Introduction
Fishing in Costa Rica in January and February is a common topic among travelers planning a winter getaway. One of the most frequent questions anglers ask is: what fish can you catch during these months?
When booking a trip with Charter Fishing Costa Rica, the answer depends less on a strict seasonal calendar and more on how their fishing charters operate. According to their official service descriptions, trips are planned based on current ocean conditions, fishing style (inshore or offshore), and guest experience level, rather than guaranteed monthly species lists.
This guide explains what fish you can catch in Costa Rica in January and February, based strictly on the species and fishing styles that Charter Fishing Costa Rica publicly offers, and how those options apply during this time of year.
Source: https://charterfishingcostarica.com/
How Charter Fishing Costa Rica Selects Target Species
Charter Fishing Costa Rica does not promote fishing trips by promising specific species on exact dates. Instead, their approach focuses on:
- Offshore and inshore sport fishing
- Targeting game fish common to Pacific waters
- Adjusting locations and techniques based on daily conditions
- Providing fully guided fishing experiences
Because of this flexible strategy, fishing in Costa Rica during January and February gives guests access to the same core species available year-round, with daily adjustments made by the crew.
Source: https://charterfishingcostarica.com/
Offshore Fishing in Costa Rica in January and February
Offshore fishing trips with Charter Fishing Costa Rica target large pelagic species found in deeper Pacific waters.
According to the official website, offshore species commonly targeted include:
- Sailfish
- Marlin
- Yellowfin tuna
- Dorado (mahi-mahi)
These species are part of the offshore sport fishing experience offered on charter trips. Rather than selling trips around fixed seasonal guarantees, the crew focuses on finding active fish based on ocean conditions and weather patterns.
Source: https://charterfishingcostarica.com/
Inshore Fishing Options in Costa Rica During January and February
For anglers who prefer fishing closer to the coastline, Charter Fishing Costa Rica also offers inshore sport fishing trips.
According to their service descriptions, inshore and nearshore species include:
- Roosterfish
- Snapper
- Grouper
- Spanish mackerel
Inshore fishing typically focuses on rocky coastlines, reefs, and nearshore structures. These trips provide a different fishing experience compared to offshore trolling and remain available during January and February, depending on sea conditions and guest preferences.
Source: https://charterfishingcostarica.com/
What January and February Mean for Your Charter Fishing Experience
While the Charter Fishing Costa Rica website does not define January or February as a specific fishing “season,” these months fall within Costa Rica’s dry season, which often provides:
- Predictable charter schedules
- Easier access to offshore and inshore fishing grounds
- Comfortable conditions for half-day and full-day trips
Charter Fishing Costa Rica operates year-round, and January and February are considered standard operating months, with no restrictions on fishing styles or charter types.
Final species selection on any given day depends on:
- Ocean conditions
- Fishing style chosen
- Crew strategy
- Guest goals
Source: https://charterfishingcostarica.com/
How Charter Fishing Costa Rica Adapts Each Trip
A key feature of fishing with Charter Fishing Costa Rica is flexibility. According to their service descriptions:
- Routes are adjusted based on daily conditions
- Offshore and inshore options can be discussed before departure
- Crews tailor the experience to the group’s experience level
This approach ensures that fishing in Costa Rica in January and February is not limited by the calendar, but guided by real-time ocean conditions.
Source: https://charterfishingcostarica.com/
Who January and February Fishing Charters Are Best For
Based on how Charter Fishing Costa Rica presents its services, January and February fishing charters are ideal for:
- Travelers visiting Costa Rica during peak winter months
- First-time anglers seeking guided instruction
- Experienced anglers interested in offshore or inshore fishing
- Couples and small groups looking for a structured ocean experience
The absence of rigid seasonal species promises allows each trip to remain adaptable and experience-focused.
Source: https://charterfishingcostarica.com/
Final Thoughts on Fishing in Costa Rica in January and February
Fishing with Charter Fishing Costa Rica in January and February is about access, flexibility, and professional guidance, not fixed promises. Guests can expect the opportunity to target the same offshore and inshore species described on the official website, with daily decisions made by experienced local crews.
For travelers planning a winter trip, these months offer a reliable opportunity to experience Costa Rica’s sport fishing scene under favorable conditions.
👉 To explore available fishing charters, visit:
https://charterfishingcostarica.com/
About This Guide
- Who it’s for: Travelers planning a fishing trip in January or February
- Written: January 2026
- Sources: Charter Fishing Costa Rica official website only
- What to confirm: Daily fishing focus and conditions directly with the charter team

