Costa Rica Fishing Charter FAQs | Fish Tale 2
Planning a fishing charter in Costa Rica should be straightforward.
This page is designed to give you everything you need to plan your fishing trip in Costa Rica—whether you're booking your first charter or looking to maximize your time on the water.
Below are answers to the most common questions about booking, trip options, what to expect, and how to prepare for your day on the water with Fish Tale 2.
If you don’t see your question here, scroll even further to take a deep dive into every valid question we have received over the years. Also, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help. We would love to add another answer to this list. Read on!
Browse Topics:
• Booking & Planning
• Arrival & Marina Flamingo
• Offshore vs Inshore
• Species & Seasons
• Gear & Setups
• What to Bring
• Experience & Comfort
• Rules & Safety
Most Common Questions/Answers
BOOKING & PLANNING
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We keep the process straightforward because planning your trip should feel easy from the beginning. The best way is to click any of the “book now” buttons for instant booking. If you have a question you would like answered prior to such a big decision, please, call Landon directly, at 254 434 8657. he would be very happy to help.
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As early as possible, especially if you’re traveling during peak vacation dates or want a full day offshore trip. The best dates tend to go first, and private charters have limited availability by design. If your travel dates are fixed, the earlier you reach out, the better your chances of getting the exact trip you want. Availability can fill quickly for full day and premium trips on Fish Tale 2.
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We offer private charters including full day offshore (8 hours), 3/4 day (6 hours), half day inshore (4 hours), and sunset/snorkel experiences.
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Offshore trips target species like marlin, sailfish, tuna, and mahi mahi in deeper water. Inshore trips stay closer to the coastline and focus on roosterfish, snapper, and grouper.
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Full day trips are best for offshore fishing and maximizing your opportunity for big game species. 3/4 day trips offer flexibility, and half day trips are ideal for families or shorter outings.
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For first-time guests, the right trip depends on what kind of day you want. If you want the full Costa Rica offshore experience and the best chance at mountable marquee species, the full day is the strongest option. If you want a shorter, easier introduction or are traveling with family, the 3/4 day or half day can be an excellent fit.
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A half day is your shortest option and is usually best for inshore fishing, families, or guests who want a more relaxed experience. A 3/4 day gives you more flexibility and often allows a mix of offshore and inshore depending on conditions. A full day gives you the most range, the most time, and the best opportunity to target offshore species like marlin, sailfish, tuna, and mahi. The ¾ and fullday options both include our chef prepared meal service as well as the standard of fresh fruit, snacks, soda, water, tea, and beer that are included in all charters.
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Yes, especially if your goal is offshore fishing. More time on the water means more flexibility, more room to adjust to conditions, and a better chance to cover multiple productive areas. If you are traveling all the way to Costa Rica for big-game fishing, the full day is usually the strongest value. You are literally chasing a Fish Tail… Come catch your Tails, on Fish Tale 2.
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Absolutely. The 3/4 day is one of the most versatile trips because it gives you more opportunity than a half day without committing to a full day offshore. It works especially well for groups with mixed goals, mixed experience levels, or guests who want strong action but not the longest possible day. We understand totally, price points matter. Nothing about sportfishing makes financial sense… Seriously, none of this is cheap. As the old saying goes, “Cool ain’t cheap, and cheap and cool.” We literally love being a part of your Fish Tale 2. The whole point is to make your dream happen, but in a way sweeter than most, comfortable, thoroughly thought out experience. The “Fish Tale.” The tale that will be told for a long time… those memories, those tales… That is why we do what we do on the Fish Tale 2. Give yourself the best shot at attaining that dream. It is after all, fishing, not catching.
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It can be, especially inshore. A half day is not designed to chase any possible offshore opportunities. It can still be a productive and very enjoyable trip. For roosterfish, snapper, grouper, and coastal action, a half day is a great option. We like to call it the “fridge run.” Great to get a quick weeks worth of fresh seafood to prepare yourself, or at any of the great local places that do that. Pleamar, Beach House, Coco Loco, and many others. ½ days are always fun. It is Costa Rica though… the best sportfishing in the entire world. Just saying. Happy to be a part of any and all of your Fish Tale 2.
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Fish Tale 2 operates as a private charter only. That means your group has the entire boat, the crew’s focus, and the flexibility to tailor the day to your goals. We do not pack multiple unrelated groups together.
Offshore vs. Inshore
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Offshore fishing takes place farther out in deeper water and is where you target species like marlin, sailfish, tuna, mahi mahi, and wahoo. Inshore fishing takes place closer to the coastline and structure, where species like roosterfish, snapper, grouper, and jacks are more common. They are both excellent, but they are very different experiences.
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Neither is “better” in every situation. Offshore is best for guests chasing big-game pelagic species and the classic Costa Rica sportfishing experience. Inshore is excellent for families, first-timers, shorter trips, and anglers who enjoy more constant action around structure, especially if you are looking for meat.
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That depends on current conditions, the target species, and what the water is doing that day. Some days productive offshore fishing may be closer than expected, and some days it may require more range. One advantage of fishing from Marina Flamingo is getting into productive water efficiently. We have options. That is a huge advantage. Within 40 miles in every direction, we can get where the fish are.
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It can be, yes. Offshore means more open water, which can bring larger swells and more travel time. That said, most days offshore are very manageable and one of the advantages of Costa Rica. Some inshore days can still have movement. Conditions always depend on weather, season, and the ocean itself. Our crew will always place safety over the Tails or the Tale. The entire crew is expert level, and 2 of the 3 are licensed captains on 20 ton, and the 3rd is licensed on 50 ton. We have your Tale covered, I assure you. We always suggest lots of water and Dramamine the night before, and the morning of though as well.
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Often, yes. Inshore trips usually mean shorter travel times, more time actively fishing, and a setup that can feel more approachable for guests who are new to the sport. They’re also a great fit for shorter attention spans or mixed groups.
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Sometimes, yes. That is one of the main strengths of a 3/4 day. It offers enough time for flexibility, so depending on conditions and goals, the crew may be able to mix opportunities rather than locking into one format too early. The crew are all experts, they will let you know if it is possible.
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Licenses, Rules & Catching Fish
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Yes. A fishing license is required for all anglers in Costa Rica.
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Yes. Costa Rica requires recreational anglers to have a fishing license. This is one of the most common questions visitors ask, and it is an important part of fishing legally and responsibly while visiting the country.
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Yes. We guide guests through the process on our License page, and make sure you know what is needed before your trip. The goal is to make the process simple so you can focus on the fishing, not the paperwork.
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Some species can be kept, and some cannot. In Costa Rica, billfish such as marlin and sailfish, along with roosterfish, are catch-and-release by law, while legal food fish like tuna, mahi mahi, snapper, and grouper may be retained within applicable rules.
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No professional charter should guarantee fish. If they do, “Yee be warned.” Fishing conditions change, and no captain controls the ocean or the fish, as cool as that would be. What we do guarantee is that our crew prepares properly, works hard, and gives you the best opportunity possible on the water. That is how we do your Fish Tale 2. We cannot guarantee the fishing, we can however guarantee the experience. Come see how we do a Fish Tale 2.
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Marlin, sailfish, and roosterfish are the most important species visitors should understand as protected catch-and-release fish in Costa Rica. These rules are a major part of responsible sportfishing in the country and one reason Costa Rica remains so respected as a destination.
WHAT’S INCLUDED - WHAT TO BRING
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Each charter includes the boat, experienced crew, rods, reels, tackle, bait, and a fully private experience for your group. Our goal is to make sure you have everything needed to step onboard and start fishing without having to worry about the details.
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We provide soda, water, tea and the national beer. If you have specific preferences, you are welcome to bring your own beverages to make the trip exactly how you want it.
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Food arrangements can vary by trip, but we make sure you are taken care of. If you have specific dietary preferences or want to bring something particular, that is always welcome.
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Yes. Many guests bring snacks, drinks, or meals they prefer. There is space onboard to store everything comfortably.
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We recommend sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, a hat, comfortable clothing, and any personal items you may need. Everything related to fishing equipment is already provided.
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Yes. The sun in Costa Rica can be strong, especially offshore. Polarized sunglasses also help reduce glare and make it easier to see fish activity in the water.
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Lightweight, breathable clothing is best. Long-sleeve performance shirts are popular for sun protection. Comfortable footwear and a hat also make a difference over a full day on the water. We also sell our 50 USPF Fish Tale 2 Fishing shirts, with hoods. Just ask for one when you arrive. $50 each.
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During the green season, it’s a good idea. Weather can shift quickly, and having a lightweight rain layer can make you more comfortable.
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Everything is lush, and green, from the daily rains, that last between and hour and 2 most days. It is absolutely gorgeous, the jungle is alive, and everything is literally “green.” The other seasons, it is green and brown, there is no rain for 4 months and then again for 2, and everything is thirsty.
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No. Fish Tale 2 is fully equipped with professional rods, reels, and tackle. We run a complete setup so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own gear. If you absolutely just want to, sure, bring it on. It may be a downgrade though. We are rigged, professionally, for exactly what and where we are, and do for a living. We want to ensure the most catches as possible as well.
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Yes. If you have personal gear you prefer to use, you are welcome to bring it. Most guests choose to use the equipment provided onboard.
WEATHER, SEASICKNESS & PREPARATION
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Safety always comes first. If conditions are not suitable, we may adjust the plan or reschedule to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Worst case, we will refund you, and catch you next time. It does occasionally happen. If the captain makes that call, none of us can override him. Not even me, and I am the owner. lol Captain is the boss on that water.
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We can adjust and fish inshore or closer areas depending on conditions. Flexibility is part of running a good trip. Safety is always the priority. If conditions are not suitable, we may adjust the trip. My Crew will never put your safety, or theirs, at risk. Period.
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We understand, it is easy to makes friends in Costa Rica. If you would like to add guests, it needs to be done the night prior, no later than 6 pm. Our Chef prepares the meals for each day, starting at 4 a.m. We must notify him. If you do decide to bring additional guests anyway, we will let them on, for the additional full fee of $100 per guests. It is still fuel consumption, space, and everything else they will consume. They simply will not have a full meal prepared for them though, unfortunately. If you are all cool with that, bring them on… We, would never do that to you though on our side. We like to ensure we have the correct amount of provisions aboard at all times.
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We don’t care about what you have heard is allowed to happen on some of these boats… We will not partake, or facilitate in any way the solicitation or any of that terrible business that a lot of others do allow or provide. We are Fisherman… not whatever you want to call that other type of boat. We don’t want that type of person, either side, on our boat. Period. This is a family friendly, clean, operation that catches Fish and creates Fish Tales 2.
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Rain does not automatically cancel a trip. Many days in Costa Rica include passing showers, and fishing can still be productive. Over half the year in fact, it will rain for an hour or 2.
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It can happen, especially for guests not used to being on the ocean. Conditions and individual tolerance both play a role. And while we are on the topic of tolerance, it is tough sometimes, but it absolutely best to avoid over consuming any bibations the night before… And please, pretty please, drink water, if you do. It will have a huge impact on your success.
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Planning ahead helps. Staying hydrated, eating properly, and using preventative measures like Dramamine the night before, and the morning of, can make a Huge difference.
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The crew will help them get comfortable and adjust positioning as needed. We’ve dealt with this many times and know how to manage it. Most get over it in about an hour… Some are still recovering to this day we assume… It can be absolutely brutal for some, and just a whim for others. We can always easily rinse the boat off though, so, if you are one of the unlucky few that experience this, please, try your best to get to the back deck, or off the side please. Pretty Please, and Thank you very much. We all appreciate that.
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Yes. Safety is a top priority, and trips are adjusted based on conditions to ensure a safe experience. We also have substantially more safety gear than legally required, even a 2nd life boat capable of holding 12. we have 2 of those. We will never have more than 11 people on board in any scenario. Safety is our utmost concern.
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The boat is equipped with standard safety gear required for offshore operations, including life jackets, hand flares, and flare gun, emergency water maker, and rations, and all Costa Rican required equipment and gear. The Fish Tale 2, also complies with all US Regulations and gear requirements to stay up to the highest marine standards for our clients, including EPURBS, Worldwide connectivity on Rapid Radios, 3 radio systems and bands, 2 12 person life boats aboard, as well as 20 life jackets, including 4 children’s sizes. Whistles, waterproof lights, fire suppression systems in the engine rooms as well as fire extinguishers throughout the boat. My Crew and I want everyone to go home to their families every night. We spare no expense, and cut zero corners, especially on anything to do with safety.
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The crew is trained and prepared to respond appropriately. Safety protocols are in place to handle unexpected situations. The Costa Rican Coast Guard literally docks in the Marina Flamingo and patrols the fishing grounds regularly.
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Get a good night’s rest, hydrate, and prepare what you plan to bring so the morning is easy. A smooth start leads to a better day on the water. Eat light if possible, avoid fried foods, and consume alcohol lightly.
PRICING, VALUE & EXPECTATIONS
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Pricing reflects the quality of the boat, crew experience, equipment, and overall level of service. Private charters with professional crews and upgraded vessels operate at a different standard.
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We focus on preparation, consistency, and delivering a clean, well-run experience. From the rebuild of the boat to the way each trip is executed, we take pride in how we do things—because that’s what guests remember.
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For most guests, yes. A better boat, an experienced crew, and proper setup can make a significant difference in both comfort and overall experience. In Costa Rica, as with most things, you get what you pay for.
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Expect a professionally run day, time on the water, and real opportunities to catch fish. Some days are exceptional, others are more moderate—that’s part of fishing anywhere in the world. You can expect for the Fish Tale 2 and crew to give it all they’ve got.
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Yes. Costa Rica has built its reputation as one of the top sportfishing destinations in the world due to its diversity, consistency, and accessibility. Multiple World Championship tournaments, like the Costa, Pelagic, Rockstar, and Bisbee’s happen here every year, as well as the White Marlin open, the Pescadora, the Presidential, and many many others. The Fish Tale 2 is one of 52 World Championship qualified boats in each of these events and competes annually.
FOOD, DRINKS & EXPERIENCE DETAILS
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Yes, within reason. We encourage a relaxed, enjoyable environment while keeping the focus on safety and respect for the crew.
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Yes. The boat is equipped with refrigeration and 4 Yeti coolers to keep food and drinks properly stored.
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Yes, for species that are legal to retain. Many guests enjoy taking fish for a meal after the trip. There are great options locally that will prepare it for you as well.
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Yes. The crew will assist in preparing your catch by cleaning it, bagging it, and icing it, so it can be taken to any of the local options, or even home for cooking.
FISHING EXPECTATIONS & REALITY
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A grand slam typically refers to catching multiple key offshore species in a single trip, such as sailfish, marlin, and a Tuna, or another pelagic species.
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It depends on conditions, season, and time on the water. Costa Rica offers strong opportunities, but results always vary. Costa Rica currently holds 79 IGFA world records for worlds largest caught, and Counting.
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The crew adjusts strategy, location, and approach throughout the day to create opportunities. Even on slower days, the focus stays on making the experience worthwhile.
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Yes. Many first-time anglers have great success. The crew guides you through everything so you’re involved from the start.
TIPPING, ETIQUETTE & CULTURE
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Tipping is customary in the charter industry and is a way to recognize the crew’s effort and service. 20% is the average. With Exceptional trips often seeing higher. The crew does split all tips evenly, amongst themselves, as they are a team. Ownership does not in any way, ever, partake in the tips earned by the crew. And we appreciate your generosity towards them. The guys are at the boat at 5 a.m. every morning, and don’t leave till dark most days. Hard, hot, physically challenging work to bring the Fish Tale 2 to life every day, and with the consistency these guys do it. We are blessed to have such an amazing team.
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It varies, but many guests base it on their experience and level of service received. The average is 20%, with oftentimes higher percentages based on performance.
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The crew is constantly working—setting lines, adjusting gear, tracking conditions, and making sure the trip runs smoothly, as well as providing full food service, a photographer, and non-stop cleaning and sanitizing. These guys arrive at 5 a.m. every morning and leave after dark. They work insanely hard, living a dream that most of us have to pay to be a part of.
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The combination of species diversity, year-round opportunity, and proximity to deep water sets it apart as well as the culture that takes pride in the industry and the conservation efforts to maintains such a opportune fishing ground.
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Professionalism, preparation, and a focus on delivering a smooth, well-run trip. They will give it everything they have, every day.
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Our goal is to deliver a consistent, well-prepared experience that you’ll remember long after the trip is over. For us, that is our culture.
BOAT, COMFORT & EXPERIENCE
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Yes. Fish Tale 2 has an enclosed, air-conditioned cabin, which is not common on many boats in Costa Rica. It makes a noticeable difference in comfort, especially on longer trips. The Fish Tale 2, also has 2 Ecoflow portable AC’s on board as well that are battery powered and really support the Main AC with the door opening and closing in the hottest part of the day, and also act as a dehumidifier and air mover.
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Yes. The boat is equipped with a clean, enclosed restroom for guest convenience.
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Yes. The enclosed cabin provides shade, seating, and a comfortable lounge to cool off between fishing and dining.
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Very much so. Even if someone in your group is not focused on fishing, the ride, scenery, and overall experience make it enjoyable. The Fish Tale 2 also books for Sunset Cruises and Private trips as a luxury cruiser. The boat also includes Starlink internet, Disney+, Prime, Hulu, HBO, ESPN, and Netflix for entertainment options for non anglers who may just want a nice cruise and a Harry Potter marathon. We are House Gryffindor here… Beware Slitherin.
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Yes. The Fish Tale 2 is designed for Families and kids are welcome, and many enjoy the experience. We adjust the day based on the group to make sure everyone is comfortable and involved. Sometimes, we may need to come in for an upset tummy or 2, it is best to prepare the night before by extra hydration, and even Dramamine for those who may need a little extra help. We are all fathers, we totally understand, and are here to take care of you and your crew.
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Yes. Half day and 3/4 day trips are especially popular for families, but we also regularly take families offshore for full day experiences.
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Yes. There are multiple areas to sit, relax, and take breaks throughout the trip. There is even a queen berth for those that need a good area to lie down and catch some extra zz’s.
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Yes. You’re welcome to enjoy music during your trip. Many groups bring playlists and set the tone for their day on the water through our Turtlebox Audio Boxes throughout the boat.
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Yes. The boat is equipped with Starlink, allowing connectivity while offshore—something most other charters do not offer.
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Yes. The boat is designed for a smooth ride, and we’ve invested in systems that reduce noise, vibration, and exhaust, making the experience more enjoyable. Our Engine bays have been heat and soundcore treated, which is absolutely amazing. We also have EcoFlow Generators that provide silent, exhaust and vibration free power throughout the Fish Tale 2.
GEAR, TACKLE & FISHING SETUPS
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We use Custom, professional-grade rods and reels suited for both offshore and inshore fishing, matched to the species we are targeting that day. We have Penn, Tiagra, Svivlo, Shimano, Kingston, Tanacome, and other pitch jig setups like Fathoms and Everols. From 20’s to 80’s and everything in between, open face, baitcasters, spinners… even a lancer for spearfishing giant tuna. We have you covered. All rigged with Braid backing, more than appropriate line size for the reel, wind-ons, and Custom lures and teasers. We promise, we know how to use it too.
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Both. Depending on the target species and conditions, we may use live bait, artificial lures, or a combination of both. We may also use frozen squid, Ballyhoo, and whitefish. The Crew will know what is biting, where, and how to target them. We live by the tide and fishing reports literally.
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Offshore trolling setups include teasers, dredges, and lures designed to attract billfish. These setups are part of a coordinated system used to create the best possible opportunity.
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Trolling is a fishing technique where lines are pulled behind the moving boat using lures or bait. It is one of the primary methods used for offshore species like marlin and sailfish. The speed determines the spread or presentation of dredges, teasers, downriggers, and lures. The 96 Cabo, is famous for exactly that. It allows for the perfect wake to be created at trolling speed, allowing for the best “raising” of pelagic species and the best “Spread presentation.” There is a reason we specifically wanted a 96 Cabo. It has won countless World Championships in this very design and model. We are proud to carry on that legacy, and keep out fishing the newer platforms that sure look pretty. We are “pretty” and a machine here to put in work at the same time. Multi talented.
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Dredges and teasers are used to create visual attraction in the water, simulating bait schools and drawing larger fish closer to the boat. Little fish see littler fish, and come up to eat it. Bigger fish see those little fish, and come up to eat them… The big big guys, the Tails we are chasing, they see those other guys, and come out of the deep to come try out the obviously delicious thing they are missing out on…. and Smack… FISH ON!!!!!!!!
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Tuna tubes keep live bait in optimal condition while trolling or drifting, increasing the effectiveness of bait presentation for larger fish. Used primarily when we find a school of feeding tuna, on pitch rods, and wham… Fish On!
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Rocket Launchers are the Table/Rod Holders you see mounted to the back of the Fighting Chair. They are an after market add on, and not very common in Costa Rica. The do allow for the mates to be on top of any situation that may arise with ready to go setups, ready to “rocket” out there.
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Deep drop fishing targets species at greater depths using specialized rigs and equipment. It is typically used for bottom species like snapper and grouper. Fish Tale 2 is also rigged specifically for this type of fishing, with dedicated rod and reel setups, and deep drop lure bags even with UV lighting to “charge” them before the 500 to 800 feet we send them down to the darkness……… Fish On!!!!!!
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Yes. We adjust tackle based on the species, conditions, and type of fishing we’re doing to give you the best experience. We have more gear on board than most tackle shops have in inventory… no joke. None of this makes financial sense. It is literally a passion for the Tails and the Tales 2.
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Yes. The crew walks you through everything and makes sure you’re comfortable with the equipment.
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Yes. Fish Tale 2 is equipped with modern electronics to help locate fish, track conditions, and improve efficiency on the water. From depth sounders and radars, to sonars, scanners, worldwide radios, and Starlink for ultimate connectivity.
TRAVEL, PLANNING & LOGISTICS
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The closest airport is Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. It’s about an hour from Marina Flamingo and is the main gateway for visitors fishing in this region. It is a 4-hour flight from Houston, 5 from Miami, and 6 from Denver.
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Marina Flamingo is roughly a 60-minute drive from Liberia Airport, depending on traffic and time of day.
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There are several great options nearby, including Playa Flamingo, Playa Potrero, Playa Conchal, and Tamarindo. We’re happy to point you toward areas that match your style of trip. We do work with premium listings regularly.
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Yes. Staying nearby makes your morning easier and removes unnecessary travel before an early departure. The Marina itself has great accommodations as well.
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Most trips begin early, so expect an early start. It’s part of the experience—and often when conditions are best. Start backwards from 6:30 am arrival, subtract your travel time, and your morning routine, add 15 minutes for Costa Rica… lol and you will be good to go.
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If fishing is a priority for your trip, booking multiple days increases your chances of experiencing different conditions and species. We have many regular clients that book us 5 to 7 days, and one that books us regularly for a month at a time. If you are a first timer, try a day, see what you loved about it, and book another if you are still hungry for more. If you are a regular angler, you know the deal, and for sure, a 3 peat is always a Trip you will never forget.
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One trip can be a great experience, but fishing naturally has variables. More time on the water increases your chances for standout days. We personally don’t believe there will ever be “enough.”
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Yes. Many guests mix fishing with beach days, excursions, or relaxation. We also offer non-fishing options like sunset and snorkeling trips.
PHOTOS, VIDEO & MEMORIES
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Yes. We capture moments throughout the trip on our InstaCam 360 setups, as well as from our cell phones, so you can leave with more than just the memory. We will share them with you after we return to the marina. Please also share any you may capture with us in return, we do love to share the Fish Tale with our followers as well.
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Absolutely. We encourage it. These are the moments people want to remember. Please also share them with us, when we share ours to you as well. Thank you, our followers also appreciate being a part of your Fish Tale 2.
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We often capture high-quality footage when conditions allow. It’s part of documenting your Fish Tale 2. We also have a drone that we use in the right conditions. We are by no means “Professional photographers.” We are, however, a highly trained team that does this almost daily, and have perfected the process to get those famous “money shots.” If you would like to have a professional aboard, we can absolutely coordinate for the fee that the professional charges if you accept their offer. You will pay them directly, and that is outside of the Fish Tale 2 experience we provide.
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Of course. Many of our guests share their trip, and we enjoy seeing those stories continue. We encourage you to do so, and to tag us as well @FishTale2
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Absolutely not, this is included in your charter free of charge. We are fortunate enough to have some great sponsors, that also want high quality footage of the Fish Tale 2. They covered the initial costs of this investment into capturing those memories for our guests.
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Absolutely. Fish Tale 2 is the highest Mounting boat in Guanacaste according to Grays who does all of our mounts for our clients. We do have all of the info aboard should you catch a Tail worth mounting. It is a simple process we can start on board the boat.
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We are, and are the highest producing mount charter in Guanacaste for many years.
ADVANCED & SERIOUS ANGLER QUESTIONS
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Yes. Let us know your goals ahead of time, and we’ll plan accordingly. We love chasing the dream.
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Constantly. Conditions change, and adapting is part of what separates a well-run trip. We don’t just drop lures and drag…
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Yes. If you have experience, the crew can adjust the level of involvement and depth of the experience. Want to tie your own ballyhoo? Run an outrigger? Control the Tanacome. Be our guests.
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Yes. We tailor the experience to your preference, whether you want to be hands-on or guided more closely.
FINAL EXPERIENCE QUESTIONS
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It’s a combination of the fishing, the crew, the environment, the boat, the weather, the food, the drinks, the gear, the bite, and how the day is run. That’s what we focus on delivering.
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That’s completely fine. Not everyone needs to fish to enjoy the experience. People often book the Fish Tale 2 for pleasure cruises, sunset cruises, whale tours, snorkeling, and even witches rock surfing runs. Fish Tale 2 is basically a small luxury cruiser, with a world class fishing operation built into it.
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Yes. Many couples enjoy both the fishing and the overall time on the water. It can also be a test of the “right catch” or not. May we suggest always try and let the significant other, catch the first fish. This tends to lead to more excitement, and further fishing trips down the road. lol With or without them.
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Yes. Private charters are ideal for groups looking for a shared experience on the water.
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Yes. Private charters are ideal for groups looking for a shared experience on the water.
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The way we do it. The preparation, the boat, the crew, and the attention to detail.
👉 Come catch your tails, on Fish Tale 2.
👉 See how we do it on your Fish Tale 2.
We built this page to give you the most complete and honest answers about fishing in Costa Rica—so you can plan with confidence, avoid surprises, and get the most out of your time on the water.
If you’re ready:
👉 Come catch your tails, on Fish Tale 2
👉 See how we do it on your Fish Tale 2
Marina Flamingo & ARRIVAL
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Fish Tale 2 departs from Marina Flamingo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, one of the strongest departure points in the country for both offshore and inshore fishing. Its location gives boats quick access to productive water and helps reduce unnecessary run time.
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Unless we tell you otherwise, plan to arrive at 6:30 AM. That gives enough time for parking, walking down to the marina entrance, and getting settled before departure. A smooth start sets the tone for the whole day. Our crew will meet you and guide you to the boat.
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Enter through the main gate, let security know you are with Fish Tale 2, park in the lot, and walk toward the marina entrance. A crew member will meet you there.
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We offer multiple trip duration options. We depart at 7 a.m. Half days end at 11 a.m. ¾ days end at 1 p.m. Full days end at 3 p.m. Sunset and whale tours begin at 3:30 pm and end at 6:30 pm
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We can always head in sooner than scheduled for any reason you may require. Extending will depend on fuel status. We do not travel fully filled up each day due to weight and fuel consumption. We don’t alway have enough fuel to extend. This will be an answer for the Captain the day of your trip. No refunds are issued for coming in early though, and to stay out, does cost the difference in the Charter rates.
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Marina Flamingo gives direct access to both offshore grounds and productive inshore water, which means more flexibility and more time fishing. It is also one of the best-known marina hubs in the region for flat water fisheries.
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Just let the gate know you’re there for Fish Tale 2. They’ll direct you inside, and from there you’ll park and walk toward the marina entrance.
Check out our “Arrival to Boarding” video right here.
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Yes. One of our crew members, either Nesmer or Sean, will be waiting near the marina entrance to meet you and walk you directly to the boat. We want the arrival process to feel easy and organized, not confusing.
Check out our “From Arrival to Boarding” youtube video here to see what you can expect for your Fish Tale 2.
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Yes. We recommend watching our “What to Expect” or arrival walkthrough video on YouTube, and you can also visit our website for more details. That way, by the time you arrive, everything feels familiar.
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Yes. It is a modern marina environment designed to accommodate visiting guests and boat traffic, and we make it even simpler by giving direct arrival instructions and meeting you in person. Our slip is also strategically chosen, for its exact location.
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This is a very common question. A lot of people you will interact with on your adventures will speak English to some extent. The Fish Tale 2 crew is an entirely multi lingual crew, and can speak to you in English or Spanish. One of our mates is from Florida originally and has been living the dream for 20 years now… The other 2, Captain and mate, are both native to Costa Rica, and grew up here on these very waters that we are blessed to get to explore.
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We cannot stress this enough. If you are not a skilled defensive driver, great at avoiding pot holes bigger than your tires, wildlife of every kind, driving through rivers, and being surrounded by motorcycles that do not care at all what any traffic sign might have said, then, yes, get a rental car, and plan on one heck of a baja race type scenario, in the jungle, as you possible can. I personally love it… Speed signs are irrelevant. “Ceda” which actually means yield…. means nothing. Cops drive faster than you in most cases. It is by far the best way to “experience” Costa Rica. It is amazing the place you can explore, and the freedom that you will feel in this wildly untamed paradise. Highly recommended, and my personal first choice.
That being said, if it is your first time to Costa Rica, Shuttles, taxi’s, and Ubers may be the best solution. Most hotels have them on site, or standby. Most Airbnb owners have a list as well. This is a great option, that is just as affordable after all is said and done, as a rental car.
Golf carts… If you are going to be hanging out around where you are staying, and just locally traveling around. Golfcarts are great. We have one personally and love the ability to just cruise around freely. Again though, cars and motorcycles are everywhere, and you will be driving in that at some point. Just saying here, you do what suites you best. Travel is simple though really down here. Not to stress over.
Species & Seasons
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Costa Rica is known for species like marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, mahi mahi, wahoo, roosterfish, snapper, and grouper. What is most active depends on season, region, and whether you are fishing offshore or inshore. Guanacaste offers strong variety throughout the year.
Check out our Species link for more info on each species.
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Yes. One of the major strengths of Costa Rica sportfishing is that there is always something worth targeting. You may not chase the same species every month, but there is no true “dead season” for fishing in Guanacaste. In fact, the rainy seasons, are the most productive for mairlin and tuna. There are fewer tourists. A lot of places you visit, you will be the only person… I personally think May to October is my favorite “block” of Costa Rica. The rains usually last about an hour, sometimes 2… and we drive right out of it, to the best fishing in the world. Nice and cool… Just saying. It is great year-round, but the sunny “Season” is always a little bit harder fishing.
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Your trip includes the boat, crew, That depends on what you want to catch. Costa Rica’s dry season generally runs from November through April, while the wetter green season usually runs through much of the rest of the year, and each period offers different advantages for fishing.
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Marlin can be caught in Costa Rica year-round, but the stronger marlin windows often align with offshore warm-water opportunities and seasonal bait movement. Exact timing varies by coast and region, which is why local guidance matters. We are also fortunate enough to have 3 species of Marlin, Black, Blue, and Striped. Each coming through at different times as well.
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Costa Rica has recognized sailfish peaks during the dry season, but Guanacaste is also known for strong sailfish opportunities in its own windows, including a productive May–August pattern that gets targeted regionally. Sailfish remain possible throughout the year, but concentration and consistency vary.
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Yellowfin tuna can be available through much of the year, with strong opportunity often tied to bait, schooling patterns, bird activity, and offshore feeding conditions. Tuna are one of the species that can make almost any day exciting in Costa Rica.
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Mahi mahi are often strongest during the green season and around floating structure or debris lines offshore, though they can show up outside that pattern as well. They are one of the most exciting and rewarding fish for both action and eating quality.
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Roosterfish are one of Costa Rica’s most iconic inshore species and can be targeted through much of the year. Their movement can shift with bait, structure, and local conditions, but they remain one of the signature inshore targets in Guanacaste.
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Snapper can be targeted year-round, especially around structure and reef zones, but conditions, tides, and local feeding patterns matter. For many guests, snapper are especially attractive because they combine a strong fight with excellent table quality.
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Grouper are generally available through much of the year in structure-oriented fishing, though productivity depends on depth, current, and location. Like snapper, they are often targeted on inshore or reef-based trips and are highly valued food fish.