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Anglers with a marlin on a Costa Rica sportfishing trip

Fish Costa Rica · Tips from 35+ years of trips

Costa Rica Fishing
Trip Tips

Money, tipping, what to wear on the boat, packing for small planes, staying safe and local customs: the practical things every angler should know before a fishing trip to Costa Rica.

Start reading ↓ Tip calculator
Tip the crew10–15% of the charter, if deserved
13% + 10%Tax & service on restaurant bills
License neededFor every angler
Travel lightSmall planes, strict limits

Money & tipping

Dollars, colones
and cards.

  • US dollars are widely accepted. Change a small amount, $30–40, into colones for taxis, snacks and small purchases. Check the current exchange rate before you go.
  • ATMs give dollars or colones. Daily limits apply, so plan ahead for cash tips.
  • Cards: most hotels, restaurants and shops take Visa and Mastercard. American Express is accepted less often.
  • Restaurant bills already include 13% tax and a 10% service charge. A small extra cash tip for good service is appreciated, but you don’t need to tip as much as in the US.
  • Captain and crew: the standard tip is 10–15% of the charter price, if they earned it. Cash is best.

Crew tip calculator

$
10%$0
12.5%$0
15%$0

Split it however you like between the captain and mate. Many anglers hand it to the captain to share.

On the boat

Your fishing day,
done right.

Wear

Sun protection & good shoes

A hat, polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, light long sleeves, and non-marking rubber-soled shoes. No black soles, and no flip-flops.

Seasickness

Take it the night before

If you’re unsure, take motion-sickness medicine the evening before and again in the morning. Go easy on alcohol the night before, and eat a light breakfast.

More: get your fishing license · catch and release in Costa Rica · how a charter day works

Packing & flights

Pack light, pack smart.

Luggage

  • Travel light, especially if you’re taking domestic or charter flights. Small planes have strict weight limits.
  • Keep your own reels and favorite tackle in your carry-on if you can, so lost bags don’t ruin your trip.
  • Rods are provided on our charters. If you bring your own, use a hard travel tube.
  • Leave expensive jewelry and watches at home.

What to pack

  • Quick-dry shirts, shorts and a light rain jacket
  • Hat, buff, polarized sunglasses and reef-safe sunscreen
  • Non-marking boat shoes
  • Motion-sickness medicine and any personal medication
  • A waterproof bag for your phone and camera

Full list: Costa Rica fishing packing list.

Safety

Relax, but use
common sense.

  • Keep your passport in the hotel safe and carry a copy or a photo on your phone.
  • Don’t leave phones, cameras or laptops unattended, in cars or on the beach.
  • Most tourist areas are fine to walk around, especially in the daytime. If a place doesn’t feel right, turn around.
  • After a night out, take a taxi back to your hotel, even if it’s only a few blocks.
  • Use a money belt or a front pocket for cash.

Driving in Costa Rica

Local driving habits can surprise visitors, and many roads are narrow and winding. If you’re not used to it, let us arrange your airport and marina transfers so you can relax.

Ask about transfers

Local customs

Pura vida: how things work here.

LanguageEnglish worksMost people in tourism and sportfishing speak English, and many young Costa Ricans do too. A few words of Spanish go a long way.
Time“Tico time”Social plans can run late, but fishing doesn’t. Days start early here, and boats leave on time.
DressInformal everywhereNo jackets or ties needed, even in nice restaurants.
FoodTry gallo pintoRice and beans for breakfast, and fresh fish all day. Ask your hotel if they’ll cook your catch.
SportFútbol rulesSoccer is a passion. On match days, expect loud bars and happy streets.
PeopleFriendly & curiousCosta Ricans are warm and may ask personal questions. It’s friendliness, not rudeness.

Trip questions

Quick answers.

Have a question we didn’t cover? Ask us.

How much should I tip a fishing charter crew in Costa Rica?

The standard tip is 10 to 15% of the charter price, if the crew earned it. Cash is best, and many anglers give it to the captain to share with the mate.

Should I bring US dollars or colones?

US dollars are widely accepted. Change a small amount into colones for taxis and small purchases, and use Visa or Mastercard for larger bills.

Is a tip included in Costa Rica restaurant bills?

Yes. Restaurant bills include 13% tax and a 10% service charge. A small extra cash tip for great service is appreciated but not required.

What should I wear on a fishing charter?

A hat, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, light long sleeves and non-marking rubber-soled shoes.

Do I need a fishing license in Costa Rica?

Yes. Every angler on board needs a Costa Rica fishing license. It can be bought online, and we can help.

Can I bring my own fishing rods?

You can, but tackle is provided on our charters. If you bring rods, use a hard travel tube, and check weight limits if you’re taking domestic flights.

Plan your trip

Questions before you go?
Just ask.

Tell us your dates and where you’re fishing. We’ll help with charters, transfers and everything in between.

USA & Canada: 1-800-986-6980 Costa Rica / WhatsApp: +506 8888 4723