What to Bring on a Costa Rica Fishing Charter — Packing Checklist

Why Packing Right Matters on a Costa Rica Charter

A day of sport fishing in Quepos means hours of direct tropical sun, ocean spray, and — if you hook into a sailfish or roosterfish — some real physical effort. None of that is a problem if you pack correctly. Most first-time issues we see, like sunburn, seasickness, or a soaked phone, come down to what someone brought, not the fishing itself.

The good news: you don't need much. Costa Rica Fishing Company supplies all rods, reels, tackle, ice, water, and safety gear on every charter — this list is about what makes your day comfortable, not what catches the fish.

What to Wear on Your Charter

Clothing: Lightweight, quick-dry synthetic fabrics — like fishing shirts or athletic wear — beat cotton, which stays wet and heavy once splashed. Long sleeves and pants in breathable fabric add sun protection without the heat.

Footwear: Closed-toe boat shoes or sneakers with non-slip soles. Flip-flops come off during a fight with a fish and become a tripping hazard on a wet deck.

Layers: Mornings on the water can be cool and windy, especially heading out to the offshore grounds — a light windbreaker or rain jacket packs small and earns its space.

Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable

Costa Rica sits close to the equator, and there's no shade once you're past the breakwater. Reef-safe, broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), applied before you board and reapplied every couple of hours, is the single most important item on this list. A wide-brim hat with a chin strap — so it doesn't end up in the Pacific — polarized sunglasses with a retention strap, and a buff or neck gaiter round out the sun kit.

Polarized sunglasses aren't just for comfort — they cut glare off the water's surface, which makes it dramatically easier to spot rolling sailfish, feeding birds, and the color changes in the water that signal fish.

What to Bring for Comfort

Motion sickness affects even experienced boaters on their first offshore trip. If you're unsure how you'll do, take a non-drowsy motion sickness tablet the night before and the morning of departure — not once you're already at sea and feeling it. Ginger chews make a mild backup. A light breakfast beats an empty stomach or a heavy one.

Bring a dry bag or a simple zip-top bag for your phone, wallet, and any electronics — spray comes over the bow more than people expect, even on calm days.

Electronics & Photography

Your captain will usually snap photos of any catch before release, but if you want your own shots, a waterproof phone case or an action camera with a floating strap is worth packing. A charged power bank is smart for full-day charters, since phones drain fast in direct sun while shooting video.

What NOT to Bring

Cotton clothing that stays wet all day. Flip-flops or sandals. Loose hats without a strap. Heavy suitcases or non-collapsible coolers — space on a 31-foot boat is limited. And glass containers of any kind, which aren't allowed on board for safety.

Quick Packing Checklist

Here's the full list at a glance — save it or screenshot it before you pack:

• Sunscreen (reef-safe, SPF 30+)
• Wide-brim hat with a strap
• Polarized sunglasses with strap
• Quick-dry clothing
• Light jacket or windbreaker
• Closed-toe non-slip shoes
• Dry bag or zip-top bag for electronics
• Motion sickness tablets (if needed)
• Light snack or breakfast
• Cash or card for tips