The final destination of Coast to Coast was the eastern side of Costa Rica. Here, the various jungle rivers drain into estuaries along the Atlantic coast. This unique mixing of fresh and saltwater creates a brackish zone that attracts several sought-after gamefish. Follow along as Heather and Curtis wrap up their journey through Costa Rica on the Atlantic leg of their journey. These are the species commonly found on the Atlantic coast.
Atlantic Species
Tarpon
Costa Rica offers anglers the chance at some of the most unique tarpon fishing in the world. These fish travel deep into jungle rivers where they feed on bait. Here, anglers target them in dark water with large flies. With little pressure, these fish are much more willing to take a fly than their Florida counterparts. Expect truly close-quarters combat fishing. You’ll have to throw your fly along edges and banks, dodge limbs and snags, all while battling a 100+ pound fish.
Snook
While the Pacific side of Costa Rica holds Pacific or black snook, the Gulf side holds Atlantic snook. These predatory fish will grow to impressive sizes, up to 40 inches, albeit not quite as big as black snook. They can frequently be found in rivermouths and estuaries where brackish water is common. Typically, they’ll lie and wait near a structure for unsuspecting fish to swim by. If you do hook one, hold on and do your best to pull them away from any snags.
Jack Crevalle
The jack crevalle, or jack for short, is an incredibly powerful saltwater fish commonly found in Costa Rica. They can grow in excess of 40 pounds and typically travel in schools. Jacks are known to be aggressive, and when conditions are right, they will attack a topwater fly. They can be found along the Atlantic coast and in brackish areas like estuaries. Be prepared to see a pack of these voracious predators chasing down your fly.
Tripletail
Tripletail are one of the best-eating fish around, and if you’re lucky enough, you may come across some in Costa Rica. These fish have a distinct stout body, brown coloration, and defined rays along their dorsal fin. To find tripletail target floating structures. Tripletail will often float on their side alongside pieces of driftwood, buoys, and other floating objects. It will take accurate casts to fool a tripletail on the fly.
