Costa Rica’s Pacific coast recently hosted the 2024 Costa Offshore World Championship (OWC), an event that has become a pinnacle in the world of sportfishing. Sponsored by Costa Sunglasses and the Costa Rica Tourism Institute, this year’s tournament brought together an international crowd of anglers, putting Costa Rica’s world-class billfish fisheries on display.
Held in Quepos, one of the most renowned fishing spots in the world, the competition attracted 42 teams and 198 anglers from 24 different countries, all vying for top honors. But it wasn’t just the fishing that caught people’s attention—Costa Rica’s natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and adventure-filled landscapes offered an unforgettable backdrop. From verdant rainforests to active volcanoes and sparkling beaches, this country has it all. For the visitors, it was more than a tournament—it was an opportunity to experience the “pura vida” lifestyle, Costa Rica’s signature laid-back, nature-connected way of life.
A Record-Breaking Event
Over four days of fishing, the anglers faced near-perfect conditions, which led to some astonishing results. A staggering 686 Pacific sailfish were released, along with 13 marlin. The final day alone saw 272 billfish released—a tournament record.
Leading the charge was Brazil’s Marlin Rio team, who finished the competition with an impressive 6,600 points, securing first place and the coveted gold rings. This victory also earned them a permanent spot on the OWC Perpetual Trophy. Following close behind were the Yacht Clube da Bahia team, taking second place, and the 2008 champions, who finished in third.
The competition didn’t just focus on billfish. Adrian de Silva was honored for the tournament’s top catch, while Matthew Rose and Christopher Spalding took home awards for the largest dorado and yellowfin tuna, respectively.
For the anglers and teams that took part, this was a dream come true—stunning scenery, great fishing conditions, and an unforgettable experience in one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet.
Costa Rica: A Natural Playground
Costa Rica’s natural wonders are as much of a draw as the world-class fishing. Visitors who took part in the tournament had ample opportunities to explore the country’s vast beauty. Costa Rica is known for its lush rainforests, incredible volcanoes like Arenal, pristine beaches, and stunning biodiversity. Whether it’s zip-lining through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, surfing the famous waves of Jaco Beach, or hiking through Manuel Antonio National Park, there’s always an adventure waiting.
As one of the most eco-conscious countries in the world, Costa Rica has earned a reputation for its dedication to environmental conservation. More than 25% of its landmass is protected, and the country is committed to running on nearly 100% renewable energy. It’s no surprise that Costa Rica is also a favorite destination for ecotourists from around the globe.
The Tournament’s Impressive Sponsors
The success of this year’s Offshore World Championship wouldn’t have been possible without the support of a wide range of sponsors, each contributing to the event’s top-tier status. Costa Sunglasses, the tournament’s title sponsor, provided anglers with high-performance sunglasses perfect for the sunny, reflective waters off Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Other big-name sponsors included Marina Pez Vela, a premier sportfishing marina, and the Parador Nature Resort and Spa, which provided a luxurious base for the participants. Yeti, Salt Life, Garmin, AFTCO, and Flor de Caña—just to name a few—also helped make the event a memorable success.
Even the awards were top-notch. From King Sailfish Mounts creating trophies of the winning catches, to VanMark Jewelry Designers crafting custom rings for the champions, everything about the tournament reflected a commitment to excellence.
But it wasn’t all about the awards and competition. Sponsors like IGFA and Seakeeper played a role in the conservation efforts that Costa Rica has long championed, ensuring that future generations will also enjoy the country’s incredible marine ecosystems.
What Sets Costa Rica Apart
While the fishing and prizes were impressive, it’s the combination of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and commitment to sustainability that makes this country such a standout destination. With the Manuel Antonio National Park just down the road from Quepos, many participants extended their stays to explore the country’s wildlife and beaches.
Costa Rica’s Pacific coast offers more than just world-class sportfishing. The warm waters attract marine life from around the globe, making it a haven for whale-watching, snorkeling, and scuba diving. And with the country’s focus on conservation, visitors can rest easy knowing that their activities are contributing to, not taking from, the preservation of this unique ecosystem.
The Future of the Offshore World Championship
As the dust settles on this year’s Offshore World Championship, it’s clear that Costa Rica continues to be a favorite destination for anglers around the globe. With its stunning natural environment, eco-friendly tourism, and exceptional fishing, the country has cemented itself as a top contender in the world of competitive sportfishing.
Looking ahead, there’s no doubt that the OWC will continue to grow, drawing in even more international teams eager to compete in one of the world’s best fishing destinations. And with Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability and conservation, this tournament will remain an environmentally responsible event that anglers and nature-lovers alike can be proud of.
So, whether you’re an avid fisherman or just someone who appreciates the great outdoors, Costa Rica—and its Offshore World Championship—should be on your radar for 2025.
