It’s Tuna Season!

My favorite time of year, and the deep sea tuna fishing off of Quepos Costa Rica is world class.   Why put this on the Brisa Elegante site you ask?  Because even I know not everyone loves fishing or being 30 miles offshore, a cruise on Brisa for part of your group is a great way to enjoy the ocean while the “fishers” are off capturing tuna.

The yellowfin tuna on Costa Rica’s pacific coast are a challenge to fight and offer a delicious reward.  Charter Boats are recently reporting catches of up to 150 lb tuna.  Sailfish, Marlin and Mahi Mahi – know locally as Dorado- are also out there.

Impressive Yellowfin Tuna near Quepos

When the captains see water birds feeding, they look for chopped up water surface that indicate dolphins and then you are off – because that’s where the yellowfins will be.   It is noticeable in Quepos that the charter fishing boats work together – and usually someone will know where the fish are.

The tuna travel in schools, and are accompanied by spinner and white belly dolphins.  The dolphin pods can number in the hundreds swimming and jumping on the water’s surface – a truly incredible sight.  Though they are often close to the boats, they are smart enough to stay away from the lines, hooks and propellers.

Fishing for yellowfin tuna uses a few methods: trolling frozen “ballyhoo” bait along with brightly coloured teasers to get their attention, or going direct with the good big bright lure.

It is also popular to use a jigging method. Holding the rod in your hand when the tuna decides to take the bait is definitely a thrill.

While there are many charter boats at Marina Pez Vela, our partners at Aqua Quepos will be happy to help you find the one that’s best for you.