Black-soled shoes
They leave marks on the deck. Bring white or non-marking soles.
Fish Costa Rica · FAD trip packing list
What to Pack for a
FAD & Offshore Marlin Trip
The boat brings the tackle. You bring the rest. Here’s the personal packing list for a multi-day marlin trip: clothes, sun protection, motion-sickness medicine, electronics and documents. Tick it off as you pack.
Tackle includedRods, reels, baits, teasers
Soft bag onlySpace aboard is tight
No black solesThey mark the deck
License + passportDon’t leave port without them
Interactive checklist
Your packing list.
0 of 0 packed
Your ticks stay while this page is open. Use “Print list” to take it with you. Crew tips: how much to tip · License: how to get one
Already on the boat
Leave the tackle
at home.
On our FAD and offshore marlin trips, the crew brings everything needed to fish:
- Rigged rods and reels for marlin, tuna and dorado
- Leaders, hooks, baits, teasers and dredges
- Gaffs for tuna and dorado, plus release tools for billfish
- Backup tackle
- Meals, drinks, bedding and towels (confirm when you book)
- Safety gear: life jackets and EPIRB
Curious how the crew sets up? How the pros rig for big marlin →
Leave at home
Don’t bring these.
Hard suitcases
Cabin space is limited. A soft duffel packs into a bunk or locker.
Too many chargers
Power aboard is shared. Bring a power bank and only what you’ll use.
Bringing your own rod?
If you travel with tackle.
Before the trip
- Tell us in advance so the crew can plan the spread
- Billfish must be fished with non-offset circle hooks
- Use a padded rod tube and a reel bag
After the trip
- Rinse everything with fresh water
- Back the drags off before flying home
- A drop of reel oil on levers and bolts
Packing questions
Quick answers.
Not sure about something? Ask before you pack.
Do I need to bring fishing tackle on a FAD trip?
No. The boat provides rigged rods and reels, leaders, hooks, baits, teasers and dredges. You only need personal items.
What shoes should I wear on a fishing boat?
Non-marking deck shoes with white or light soles. Black soles leave marks on the deck.
What kind of luggage should I bring on a multi-day fishing trip?
A soft-sided duffel. Cabin space is limited and hard suitcases don’t fit in bunks or lockers.
How do I avoid seasickness on a FAD trip?
Take motion-sickness medicine the night before and again in the morning, go easy on alcohol, eat light, and stay in fresh air looking at the horizon.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes. Every angler needs a Costa Rica fishing license from INCOPESCA. Bring it with your passport.
Plan your trip
Bag packed?
Let’s go fishing.
Tell us your dates and how many days you want offshore. We’ll confirm exactly what’s aboard your boat.
USA & Canada: 1-800-986-6980
Costa Rica / WhatsApp: +506 8888 4723