Common FAQ About Tamarindo Surf & Tours

Find answers to the most common questions about our tours, surf lessons, and fishing trips in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. Learn everything you need to know before booking from what to bring to how to reserve your spot.

General FAQ

What methods of payment do you accept?

  • Cash (USD & Colones)
  • Credit Card
  • Bank Transfers

Fishing FAQ

How does tipping work?

Consider tipping between 15% and 20% based on your satisfaction level. Please note that tipping should not be based on how many fish you catch. Even if the Captain and crew work really hard to find fish and try different tactics, sometimes the fish just aren’t in the mood to bite, and it’s not the fault of the crew.

Our Captains understand that you expect a great fishing experience, and they’ll do their best to make it happen. However, fishing can be unpredictable, and some days the fish are simply not very active. We usually have more successful days, but like anywhere else, slow fishing days can happen. Please don’t blame your Captain and Crew for those slow days.

Does Costa Rica have good deep sea fishing?

Yes, Costa Rica is known for its excellent deep-sea fishing opportunities. The country’s Pacific coast, in particular, offers some of the best sportfishing in the world. The waters off the coast of Costa Rica are teeming with a wide variety of fish species, including marlin, sailfish, dorado (mahi-mahi), tuna, and wahoo, making it a popular destination for anglers.

Is fishing in Tamarindo good?

Tamarindo, on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast in the Guanacaste region, is a top sportfishing destination. Its location near the continental shelf ensures less travel time and more deep-sea fishing action.

What fish do you catch in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica offers a diverse range of fish species that can be caught in its inshore and offshore waters. Some of the popular fish you can catch in Costa Rica include:

Inshore: Wahoo, Roosterfish, Cubera Snapper, Goliath Grouper, Tiggerfish Spanish Mackerel, Amberjack, Jack Crevalle, Red Snapper, Pompano

Offshore: Sailfish, Striped Marlin Blue Marlin, Black Marlin, Mahi-Mahi, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo

Can you keep the fish you catch in Costa Rica?

Yes, in Costa Rica, you can typically keep the fish you catch, provided you follow certain regulations and guidelines. Costa Rica is known for its commitment to sustainable and responsible fishing practices. Billfish are protected by law.

Can you fish from shore in Costa Rica?

Yes, you can fish from the shore in Costa Rica.

Do you need a fishing license to fish from shore in Costa Rica?

No, a fishing license is not required if you want to fish from the beach anywhere in Costa Rica. However, you will need it for fishing on a charter for inshore/offshore and spearfishing.

What should you wear and bring while deep sea fishing in Costa Rica?

Long sleeve fishing shirt, light colours, cap/hat, Sunscreen, flip-flops, polarized sunglasses.

Where can I get my fishing license?

In Costa Rica, it’s a requirement for anyone planning to fish to obtain their own fishing license. This can be easily acquired through the Incopesca website at www.incopesca.go.cr.

What do we do with our fish?

All Billfish caught on our boats will be carefully released while still alive at the boat side to maximize their chances of survival. Edible species like Mahi-Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Snapper, and others will be expertly filleted by our crew onboard at no extra cost. If you wish, we can also recommend one of our partner restaurants where they will be happy to prepare your fresh catch for you at a reasonable price. Alternatively, we can also arrange for a chef to come to your house and prepare the fish for you.

What happens in the event of a storm?

Each morning, we assess the weather conditions before embarking on the boat trip. If there’s a storm expected, we will cancel the excursion. In such a case, you will receive a complete refund, or you can choose to reschedule the trip for a later date.

Can you bring your own Rod/Reel/Lures?

Absolutely, you’re free to bring your own fishing rod, reel, or any favorite lures or teasers you prefer. However, it’s good to know that our boats come prepared with a wide range of fishing equipment. Our experienced Captains and mates are always equipped with the tackle and gear that have consistently been effective for catching fish in these waters.