For sport fishing thrill seekers pursuing the fishing experience of a lifetime, FAD fishing on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is a must-try. The region lays claim to an abundance of man-made sport fishing FADs, in an area called the Seamount(s) off the coast from Los Suenos and Quepos. This combination offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the entire country. According to Costa Rica Fishing Experts, “The Pacific coast of Costa Rica is one of the best-rated fisheries in the world, and the region off the coast between Los Suenos and Quepos is a hotbed of pelagic sport fish species because of the combination of the natural Seamounts and man-made FADs.”
In this article, we’ll explore FAD fishing charters on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, the types of FADs available, and how selecting the right fishing charter can guarantee a successful and enjoyable fishing trip.
What are Sport fishing FADs?
Sport fishing FADs are man-made or natural floating devices that are anchored to the ocean floor to attract baitfish, which, in turn, attract larger game fish. Man-made FADs are constructed using buoys, nets, and ropes, while natural FADs are floating debris such as logs, trees, and bamboo rafts that drift into the ocean. FADs concentrate pelagic fish, making them a prime location for anglers to catch trophy-sized game fish such as sailfish, marlin, tuna, and dorado.
The Seamount from Quepos and Los Suenos
The Seamount, also known locally as “The Pocket”, is a perfect location for setting up sport fishing FADs. The seamount is found approximately 65 miles off the coast of Quepos and Los Suenos. The FADs are strategically placed on a seamount, which are mountain peaks rising up from the ocean floor to a depth of 400 – 200 meters. The Pocket is considered to be one of the best fishing locations in the entire country. The Seamount naturally attracts a variety and a large number of game fish, including yellowfin tuna, dorado, and billfish, making the region a very popular destination for sports fishing enthusiasts to book FAD fishing charters.
Fishing Charter Selection, Equipment, and Crew
When looking to book a fishing charter for FAD fishing on the Pacific coast, it’s essential to consider the equipment and crew, and always recommended you seek out expert sport fishing advice, further, booking ahead with an expert is very important throughout the year. If you are checking charters yourself look for a charter that has top-of-the-line fishing equipment, such as reels and rods specifically designed for catching large game fish. The crew should be experienced in FAD fishing techniques and be able to offer guidance on how to catch trophy-sized game fish.
The success of FAD fishing also depends on the captain’s knowledge of the ocean currents, weather patterns, and the location of FADs. A knowledgeable captain can take you to the best fishing spots, increasing your chances of catching a prize game fish. When booking a fishing charter, consider the charter’s reputation and the experience of the crew to ensure a successful and enjoyable fishing trip.
Ongoing Conservation Efforts on FADs
FADs are a very effective tool for sport fishing, however improper use and setups, as well as materials and poor maintenance can pose a threat to non-game fish marine life.
To that end Costa Rica has been very proactive in terms of these environmental concerns and the fishing industry has taken steps to ensure responsible fishing practices, including the use of biodegradable FADs. Another point that is important to note is that fishing charters along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica have taken measures to safeguard their FADs are not left in the ocean for extended periods but are typically retrieved after a few days of use to prevent them from attracting unintended marine life.
To sum up, FAD fishing charters on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, especially the Seamount from Quepos and Los Suenos, offer anglers a unique and exciting fishing experience. Whether you choose to fish on man-made or natural FADs, the concentration of pelagic fish makes for a memorable day on the water. When selecting a fishing charter, ensure that they have top-of-the-line fishing equipment and an experienced crew to guarantee a successful and enjoyable fishing trip. FAD fishing charters are a surefire way to provide you with the amazing thrill of catching trophy-sized game fish in the beautiful waters of the Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
Pura Vida!
