Costa Rica Bassmaster

At a Glance

Our Costa Rica Bassmaster package will have you enjoy a week freshwater fishing on Lake Arenal for machaca, mojarra, and Costa Rica’s prized rainbow bass. The man-made Lake Arenal is the largest lake in Costa Rica at 33 sq miles so there is no shortage of structure and habitat for big fish. Fish with our expert local guide, who is also a trained naturalist guide, for a week of freshwater fishing, eco tours, and adventure tours. For a change of scenery make the 1.5 hr journey north to fish the exotic Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge for a day.

Package Details

Day One

Our Costa Rica Bassmaster package begins with you flying into San Jose, Costa Rica where you will be and taken to your waiting private van. We’ll head due north for three hours until we reach one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations, the Arenal Volcano. Stay at the world famous Tabacon Hot Springs Thermal Resort & Spa, known as much for its luxury and service as for its natural set of thermal hot springs. Enjoy first class in-room amenities, two pools, two restaurants, an incredible spa, and some of the world’s best hot springs.
Day Two

Let’s go fishing! Master angler Tirsio Hidalgo will pick you up early in the morning for a full day of fishing on Costa Rica’s largest lake. With nearly 30 years of experience fishing here Tirsio can read the lake and the conditions better than anyone in the country. He’ll supply all the bait casters and spinning reels you need, but feel free to bring your own poppers, crank baits, and deep diving lures as you’ll have opportunity to use them all!
Day Three

Let’s go fishing! Spend another day on the lake with Tirsio as you try to land your trophy rainbow bass, known locally as the guapote (handsome one). In addition to rainbow bass you can also catch tilapia, mojarra, and large machaca on the lake.
Day Four

Take a break from the lake and use this day to see the other attractions at the Arenal Volcano. Today you’ll rappel down five different waterfalls, the largest being over 150 ft!
Day Five

Let’s go fishing! In addition to trolling deep water for the monster rainbow bass certainly one of the most exciting things to do here is site cast to giant machaca. Referred to as ‘mini tarpon’ for their fighting ability and tendency to get airborne, you can usually find machaca near the various river mouths that empty into the lake.
Day Six

Last day of fishing with Tirsio – make it a good one!
Day Seven

You will be picked up and taken back to the SJO Airport for your international flight home.

Rainbow Bass

Machaca

Jaguar Bass

Why Fish With CAF?

We have been fishing, living, and traveling around Central America since 2003. Plan your trip with local experts to make sure you are in the right place, at the right time, and on the right boat. We’ll help you fish for what you want, the way you want.

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Free vacation planning + the best direct rates. No booking fees!

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Personalized service from pre-arrival to 24/7 in-country support.

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Hand-picked accommodations, fishing captains, expert guides for the best vacation experience.

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Nearly 40% of our anglers are repeat & referral guests. CAF puts you on the fish!

We are proud to have a global reach and have hosted anglers from 14 different countries here in Central America!

All fishing vacations booked with Central America Fishing include the following:

Free Vacation Planning (no fees + direct rates)
VIP Airport Meet & Greet upon arrival into SJO
Private, air-conditioned transfers with English speaking driver.
Luxury, private accommodations hand-picked and customized for your group. Choose between private condos & villas, luxury beach resorts, exclusive boutique hotels, and fishing lodges.
Private fishing charters
All eco / adventure tours you’d like to include
All Costa Rican taxes
Free quotes on travel insurance
Pre-arrival assistance with dinner reservations, tee times, pre-stocking your condo or villa, hiring a private chef, and special requests.
24/7 support once you are here in country