Pescadora Fishing Guide — Where & How to Fish Near Herradura
If you have ever dreamed of fighting a sailfish on light tackle or hooking a mahi-mahi off the Pacific coast, the waters near Pescadora and Herradura deliver exactly that. This stretch of the Central Pacific coast is home to Los Sueños Marina, known as the Billfish Capital of the World, and it consistently produces trophy catches that keep anglers coming back year after year.
What Is Pescadora?
Pescadora is not a single beach but rather the name for the fishing grounds around Herradura Bay, just north of Jacó. The area centers on Los Sueños Resort & Marina, which anchors the sportfishing scene in this part of Costa Rica. The name “Pescadora” literally means “fisherwoman” in Spanish, and the waters here have been producing trophy catches for decades.
The region sits about 1.5 hours from San José international airport, making it remarkably accessible for a destination of this caliber. Herradura Bay itself is a crescent-shaped beach backed by hills, with the marina providing easy access to both inshore and offshore waters.
What You Can Catch
The waters off Pescadora are teeming with species that attract anglers from around the globe. Here is the breakdown of what you can expect to land:
Sailfish are the crown jewel of this region. December through April is peak season, with calm seas and abundant fish. Release rates during these months are extraordinary, with charter boats regularly reporting multiple releases in a single day.
Marlin, both blue and black varieties, patrol these waters. Blue marlin shows up strong from May through October, while black marlin is most common between May and September. If you are after a grander, this is your window.
Mahi-mahi (also called dorado) are abundant from June through December. They gather around floating debris and current lines, and they are known for their acrobatic fights and beautiful colors.
Yellowfin tuna are available year-round, with the larger fish typically caught from May through September. These are excellent table fare and provide a solid alternative when billfish are not cooperating.
Roosterfish are the premier inshore target. Available year-round, these distinctive-looking fish patrol the rocky coastline and provide exciting action on lighter tackle.
Snapper and grouper round out the catch options and are available year-round for those who want a mix of offshore and bottom fishing.
Two Ways to Fish: Shore vs. Charter
Charter Boats
The charter option is the most popular way to experience Pescadora fishing. Los Sueños Marina hosts dozens of charter boats ranging from 28-foot center consoles to 60-foot sportfishers.
What you get: Most charters include a bilingual captain and mate, all fishing gear (rods, reels, tackle), bait and lures, snacks and drinks, and lunch on full-day trips. Ice and safety equipment are provided.
Pros: Access to offshore waters where the big game fish live. Professional crew handles everything. Higher chance of landing trophy species.
Cons: More expensive. Requires booking in advance, especially during peak season.
Shore Fishing
Anglers on a budget can still catch fish along the rocky coastline near Herradura. The rocks on either side of the bay hold roosterfish, snapper, and occasionally larger jacks.
What you need: A valid Costa Rican fishing license (more on this below), a sturdy rod suitable for surf fishing, and local knowledge of the best spots.
Pros: Affordable. Accessible without booking. Good option for beginners learning the sport.
Cons: Limited to inshore species. Dependent on tides and weather. Can be dangerous on slippery rocks.
Charter Pricing Breakdown
Charter prices in the Los Sueños area vary based on boat size and trip length:
- Half-day inshore trip (4-5 hours): Starts around $825, targets roosterfish, snapper, and tuna
- Full-day offshore trip (8-10 hours): Typically $1,500-$2,500, targets sailfish, marlin, and tuna
- Luxury sportfisher charter (full day): Can reach $3,000-$4,000, features larger boats, premium equipment, and gourmet lunch
Tipping your crew is customary. A 15-20% tip for excellent service is standard.
Shore Fishing Essentials
If you are planning to fish from shore, here is what you need to know:
Fishing license: All shore anglers in Costa Rica need a fishing license from INCOPESCA (the Costa Rican Institute of Fisheries). You can purchase a temporary license online at incopesca.go.cr. Prices are reasonable, and the process is straightforward.
Best spots: The rocky points on either end of Herradura Bay are productive. Local anglers also fish from the rocks near the entrance to Los Sueños Marina, though you should be careful of boat traffic.
What to bring: A medium-heavy spinning outfit with 20-30 lb test, bucktail jigs, live bait (if you can get it), and a good pair of non-slip shoes. The rocks are slippery, and safety should be a priority.
Best Seasons at a Glance
| Species | Best Months |
|---|---|
| Sailfish | December - April |
| Blue Marlin | May - October |
| Black Marlin | May - September |
| Mahi-mahi | June - December |
| Yellowfin Tuna | Year-round (biggest May - September) |
| Roosterfish | Year-round |
The good news is that fishing is productive year-round here. The waters stay around 80°F, and the weather is fishable 365 days a year. Even during the “off-season” for certain species, you will find alternatives biting.
How to Book Your Trip
Booking a charter is straightforward. Most operators accept email or WhatsApp reservations. Here is what to ask:
- How many people can the boat accommodate?
- What is included in the price?
- What is the cancellation policy?
- How far offshore do you typically go?
For luxury charters during peak season (December through March), booking two to three weeks in advance is wise. Half-day and inshore trips can usually be arranged with shorter notice.
FAQ
Do I need a fishing license if I am on a charter? No. The charter operator handles all licensing for the boat and crew. You simply need to show up ready to fish.
What should I bring on a charter? Pack light, breathable clothing, a hat, polarized sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and any personal medications (including seasickness tablets if needed). Your crew provides everything else, including tackle, bait, and food.
Is catch-and-release practiced in Costa Rica? Yes. Costa Rica is a world leader in sustainable fishing practices. All billfish (sailfish and marlin) are typically released, and many operators encourage catch-and-release for other species as well.
Can beginners book charters? Absolutely. The crews are experienced at teaching beginners. If it is your first time offshore fishing, let the captain know and they will make sure you have a memorable first experience.
Whether you want to chase sailfish on a luxury sportfisher or cast a line from the rocks for roosterfish, Pescadora delivers the kind of day on the water that keeps anglers talking until next season.
Many of our guests at Nest Stays head out with a charter straight from Los Sueños Marina, which is just minutes from our properties in Herradura. Our team knows the local operators well and can help you book the right charter for your experience level, whether that is your first time offshore or you are chasing a personal record. We can also recommend properties that put you closest to the marina, so your fishing day starts with coffee, not a long drive.
Ready to plan your trip? Contact us and we will get you on the water.
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