There are 2 hotspots for big Tarpon in Costa Rica. The Rio Colorado on Costa Rica’s Northern Caribbean Coast has been one of the premier Tarpon spots in the world for decades. One lodge has old black and white photos of John Wayne and Lee Marvin when they fished in Costa Rica back in the 50’s and 60’s. The lodges in this area are the most popular Tarpon destinations in Costa Rica and lots of Tarpon and Snook are caught every year. Some of the lodges have added larger boats so you can also fish offshore for Wahoo, Dorado, Grouper and more.
More recently a few charter companies have opened up in the northern border town of Los Chiles. From Los Chiles you have access to the Cano Negro Lagoon, the Rio Frio, the San Juan River and Lake Nicaragua. All of these spots are remote, beautiful and lightly fished. This is a popular destination for hard core fishermen and some really big Tarpon and Snook are caught every year. Spend a few days fishing the rivers and lagoons for Tarpon and Snook and spend a few days fishing the islands in Lake Nicaragua for the “Guapote” Bass. These toothy and tasty fish run from 2 to 8 pounds and are lots of fun with ultra light tackle. I averaged 40 fish a day on my last trip.
DOLPHIN / WHALE WATCHING: Dolphins are usually everywhere plus we do see the occasional whale. HORSEBACK RIDING: Available in most places, who hasn’t wanted to ride a horse on a beach. HOT SPRINGS / SPA: Available only in a few places, the best in romantic and relaxing getaways. KAYAKING: Available in several places, white water or ocean kayaks – cheap water fun. LAKE FISHING: Fish for the Guapote (Central American Bass) at Lake Arenal and Lake Nicaragua, great fighters on light tackle. MOTORCYCLE / QUAD RENTAL: Available in several places, great fun, wear your helmet. NATIONAL PARKS: Available in most areas, great tours, see wildlife and beautiful scenery.
PARAGLIDING: Available in a few places…try it if you get a chance…a few moments of panic followed by the best ride of your life. RIVER FISHING: Fly fish for Trout in the high mountain streams, fish the jungle rivers for giant Tarpon and Snook. SHOPPING: Available everywhere, take home some souvenirs and coffee SURF / BOOGIE BOARD: Available in the most popular towns, what the hell…give it a shot.
TURTLE WATCHING: Available only at certain times and certain places but for some the thrill of a lifetime.
VOLCANO TOUR: Available almost everywhere, good family trip. WHITE WATER RAFTING: Scenic and serene beauty followed by wet and wild adrenalin rush. WINDSURFING: Available at a few places, Lake Arenal is famous for its windsurfing
