Caribbean Coast
Fishing
along the Caribbean coast is complimented by the region's magnificent scenery.
Choose from serene jungle rivers and lagoons surrounded by dense vegetation
and extraordinary wildlife, or the estuarine river mouths that spill into
the ocean, where vast sky-blue vistas stretch out and tarpons can be seen
for acres. Fishing here is almost always successful.
The peak season for tarpon is from January to May, though they are present in decent numbers throughout the year. It is widely believed that during the peak season, when the tide is low around the river mouths, each cast will be successful.
Snook
are also available throughout the year and can be found swimming along the
banks of lagoons and at river outlets. The best method of catching snook is
by surf fishing from beaches near river mouths. These populations average
between 12 and 20 pounds, but catching larger ones is not too uncommon. The
peak season for snook is from late August to November or even December. The
calba, or smaller Fat Snook, is prevalent from around October through early
January.
The northern Caribbean is home to a number of lodges that cater to fishing crowd. Most of these lodges are found around the Rio Colorado, where fishing is most consistent. There are also lodges in Parismina and Tortuguero. Fishing lodges offer packages that include air transportation from San José, lodging, meals, licensing, loaner tackle, and guides.
Most
of the lodges in the area have center-console boats with powerful motors that
allow them to get through the mouths of rivers and out into the ocean. These
larger boats are generally safer on the open sea.
