportunity to catch incredible tarpon and snook, and the lodge's location and amenities make it an excellent choice for a memorable fishing trip.

How to Arrive: 25 minute private charter flight from San Jose after spending your first night in the capital.

Accommodations: The Rio Parismina Lodge offers 12 rooms, each featuring two comfortable beds, a ceiling fan, oscillating fans, and a secure safe for your belongings. Additionally, every room has a private bathroom with a hot water shower to help you unwind after a long day of fishing.

Includes: 3 delicious meals a day, with a full open bar, pool, jacuzzi, and hammock garden along the river.

Boat Fleet: 21’ deep-V hull boats with T-tops, fighting chair, and Evinrude 150 hp outboards and 10′ John boats for exploring the endless maze of fresh water rivers and canals that are home to exotic freshwater species.

Target Species: Tarpon, snook, jacks, kingfish in the saltwater. Machaca, rainbow bass, snook, tropical gar in freshwater.

The best time to fish at the Rio Parismina Lodge is Mid-January to Mid-May and again in September & October.

Frequently Asked Questions on Fishing Resorts in Costa Rica

1. When is the Best Time to Fish in Costa Rica?

The best time to fish in Costa Rica depends on the specific type of fish you are targeting. Generally, the high season for sport fishing in Costa Rica is from December to April, with peak season being January to March. During these months, you can expect calm seas and good visibility, which makes for excellent offshore fishing conditions.

Inshore fishing can be good year-round, but the best time is during the rainy season, from May to November. This is when rivers and estuaries flow into the ocean, bringing nutrients and baitfish with them, which in turn attracts larger predatory fish. This time of year can be challenging due to wind and rain, but the payoff can be well worth it.

Marlin and sailfish are some of the most popular offshore game fish in Costa Rica, and they are most abundant from January to April. Yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo are also caught frequently during these months. Inshore, you can target roosterfish, snook, and tarpon, among other species.

It's important to note that fishing regulations and seasons can vary depending on the location and species of fish, so be sure to check local regulations before planning your trip. Additionally, weather patterns can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to be flexible and plan for different fishing scenarios.

2. What part of Costa Rica has the best fishing?

The largest lake in Costa Rica, Lake Arenal, is a well-known and widely-visited destination for inland fishing. Located at the foot of Arenal Volcano, the lake offers a picturesque setting for freshwater fishing enthusiasts.

The lake is home to a variety of fish species including the popular guapote or rainbow bass, which can be targeted by fishermen. Additionally, the challenging machaca fish can also be found in the lake and is sure to provide a thrilling fight for those who manage to catch it.

3. Is there good fishing in Costa Rica?

Absolutely! The Pacific and Caribbean coasts of Costa Rica are known for their exceptional fishing, which have supported the livelihoods of many locals who fish commercially, artisanally, or for tourism. Whether you are interested in sport fishing, freshwater fishing, or inshore fishing, Costa Rica has it all.

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