The pristine and secluded water, coupled with the breathtaking scenery of the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, makes Nicaragua an angler’s paradise. The abundant marine life found in the region’s waters gives anglers excellent opportunities to make great catches.
Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, you will easily find popular fishing spots in Nicaragua so you can enjoy a successful fishing adventure.
Nicaragua Offshore Fishing
Nestled in the Pacific coast of the country, San Juan del Sur is a sought-after destination for offshore fishing. The coastal stretch here has a steep descent, making it easier for anglers to reel in more fish within just a few miles into the sea.
Some popular offshore species found in Nicaragua are:
Marlin
The best time to catch this world-class sport fish in Nicaragua is between May and September. Blue Marlin is more common here than black and striped Marlin. Book our fishing charter to take you to the spots where Marlins are abundantly found.
Sailfish
This acrobatic member of the billfish family is found throughout the year. It is highly active between April and August whereas the slowest time is December and January. Be sure to build some strength to catch these 5-7 foot fast-paced fish in our luxurious, well-equipped fishing charters in Nicaragua.
Yellowfin Tuna
The time between April and January is the best period to catch this prized giant. They are one of the largest species of tuna. We usually catch Yellowfin Tuna by trolling and using live bait. And the average size we catch is around 10-20lbs. Our local charters in San Juan del Sur offer guided trips, providing equipment and expertise to maximize the chances of a successful catch. If you are lucky, you could hook a great trophy!
Mahi Mahi (Dorado)
It is one of the fastest-growing fish. Mahi Mahi is locally called Dorado or dolphin fish because of its dorsal fin which makes it look like a dolphin. These neon-colored beauties are highly active from April to December. See this bull with its big pronounced head. The average size of catching Mahi Mahi in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua is typically between 15 and 30 pounds.
White Tuna (False albacore)
These torpedo-shaped fish get their name from their silvery-white bodies and distinct dark dots and can reach sizes over 25 pounds.
Book our Nicaragua fishing charters between December and February if you want to catch this highly prized food and sport fish. False albacore strikes hard and makes blistering runs, taking line off the reel at a frantic pace when hooked. It is one of the fastest and hardest-fighting fish, so be ready for the challenge.
Bonito (Skipjack tuna)
Derived from the Spanish word ‘beautiful’, Bonito is a medium-sized, tuna-like fish with a shiny green body and a forked tail. Bonitos (aka Skipjack tuna) are called “Black Tuna” in Nicaragua due to their dark-colored meat. Their meat is oily and has more of a fishy flavor compared to other species thus they are less favorable as table fare to the general public.
Bonitos are fun to catch, they are around 5-7 pounds on light tackle. Head to the Pacific coast of Nicaragua to catch them during their highly active season, which is between mid-March to December.
Wahoo
Wahoos are offshore speedsters reaching lengths over 6 feet with the velocity to peel 100 yards of line in seconds. When a wahoo hits, be ready for a first run that’ll put your fishing reel to the test. Their power and stamina make them a challenge to stop once headed for the depths. Anglers dig in for a sleighride fight as Wahoo make smoking sprints trying to throw the hook. Bringing these offshore rockets boatside is a trophy achievement for any captain fishing the waters off San Juan del Sur.
Featured OFF-Shore Fishing Photos from Nicaragua
Nicaragua In-Shore Fishing
The Pacific coast of Nicaragua, especially the San Juan del Sur offers plenty of in-shore fishing opportunities to both recreational and seasoned anglers. Book our fishing charters today for a world-class in-shore fishing adventure.
Here are some common in-shore species that you may reel in during your trip:
Roosterfish
These prized bucket-list game fish are available along the coastline of the East Pacific from Mexico to Panama. Nicaragua is one of the best places to catch Roosterfish. The best time to catch them is between April and December. They could weigh up to 100 pounds. We use live bait tackle to catch them.
Before you get the wrong idea, this is NOT photoshopped. This is the biggest Roosterfish we caught in San Juan del Sur.
Jack Crevalle
Jack Crevalle packs a punch with their wild strength and speed when hooked in San Juan del Sur. These large, powerful gamefish cruise the coastal waters and lurk around reefs and rocks to ambush baitfish. Their size and power combined with accessibility close to shore make Jack Crevalle one of the most popular and rewarding inshore targets for visiting anglers.
Book our fishing charter between April to February, to catch this fast-swimming, predatory fish. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you reel in this powerful species weighing up to 20 pounds in Nicaragua.
Spanish Mackerel
These game fish with gold polka dots on them are a sought-after species among recreational anglers. The best time to catch Spanish Mackerel is between April and February, although they are active throughout the year.
We troll the warm ocean waters with rigged ballyhoo and other natural baits to entice explosive strikes from these acrobatic fish. When a dorado hits, be prepared for blistering runs, stripping line off the reel followed by spectacular aerial jumps often completely clearing the water’s surface. We catch Dorado between 2-12 pounds in San Juan del Sur and they areabsolutely delicious to eat.
Needle Fish
They are available in the warm, in-shore waters of Nicaragua from May to December. Needlefish cruise the shallow flats and cruise the surface in San Juan del Sur, blasting small baitfish with their long, narrow jaws. Their slender, silvery bodies allow them to swim fast and launch themselves completely out of the water when hooked. Our captain will take you to the hot spots and help you test your skills against these fast-escaping species. Come prepared for an exciting light tackle battle!
Bonito (Skipjack tuna)
You can find Bonitos in both inshore and offshore waters in Nicaragua.
Bonitos or “Black Tuna” as the locals call it in Nicaragua will put on a spectacular display of speed and acrobatics. Their torpedo-shaped bodies and supercharged speed make them a thrill to catch on light tackle. Bonitos (Skipjack Tuna) hit hard and peel line in an initial screaming run. Anglers need quick reflexes to hook their lightning attacks.
Book your fishing tour in Nicaragua from April through February, to get in on the exciting inshore Bonito bite!
Black Grouper
Nicaragua is a prime destination for Black Grouper. They prowl rocky ledges and reefs close to shore in San Juan del Sur, providing powerful fights when hooked. Black Grouper inhales live and cut baits fished on the bottom and takes heavy jigs ripped off the rocks. Once hooked, they use their considerable strength in deep digging runs trying to return to cover.
They prefer colder waters and when the water is warm they go down to the depths. Plan your fishing trip during winter months (from January to April) and bring your kids along for a memorable experience.
Snapper
The in-shore waters of Nicaragua provide great opportunities for catching Red and Yellowtail Snapper on light bait throughout the year. They taste delicious but be ready for a challenging fight!
White Tuna
Also known as Albacore, this migratory species can be found in the in-shore waters of San Juan Del Sur between January and March. Our captain will take you to the best location to increase the chances of a successful catch.
Barracuda
It is a large predatory fish, measuring up to 70 inches (1.8 meters), and can weigh up to 35lbs. When a Barracuda hits, be prepared for blistering runs peeling drag, followed by powerful aerial jumps and dodging bites. They can cut through nets and tackle. Landing one of these torpedoes in San Juan del Sur is an adrenaline-pumping thrill.
Although they are active throughout the year, the high season is between May and December.
Featured In-Shore Fishing Photos from Nicaragua
Best Fishing Destinations in Nicaragua
San Juan del Sur
Located off the Pacific coast of Nicaragua, this town provides excellent offshore and inshore fishing opportunities. The waters are rich in many varieties of sportfish such as Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Spanish Mackerel, Jack Crevalle, Roosterfish and more. April to February is the best time to get a rewarding catch.
San Juan Del Sur is a fishing port. It has beautiful bays that provide a perfect setting for adventure trips as well as romantic/family getaways.
Call us to book our fishing charters in advance.
Lake Nicaragua
Also known as Lago Cocibolca, it is Central America’s largest lake with a rich biodiversity of freshwater species. The most notable ones are Rainbow Bass and Tarpon, known for giving a tough fight even to seasoned anglers. The freshwater bull sharks also draw a lot of tourists, as it is one of the few shark species that can live and breed in freshwater.
Other than fishing, Lake Nicaragua is also popular for swimming and kayaking.
Fishing Seasons & Best Time to Fish in Nicaragua
Nicaragua has a tropical climate, which allows you to go on fishing tours almost throughout the year. However, there are specific times for targeting specific species of fish.
The best time for fishing in San Juan Del Sur for offshore fish like Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo and Mahi Mahi (Dorado) is between May and December.
If you are more interested in catching in-shore fish such as White Tuna or Jack Crevalle, or trophy fish like the Roosterfish, plan your trip between April and January. Inshore species such as Black Grouper and White Tuna are available from January through March.
Top Fishing Techniques in Nicaragua
Trolling with live bait is the most popular fishing technique we use to catch fish in Nicaraguan waters.
With trolling, we tie a live fish to the hook of the rod as bait and troll in the ocean. This is one of the most effective fishing techniques, suitable even for recreational anglers.
Nicaragua Fishing Charters
In recent years, Nicaragua has emerged as a premier destination for sport fishing. Whether you have been here before or this is your maiden trip, contact us to book our well-equipped fishing charters in San Juan del Sur.
From families and friends to couples and corporate groups, we provide fishing trips to cater to diverse preferences. Kids are welcome too!
FAQs About Fishing in Nicaragua
Where is the best fishing spot in Nicaragua?
San Juan del Sur is the ultimate haven for deep sea sport fishing in Nicaragua. This vibrant town attracts thousands of people every year to try their luck with fishing rods. Roosterfish, Sailfish, Tuna, Marlin, Bonito, Jack Crevalle and Dorado are just a few inshore and offshore fish species that can give a tough fight to even seasoned anglers.
Our fishing trips are available year-round. Book your trip at any time!
Did you know San Juan del Sur hosts two fishing tournaments every year in which both locals and foreign anglers can participate?
What is the largest fish in Nicaragua?
Tarpon, also known as Silver King, is one of the largest fish that you can catch during your fishing trip in Nicaragua. It is usually found in Lake Nicaragua and the San Juan River. Tarpons are known for their massive size and impressive strength. Some of them could weigh more than 200 lbs.
Marlin is the largest saltwater fish species found in Nicaragua, especially in San Juan del Sur. Blue Marlins are larger and heavier than striped ones. They are a prized catch for sport fishermen.
Do I need a fishing license for San Juan del Sur?
Unlike other Central American countries, you don’t need a license for recreational fishing. This rule is applicable to locals as well as tourists (including international visitors).
We have all the necessary licenses and permits for our fishing charters, so you don’t have to worry about anything.
Is it safe to eat the fish caught in Nicaragua?
Some species such as Billfish and Roosterfish need to be released back to the water. But, you can keep the others. We will clean the fish and give it to you in a hygienic bag.
Generally, it is safe to consume the fish you catch during your fishing trip here in Nicaragua. However, we advise you to take the same precautions that you would take at home. Avoid consuming large predatory species.
Meet Your Captain in San Juan Del Sur Nicaragua
Captain Sergio grew up in Los Angeles and is the only US-born captain in San Juan del Sur. He has decades of experience navigating the Pacific Ocean along the California coast and in Nicaragua. Sergio is a seasoned professional who has mastered the art of in-shore and offshore fishing in San Juan del Sur.
He holds a US Coast Guard six-pack captain’s license to operate fishing and tour vessels. With 38 years of boating and fishing under his belt, Sergio has excellent navigating skills.
He also has a genuine passion for sport fishing. Under his guidance, you are sure to have an amazing time, whether you will book a fishing adventure or a sightseeing boating trip in Nicaragua.
Got Some Other Questions About Fishing in Nicaragua?
Contact us today and we will be happy to provide you with all necessary information you may need to plan your fishing trip.
Our local English-speaking staff is well aware of Nicaragua’s local fish species. We know the prime fishing spots and we have mastered the techniques that work for various fish varieties. With our expertise, you are well-equipped to have an adventurous, and memorable experience.
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