Seasons6 min readUpdated October 2026
Fishing Quepos in the green season
Tuna, mahi-mahi and quieter waters: why May to November is an underrated time to fish off Quepos, which charter to book, and how to plan around the afternoon rain.
What the green season is
In Costa Rica, the rainy season is called the green season, and from May to November the Central Pacific lives up to the name: the rainforest around Quepos and Manuel Antonio turns deep green, the water is warm and there are fewer boats on the water than in the busy dry months.
It rarely rains all day. The usual pattern is a bright morning and showers in the afternoon, which suits fishing well.
What bites from May to November
The green season belongs to yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi, two of the best fish to catch and to eat. Sailfish stay around offshore, and the inshore species are there all year:
| Species | Best months | Release or keep |
|---|---|---|
| Yellowfin tuna | May to November | Can be kept when regulations allow |
| Mahi-mahi | May to October | Can be kept when regulations allow |
| Sailfish | Peak December to April; present most of the year | Always released |
| Roosterfish | Year-round, strongest December to April | Released by default |
| Cubera snapper | Year-round | Can be kept when regulations allow |
| Red snapper | Year-round | Can be kept when regulations allow |
Tuna and mahi-mahi can be kept when regulations allow, so this is the season if fresh fish is on your list. Billfish are always released; learn how in catch and release in Costa Rica.
Fish the mornings
Two things line up early in the day: the sea is usually calmest in the morning, and in the green season the rain tends to come after lunch. Morning departures make the most of both. Offshore charters leave Marina Pez Vela at 7:00, and the half-day inshore has a 6:00 departure.
If you prefer the 13:00 inshore departure, pack a light rain jacket: a warm tropical shower on the water is part of the experience.
Which charter to book
In the green season, tuna and mahi-mahi are often within reach on a 3/4-day offshore trip, which makes it the classic choice. Choose the full day if you want the most hours offshore, or the half-day inshore at 6:00 for a shorter morning with the family:
| Charter | Departure | On the water | Price per boat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3/4-Day Offshore | 7:00 AM | 6–7 hours | $1,300 |
| Full-Day Offshore | 7:00 AM | 8–9 hours | $1,550 |
| Half-Day Inshore | 6:00 AM or 1:00 PM | 4–5 hours | $950 |
Every charter is private for up to six anglers, and the price is per boat. Compare all charters or, if it is your first time offshore, read what to expect on your first deep sea fishing trip.
Why it is underrated
Many visitors only think of the dry season, so the green season has real advantages for anglers: fewer boats around the fishing grounds, warm water, a lush green coastline for the ride out, and some of the year's best runs of tuna and mahi-mahi. Back on land, Manuel Antonio is greener and quieter too.
What to pack
Pack for sun and a shower, often on the same day:
- A light rain jacket
- Quick-dry clothing
- Sunscreen, a hat and polarized sunglasses: the sun is still strong
- A dry bag or a waterproof case for your phone
- Water and a light snack
All rods, reels and tackle are on board. If you are prone to motion sickness, read how to avoid seasickness on a fishing charter before the trip.
Plan around the weather
Book a morning departure, keep one day of your trip flexible in case a stormy day needs to move, and stay in touch with the team by WhatsApp so they can let you know if conditions change. For month-by-month details on every species, see the Quepos fishing seasons calendar.
Good to know
Green season fishing in Quepos: FAQ
Marina Pez Vela · Quepos
Ready to head out?
Pick your dates and your charter. Offshore, inshore, or a little of both.