Quepos, Costa Rica a Sport Fishing Mecca

[Danny Solano Alvarez]

Calm seas and abundant marine life in the spectacular Pacific Ocean at Quepos and Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica create an ideal environment for fun activities.

For instance, now through the end of December is humpback whale-watching season in Costa Rica; and you can nearly always see large pods of dolphins while out sailing, boating or kayaking.

Quepos also is a top place for world-class sportfishing in Costa Rica. The World Offshore Fishing Championship 2014 in April brought in hundreds of international sportfishing fans to Quepos to compete.

The water temperature here provides the perfect environment for fish species like Pacific sailfish and swordfish, Dorado (Mahi Mahi), Yellowfin Tuna, giant Snook, Wahoo, Amberjack, Mackerel, Snapper, Roosterfish, and blue, black and striped Marlin. Fishing enthusiasts have luck just about any month of the year to fish both “catch-and-release” and fish for dinner.

Sport Fishing in Quepos Costa Rica:

Dorado – Late May through October, but they are caught often throughout the year. Marlin – Best from September through November. Sailfish – November to April they are most abundant, although the rest of the year is still very good. Yellowfin Tuna – Available during Marlin and Sailfish season. Small tuna is found year-round. Snook – Fishing is good from March through May and September through November. Wahoo – Available year-round. Snapper – Available year-round. Roosterfish – Excellent availability year-round.

All fishing tours in Quepos operate out of the new Pez Vela Marina, which offers fishing enthusiasts and visitors top-of-the-line facilities, waterfront restaurants, shops and galleries.

Benefits of going out on a half-day or full day fishing tour are that you can enjoy the fresh sea air, and will more than likely see sea birds, dolphins, and even whales during migration season. If you catch a Dorado, Wahoo, Snapper, Tuna, etc., the restaurant at Shana Hotel in Manuel Antonio will even cook it for you for dinner!

Shana Hotel & Residence is a lifestyle boutique hotel located minutes from the Manuel Antonio National Park, and the town of Quepos and Pez Vela Marina. Featuring 27 fabulous rooms and suites, spa services, and an ocean-view restaurant, this new Manuel Antonio Costa Rica hotel is a TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice 2014 Winner. A walking trail by the hotel leads you 10 minutes to the protected, white-sand Biesanz Beach. One of Shana Hotel’s best features is the sunset views. Best sunset spots: the large swimming pool, hot tub and lounge deck, the ocean-view restaurant, and your ocean-view room balcony.

article by Shannon Farley