World-Class Angling

Costa Rica has long been recognized as one of the World’s Premier Sportfishing Destinations, and Manuel Antonio is at the heart of the action. Just minutes from the pristine beaches and rainforest, Marina Pez Vela in Quepos hosts some of the most prestigious international fishing tournaments, attracting professional anglers, celebrities, and fishing enthusiasts from all over the globe.

A Billfish Paradise

The tropical waters of Costa Rica, and specifically the fishing grounds accessible from Marina Pez Vela, are considered among the finest bill fisheries in the world. Offshore, anglers regularly pursue Pacific sailfish, blue marlin, black marlin, and striped marlin, while inshore waters teem with roosterfish, snappers, groupers, and other prized catches. This incredible diversity is part of what makes fishing tournaments here so unique—there’s always the possibility of a “bucket-list” catch.

Sportfishing Destination | World-Renowned Tournaments

Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast is home to tournaments that have gained international acclaim, including the Offshore World Championship, Pelagic Rockstar Tournament, Ladies Only Tournament, and several Seasonal Billfish Tournaments.

Marina Pez Vela is the epicenter of sportfishing in Costa Rica, with a full calendar of exciting tournaments each year.

Key Tournaments at Marina Pez Vela

• Offshore World Championship – The “Olympics of Sportfishing,” drawing qualifying teams from 30+ countries.

• PELAGIC Rockstar Offshore Tournament – A January favorite, known for its energy, huge prize purses, and festival-like atmosphere.

• Bisbee’s Costa Rica Offshore Tournament – New to Quepos, this April event expands the legendary Bisbee’s legacy with billfish release plus dorado & tuna categories.

• Pescadora Billfish Championship – February tournament highlighting billfish, often with a ladies-only division.

• Marina Pez Vela Open – A shorter-format event ideal for anglers of all levels.

• Dorado Derby & Dorado Derby Dos – Celebrating Costa Rica’s dorado season, with weigh and release divisions.

• Rooster Rodeo – A unique inshore tournament centered around the iconic roosterfish.

• Signature Open – A versatile event for competitive and casual teams alike.

Best Time to Fish in Quepos

From December through April, the dry season brings ideal offshore conditions for billfish. May through September offers dorado and tuna, while roosterfish and snapper thrive inshore year-round.

More Than Fishing

Each event turns the marina into a festival, with live music, great food, and family activities. It’s a celebration of Costa Rican culture and the sport of fishing.

While the thrill of sportfishing is unmatched, Manuel Antonio offers endless adventures on land and sea. Hike through Manuel Antonio National Park to spot monkeys and sloths, soar across rainforest canopies on a zipline, or take a whitewater rafting trip down the Savegre River. For a more relaxed day, a sunset catamaran cruise with dolphin watching is the perfect way to enjoy Costa Rica’s beauty.

Stay Close to the Action

For anglers and families traveling to Manuel Antonio for these world-class events, Escape Villas offers luxury vacation homes just minutes from Marina Pez Vela.

Plan your Costa Rica Fishing Adventure today!

With private pools, ocean views, and concierge services to arrange fishing charters or tournament participation, our villas are the perfect retreat after an exhilarating day on the water.

FAQs

Q1: What is the best time of year to fish in Costa Rica?
The peak season runs from December to April, with excellent conditions for billfish like marlin and sailfish. May to September is ideal for dorado and tuna.

Q2: Where are the biggest fishing tournaments in Costa Rica held?
Most major tournaments take place in Quepos, just minutes from Manuel Antonio, at Marina Pez Vela.

Q3: Can families enjoy fishing tournaments in Quepos?
Yes! These tournaments include live music, food festivals, and family-friendly activities, making them enjoyable even if you’re not fishing.

Q4: Why stay in a villa instead of a hotel?
Escape Villas offers privacy, luxury, and space—perfect for anglers and families who want a comfortable retreat close to the marina.