Arenal Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Costa Rica and is an extremely popular fishing destination thanks to the spectacular views of the Arenal Volcano in the background. Most days Arenal Volcano has small bursts of smoke and flames, making for an exciting fishing trip. This is a great chance to enjoy the fabulous landscape as well as the wildlife in and around Arenal Lake. When fishing in Arenal Lake the two most likely species you will catch are Machaca and Rainbow Bass.
Lake Arenal is the largest man-made lake and attracts anglers from all over the world looking to do some inland fishing in beautiful Costa Rica. Lake Arenal fed by a variety of rivers is full of Rainbow Bass or Guapotes (the handsome one in Spanish and a cousin of the Peacock Bass), Machacas (smaller version of the Tarpon but related to the Piranha), Mojaras (looks like a sunfish) and tilapia escapees of a breeding farm.
Almost all fishing tours you will encounter several bird and animal species. We regularly see howler monkeys, white-face capuchin monkeys, giant iguanas, laughing falcons, ospreys, wild pigs, deer, pizotes, and sometimes two very elusive animals, the mysterious tayra and the giant anteater.
Go fishing with us at the Arenal Lake, our fishing guide, Captain has more than 25 years of experience fishing this lake will put you on the fish.
Fishing in Arenal Lake
We offer Full day and Half day options, Fishing Arenal Lake with real experts, any month between March-July will produce lots of fish. Between August and February, you will mostly catch Machacas and tilapia although occasionally some rainbows will hook up.
Fly Fishing is our specialty. Fishing Arenal Lake is also one of our favorite places to practice Fly Fishing in Costa Rica, there we have Boston Whaler boats available for full day and Half day trips, Fly Fishing is our passion and we will be happy to explain and give you lots of tips.
If you are planning to pack a tackle box we recommend surface poppers, Dippe diver rapalas 14, jigs and crank baits..
We have Fly Gear for you! Fully equipped boats with bass seats, life vests, safety gear, Fresh sandwiches, fruit, snacks, beverages & beer, 18' Boston Whaler with 115 hp Yamaha Engine, Top-quality equipment, tackle, lures provided, Lowrance electronics, GPS, and marine radio, Pick-up/drop-off at convenient locations, Comfy lounging cushions.
My husband and I went fishing all day yesterday. We had an absolute BLAST! We caught lots a fish. The captain was so nice with a great personality. The mate waited on us the entire time...