That’s Fishin – February 2014

By Sarah Munro 

You’ve gotta be here for the fishing right? Well, that’s the reason I moved here. Well, one of them. For a lifetime fisherman this area is one of the best in the world, both onshore and offshore. Throw in some mangrove fishing and fly fishing in the mountainous rivers and well, you’ll move here too. The saturation of world class captains and crews, and anglers is like no other. Take one step on to the grounds of Marina Pez Vela, and you can see the results of it. Construction continues on the world class Marina, and the entire fishing community is buzzing about the upcoming Quepos Billfish Cup, February 5 – 8. This tournament is a charity fundraiser, and features some of the best of the local community, and some of the most FUN you’ll ever have listening to fish stories, seeing Captains and Owners strut their stuff. If you’re here over these dates, book yourself in with a local charter. You’ll cross one off your bucket list that you didn’t realize was ON your bucket list. Marina Pez Vela is hosting for the second year in a row, the IGFA Offshore World Championship April 6 – 11, which is the largest world-wide offshore fishing tournament series in the world.

Now, to the epic kind of fishing… There’s been a ton of action out there, both inshore and offshore. Snook, the tastiest fish in the world is running hard inshore, and there have been some pretty crazy photos around of some stunningly large red snapper.  Roosters are a fighting fish, and if you’d like a challenge this is the game for you. Check out my friend Amanda, who caught and released this Rooster fish the other day. A big “Thank you”, to Amanda, Ken and Chloe who took this issue’s photos. 

All of the wildlife here is either by day, or by night. And when you’re out on the deep water overnight, and you turn the lights on underneath the boat, some amazing things can happen. Sharks, jellyfish, squid, sailfish, and much more will be attracted to your lights, and it’s definitely an eye opener to the prolific kind of life found here. The accompanying photo you see of a baby sailfish, was found in the waters at night here. How awesome it is, to see signs of a healthy population. It just continues to blow my mind, daily. Can you imagine how if feels to hold that fish in your hand? Especially if you’re almost 5, and have seen the 100 lb+ adults… It’s a certain kind of indescribable awesome, but when Chloe talked about it with me, I understood how cool it was by the look on her face telling the story. 

The fishing season is hot, just like the weather. It’s been unbelievable here in Quepos for the past few weeks, and it’s only getting hotter! Check out the chart I found for an idea of what’s here and when! 

Now keep in mind that these charts only represent the most popular types of fish to go for here. There are many more species, so make sure you check in with your Captain for the type of fish that you want to catch! There are many boats to choose from in the Sportfishing Fleet here, and be sure to call around, or even better, talk to the Captain before going out. Mojo matters. 

I am definitely heading out fishing again soon, but when I’m not fishing you can find me at THE HAWG ‘N’ BILL. (Playa Espadilla, south corner of road heading into MA National Park). I especially enjoy sharing/swapping fishing stories, and talking about the big one that got away. Make sure you stop in for one of our fish inspired drinks, and taste some that didn’t get away. 

Until then folks, I’m hoping that you enjoyed the article and photos. If you’d like to see more, or perhaps like a referral to one of my preferred Captains, you can reach me at THE HAWG ‘N’ BILL, or directly at 8708 6152, email [email protected]. Enjoy the fishing, because I know I will be.

Sarah Munro is an ex-pat Canadian living in the Manuel Antonio area; who has been fishing since infancy. Rumor has it, Sarah gutted her first fish before she could ride a bike. It’s quite likely, that yes, one day the fish will come for her.

Looking for more of That’s Fishin’? Check out all of the articles HERE.

Until then peeps, keep your sea legs swayin, and your rod hand ready!