Here’s our fishing report for November at Los Sueños Resort and Marina, Playa Herradura, Costa Rica:
Offshore Fishing
November marks the start of the prime billfish season, with excellent opportunities to catch sailfish and marlin as they become more abundant in the area. Blue marlin is particularly active; some striped and black marlin may also be encountered. Mahi-mahi (dorado) fishing peaks during this time, with larger schools appearing thanks to floating debris brought by seasonal rains. Yellowfin tuna, especially near pods of spinner dolphins, remains a consistent target for anglers. Dream Maker reported that “they had released Sailfish and a couple of Marlin, 30 Tunas and some Dorado”.
Inshore Fishing
Anglers can expect a productive inshore fishing experience closer to the coast. November is a great month for targeting roosterfish, a prized species known for its fight. Other species, such as snapper and grouper, can be found near rocky outcrops and reefs, offering opportunities for bottom fishing. Dream Maker reported some Rooster, Snapper, and rabbit fish.
See all fishing reports: https://www.stayincostarica.com/los-suenos-blog/category/fishing-reports/
Fishing Techniques & Best Gear for November
Los Sueños fishing charters typically include the boat, crew, permits, and necessary fishing gear, such as rods, reels, teasers, baits, and lures. When you book your charter, request a breakdown of inclusions. Feel free to bring your own tackle if you have distinct preferences about fishing gear.
Lures and Baits
Trolling with lures and baits is the best strategy to catch billfish, mahi-mahi (dorado), and yellowfin tuna. You can use a combination of lures and baits.
If your exclusive targets are black and blue marlin, try spreading large, active lures on heavy tackles. Their large size and fish-raising action make them visible and attractive to these pelagic predators.
If your target includes other fish besides blue and black marlin—e.g., white marlin, sailfish, and other types of billfish—natural bait (e.g., a spread of chin-weighted ballyhoo on circle hooks) may work better.
Consider having pitch bait ready to go. Drop it into the water the moment a curious fish shows, or pitch it towards a reluctant catch. While the lures or bait in a trolling spread may attract attention, pitch bait can be more tempting. In particular, live pitch bait can improve your chances of hooking sailfish and increase the number of hookups.
Trolling Speeds
You can experiment with varying trolling speeds between two and nine knots. Maintain a speed at the higher end of this spectrum when trolling offshore.
A trolling speed of 8.5 knots should serve you well under normal conditions when trolling with artificial and dead bait. Trim that down by 1.5-2 knots to attract tuna. If using live bait, slow down significantly (think two knots) to allow your bait to move naturally. Finally, continually adjust your speed when the waters are rough.
Jigging and Bottom Fishing
Jigging and bottom fishing are techniques used primarily in calm, nearshore waters to catch snapper and grouper. When catching fish inshore, choose a smaller lure for smaller fish and a bigger one for a larger target. It’s best to include a selection of lures in your kit to adjust as needed.
You want a fast-action rod and a lure without built-in tail action when jigging and bottom fishing. This lets it sink deeper and allows you to jig to mimic the gliding, sinking motion of a dying fish.
It’s important to bounce a jig at the bottom. Thus, choose the proper jighead weight: heavier for deeper waters but adjusted according to the current and wind conditions. Do not use a heavier jighead than necessary because it’s better if the jighead can sink, bounce, and glide smoothly instead of sinking heavily and snagging.
🎣 Ready for the Ultimate Sportfishing Adventure?
Set sail from Los Sueños and experience world-class fishing in the heart of Costa Rica’s waters. Whether you’re after marlin, sailfish, or a thrilling day on the ocean, our expert crew and luxury boats ensure a trip of a lifetime.
Limited charters available. Book yours now!
Expert Angler Tips for November Fishing
The best time of the day to fish offshore or inshore is during sunrise and sunset. Any time there is a transition between dark and light and light and dark (when feeding behaviors are triggered) is a good time to go fishing.
Inshore species like roosterfish and snapper are more active during tide transitions. High tide is better when nearshore fishing; the deeper water entices fish to swim farther inshore. However, low tide conditions are more conducive to bottom fishing.
Do not forget your wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Apply a generous amount of sunblock, too. Protecting yourself from the sun is important no matter which month or season you go to fish in Los Sueños.
Marina & Post-Fishing Activities
After a full day of fishing, bring your yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, grouper, or snapper to one of the Los Sueños restaurants in Costa Rica. The following are a few of those that will cook your catch for you. That said, a restaurant in and around Marina Village should be amenable to cooking your fish if you ask them to.
- The Hook Up in Marina Village
- Dolce Vita Coffee & Sweets in Marina Village
- Bambu Sushi & Asian in Marina Village
- Lanterna Italian Steakhouse in Marina Village
- El Pelicano on Herradura Beach
- Soda Kathia on Herradura Beach
On the rare days you’re not on a boat fishing, you can spend the day lounging by the free-form swimming pool at the Los Sueños Beach Club. It has a swim-up bar, a jacuzzi, changing and showering facilities, and gorgeous views of the beach and the Marina. A Los Sueños Costa Rica luxury house rental should come with a Beach Club pass.
On other days, you can play a few rounds of golf at the lush, 18-hole championship Los Sueños golf course, La Iguana. If you’re feeling particularly tired, get a rejuvenating treatment at the Sibö Spa at Marriott Hotel.
General Notes
The Los Sueños Marina is renowned for its world-class facilities and experienced captains. November’s transition into the dry season often brings calmer seas and pleasant weather, perfect for novice and experienced anglers. Charter options range from half-day inshore trips to full-day offshore expeditions.
If you’re planning a trip, book your fishing charters early, as this is a popular time for anglers worldwide. Don’t forget to explore the marina’s amenities and local dining options after a day on the water.
Let us know if you’d like assistance planning your trip!
Thank you, Dream Maker 35′ Cabo, for taking good care of our clients.
Let’s Make Your Dream Sportsfishing Holiday Happen
Explore the best packages and offers today
