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Planning a fishing charter out of Los Sueños or Herradura? Before you head out, there’s one small but important detail: your Costa Rica fishing license. It’s quick and inexpensive to get, but it is required, and not every charter includes it. Here’s everything you need to know before your trip.
Do you need a fishing license in Costa Rica?
Yes. Under Costa Rican law (Law 8436, Article 75), everyone fishing from a sport fishing boat must carry a valid fishing license issued by INCOPESCA, the Costa Rican Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture. That applies to tourists, residents and citizens alike.
The license is per person, not per boat. If four people in your group will be fishing, you’ll need four licenses. Passengers who are only along for the ride don’t fish, so check with your captain about how they handle non-fishing guests.
How much does it cost?
Tourist licenses are sold for different lengths of stay. Current prices are approximately:
| Length | Approximate price |
|---|---|
| 8 days | about $17 |
| 30 days | about $28 |
| 1 year | about $57 |
Prices are in US dollars, include tax, and can change, so confirm the current amount on the INCOPESCA website when you buy. For most visitors on a one-week trip, the 8-day license is all you need.
How to get your fishing license
You have two options:
- Online, before your trip (easiest). Buy your license on the official INCOPESCA website, incopesca.go.cr. You’ll need your passport details and a card for payment. Print it or keep a copy on your phone.
- In person. You can also buy one at an INCOPESCA regional office in Costa Rica, though that takes time out of your vacation.
Tip: some captains and tour operators can arrange 8-day licenses for their guests in advance. If you’d rather not deal with it yourself, ask us when you request your charter and we’ll check with the boat.
Do charters include the license?
Some do and many don’t. On BookyBee, each charter’s Important Information section tells you whether the license is included. For example, on the Take It Easy charter, every participant needs their own valid license. If it isn’t clear, just ask us before you book.
Fishing from Jaco: Los Sueños and Herradura
Most fishing charters near Jaco leave from Los Sueños Marina or Herradura Bay, just a few minutes north of town. From there you can choose:
- Half-day trips, usually inshore or near-shore, great for families, beginners or a shorter outing.
- Full-day trips, which run farther offshore for bigger game fish and usually include lunch on board.
The Central Pacific is known for sailfish, marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi and roosterfish, and catch-and-release is standard for billfish. Sailfish are generally most active from about December to April, but there’s good fishing all year.
Compare boats, sizes and prices on our Jaco fishing charters page, or read our guide to fishing charters from Herradura and Los Sueños.
Fishing license checklist
- Buy one license per person who will fish
- Choose the 8-day, 30-day or 1-year option based on your stay
- Buy online at incopesca.go.cr before you arrive
- Keep a printed or digital copy with you on the boat
- Check your charter’s Important Information for what’s included
- Bring cash for tips for the captain and crew
Frequently asked questions
Do kids need a fishing license in Costa Rica?
The rule applies to anyone fishing from a sport fishing boat. If your children will be holding a rod, plan on a license for each of them, and confirm with your captain before the trip.
Do I need a license for catch-and-release?
Yes. The license is required to fish from the boat, whether you keep your catch or release it.
Is a license needed for fishing from the beach?
The requirement described here covers fishing from a boat, which is how almost every visitor fishes in Jaco. If you plan to fish from shore, check the current rules with INCOPESCA.
Can I buy the license the morning of my charter?
You can buy it online at any time, but don’t leave it to the last minute. Buy it a few days ahead so you have your copy ready when you step on board.
Ready to book your charter?
Requesting a charter on BookyBee is free. Pick your boat, send a request with your date and group size, and our local team will confirm availability by email or WhatsApp. You’ll get a secure payment link only once your boat is reserved, and we’re happy to help with your license questions along the way.
License prices and rules are set by INCOPESCA and may change. Always confirm current requirements at incopesca.go.cr before your trip.
