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Are you planning a fishing trip to Costa Rica? Well, it’s about time. It’s not just a paradise for monkeys and surfers, but also one of the top places to fish worldwide. But before you cast a line and jump into the ocean, there’s one thing you should know — you will need a fishing license. The good news is that it’s affordable, easy to access, and we will cover everything you need to know to get hassle-free entry into the fishing world. So let’s get to it—this isn’t a bait and switch!
Do I Need a Fishing License in Costa Rica?
Short answer: yes. Well, at least if you are fishing from a boat. According to INCOPESCA—the government entity regulating everything to do with the waters—if you are a tourist or a resident planning on fishing in salt waters from a boat, you must have a valid Costa Rica fishing license. This applies to chartered sport fishing excursions, private boats, and believe it or not, if you’re renting a kayak and dropping your line in the water.
If you’re fishing from land—be it a beach, pier, or riverbank—you are not required to have a license. However, if you want to do some serious sport fishing—even for pleasure—you’ll want to get that license.
Costa Rica Fishing Licenses and Their Costs
Costa Rica keeps it simple with just a few types of recreational fishing licenses:
- 8-day license: ~$15 USD
- 30-day license: ~$30 USD
- 1-year license: ~$50 USD
They’re all issued per person and allow catch-and-release fishing (required for species like marlin, sailfish, and roosterfish). These prices are for non-commercial fishing — meaning no selling your tuna haul to a beach bar, even if it’s delicious.
How to Obtain a Fishing License in Costa Rica
The easiest way is online through the INCOPESCA website. It’s in English, and you can pay with a card. Just fill in your passport info, select the license duration, and boom — you’re ready to fish legally. Some tour operators also include the fishing license in their packages (yes, we do too — more on that later). Alternatively, you can buy one in person at an INCOPESCA office, but unless you enjoy bureaucratic scavenger hunts, the online route is the way to go.
Fishing Regulations and Conservation Efforts
Costa Rica takes marine conservation seriously — and honestly, we love that. There are strict catch-and-release rules for certain species, no fishing zones, and limits on how many fish you can keep (especially in freshwater areas).
The whole idea is to keep the ecosystem thriving for future generations — both fish and humans. So even if no one’s watching, do your part: use circle hooks, follow size limits, and release the big ones like the ocean hero you are.
Benefits of Joining Organized Fishing Tours
Sure, you can try to organize a fishing trip on your own — get the license, find the boat, rent gear, figure out where the fish are biting — but why? When you join an organized sport fishing tour in Costa Rica, all of that is taken care of for you. No paperwork, no guesswork, no stress.
You get an experienced captain who knows the local waters (and where the big ones hide), high-quality gear, bait, snacks, and yes — the Costa Rica fishing license is usually included. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other fish-obsessed travelers and compare stories about the one that got away.
Popular Fishing Destinations in Costa Rica
This country is practically built for fishing. Some of the best spots include:
- Quepos (near Manuel Antonio) – famous for billfish and big game tournaments
- Tamarindo – great for inshore action and easy beach town vibes
- Golfo Dulce / Golfito – calm waters, serious biodiversity, and fewer crowds
- Uvita/Drake Bay – remote, wild, and full of surprises under the surface
We run tours in many of these spots (check out our sport fishing trips for the details).
Tips for a Successful Fishing Trip
Fishing in Costa Rica is epic — but let’s be honest, it’s even better when you’re actually catching something. Whether you’re going offshore chasing marlin or sticking close to the coast for snapper, here are a few smart (and slightly salty) tips to make your trip unforgettable — for all the right reasons.
- Don’t be late. Most boats leave early, and fish don’t wait. Set an alarm. Maybe two.
- Eat light before you go. Nothing ruins a fishing trip faster than feeding the fish… from overboard.
- Bring polarized sunglasses. They cut the glare and help you spot fish. Plus, you’ll look cool.
- Hydrate. Seriously. The tropical sun plus salty air = dehydration ninja-style.
- Listen to your captain. If they say “reel faster,” you reel like your dinner depends on it.
- Take pictures, but don’t live through your screen. The ocean is way more impressive in 3D.
- Respect the sea. Wear your life vest when needed, and treat marine life with care.
Also — celebrate the experience, not just the catch. Some days the fish win, and that’s part of the fun too.
Booking Your Fishing Adventure with Us
We’re not just here to talk about fishing — we live it. At Go Explore With Me, we offer top-rated fishing tours in Uvita, Sierpe, Golfito, and beyond. Whether you’re looking for deep-sea action, inshore fun, or just want to feel a fish fight at the end of your line, we’ve got the trip for you — and yes, Costa Rica fishing license is included.
Reach out, and we’ll help you plan a hassle-free fishing adventure you’ll remember long after the last cast.
