Destination: Costa Rica Overnight FAD’S Trip

Season: June – November

Target Species: Blue Marlin

Equipment Provided: 14wt – 16wt Rod with Matching Reel

Number Of Rods: 1 – 4 Rods Available

Blue Marlin Fishing in Costa Rica – FADS

What are FADs? Fish aggregating devices (FADs) are artificial structures deployed in the ocean to attract schools of fish. These devices act as gathering points for multiple fish species, creating opportunities for fishing.

The main target species for FAD fishing in Costa Rica is the Blue Marlin, which can weigh between 200 lbs to 600 lbs. Additionally, there is a variety of bycatch including Sailfish, Mahi-mahi, small tuna, and occasionally black or Striped Marlin.

Unlike other fishing trips, there is no specific season for FAD fishing in Costa Rica. These devices hold bait throughout the year, making it possible to have a successful FAD fishing trip at any time. However, more fish are typically caught and reported between June and November.

A typical FADS trip starts with a departure from the marina in the late afternoon, usually between 3 pm to 6 pm. This convenient timing allows anglers to arrive in Costa Rica and head directly to the boat for the FADS adventure. Once aboard, the journey begins as the boat heads towards the FADs or seamounts. The travel time can range between 7 to 12 hours, depending on the chosen FAD and fishing reports. During this journey, you can enjoy the company of your crew, savor a great dinner, and even get some rest if you can contain your excitement.

 

Around 4:30 am, you will wake up to the aroma of fresh coffee and the sound of the crew bustling on the deck. As the light grows brighter, you will witness the fishing spread and start your fishing experience, usually around 5:30 am to 6:00 am. Afterward, you’ll have breakfast, continue fishing until 1 pm, enjoy lunch, fish until dark, and finally have dinner. After 2-3 or 4 days of intense fishing, on the last night, the vessel will start its return journey to the marina, arriving in the morning around 5:00 am to 7:00 am, allowing you to catch your shuttle back to the airport.

Currently, we offer FAD fishing packages ranging from 2 to 4 days with overnight stays near the seamounts.

Package Options:

  • 4 days, 3 nights, 2 full days of fishing: $2,300 per angler (based on 4 anglers). Total FADs Trip Package price: $9,200.
  • 5 days, 4 nights, 3 full days of fishing: $2,750 per angler (based on 4 anglers). Total FADs Trip Package price: $11,000.
  • 6 days, 5 nights, 4 full days of fishing: $3,375 per angler (based on 4 anglers). Total FADs Trip Package price: $13,500.

Package Inclusions:

  • Roundtrip airport-marina transfer for the group.
  • FADS Boat.
  • Captain and crew.
  • Bilingual Professional Fly Fishing Guide and photographer.
  • Fly fishing and conventional gear equipment.
  • All three meals and drinks while on the boat.

Package Exclusions:

International flights to Costa Rica, Unscheduled airport transfers, Hotel lodging, Meals outside the boat, Satellite phone calls ($5 per minute), Crew and guide gratuities.

 

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