Offshore Deep Sea Fishing – Jaco Costa Rica Fishing Charters

Offshore deep sea fishing out of Jaco, Herradura, and Los Sueños Marina is legendary. Anglers from around the world travel to Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast to experience the thrill of hooking marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo in calm, warm, blue water. With productive fishing grounds just offshore and a proven track record of success, Jaco Costa Rica Fishing Charters offers one of the best deep-sea fishing experiences in Central America.

This page gives you everything you need to know about offshore fishing in Jaco—from what you’ll catch to how far you’ll travel, the boats you’ll board, the seasons, the techniques, and what makes this region one of the world’s top big-game fisheries.

jaco fishing charters costa rica
jaco fishing charters costa rica

What Is Offshore Deep Sea Fishing in Jaco?

Offshore fishing (deep sea fishing) means heading 15–40 miles offshore, into deep blue water where the continental shelf drops rapidly. This is where large pelagic species migrate, feed, and patrol.

The waters off Jaco are highly productive thanks to:

  • Year-round warm temperatures

  • Nutrient-rich currents

  • Deep offshore structure

  • Migratory routes for big-game species

  • Ideal surface conditions for trolling

This combination creates constant blue-water action and makes Jaco one of Costa Rica’s most reliable deep-sea fishing destinations.

jaco fishing charters costa rica

Species You Can Catch Offshore

 

 Sailfish (Peak: Dec–May)

Costa Rica is often called the Sailfish Capital of the World, and Jaco plays a huge role in that reputation. Double-digit sailfish days are common during peak season.

 Blue, Black & Striped Marlin (Peak: Dec–April)

Marlin are the crown jewel of offshore fishing.

  • Blue marlin are the most common

  • Black marlin are powerful and spectacular

  • Striped marlin appear in cooler currents

Multiple marlin hookups in a single day are possible.

Yellowfin Tuna (Year-Round)

Often found with spinner dolphins, tuna range from school-sized fish to massive 200+ lb giants. These are incredible fighters and delicious to eat.

Mahi-Mahi (Dorado) (Peak: Aug–Nov)

Fast, colorful, and acrobatic—mahi-mahi are abundant during the green season and provide fantastic action for all skill levels.

 Wahoo (Peak: May–Sept)

Wahoo strike fast and hit hard. They’re commonly found around floating debris and offshore current lines.

How Long Are Offshore Charters?

Full Day Offshore Charter – 8 to 10 Hours (Recommended)

A full day gives you the time needed to reach the most productive offshore waters and target multiple species.

Typical timeline:

  • 6:45–7:00 AM: Depart Los Sueños or Herradura

  • 8:00–8:30 AM: Arrive at offshore grounds

  • Morning trolling for marlin, sailfish, tuna, mahi-mahi

  • Midday action and variety species

  • 3:00–4:00 PM: Return to the marina

3/4 Day Offshore Charter – 6 Hours

Good for targeting mahi-mahi, tuna, and sailfish when they’re closer to shore.

Our Offshore Boats – Performance, Comfort & Fishing Power

Your experience offshore depends heavily on the quality of the boat, and we only operate professionally maintained, tournament-ready vessels.

Sportfishing Boats (28ft–52ft)

Perfect for long offshore runs and big-game battles.

Include:

  • Twin or triple engines

  • Air-conditioned cabin

  • Shaded cockpit

  • Comfortable seating & bathrooms

  • Large fish boxes, live wells & outriggers

  • Premium tackle: Penn, Shimano, Avet, Tiagra

  • GPS, sonar, radar & communication systems

  • Professional fighting chair

Why These Boats Are Ideal for Offshore Fishing

  • Smooth ride to deep water

  • Plenty of space for groups

  • Better stability in open ocean

  • Designed specifically for trolling

  • Increased comfort on long days

The Crew – Local Experts With Years of Offshore Experience

Our captains and mates are local Costa Rican fishermen with decades of experience navigating the Pacific. They understand every detail of offshore fishing:

  • Seasonal patterns

  • Underwater ledges & drop-offs

  • Where billfish congregate

  • How to tease, rig, and present baits

  • Proper techniques for safe catch-and-release

They assist with everything—from setting lines to helping kids land their first fish—ensuring a smooth, exciting, and professional offshore experience.

Techniques We Use Offshore

 

Trolling (Primary Method)

We run multiple lines with teasers, lures, and ballyhoo baits customized for billfish and tuna.

 Live Baiting

Used when conditions call for it, especially for marlin or tuna.

 Pitch Baiting for Billfish

A thrilling technique where the captain teases billfish to the boat and anglers pitch baits at close range.

Jigging & Popping (Optional)

Ideal when tuna are busting on the surface.

What’s Included in Your Offshore Fishing Trip

Every offshore charter includes:

  • Licensed captain and mate

  • Quality rods, reels & tackle

  • Bait (live & dead)

  • Coolers with ice

  • Snacks, fruit & drinks

  • Safety equipment

  • Fish cleaning & filleting

Full-day trips may also include lunch depending on the boat.