Planning · 3 min read
What to bring on a fishing charter in Costa Rica
A day on the Pacific near Manuel Antonio needs less than you think. Here is a short checklist for sun, clothing and comfort, what changes between a half day and a full day offshore, and what to ask us before you go.
Updated October 2026
Quick answer
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, polarized sunglasses, light quick-dry clothing with a long-sleeve layer, non-slip shoes, water, snacks and a phone or camera in a small waterproof bag. On a full day offshore, add more water and food. Ask us before the trip what is already on board.
The essential checklist
Pack it all in one small soft bag. The boat is a private 32-footer, so there is no need for more.
Sun
- Reef-safe sunscreen, reapplied often
- A hat or cap that will not fly off
- Polarized sunglasses, which also help you spot fish
- Lip balm with SPF
Clothing
- Light, quick-dry shirt and shorts
- A long-sleeve layer for sun and spray
- Non-slip shoes or sandals with a back strap
- A light rain jacket in the green season, May to November
In the bag
- Water and your favorite snacks
- Phone or camera in a small waterproof pouch
- A small towel
- Any personal medication you normally carry
Half day or full day: what changes
The list stays the same; what changes is how much water and food you bring, and how much sun you will get.
Inshore, 5 to 7 hours
- Charters
- Half-Day Inshore and 3/4-Day Inshore
- Pack
- The essential checklist, with snacks for a short day. On a 1:00 PM start, sunglasses matter more: you are out in the strongest afternoon sun.
Offshore, 7 to 9 hours
- Charters
- 3/4-Day Offshore and Full-Day Offshore
- Pack
- Extra water, a real lunch, more sunscreen and the long-sleeve layer. Both trips leave at 7:00 AM and spend the day in open blue water.
If you are prone to seasickness
Plan ahead rather than on the boat. An inshore charter keeps the ride shorter and closer to the coast.
- Ask your pharmacist or doctor about options before the trip
- Sleep well and eat a light breakfast
- Stay in the fresh air and keep your eyes on the horizon
- Sip water through the day
What to leave at the hotel
Space on deck is for fishing, so travel light.
- Hard suitcases and bulky bags
- Valuables you will not need on the water
- Glass bottles
Ask us before you go
What is on board can vary, so a quick message before the day saves you packing twice. Ask us on WhatsApp at +506 6277 1812 or by email.
- Which drinks and snacks are on board
- Whether rods, tackle and bait are provided
- Whether the fishing license is handled for you
- Where exactly to meet in Marina Pez Vela
Still deciding?
See all four charters side by side, with prices for your group size.
Questions
Packing questions
Keep reading
-
FamiliesFishing in Manuel Antonio with kids: a family guideWhich charter works best with children, when to go out and how to keep the day short and fun.
-
PlanningMorning or afternoon fishing charter: which is better?Which charters leave at 7:00 AM or 1:00 PM, and how to fit a fishing trip around the rest of your holiday.
-
BookingHow to book a fishing charter in Manuel Antonio, step by stepFrom picking the charter to meeting the boat at Marina Pez Vela: dates, WeTravel or WhatsApp, and what happens next.
Marina Pez Vela · Quepos
Found your charter?
Book it now on WeTravel, or ask us on WhatsApp about your dates.