Fresh water meets saltwater drama: the tuna can bite hard. This private inshore fishing trip from Santa Teresa gets you out over the Nicoya Peninsula, with a real shot at trophy-size action and the chance to spot dolphins, manta rays, turtles, and whales depending on the season.

I love how easy this makes a sport-fishing day: it’s a private charter for up to 5 with all fishing equipment included, plus drinks and fruit on board. The main thing to think about is that fishing is nature, not a factory line, so some days can be slower than others even with a good captain and a plan.

Key highlights worth planning around

• Private charter up to 5: you move at your group’s pace and can tailor the trip to ages and experience.
• Inshore species variety: yellowfin tuna, mahi mahi, roosterfish, wahoo, snapper, jack crevalle, Spanish mackerel, and more.
• Natural reserve coastal stop: you’ll swing by Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve during the outing.
• On-the-water comfort included: soda/pop, water, soft drinks, beers, and fruit are part of the package.
• Wildlife potential: dolphins, manta rays, turtles, and whales may show up, depending on the season.
• Good odds, not guarantees: reviews brag about fast action, but fishing can still be a no-bite day.

Private Inshore Fishing Off Santa Teresa: The Setup That Makes It Work

Santa Teresa is a smart base for inshore sport fishing because the coast of the Nicoya Peninsula can deliver both action and scenery. This trip keeps things simple: you’re not fighting for slots on a crowded boat. It’s private, so your group controls the feel of the day—how long you fish a spot, how you handle kids or beginners, and what kind of pace you want.

At 3 hours 30 minutes on the water, you get enough time to actually fish, not just “sample” the experience. And the meeting point is clear: Jason Tours, The Lighthouse Road, about 25 meters south of the landmark, Malpaís (Provincia de Puntarenas). End time returns you back to the same place, which is a big deal when you’re traveling and just want the day to stay easy.

One more detail that matters: fishing isn’t just the “catch.” It’s the process. With a private inshore charter, you can reasonably expect line time to be the priority, not logistics juggling.

What You Can Catch: The Species List That Keeps the Day Interesting

The catch list for this trip is the reason it appeals to both hardcore anglers and families looking for excitement. You’re not betting on one species.

Here’s what’s specifically mentioned as possible:

• Yellowfin tuna
• Mahi mahi
• Roosterfish
• Wahoo
• Snapper
• Jack crevalle
• Spanish mackerel
• And more

That variety matters because it changes your mindset. If the tuna slows, you may still get a different bite pattern. If you’re chasing something specific, you’ll still have backup options. In the reviews, groups talk about landing multiple fish in a short window, with highlights like roosterfish and yellowfin tuna action.

Still, a reality check: fishing depends on conditions. One slower day doesn’t mean the boat is “doing it wrong.” It just means the fish aren’t in the mood. This is why I like private charters for inshore fishing: the captain can adjust for what the water is giving you rather than sticking to a rigid plan built for a mixed group.

The Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve Stop: Why This Coast Hook Is Worth It

The outing includes a stop at Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve. Even without a “museum-style” agenda, this matters because reserves tend to shape where boats spend time: you’re often operating near productive coastlines where marine life concentrates.

In practical terms, this stop helps make the day feel more like a true coastal outing, not only a fishing mission with a straight line to the next spot. You’re on the water around a protected coastal area, which can add both scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.

And yes, wildlife can happen while you’re fishing too. The trip explicitly mentions that you may see dolphins, manta rays, turtles, and even whales, depending on the season. When the reserve area lines up with seasonal movement, the day can turn into a rare mix of action and sightings.

Time on the Water: What 3.5 Hours Feels Like in Real Terms

3 hours 30 minutes is a sweet spot for inshore fishing. Long enough to feel like you truly “worked the water,” but short enough that the boat ride doesn’t become a grind, especially if you’re traveling with kids or non-anglers.

This is also one reason private charters are popular here. If someone is new to fishing, you can go slower, explain the rhythm of casting and reeling, and keep the day positive. If you’ve got experienced anglers, you can focus on staying locked into the best bite zone.

In the feedback, I see patterns like:

• Fish landing that happens quickly once the crew finds active water
• Trips that feel efficient, not chaotic
• Groups leaving energized even when they didn’t land every bite

One consideration: inshore waters can still get rough. If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring what works for you ahead of time. You’ll be out long enough to notice waves.

Included on Board: Drinks, Fruit, and the Gear You Don’t Have to Carry

This trip makes a smart move by removing friction. You don’t need to haul fishing equipment across Costa Rica.

Included:

• All the fishing equipment
• Soda/pop, water, soft drinks, beers, and fruit

Not included:

• Breakfast

That “no gear hassle” part is more valuable than it sounds. If you’re already juggling beach gear, a rain layer, sunscreen, and maybe snorkel stuff, the last thing you need is to figure out rods, reels, hooks, and tackle. Here, you show up and you fish.

The drinks and fruit inclusion also changes the vibe. After a fast, physical couple hours of reeling, having cold water and something refreshing onboard makes it feel like a full-day experience even though the trip is only half a day.

Two practical tips:

• Plan breakfast separately unless you’re eating on the way. Since breakfast isn’t included, you’ll want to be fed before heading out.
• Stay hydrated. Even in a shorter charter, sun and salt can sneak up.

Guides and Fishing Style: From Fast Finding to Hands-On Help

This is one of the places where the reviews provide a clear pattern: when the guide is dialed in, the fishing becomes fun fast.

Names that show up include Jason, plus guides such as Erik and Janvier. People specifically credit captains/guides with:

• Getting groups into the right area quickly
• Assisting during the action (helping when people are new)
• Cleaning the catch for at least some groups, which then makes it easier to eat fresh later

I can’t promise the exact same workflow for every day or every group, but I can tell you what to look for when you choose this trip: the best charter experiences are usually the ones where the crew doesn’t just put you in the water and hope. They adjust, they communicate, and they help you land what you hook.

One possible drawback to keep in mind: not every day becomes a bite-fest. A couple of comments point to slower fishing or less active effort. My advice is simple: arrive early, be flexible, and treat the charter as a chance at great fishing, not a guarantee. The ocean runs the show.

Wildlife Time: Dolphins, Manta Rays, Turtles, and Whales by Season

One of the biggest reasons people book this type of Santa Teresa outing is that fishing can overlap with wildlife spotting. The trip explicitly mentions:

• Dolphins
• Manta ray
• Turtles
• Whales, depending on season

Here’s the key practical angle: wildlife sightings are not constant. The best approach is to keep your camera ready but don’t build your whole day around a single species. You’re fishing first, wildlife is a bonus when conditions line up.

Also, if you’re sensitive to sun or wind, bring a layer. Even when wildlife is exciting, you’ll still be sitting on a boat. Wind chill can be real when you’re moving.

Price and Value: $360 for Up to 5 Makes Math Simple

The price is $360 per group, up to 5 people, for about 3.5 hours. That price point can feel steep if you compare it to public fishing trips. But private charters change the equation.

Here’s why it can be good value:

• You pay as a group, so the per-person cost drops when you fill the boat.
• Equipment is included, meaning you’re not paying extra or wasting time renting gear elsewhere.
• Drinks and fruit are part of the package.
• The private format gives you a more flexible day, which is especially helpful with kids or mixed experience levels.

Who gets the best value?

• Families (one boat, one plan, less waiting)
• Small groups of friends
• Anglers who want a true inshore sport-fishing day without negotiating with strangers onboard

If you’re traveling solo and can’t share, this may feel less attractive. But with up to 5 people, it’s a “split it and you’re in” kind of deal.

Booking timing note: this trip is typically booked about 24 days in advance on average. That tells me you shouldn’t wait until the last minute if you want a specific date.

What Could Go Wrong: The Real-World Considerations Before You Go

Fishing is weather-dependent, and the operator specifically notes that the experience requires good weather. That matters because:

• If conditions are unsafe, plans can change.
• You may be offered a different date or a full refund if cancellation happens due to poor weather.

For your personal planning, the main considerations are:

• Seasickness risk: consider medication or prevention if you need it.
• Arrival timing: with a private charter, punctuality helps the whole day run smoothly.
• Expectations: even strong crews can’t force fish to bite.

If you go in with a flexible mindset, you’re far more likely to leave happy, regardless of whether you land the exact number of fish you hoped for.

Should You Book Jason Tours in Santa Teresa?

If you want a private inshore fishing day with gear taken care of, drinks included, and a strong shot at catching multiple species, this is a solid choice. It’s especially appealing if your group includes mixed ages and skill levels, because private format makes it easier to match the day to the people on board.

I’d book it if:

• You’re traveling with up to 5 people and can split the cost
• You want a mix of fishing plus wildlife potential
• You like the idea of targeting inshore species like yellowfin tuna, mahi, and roosterfish

I’d think twice if:

• You’re expecting a guaranteed catch no matter the conditions
• Your group can’t handle boat movement in rougher weather

FAQ

FAQ

What is the price for this inshore fishing trip in Santa Teresa?

It’s $360 per group, with a group size of up to 5 people.

How long is the fishing trip?

The trip lasts about 3 hours 30 minutes.

What fish species are possible on this trip?

The trip lists yellowfin tuna, mahi mahi, roosterfish, wahoo, snapper, jack crevalle, Spanish mackerel, and more.

Is fishing equipment included?

Yes. All fishing equipment is included.

What drinks and food are included on board?

You’ll have soda/pop, bottled water, soft drinks, beers, and fruit included.

Is breakfast included?

No. Breakfast is not included.

Where is the meeting point?

Meet at Jason Tours, The Lighthouse Road, about 25 meters south of the landmark, Malpaís, Provincia de Puntarenas, Costa Rica.

Is it a private tour or shared experience?

This is a private tour/activity. Only your group participates.

What is the cancellation policy window?

There is free cancellation. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.