Fishing Seasons in Guanacaste
Year-round world-class fishing in Costa Rica's Pacific Coast
Guanacaste Climate & Seasons
Understanding the two distinct seasons helps you plan the perfect fishing trip
Dry Season December - April
"Summer" or "High Season"
- Warm, sunny days with minimal rain
- Average temperature: 85-95°F (29-35°C)
- Calm seas, excellent visibility
- Peak tourist season
- Occasional "Papagayo Winds" (Dec-Feb)
Best For:
Green Season May - November
"Rainy" or "Low Season"
- Morning sun, afternoon showers
- Average temperature: 80-90°F (27-32°C)
- Lush green landscapes
- Less crowded, better rates
- PEAK offshore fishing season!
Best For:
Pro Tip: The Green Season (May-November) is actually the BEST time for offshore fishing! Rivers swell and carry nutrients offshore, creating floating debris lines where Dorado and other pelagics congregate. Don't let the name fool you – mornings are typically sunny and perfect for fishing!
Monthly Fishing Calendar
What to expect each month in Guanacaste waters
Activity Legend:
Target Species by Season
Detailed breakdown of what you can catch and when
Offshore Species (Deep Sea)
Pacific Sailfish
The most abundant billfish in Costa Rica, known for spectacular acrobatics and speed up to 68 mph.
Blue Marlin
The ultimate big game trophy. These powerful giants can exceed 500 lbs and provide an unforgettable fight.
Yellowfin Tuna
Powerful fighters that test your endurance. Excellent table fare and often caught in schools.
Dorado (Mahi-Mahi)
Beautiful, colorful fish that are aggressive strikers. Excellent eating and fun to catch on light tackle.
Wahoo
One of the fastest fish in the ocean, reaching speeds of 60 mph. Prized for their speed and excellent meat.
Inshore Species
Roosterfish
Costa Rica's signature inshore species with distinctive "rooster comb" dorsal fin. Incredible fighters on light tackle.
Cubera Snapper
Powerful reef dwellers that put up a great fight. Multiple species available including Red, Cubera, and Dog Snapper.
Jack Crevalle
Aggressive predators that strike hard and fight harder. Often found in schools chasing baitfish.
Grouper
Bottom-dwelling ambush predators found around reefs and structure. Excellent eating and fun to catch.
Best for Offshore
May - November
Green season offers the best offshore action with abundant Dorado, Tuna, Sailfish, and Marlin.
Learn MoreBest for Inshore
December - April
Dry season provides calm waters and excellent Roosterfish action along with consistent Snapper and Jacks.
Learn MoreBest All-Around
March - May
Transition period offers excellent variety with both inshore and offshore species active.
Learn MoreReady to Book Your Fishing Adventure?
No matter when you visit, there's always great fishing in Guanacaste!