January 1, 2026 Fishing Report

We are kicking off 2026 strong here in Los Suenos and Jaco. It is peak fishing season with warm water, calm seas, and some of the most sought-after catches in the world, including marlin, yellowfin tuna, and the aggressive roosterfish.

When you are ready to schedule your fishing excursion, look no further than the Costa Rica Central Pacific Coast. Take your New Year’s resolutions to fish more and enjoy your life seriously. Browse our available fishing charters and book your trip with Adventure Tours Costa Rica today.

Fishing Weather in January

January is arguably the best month for fishing as we are officially in the Costa Rica Verano (summer). This is one of the hottest months, so you can expect the temperature of the water to near 85° Fahrenheit or warmer, creating the perfect metabolic environment for active game fish.

Also helping to create world-class fishing conditions is the limited rainfall. January marks the solidified start of our dry season, meaning the blue water moves closer to shore. The types of fish that are most exciting to catch will be drawn to these clear Central American waters. While wind speeds may pick up slightly to approximately 5.5 mph, the seas generally remain calm, offering excellent visibility for both offshore trolling and inshore casting.

Top Catches in the Early New Year

With January being one of the peak months of the Costa Rican fishing season, both novice and experienced fishermen have an opportunity to enjoy some exciting battles. Whether you are hoping to stick to inshore fishing or head deep offshore, there are plenty of available catches in early 2026.

Inshore: The Roosterfish & Snapper

Roosterfish are in peak season between the months of November and March. Known for their gorgeous, comb-like dorsal fins, these fish are aggressive predators found along the surf and sandy ocean floors. If you are looking for a fish you can rely on to put up a fight, roosterfish are the way to go. Generally, you can find them in depths around 50 to 60 feet.

However, if you're looking for a catch that is excellent for the dinner table, snapper—including the massive Cubera—may be a better option as you fish inshore in Jaco and Los Suenos.

Offshore: Billfish & Tuna

You can also practice to compete in the Quepos annual World Billfish Series Championships if you are hoping to catch some of the popular sailfish that peak during January’s fishing season. These beautiful fish are famous for spending more time in the air than in the water once hooked, making for a spectacular show.

Those who prefer heavy-duty offshore fishing can bank on marlin to start their fishing season off right. January falls right in the sweet spot for Marlin (December to April), where you can encounter Blues or Blacks weighing upwards of 600 pounds.

You might also be able to reel in some yellowfin tuna. Often described as "one giant muscle," these fish offer a grueling fight and can grow to be massive in size, sometimes weighing upwards of 300 pounds. They are also, without a doubt, one of the tastier bites in the ocean.

Additionally, while the peak for mahi-mahi (Dorado) usually runs later in the year, January still offers chances to land these colorful, fast fish, well known for their gorgeous blue/green coloring and delicious filets.

Schedule Your First Fishing Excursion of 2026 Today

When you hope to enjoy your days in the Central Pacific Coast, look no further than Adventure Tours Costa Rica for our top-of-the-line fishing excursions. This time of year is ideal for world-class fishing opportunities.

Book your charter as soon as today when you call our office or fill out our online contact form.