Costa Rica is host to some of the globe’s top sports fishing tournaments. The best of the best descend on the Central American country to flex their fishing muscles and show off their ability to snag the biggest catch.

But for sports fishermen looking to set sail to Los Suenos or Jaco for the first time, here are a few tricks to help you get a handle on all the different catches and how best to bring them triumphantly on board.  

·      Put away your ego. When charter fishing, let the crew know your experience level. If you’re a first-timer, make it known. The crew is a valuable resource to give you as much help as you might need to land a big catch.
·      Use circle hooks. Fishers are required by law to use these types of hooks in Costa Rica, as they can help you effectively snag your catch without too much damage to the fish itself.
·      Call ahead. Get the number of your charter fishing operator before your tour and ask some hard questions. Does the crew speak English, and if so, how much? What kind of boats and equipment do they use? What is their methodology? 

Costa Rica is known the world over for its top-notch sports fishing hot spots. From its smorgasbord of fish species both big and small to its variety of fishable waters for charter fishing (lakes, rivers, and the oceans on both the east and west coasts), Costa Rica is a sports fishing paradise.

 
But those fisherman who don’t live year-round in the tropical climate may have a more difficult time snagging that big catch, depending on the time of year. Different fish populations see their peaks during different seasons. According to an article from the Costa Rican Times, the season you choose for your trip will heavily affect your catch. So a little foresight and planning ahead can help sportsmen make the most of each and every expedition.
 
Here’s a list of the most common catches and the optimal times to hook them:
 
·      Dorado, yellowfin tuna and wahoo: Year round.
·      Snapper: July through December.
·      Roosterfish: July to September.
·      Black marlin: October to December.
·      Blue marlin: April to June.
·      Sailfish: December to May.