Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your Pacific Kayak Fishing adventure.
The big question……..What makes kayak fishing different from fishing from a boat?
Kayak fishing offers a unique connection to the ocean that's hard to replicate from a larger boat. Without the noise of an engine, you're closer to the water and the wildlife around you. Every bite feels more exciting, and when a powerful fish like a roosterfish takes off, the kayak becomes part of the fight, creating an unforgettable experience. It's an adventure that's just as much about the journey as it is the catch.
Planning Your Trip
Do I need previous kayak fishing experience?+
No! We’ve taken many people out for their first kayak fishing adventure. Many guests have previously been fishing or kayaking but never kayak fishing. No worries, we’ve got everything handled to make sure everyone has a safe and memorable day.
Are your trips private or shared?+
Our Maximum group size is 3 anglers. Guests that sign up as individuals may be accompanied by up to two other anglers. Groups of two may be accompanied by another individual. Our typical charter size is usually two guests.
What is included in the trip?+
Everything we need for the day is included. All the equipment, fishing license, food and drink we need for the trip are included. Please note the only thing not included in the trip price is transportation to and from the launch site.
What should I bring?+
Guests should bring extremely sun protective clothing as well as sunblock. We recommend every angler bring a long sleeve UPF shirt with a hood, sunglasses, hat. For men we recommend lite weight fishing pants, a pair of board shorts with leggings underneath, boardshorts with lots of sun block on the legs. For women we recommend yoga pants/leggings with a bathing suit beneath.
What if the weather is bad?+
Safety is always our first priority and if we have to cancel the trip due to weather guests are entitled to a full refund.
Where do we launch from?+
We have two primarily launch locations for the kayaks. Which launch location we use is determined by oceanic conditions. We launch from Playa Mantas, which is located about 25 minutes from Jaco. Our alternative launch location is the public beach located inside the Los Suenos Resort and Marina. The launch location is determined as early as possible by the guide with clear instructions given on how to get to either before the trip.
Fishing & Kayaks
What kind of fish can we catch?+
We target Roosterfish, a variety of snapper, grouper and trevally species, spanish mackerels, and a variety of other inshore species. Its not common but occasionally we have encounters with pelagic species such as sail fish and mahi mahi.
Can I keep the fish I catch?+
Fish of legal size and in season will be cleaned by the guide for the guests. If a fish is to be released or harvested is always at the discretion of the guide.
Are the Hobie kayaks stable?+
The kayaks are very stable. Most people pick up the maneuvering of the kayaks very quickly. Out of the hundreds of guests we’ve taken, only two have ever tipped and fallen out of the kayak.
How physically demanding is the trip?+
The trip would be considered moderately demanding. The pedaling of the kayaks is not physically tiring in itself, but it is constant. The output exerted to propel the kayaks is similar to that of walking at a brisk pace, or pedaling a bicycle on flat ground. The part that is most demanding about the trip is the sun exposure. We are located only nine degrees above the equator and there is no shade on the kayaks.
Is there a weight limit?+
Yes. Our kayaks are designed to accommodate guests up to 225 lbs. We’ve had guests as tall as 6’5” use the kayaks with no problem.
Will I get wet?+
When launching and landing the kayaks guests will get a little wet. We help guests into the kayak and onto the water. Depending on ocean conditions guests should expect to get into about thigh to waist deep water. The guide will have a dry bag for things like, keys, wallets, phones.
Can I bring my own fishing equipment?+
No problem. Please just let us know beforehand so we can make sure that we have everything we will need covered for our adventure.
How far offshore do we fish?+
The furthest we will go from the shore is 1-2 kilometers.
Do I need a fishing license?+
No. A fishing license is included in your trip. This license is also good for you to fish from the beach in Costa Rica. It is valid for up to one year from the date it is purchased.
Kids & Additional Guests
What is the minimum age?+
The minimum age for an angler to be in their own kayak is 13 years old. For a child to ride in the double kayak, and be accompanied by an adult or parent the minimum age is 9.
Can children participate?+
Absolutely. We love helping kids get into kayak fishing. Kayak fishing is great for children because they are the captain of their own boat! It teaches them responsibility and empowers them to experience fishing from a whole new way that we encourage 100%.
Can non-fishing guests come?+
Yes. We have plenty of kayaks, life jackets and room in the cooler for more snacks and drinks. The cost to join the trip and not fish is $80.00 per person.
Transportation & Booking
Do you provide transportation?+
No we do not. Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the launch site. If guests don’t have their own vehicle we recommend using Uber.
What is your cancellation policy?+
Guests may cancel for any reason up to one week before the scheduled trip for a full refund. Any trips that are canceled within a week of the scheduled departure will lose their deposit. Trips that have paid a deposit can be rescheduled any time within one calendar year of the original scheduled fishing date without losing their deposit.