Overview
Typically found in large schools feeding alongside spinning Dolphin, the Tuna in Costa Rica can be caught year round and can easily top 300 lbs. Several species of Tuna are found down here, and all of them are known for their impressive fighting power. Once on the line, Tuna often go on “deep” or “long” runs and fight with power and tenacity. So, whether you have a 30 pounder or 300 pounder on the line, a Yellowfin or Big Eye – you are in for a good time!
While catching a “cow” Yellowfin Tuna (as trophy specimens are called) makes for a great photo op – a Tuna of any size makes for great eating. And, since Tuna is one of the species we are allowed to keep and eat. You’ll be going home with more than Instagram worthy snapshots.
The Fishing
TYPE OF TUNA IN COSTA RICA
Yellowfin, Skipjack and Bigeye Tuna can all be found in Costa Rica. They are all fun to catch and delicious on the dinner plate. The most common catch by far is the Yellowfin, but you won’t hear us complaining about that!
Yellowfin is arguably the most delicious of the Tuna family. It can be enjoyed any number of ways (i.e. tuna steaks and tuna burgers are delicious). But, if you enjoy sushi, you should try your catch – especially the Yellowfin – sashimi style with soy sauce and wasabi. You won’t be disappointed!
TUNA FISHING SEASON IN COSTA RICA
As previously mentioned, Tuna can be and is caught year round here (it is even caught by accident quite often while targeting trophy species such as Marlin or Sailfish). It is especially common to catch “footballs” (as 10-20 lb Tuna are called) all year long. However, there is a distinct season for Tuna fishing in Costa Rica, which even differs from the Tuna Seasons of its neighboring countries’ (Panama and Nicaragua).
In Costa Rica, tuna fishing is particularly better from May-November. This is when you are more likely to get hooked up with bigger Tuna, and in bigger numbers. Although rare, specimens between 200-300 lbs have been caught during this timeframe on our boats! We have also had days where we have landed 10-20 Tuna in just a few hours during peak Tuna season.
Crocodile Bay Sports Fishing Fleet
Our fleet is comprised of 33 and 35 foot Strike Tower boats as well as several 27 foot Rambo inboard diesels. We also have 24 and 25 foot Boston Whaler Outrages. All of boats have the ability to fish either offshore or inshore because of our generally calm sea conditions. In 17 years of operation we have only had two days when the ocean was too rough to go fishing. You will be pleasantly surprised to find an English speaking crew member on your boat as that is not always the case in other fishing operations. Do to an increased demand, we haven also added a fleet of fully outfitted Old Town fishing kayaks to increase the variety of fishing options offered at Crocodile Bay Resort.
Fishing Tackle
Our boats are outfitted with Penn International 50’s and 30’s as well as both Penn spinning and conventional gear in 20 and 30 pound outfits. We always try to have live bait on-board before you leave the dock. We use Temple Fork Fly Fishing gear on-site but we welcome anglers to bring their own gear if they prefer.
