Papagayo Fishing Charter

About us

Sport fishing in the clear waters of the North Pacific, from Marina Papagayo in Guanacaste.

The Out Islander 38’ at sunset, anglers on deck

We take you out from Marina Papagayo to fish the Gulf of Papagayo for roosterfish, dorado, yellowfin tuna, snapper and more. Whether you are a first-time angler or an expert, the crew has what you need for a perfect day at sea.

Choose a half day (4 hours, morning or afternoon) or a full day (8 hours) on the Out Islander 38’ (up to 8 people) or the Pursuit 35’ (up to 6), or a full-day marlin trip on the Pursuit 35’.

We believe in responsible tourism and fish sustainably, to protect the marine life of Papagayo, and we work with local communities.

The Out Islander 38’ on open water, from above
See the tour See photos

Frequently asked questions

Where does the tour depart from?

It departs from Marina Papagayo.

How long is the tour?

4 hours.

How many people are on the tour?

The maximum group size is 8 guests.

How much does it cost?

$2,050 per boat.

Can children come?

Yes, children 5 and older. For safety, the crew checks on site that the equipment and life jackets fit before giving final approval. Every child must be with an adult.

Who can take part?

No experience is needed: the crew guides you every step of the way.

  • We recommend a minimum weight of 30 kg (60 lb) for children, for safety.
  • Children 10 and under must be with a parent or guardian.
  • All children under 18 need the consent of a parent or guardian.
How long is the fishing trip?

It depends on the plan you choose: 4 hours for a shorter trip, or 8 hours to raise your chances of a great catch. The marlin trip lasts 8 to 10 hours.

What can I catch, and will I see animals?

You can catch yellowfin tuna, red snapper, sailfish, dorado (mahi-mahi), roosterfish, wahoo and marlin (blue, black and striped).

We often see bottlenose and spotted dolphins and sea turtles (leatherback, green and olive ridley), and humpback whales in their migration seasons (July to November and December to April).

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, reservations are required. Book in advance to guarantee your spot, on this site or by sending us a message.

How do I pay?

A deposit confirms your reservation. After you choose your trip, you receive a secure payment link with several payment options. Once the deposit is paid, your booking is secured, and the balance is due on the day of the trip.

The 13% VAT is not included in the price. You can ask for changes to your booking up to 12 hours before the trip.

Do the boats have fishing gear?

Yes. The boats come fully equipped with rods, reels, lures and all the fishing gear you need. You are welcome to bring your own, and the crew will help you set it up.

Is the fishing license included?

Yes, every charter includes the fishing license.

Do the trips run in the rain?

Yes, in light rain. If the weather gets too rough, we try to reschedule the trip with the group on site. Marlin trips can change or be cancelled if the weather does not meet safety requirements.

What should I wear?

Dress comfortably for an outdoor day at sea:

  • Light clothing with long sleeves, to protect you from the sun and the sea breeze.
  • A hat or cap.
  • Polarized sunglasses and waterproof sunscreen.
  • Non-slip shoes or sandals with good grip. Avoid flip-flops and unstable footwear.
  • If you have long hair, wear it up.
How can I contact you with questions?

Send us a message from the contact page, or write to reservations@papagayofishingcharter.com. We answer from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, every day.