Costa Rica Fishing Report: December 2025 Forecast

The month of December remains one of the top choices for anglers traveling to Costa Rica. As we officially enter the 2025 dry season (verano), visitors can expect blue skies, calm waters, and world-class opportunities for trophy catches. If you are planning a holiday getaway, here is the forecast for your Jaco fishing charter this December.

Why December Offers Exceptional Sportfishing

One of the biggest advantages of fishing the Central Pacific Coast in December is the water temperature. The transition to the dry season brings nutrient-rich currents and warmer surface temperatures. These conditions attract massive schools of baitfish (such as bonito and sardines), which in turn draw in the apex predators.

While December marks the start of the dry season, the infamous "Papagayo winds" generally haven't picked up full steam in the Central Pacific yet. This means that until mid-to-late month, the seas off Jaco and Los Sueños are typically flat and calm. With the rainy season behind us, water clarity improves drastically, making it the perfect time for both seasoned anglers and families to get out on the water.

Catch Forecast: Los Sueños & Jaco (December 2025)

The real draw of booking with Adventure Tours Costa Rica during this time is the variety. Whether you are looking for a half-day inshore trip or a full-day offshore deep-sea expedition, the biodiversity is at its peak.

Offshore: The Rise of the Billfish

If you are heading offshore, get ready for action. December is famous for the arrival of the Billfish. Anglers fly in from all over the world specifically to target the pelagic giants during this window.

As the waters warm, we see a significant increase in Blue and Black Marlin numbers. There is no need to wait until May; December is a prime month to potentially cross a 1,000+ lb Marlin off your bucket list. Additionally, Pacific Sailfish numbers begin to rise sharply in December, leading into their peak season (January–March).

Note on Tuna: While Yellowfin Tuna are present year-round, the massive "cow" tunas tend to be slightly less common in December than in the Green Season. However, getting a football-sized tuna on the line is still a very common and delicious bonus to any trip.

Inshore: Roosterfish and Table Fare

For those preferring to stay closer to the coastline, the rocky reefs near Jaco and Hermosa are teeming with Roosterfish. While catch-and-release is standard for these exotic beauties (they aren't great table fare), they fight incredibly hard and make for the ultimate photo trophy.

If you are looking to bring fresh dinner back to your condo or vacation rental, Snapper (Pargo) and Grouper season is still in effect. We suggest targeting the shallow rock piles for Cubera and Red Snapper before the season shifts later in the year.

Schedule Your 2025 Fishing Charter Today

Los Sueños in December is a fisherman's dream. With optimal water clarity, excellent weather, and high activity from Marlin and Sailfish, dates fill up incredibly fast for the holidays.

Don't miss the boat. Secure your boat and crew now by contacting Adventure Tours Costa Rica.