What to Bring on a Costa Rica Fishing Charter (Complete Guide)
If you’ve never been on a fishing charter in Costa Rica, one of the most common questions is:
What should I bring—and what’s already taken care of?
The good news is that most of the technical side is handled for you. The key is simply showing up prepared, comfortable, and ready to enjoy your Fish Tale 2.
This guide breaks down exactly what to bring, what you don’t need, and how to make sure your trip starts smoothly.
What You Don’t Need to Bring
Let’s start with what’s already covered.
On a professional charter, including Fish Tale 2, you do not need to bring:
fishing rods or reels
tackle or bait
fishing equipment
safety gear
Everything required to fish is already onboard and set up for you.
👉 If you want to understand how the full experience works, start here → (link to What to Expect)
Essential Items to Bring
1. Sun Protection
Costa Rica sun is strong, especially offshore. You are most likely closer to the equator here than where you live full-time.
Bring:
high-quality sunscreen or block. We do not recommend tanning oils.
polarized sunglasses
a hat
We highly suggest long-sleeve “fishing” shirts, preferably with a hood. We do have Fish Tale 2 shirts, 50 UPF, long-sleeve with hoods, for sale on the boat for $50. Sizes are limited though, so don’t “count on it.” We do try our best to keep them in stock, but apparently everyone loves them!
Polarized lenses are especially helpful—they reduce glare and help you see movement in the water. Check out ShadyRays if you haven’t heard of them yet. They really are amazing. We love the “offshore” model.
2. Comfortable Clothing
Lightweight, breathable clothing works best.
Recommended:
performance long-sleeve shirt, UPF 50, again, highly suggested.
shorts or lightweight pants that you don’t mind getting wet in. We are on a boat, in the ocean after all.
non-slip shoes or sandals. We love it when clients show up with deck shoes, but it isn’t necessary. The boat is fully gelcoated, and you aren’t going to scuff it.
Comfort and safety matter more than style once you’re on the water. We do have sharp objects like gaffs, hooks, knives, tuna mackerel, and other billfish on the boat as well. Nobody likes a stubbed toe.
3. Hydration & Personal Preferences
Water, tea, soda, and a case of beer are provided, but many guests like to bring:
additional drinks
preferred snacks
anything specific to their routine
The goal is to make the day feel like your own.
4. Camera or Phone
You’ll want to capture the day.
Between the environment, the fishing, and the overall experience, these trips tend to create moments worth keeping. Feel free to bring any recording equipment you may like. We do also have Instacam 360’s on the boat.
5. Light Rain Gear (Seasonal)
During certain times of year, quick weather changes are possible.
A light rain jacket can make a difference in staying comfortable.
👉 Learn more about seasonal conditions → (link to Best Time to Fish blog #4)
Optional Items That Can Improve Your Experience
These aren’t required—but they can help:
motion sickness prevention, Dramamine.
small bag for personal items
towel
change of shirt
Being prepared allows you to stay focused on the experience.
What About Food and Drinks?
Most charters provide basic refreshments. The Fish Tale 2 does it a couple of notches up from Basic though. We provide fresh seasonal fruit, other snacks, and a chef-prepared meal on our ¾ and full-day charters here in Costa Rica.
You are always welcome to bring:
additional drinks
snacks or meals
anything specific to your group
There is space onboard to store items comfortably.
👉 More details on what’s included → (link to FAQ page)
What NOT to Bring
Avoid bringing:
large unnecessary bags
valuables you don’t need
complicated gear setups
Keep it simple. The less you carry, the easier the day flows.
A Quick Checklist
If you want to keep it simple, bring:
sunscreen
sunglasses
hat
comfortable clothing
phone or camera
optional snacks and drinks
That’s it.
Final Thoughts
The best trips start with simple preparation.
You don’t need to overthink it. The equipment, the setup, and the execution are handled for you.
Your job is to show up ready to enjoy the day.
👉 Come catch your tails, on Fish Tale 2
👉 See how we do it on your Fish Tale 2
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