Tuna Fishing in Costa Rica | Yellowfin Tuna Charters in Guanacaste – Fish Tale 2

Woman on a boat holding a large fish she caught, with the ocean and blue sky in the background.

Tuna fishing in Costa Rica is known for non-stop action, powerful fights, and the opportunity to catch multiple fish in a single trip. Yellowfin tuna are one of the most exciting offshore species, delivering strength, speed, and endurance that challenge anglers of all skill levels.

At Fish Tale 2, we offer private tuna fishing charters departing from Marina Flamingo, giving you access to productive offshore waters where tuna schools are frequently found feeding on bait.

If you’re looking for high-energy fishing with constant action, tuna fishing is one of the best experiences Costa Rica has to offer.

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TYPES OF TUNA IN COSTA RICA

Yellowfin Tuna (Primary)

  • Strong, fast, and highly aggressive

  • Often found in large schools

  • Known for powerful, sustained fights

Other Species (Occasional)

  • Skipjack tuna

  • Bigeye tuna (rare but possible offshore)

WHY TUNA FISHING IS SO EXCITING

  • High hookup rates during active conditions

  • Multiple fish caught in a single trip

  • Strong, endurance-based fights

  • Great for anglers who want action all day

  • Excellent eating fish (sushi-grade quality)

Tuna fishing is one of the most consistent and action-packed offshore experiences.

What to Expect on a Tuna Charter

  • Tuna are typically targeted offshore using:

    • Trolling for schools and surface activity

    • Casting into feeding frenzies

    • Bird tracking and bait ball fishing

    Trip Details:

    • 3/4-day and full-day charters recommended

    • Offshore runs typically 10–30 miles

    • Fast-paced fishing with multiple opportunities

    • Ideal for groups, families, and action-focused anglers

    When tuna are active, the action can be non-stop. consistent and action-packed offshore experiences.

Four people on a boat holding large fish, with ocean waves in the background.

  • BONUS: SUSHI-GRADE FISH

    Yellowfin tuna are prized for their quality:

    • Excellent for sushi, sashimi, and grilling

    • Fresh, high-quality meat

    • One of the most desirable fish to bring home

    This is the perfect trip for guests who want:
    👉 Action + Fresh Food + Experience

BEST TIME FOR TUNA IN COSTA RICA

Tuna can be caught year-round, with peak conditions typically:

May through November
During strong current activity
When birds and bait schools are present offshore

Our crew actively tracks conditions to maximize opportunities daily.
A man on a boat holding a large fish, likely a yellowfin tuna, with water in the background.

WHY TUNA FISHING IS UNFORGETTABLE

A fish with a streamlined body swimming in the ocean.
Four people on a boat holding a large fish, with three boys and one adult man, against the backdrop of the ocean and cloudy sky. 
Tuna fishing delivers:

Fast-paced action
Hard, sustained fights
Group excitement with multiple hookups
Adrenaline-filled fishing all day long

This is the type of trip where: You stay busy from start to finish

Frequently Asked Questions about Tuna Fishing in Costa Rica.

  • The most common species is yellowfin tuna, known for its strength, speed, and excellent table quality. Skipjack tuna are also frequently encountered.

  • The Pacific coast, especially Guanacaste near Flamingo and Tamarindo, offers excellent tuna fishing due to strong currents and abundant baitfish.

  • Tuna can be caught year-round, with peak action typically from May through November when offshore conditions are most productive.

  • Yellowfin tuna can range from 10 to over 100 pounds, with larger trophy fish occasionally encountered offshore.

  • When conditions are right, it’s common to catch multiple tuna in a single trip, making it one of the most action-packed fishing experiences available. Fish Tale 2 has a record of 51 Yellowfin caught in one day.

  • Tuna are targeted using trolling, casting into feeding frenzies, and locating bird activity over bait schools. Fish Tale 2 features a live well and Tuna Tubes as well.

  • Tuna are typically found 10–30 miles offshore, depending on water conditions, currents, and feeding activity.

  • Yes, tuna fishing is great for beginners and experienced anglers alike due to the high action and frequent opportunities.

  • Tuna are best targeted on 3/4-day or full-day charters to allow enough time to locate schools and maximize action.

  • Yes, yellowfin tuna are prized for their quality and are excellent for sushi, sashimi, grilling, and other fresh preparations.

  • Yes, tuna fishing is ideal for groups and families because of the fast-paced action and the chance for multiple people to catch fish.

  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable clothing. All fishing gear, bait, and tackle are provided.

  • While targeting tuna, you may also encounter mahi mahi, sailfish, and occasionally marlin depending on conditions.

  • Tuna are powerful fighters that make long, strong runs, and when feeding, can create fast-paced action with multiple hookups at once.

  • A private charter allows for a personalized experience, more fishing time, and a crew dedicated to maximizing your success and enjoyment.