Many people come to Costa Rica's Pacific coast hoping to see a sailfish or a marlin on the end of their line. Off Sámara, that is possible. Here is what we fish for, when we see them most, how we fish, and what happens when one bites.
Which billfish live off Sámara
Billfish are fish with a long, pointed bill. Off Sámara we target sailfish, with the tall fin along the back, and blue, black and striped marlin. We find them offshore, 14 to 25 miles out at the drop-offs. All offshore trips run on Sol de Oro, our 28 ft boat.
When they are around
Marlin are at their best in March, April and May. From December to February they can still be caught, but less often. August can also bring good marlin fishing. Sailfish are strongest from December to April. These are patterns we see, not promises. If billfish are the reason for your trip, tell us before you pick dates, and we will say honestly whether your dates are realistic.
How we fish for them
Most of the time we troll, pulling ballyhoo and artificial lures behind the moving boat. Outriggers spread the lines so more baits can run without tangling. Sometimes fish come up and feed at the surface, and then there may be a chance to switch to a popper or a fly rod. Simone, our captain and owner, fishes trolling, live bait and popping for marlin and sailfish.
What you do when a fish strikes
You don't need experience. When a fish takes a bait, things move fast. The crew gets the right rod to you, shows you where to stand and how to hold it, and clears the other lines. You reel when they tell you to, and let the fish run when it pulls hard. Not every bite ends with a fish at the boat: billfish jump, run and sometimes throw the hook. That is part of it.
Released in the water, every time
Sailfish and marlin are always released. We keep billfish in the water for photos and never lift them onto the boat. It is better for the fish and gives it the best chance to swim away strong. Bring a camera or phone in a dry bag, and the crew will help you get the photo while the fish stays in the water.