If you are planning to go fishing during your vacation, it is important to know about Costa Rica fishing licenses before you head out on the water. Costa Rican regulations require anglers participating in sport fishing to carry a valid fishing card (carné de pesca deportiva) issued by the Costa Rican Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture (INCOPESCA).
A fishing license may be required whether you are fishing from a boat, from shore, or by kayak, depending on the type of fishing you plan to do. The license system applies to both Costa Rican residents and foreign visitors.
Cost Per License
For Anglers Only
Yes. If you plan to participate in recreational or sport fishing in Costa Rica, you should have the appropriate INCOPESCA fishing license before fishing.
INCOPESCA states that people practicing sport fishing from a vessel, from land, by kayak, or through sport spearfishing must carry the corresponding fishing card. Different types and periods of validity are available depending on the activity.
For visitors booking a fishing charter, obtaining your fishing license online before your trip is the easiest option.
The cost of a Costa Rica fishing license depends on how long you plan to fish and the type of fishing activity.
For sport fishing from a boat, INCOPESCA currently lists the following fees below and shown in the next image.
These prices include VAT according to INCOPESCA’s online application system. Fees and regulations can change, so we recommend checking the official INCOPESCA website before purchasing your license.
Please make sure to enter a valid email address, as your fishing license will be sent to this email address. Once your fishing card has been issued, keep a copy available on your phone or a printed copy with you. You should also have your passport or valid identification available while fishing.
Always check INCOPESCA for the latest fishing license requirements and fees before your trip.
Step 1: Visit the INCOPESCA Website
Go to the official INCOPESCA sport fishing license application and select the option to purchase a fishing card.
Step 2: Enter Your Information
Fill out the form. It is better to enter the date manually rather than selecting the fishing date from the calendar. The country field refers to the country the buyer is traveling from. Passports are an accepted form of identification for foreign tourists.
Step 3: Select the License Duration
Choose the period that corresponds to your fishing trip. For anglers fishing from a boat, options currently include 8 days, one month, and one year. It is normal to purchase an 8 days licenses for almost all the fishermen.
Step 4: Pay Online
Complete the payment through the INCOPESCA system.
In the Location Information section you can type:
Provincia: Guanacaste
Canton: Carrillo
Distrito: Sardinal
Postal Code: N/A
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