Manuel Antonio, located on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, is a dream destination for sport fishing enthusiasts. With its rich marine biodiversity and excellent fishing conditions, it’s no wonder that about 20% of all visitors to Costa Rica choose to spend at least a day in this fishing paradise.

The Allure of Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is more than just a fishing destination. It’s home to the world-famous Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the world’s most biodiverse nature preserves. The park covers 1,700 acres of land and 136,000 acres of ocean, offering a diverse ecosystem that includes lush tropical cloud forests, lagoons, mangroves, and pristine white sandy beaches. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to encounter white-faced Titi and Howler monkeys, two- and three-toed sloths, iguanas, and even the endangered Squirrel monkey.

The town of Manuel Antonio caters extensively to tourists, offering a wide range of accommodations from four-star hotels to modest hostels. Restaurants, cafés, grocery stores, supermarkets, bars, and tourist boutiques are plentiful, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a comfortable stay.

The Fishing Experience

Sport fishing in Manuel Antonio is synonymous with Quepos fishing. Anglers staying in Manuel Antonio typically fish out of the Pez Vela Marina in Quepos, which is just a 10-minute taxi ride from most Manuel Antonio hotels. The marina boasts one of the finest Costa Rica sportfishing fleets and some of the most experienced fishing charter captains in the country.

The peak fishing season in Manuel Antonio follows the Central Pacific pattern. While you can catch any species every day of the year, the peak Marlin and Sailfish bite occurs between December and April. Yellowfin Tuna come into the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area a couple of months later, peaking in July-September. If you’re looking to boat a Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) for dinner, your best bet is between July and October, when the rains wash reeds, branches, and logs into the Pacific Ocean river mouths of Manuel Antonio and vicinity. You might even find a Wahoo screeching your reel when the water is clearest.

Inshore fishing in Manuel Antonio is equally spectacular. Anglers can catch Roosterfish, Cubera, Red and Mullet Snapper, Common Grouper and Broomtail Grouper, Pacific Snook, Mackerel, Jack, and Skipjack.

Manuel Antonio Fishing Charters

There are several fishing charters that operate in the Manuel Antonio area. These charters offer a variety of fishing experiences, from inshore fishing to deep-sea fishing. Some of the popular fishing charters include:

Quepos Fishing

Quepos Fishing is one of the top sport fishing charters in Manuel Antonio. They offer both inshore and offshore fishing trips, catering to all levels of anglers. Their boats are custom-built for fishing and come equipped with advanced fishing gear. Quepos Fishing is known for its experienced and friendly crew who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable fishing trip. 

Iguana Tours

Iguana Tours offers a unique sport fishing experience in Manuel Antonio. They have a fleet of boats that cater to different group sizes. Their experienced crew is knowledgeable about the local waters and will guide you to the best fishing spots. Iguana Tours also practices catch and release to preserve the marine ecosystem.

Fishing Manuel Antonio

Fishing Manuel Antonio offers a variety of fishing packages to suit all budgets and preferences. They have a team of experienced captains and mates who are dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable fishing experience. They offer both half-day and full-day trips, and their boats are equipped with top-of-the-line fishing gear.

Fishing Costa Rica Experts

Fishing Costa Rica Experts is a premier sport fishing charter in Manuel Antonio. They offer a variety of fishing trips, including inshore, offshore, and fly fishing. Their experienced crew is committed to providing you with a safe and enjoyable fishing experience. They also offer custom fishing packages to suit your specific needs. 

No, fishing is not allowed in Manuel Antonio National Park. However, there are many sport fishing charters available in the nearby town of Quepos.

Manuel Antonio, along with Quepos, Jaco, and Los Sueños Marina, are considered some of the best sport fishing locations in Costa Rica.

The cost of sport fishing in Manuel Antonio varies depending on the charter, the type of fishing, and the duration of the trip. It's best to check with the individual charter for the most accurate pricing.

While you can catch fish in Manuel Antonio all year round, the peak fishing season lasts from December to April for Marlin and Sailfish. Yellowfin Tuna are most abundant from July to September, and Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) can be caught most easily from July to October.

When going on a fishing trip in Manuel Antonio, it's recommended to bring sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), comfortable clothing, and a camera to capture the moment. All fishing gear and bait will be provided by the fishing charter.

Yes, a Costa Rican fishing license is required to fish in Manuel Antonio. Most charters can arrange this for you, but it's always best to check in advance.

The fishing techniques used in Manuel Antonio include trolling and live bait fishing for offshore species, and casting, jigging, and bottom fishing for inshore species.