Amazing Fishing in Costa Rica

Los Sueños Marina is widely regarded as the premier sportfishing hub in Costa Rica and one of the most productive fishing destinations in the world. Located on the Central Pacific coast in Herradura Bay, this full-service marina offers direct access to deep water, consistent bait, and major migratory routes that bring world-class fishing within minutes of the dock.

This Los Sueños Marina Fishing Guide is designed to give anglers a complete understanding of what makes this destination special, what species you can target, how fishing changes throughout the year, and how to choose the right type of fishing trip for your goals.

large amberjack fish

Why Los Sueños Marina Is a World-Class Fishing Destination

Los Sueños stands out because of geography, infrastructure, and experience. Deep Pacific waters rise close to shore, allowing boats to reach productive fishing grounds quickly. Combined with warm currents and steady bait movement, this creates ideal conditions for both offshore and inshore fishing year-round.

Unlike many destinations that rely on short peak seasons, Los Sueños delivers consistent action every month. Professional captains, modern sportfishing boats, and a marina built specifically for anglers make it a reliable choice for beginners, families, and serious sportfishermen alike.

Key advantages include short run times, protected waters inside Herradura Bay, tournament-level crews, and access to offshore, deep sea, overnight, FAD, and inshore fishing from a single location.

Bigg Congrio caught deep-sea fishing

Fishing Grounds Near Los Sueños Marina

One of the most impressive aspects of fishing from Los Sueños is the variety of productive water within a relatively small radius.

Just a few miles offshore, boats reach deep blue water where billfish, tuna, and other pelagic species roam. Farther offshore, extended-range trips access offshore structures and Fish Aggregating Devices that hold massive concentrations of fish.

Closer to shore, rocky coastlines, points, river mouths, and beaches create ideal habitat for roosterfish and other inshore species. This variety allows captains to adapt quickly to conditions and target multiple species in a single day.

angler posing with sailfish tail down

Offshore Fishing from Los Sueños Marina

Offshore fishing is what put Los Sueños on the global sportfishing map. The region is internationally known for billfish action and consistently high release numbers.

Offshore trips typically target blue marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, mahi mahi, and wahoo. These trips range from full-day outings to extended offshore runs, depending on conditions and angler goals.

Blue marlin are the flagship species and are available year-round. Sailfish are especially strong during the dry season, while tuna and mahi mahi peak during warmer water periods. Offshore fishing from Los Sueños is efficient, professional, and highly productive.

Deep Sea Fishing Opportunities

Deep-sea fishing from Los Sueños focuses on waters farther offshore where tuna schools, marlin concentrations, and mixed pelagic action are common. These trips often involve longer runs and more flexible strategies.

Deep sea trips are popular with anglers looking for powerful tuna fights and fewer boats on the water. Captains adjust trolling patterns, bait presentations, and locations based on water temperature, currents, and bait presence.

These trips are productive year-round and are especially strong during the green season when offshore conditions intensify.

Big marlin fight, deep sea fishing Costa Rica

Overnight and Multi-Day Fishing Trips

For anglers seeking the highest level of offshore fishing, overnight and multi-day trips from Los Sueños offer an unmatched opportunity. By staying offshore, boats can fish prime feeding windows that day trips cannot reach.

Overnight trips allow access to remote zones and offshore structures where marlin and tuna numbers increase dramatically. Multi-day trips expand this even further, covering large areas and multiple fishing styles over several days.

These trips are ideal for serious anglers focused on marlin releases, large tuna, and nonstop offshore action.

FAD Fishing from Los Sueños

Fish Aggregating Device fishing represents the most advanced offshore fishing available from Los Sueños Marina. FADs attract baitfish, which in turn draw large predators such as blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, sailfish, mahi mahi, and wahoo.

FAD fishing is typically offered as an overnight or multi-day experience due to the distance. These trips often produce the highest catch and release numbers of the season and are favored by tournament anglers and experienced fishermen.

Because FADs consistently hold fish, these trips remain productive regardless of the month.

Inshore Fishing Near Los Sueños

Inshore fishing near Los Sueños offers an entirely different experience from offshore trips while still delivering powerful action. The coastline surrounding Herradura Bay is ideal for roosterfish, snapper, jacks, and other coastal species.

Roosterfish are the main inshore target and one of the most iconic species in Costa Rica. They are known for their strength, long runs, and distinctive dorsal fin. Inshore fishing grounds are close to the marina, making these trips efficient and hands-on.

Inshore fishing is popular with families, beginners, and anglers who enjoy active fishing using live bait and casting techniques.

Fish Species You Can Catch in Los Sueños

Los Sueños offers one of the most diverse fisheries in the Pacific.

Offshore species include blue marlin, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, mahi mahi, and wahoo. Deep-sea and extended trips increase the chances of encounters with large tuna and multiple marlin.

Inshore species include roosterfish, cubera snapper, jack crevalle, amberjack, snook near river mouths, and fast-moving mackerel species.

This variety allows anglers to tailor trips based on preferences, experience level, and season.

marlin tail in water hooeked near herradura bay

Best Time of Year to Fish in Los Sueños Marina

Fishing in Los Sueños is productive year-round, but seasonal patterns influence which species are most active.

From December through April, calm seas and predictable weather make this the most popular period. Sailfish numbers are substantial, and marlin remain present.

From May through August, warmer water brings excellent marlin and tuna action with fewer crowds. Experienced anglers favor this period.

From September through November, warmer currents and reduced pressure create strong mahi mahi and tuna fishing with solid marlin opportunities.

There is no single bad time to fish Los Sueños. The best time depends on the target species and trip style.

Best Time of Day to Fish

Most trips depart early in the morning to reach productive water at first light. Morning hours often produce the most consistent action, especially for billfish and tuna.

Midday fishing focuses on structure, temperature breaks, and bait movement. Afternoon bites can be productive on longer trips, especially when conditions remain stable.

Overnight and multi-day trips maximize prime feeding windows around the clock.

Choosing the Right Fishing Trip

Selecting the right fishing trip is one of the most important decisions when planning a Los Sueños fishing adventure.

Offshore full-day trips are ideal for first-time visitors and anglers chasing billfish. Deep sea trips suit those targeting tuna and mixed pelagic action. Overnight and FAD trips are best for serious anglers seeking maximum opportunity. Inshore trips are perfect for roosterfish, families, and anglers who prefer hands-on fishing close to shore.

Experienced captains help match trip type to season and goals.

Boats and Crews at Los Sueños Marina

Los Sueños Marina is home to one of the largest and most professional sportfishing fleets in the region. Boats range from fast center consoles to luxury convertibles over 60 feet.

Most boats feature tournament-grade tackle, modern electronics, live bait systems, and experienced bilingual crews. Safety standards are high, and vessels are maintained to international expectations.

This fleet diversity allows anglers to choose comfort level, range, and fishing style.

golden dorado costa rica

What’s Included on a Los Sueños Fishing Charter

Most fishing charters from Los Sueños Marina include a licensed captain, experienced mate, all fishing gear, bait, ice, and fish handling. Drinks and snacks are commonly provided, with some boats offering lunch, air-conditioned cabins, and private restrooms.

Inclusions vary by boat, so it is essential to confirm details when booking.

Who Los Sueños Fishing Is Best For

Los Sueños Marina is suitable for a wide range of anglers.

Families and beginners benefit from calm waters and professional crews. Experienced anglers enjoy access to offshore structure, FADs, and multi-day trips. Groups and corporate travelers appreciate the marina’s amenities and reliable logistics.

Whether the goal is a first fish or a trophy marlin, Los Sueños delivers.

Conservation and Responsible Fishing

Catch-and-release practices are widely followed in Los Sueños, especially for billfish and roosterfish. Captains prioritize healthy releases and sustainable fishing practices.

These efforts help maintain the quality of fishing and ensure future generations can enjoy the same opportunities.

Los Sueños Marina Fishing Guide

Los Sueños Marina has earned its reputation as the fishing capital of Costa Rica through consistency, variety, and professionalism. With access to offshore, deep-sea, overnight, FAD, and inshore fishing from a single marina, it offers one of the most complete sportfishing experiences in the world.

Whether you are planning your first fishing trip or returning for another season, Los Sueños Marina delivers reliable action, expert crews, and unforgettable fishing adventures year-round.

  • Los Sueños Fishing Calendar – Month-by-Month Guide to the Best Fishing

  • Hidden Offshore Areas Near Los Sueños – Secret Fishing Grounds of the Central Pacific

  • Herradura Bay Fishing Guide – Complete Local Angler’s Guide

  • Los Sueños Marina Fishing Guide