TROPICAL FISHING COSTA RICA

Transcription

1 TROPICAL FISHING COSTA RICA Bahia Rica - w / Full board Do you want to experience a real adventure? Surrounded by jungle with monkeys and parrots, almost no people and fantastic fishing? Travel with XXL Adventure to Bahia Rica! The place is located in a calm bay in the Gulf of Nicoya on the beautiful west coast of Costa Rica. Here you are awakened by large flocks of parrots and howler monkeys which signal the start of a new day. The Gulf continues out to the wide open Pacific where the next stop is Asia! There are good fishing grounds off Bahía Rica and fishing can start almost immediately depending on what species you are looking for and how the tide is. The continental shelf on the west coast is also narrow, so the ride to get offshore is not too long and this is where the big fish lurk. There is an enormous variety of fish species in the area, and here you will find many of the most exciting species you can fish on. From the 25 foot sport fishing boat that is guided by a Norwegian marine biologist, we go after big and strong sport fish like Roosterfish and billfish and food fish such as sea bass and Dorado. Sport fish are always released again. The large surface activity makes the fishing experience even greater when we daily see large schools of fish that jump and hunt on the surface. It is also not uncommon to see turtles, whales, manta rays and dolphins. If you wish to fish for Sailfish, Marlin, Roosterfish, Dorado, Jack, Tuna, different sized sea bass and many other challenging species, here you will find exciting fishing with at least as exciting surroundings. It is in this area Hollywood recorded parts of "Jurassic Park". Price: 8 days - 5 days fishing: NOK ,- The price includes all local transport, accommodation in double room, food and drinks, 2 nights in San José, boat, guide etc.. This rate assumes 4 travelers. Flight Norway - Costa Rica is in addition (about NOK 8500,-) Costa Rica is Central America's natural wonderland; a unique showcase for nature and wildlife. Everything you can imagine - volcanoes, rain forests, foaming rivers, idyllic beaches - Costa Rica has it. This ecological variety makes Costa Rica a perfect destination for nature lovers, for people who want to experience a different culture and for those who want to be active and participate in many activities. This "Central America s garden of Eden" boasts a network of exciting rivers, lush jungles, national parks and beautiful beaches on both the Pacific and Atlantic coast. The political situation is stable and the country's cost of living is relatively low. Costa Rica is an exciting and new destination with great potential, and tourism shows a strong growth especially from Europe. The stable and pleasant climate makes Costa Rica a year-round destination. The country has a unique geography in addition to it being located between two oceans and not less than 11% of the country is designated to national parks. Price example assumes 4 people and it is possible to extend the stay several days if desirable. Price: 8 days - 5 days fishing: NOK ,- Included in the price: 5 full days of fishing - spread over six days (4 full + 2 half)

2 All local transportation. Transport roundtrip from airport to hotel and ferry pier Accommodation incl. breakfast, upon arrival and departure in San José Double room 6 days at Bahía Rica All meals during your stay All drinks like water and mineral water Fishing equipment (not fly fishing equipment). Not included: Flight roundtrip; Norway - Costa Rica (about 8500,-) Airport tax ($ 28) Travel and cancellation insurance Alcoholic beverages at night Tips for the crew For 3 fishermen add an additional NOK 3000,- pr. person For 2 fishermen add an additional NOK 6000,- pr. person Fishing around Bahía Rica The trip is based mostly on in-shore fishing. We target fish that stay near the shore, meaning islands or the mainland as well as underwater reefs. We fish with different techniques depending on what we are targeting. The most common methods include trolling with dead or live bait, or in combination with plastic squids. We also fish with poppers, wobblers, chunk bait or jigs depending on the species present. There are opportunities to try for record fish if one is a record hunter. If sailfish and marlin come within range there are opportunities to try out this fishing too. The in-shore fishing is the main attraction, but one day is usually set aside for offshore fishing if the conditions are good. If you wish to fish offshore for more than 1 day, this can easily be arranged for a small additional fee to cover the extra fuel costs. This is arranged directly with Bahia Rica. Seasons There are different fishing seasons but the fishing is generally good all year around. In-shore fishing is somewhat better in the rainy season (May to October) than in the dry season, while off-shore fishing is better in the dry season (November to April). These rules are very general and it is the daily fishing that counts. Record fish can be caught in any month. The boat Fishing takes place from the 25-foot-long Mono Congo which is equipped with a 175 Hp Suzuki 4 stroke engine. All fishing equipment (except fly fishing equipment) is included, so it is just to bring a lot of fishing luck. If you have a favorite rod, or own equipment you would prefer to use, bring this. It should accommodate a minimum of 200 meters 30lb or stronger line. Fishing usually begins between 6:00 and 8:00 depending on the tide and return between 4:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. It quickly becomes dark and at 6:00 p.m. there is no more daylight left. Equipment The equipment available consists of Shimano Tallus rods paired with Shimano TLD reels.

3 2 pcs TLD 20 with 20 lb line 4 pcs TLD 25 with 30lb line 2 pcs TLD 50 2 speed with 50lb line 2 x Shimano Baitrunner 3500 and 1 Shimano Baitrunner 4500, all with 40lb Power Pro lace paired with Ugly Stick rods If you want to fish with a fly you must bring both flies and rods. It is recommendable with a 9` class # 8 - # 12 depending on species. Some fish species: Roosterfish: This hard fighting fish is our favorite. It thrives around the many islands and reefs in the area, as well as along the beaches where they patrol after baitfish. They are captured all year, but June through October are the best months. There are opportunities for fish approaching the all-tackle record of 51 kg! Grouper/Snapper: There are a large number of groupers and snappers in Costa Rica. We concentrate on about 2-3 species where the largest can exceed 30 kg. They are found in the same areas as Roosterfish, but are much harder to get in because they seek caves in the reefs and easily cut the line. The fishing is good for grouper/snapper all year round. Pacific Sierra Mackerel: One is not in doubt when this one takes the bait. The first run is blistering before it calms down. This great edible fish is easiest to fish with Rapalas around the same areas as Roosterfish and grouper/snapper. We have taken several record fish, and there are also opportunities to compete for an all-tackle record. They are caught year-round, but December through April are the best months. Pacific Jack Crevalle: This is a toughie! It can show in large schools and when they are biting the fishing can be explosive. There are fish well above the all-tackle size. It can be out in the open sea, but thrives around structure. The best fishing is from June to October, but they are taken year round. A great fish on all types of equipment. There are also several other types of jacks and trevally (not GT) in the area. Milkfish: This is a fish usually associated with flats but thrive around the islands in the area where it is found in small to medium sized schools. They are only interested in flies and are extremely difficult to hook. It is mostly observed during the dry months from December to April. The fish are large and many fish are well over 20kg. Dorado (Mahi Mahi): This acrobat is not only beautiful because of its colors, but is also a delicacy on the dinner table. In the area around Bahia Rica, conditions are ideal for smaller dorado from June to October. Larger fish are close to shore from September to January. Otherwise there are usually big dorado in the same areas as the Sailfish. It is often found under floating debris. Fish over 20 kg are taken regularly.. Yellowfin Tuna: This is the right fish if you want to go crazy with sushi. It is a pure oceanic fish found offshore. If we find dolphins charging bait there is a good chance that tuna are also there. Tuna can be caught year round but the really big ones (100+ kg) are most common between June and September.

4 Sailfish: This is one of the most popular fish to fish for. It is extremely acrobatic and strong, but usually tires pretty fast. Trolling in the blue ocean waters is the recipe for catching sailfish. The fish has an average of over 50 kg and they can reach a maximum size of up to 100 kg. December to April is the best, but they are here all year round. Marlin: There are 3 types of marlin in the same areas where you are fishing for sailfish, or often even further out. The fish vary in size by species, but most common are fish from kg. There are reports of fish up to 400 kg. September, October and November are the best, but marlin are taken all year round. There are a lot of other different fish in the area that are not listed above. It can be a pleasant surprise if one hooks a wahoo, bonefish, amberjack, bull shark, blacktip reef shark, snook, crocodile needlefish, skipjack tuna, or stingray. Accommodation Since most flights from Norway arrive Costa Rica late evening and departure is early in the morning you will stay in a hotel near the airport on the first and last night. La Rosa de America has rooms with separate entrances and bathrooms (with hot water) which are in small bungalows spread out in a tropical garden. You will stay 2 together in each unit. NOTE! If there are few guests, you can get breakfast packed and to go. The other nights you will stay with Bahía Rica. Bahía Rica is privately owned by a Norwegian couple who aim to offer an exciting stay in Costa Rica in a real jungle setting. The Gulf of Nicoya is the perfect place to offer this and at Bahía Rica the combination of comfort and jungle feeling is perfect. The place is perfect for those who like a quiet atmosphere slightly away from the tourist trails. The guesthouse is located about 150 meters from the sea, has a basic standard, and it is informal and homely. Here you can relax in a hammock and enjoy the jungle sounds, do a workout with a kayak, or go hiking in the jungle if you have more energy after the fishing. A relaxed atmosphere characterizes Bahía Rica, with common areas for socializing and dining. There are still more monkeys than people here! Rooms: - Rustic guesthouse in a lush jungle setting - Simple standard but nice and clean - 3 rooms 2 beds in each - Orthopedic mattresses and down pillows (rare commodity in Costa Rica) - Fans in all rooms Details: - Surrounded by lush jungle - Kayaks can be rented if you want a little sightseeing around the islands - Our kitchen offers a tasteful international menu with lots of fresh fruit and seafood - Free laundry (1 machine per room per week) Climate

5 There are two seasons in Costa Rica. The dry period is from November through April. The rest of the time it can rain. The rainy season is not bad here and that means essentially that there may be a strong shower, usually after dark. September and October are considered the wettest months and there could be days it is not possible to fish. It is a pity since it often fantastic fishing these months. The climate is tropical with an average temperature of 28 degrees year round. Anyway, the sun is strong and it is recommended to use sunblock. The reflection from the water also makes it is wise to bring polarized sunglasses and a cap or similar. Long-sleeved thin shirts are great to use. Shorts are good and recommended, but remember to use sunscreen! At times there can be mosquitos but it is normally not a big issue. Bring mosquito repellent if you are normally really bothered, otherwise it can be purchased at Bahía Rica. Alternative activities: There are many options if you want a day break from the usual fishing. Optionally a separate program can be set up for a "non-fishing" traveling companion. For example a combination tour with fishing and kayaking or pure kayaking or sightseeing tours. Some may want a few days on the beach, and we can arrange jungle tours in the tropical dry forest. We send out an info sheet on activities if anyone is interested in this for themselves or their family. PRACTICAL INFORMATION Important things and know before, during and after departure: Visa: Norwegians do not need visas to come to Costa Rica but the passport must be valid for 6 months after the return. If you are in transit to the United States you must have an electronic passport of the new type, as well as a tourist visa for the United States. The tourist visa can be obtained after a quick registration on the ESTA website. You will receive a link in good time before departure. Vaccines: In the area where we will travel there is no malaria or other nasty diseases. It is recommended to have Hepatitis A and B and typhoid in all of Costa Rica. However should you be traveling around there can be malaria in some places in the southern part of the Caribbean coast. Currency: The national currency is colones (530 colones 7,5 Norwegian kr). US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. It is advisable to bring some US dollars in small bills, 20 or less. Avoid taking with 100 and 50 dollar bills, as most places do not accept these. TIP: Do not exchange dollars at the airport in CR because the exchange rate is bad. There are ATMs most places that accept VISA, there is less coverage for MasterCard but many ATM s take this as well. Clothes / useful to include: On the coast there is a tropical climate so light shirts and shorts are normal wear. Evenings are usually tropical nights (over 20 celsius) with very comfortable temperatures. For jungle walks and mountain areas it is okay to have a thin long-sleeved shirt and light pants and good shoes and a light raincoat.

6 Bring: Flashlight, sunglasses, sunscreen strongest factor, sunhat/visor or similar headgear, mosquito repellent (there is not much, but enough that it's okay with repellent) and a dry bag if possible (we have some but not always enough for everyone). Phone: SIM cards with a Costa Rican phone number can be now be purchased at the airport or the hotel. Calling cards are also available. Calling Scandinavia on the cell phones is often quite expensive so an alternative is Skype as there is now have a wireless connection in the commons area. Power: 110 V, the same as in the US. On some articles chargers, shavers and PCs, you need only a plug adapter. Time difference: 7 hours (8 hours when there is daylight savings in Scandinavia) Arrival and departure: The airport you are going to is named Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO) and is a half hour drive from downtown San José and about a 1 ½ hour drive from Puntarenas where you take the ferry to Paquera and Bahía Rica. Departure Tax: When going out of the country again, one must pay a departure tax of US $ 28 at the airport. This can be paid in cash (US $ or colones) or by credit card. Travel and cancellation insurance: We offer great rates on travel and cancellation insurance. Cancellation insurance is something many customers do not think about, but is important if something should happen before departure, and that prevents you from going (illness, divorce, damages etc.) Order your dream trip to Costa Rica now!