Coast to Coast Adventure
The ultimate two-week journey across Costa Rica
Embark on an epic two-week fishing adventure through Costa Rica, chasing bucket list species from the tarpon-rich waters of the Caribbean coast to the legendary billfish and roosterfish grounds of the Pacific. This cross-country journey blends world-class angling with stunning biodiversity, offering an unforgettable experience for any passionate fisherman.
Accommodation
Beach & Jungle Lodges
Season
May – October
Species
Tarpon, Roosterfish, Machaca, Rainbow Bass, Jack Crevalle, Tuna, Sailfish, Cuberra Snapper
Style
Spinning, Trolling, Fly-fishing
A ONCE IN A LIFETIME CROSS-COUNTRY ADVENTURE
Highlights:
- Chase Giant Tarpon on the Caribbean Coast: Begin your journey in the remote waters of Barra del Colorado, where the jungle meets the sea and monster tarpon patrol the river mouths and coastal lagoons.
- Raft Remote Jungle Rivers for Machaca: Float down tropical rivers deep in the heart of the rainforest, casting for aggressive, surface-smashing machaca while howler monkeys call from the treetops. This leg of the trip combines adrenaline-pumping fishing with breathtaking scenery and a deep connection to Costa Rica’s raw natural beauty.
- Explore Volcanoes, Hot Springs & Cloud Forests: In between fishing days, unwind in the highlands with visits to iconic volcanoes, lush cloud forests, and natural hot springs. Hike misty trails, spot exotic wildlife, and soak in mineral-rich pools—all part of the full Costa Rican experience.
- Trophy Inshore & Offshore Fishing on the Pacific Coast: End your trip on the stunning Pacific beaches of Marvista, where you’ll target roosterfish, yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, snapper, and more. Spend your days fishing inshore reefs and offshore drop-offs, guided by local captains who know these waters inside and out.
12 DAY PACKAGE
US$9,400 per angler
- Twelve day guided journey across Costa Rica.
- Eight days guided salt & freshwater fishing for Tarpon, Roosterfish, Machaca & multiple other species.
- Eleven nights beach and jungle lodging.
- All meals and snacks.
- All domestic flights, transfers and transport.
Fishing in Costa Rica is a dream destination for anglers looking to tick multiple species off their bucket list in one unforgettable adventure. With coastlines on both the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans, plus a network of jungle rivers and volcanic lakes, the country offers unmatched variety in both saltwater and freshwater angling. On the Caribbean side, the remote waters near Barra del Colorado are home to monster tarpon that test your strength and skill, while inland rivers offer thrilling topwater action for hard-fighting machaca and the vibrant, elusive rainbow bass.
On the Pacific coast, the fishing only gets more intense. The inshore waters are legendary for roosterfish—one of the most iconic and visually striking gamefish on the planet—alongside snapper, jacks, and grouper. Offshore, Costa Rica is one of the best places in the world to target sailfish, with reliable action and skilled local captains who know where the fish are. Yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, and even marlin are also within reach. With expert guides, rich biodiversity, and the chance to fish across multiple ecosystems in one trip, Costa Rica stands out as the ultimate multi-species destination for serious anglers.
Throughout this epic journey, anglers will be based in a curated selection of beachside and jungle lodges that showcase the best of Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes. From the remote Caribbean fishing village of Barra del Colorado to the lush jungle retreat of Deriva and the coastal paradise of Marvista on the Pacific, each stop offers a unique experience both on and off the water. The adventure concludes in the charming highland town of San Ramón, where cool mountain air, cloud forests, and rich local culture provide the perfect finish. By traveling coast to coast and lodging in handpicked, locally rooted accommodations, guests will experience the full scope of Costa Rica’s beauty—its vibrant cultures, wildlife, and ecosystems—while covering an extraordinary stretch of the country from east to west.
Costa Rica is located in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. It is a small but ecologically diverse country known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and active volcanoes.
How to get there:
You will fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José, the capital city. A valid passport is required for entry, and depending on your nationality, you may need to show proof of onward travel. Visas are not required for stays under 90 days for many countries.
Upon arrival in San José, your guide will be there to pick you up and handle all your local travel, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience throughout your trip.
For the most up to date info regarding visas or travel info, contact us or visit Costa Rica’s official travel site.
San Jose to Barra to Deriva to Marvista to San Ramon – 12 days, 11 nights, 8 days fishing:
- Day 1: Arrive to San Jose, travel 2.5 hours to riverbank, 45 min boat shuttle to lodge
- Day 2: Full Day Tarpon fishing
- Day 3: Full Day Tarpon fishing
- Day 4: Full Day Tarpon fishing
- Day 5: Half day Tarpon fishing or freshwater exotics, boat shuttle back to riverbank, 1.5hr shuttle to Deriva
- Day 6: 8hr float for machaca on rafts, then drive 45 mins to hot springs for the evening
- Day 7: Shuttle 3 hours to Marvista, half day fishing and relaxing on the beach thru sunset
- Day 8: Full Day Fishing offshore/nearshore
- Day 9: Full Day Fishing offshore/nearshore
- Day 10: Full Day fishing offshore/nearshore
- Day 11: Half day wade fishing from shore, shuttle 2 hours to ferry, take 1hr ferry across Nicoya Gulf and then 1hr shuttle back to San Ramon
- Day 12: 45 min shuttle to San Jose airport for departure
Rates Per Angler
12 day / 11 nights / 8 days fishing = US$9,400 per person
What’s Included:
- Twelve days guided journey across Costa Rica.
- Eleven nights beach and jungle lodging in 4 different locations.
- Eight days guided fishing for multiple species in both fresh and saltwater, inshore and offshore.
- All meals and snacks, plus two drinks per night.
- All domestic flights, local transfers and transport, including shuttles and ferries.
- Airport meet and greet.
- Fishing licenses.
What’s Not Included:
- International flights.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides and staff.
- Fly-fishing tackle.
- Additional alcoholic beverages.
GALLERY
Frequently Asked Questions:
When is the best time to fish in Costa Rica?
The best time depends on the coast. On the Pacific, peak season for sailfish and marlin runs from December to April, while roosterfish are caught year-round. On the Caribbean side, tarpon fishing is best from September to November and again from January to May.
Why is Costa Rica one of the world’s top fishing destinations?
Costa Rica’s unique geography gives anglers access to two oceans and countless rivers in a single trip. The Pacific is famous for billfish, roosterfish, and dorado, while the Caribbean is home to giant tarpon and snook. Few other places on Earth offer this variety so close together.
What is the fishing like on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica?
The Pacific coast offers some of the best bluewater fishing in the world. Offshore, anglers target sailfish, marlin, dorado, and tuna, while inshore waters are home to trophy roosterfish and cubera snapper.
What is the fishing like on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica?
The Caribbean side is defined by jungle rivers and lagoons that pour into the sea. Anglers here chase monster tarpon, snook, and jacks in one of the most remote and wild settings in Central America.
What else can I do in Costa Rica besides fishing?
Costa Rica is also known for its beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, and wildlife. Many travelers combine fishing with surfing, birdwatching, scuba diving, or a stay near national parks like Manuel Antonio, Arenal, or Tortuguero.
Do you offer trips in the famous Jungle Tarpon Reserve?
Certainly, follow the link to learn more about fly fishing for tarpon in Costa Rica’s jungle rivers.