We asked out house manager for recommendations and he turned us onto Flamingo Sportfishing. We met Erika for payment and she took us to where we had to get into a boat to head out to the fishing boat. I LOVED this. She was really friendly and made us feel like family from the beginning.
Side note if you pay with credit card. They, not just this charter but many touring places, charge 6% extra. I really didn't mind because I didn't want to carry that much cash on hand. I don't do that in the US : ). Now back to the fishing.
Take shoes you don't mind getting wet. You can wear water shoes, flops, or something. Bring suntan lotion (wet not spray). Don't want to make the deck slippery. Bring hat, long sleeve, and some light pants. To have not to wear all day. This will help with the sun.
Miguel was coming to us on the "dingy" to pick us up from the shore. We had 6 people, I think 4 is more comfortable, and he had to do two trips. Which wasn't an issue...except the engine wouldn't start. So he had to paddle. He greeted us with that HUGE Tico smile.
Once on board we met Warner (Captain) and Leo (Mate). They spoke some good English, Miguel very fluent. I, we, are learning Spanish so it was great mixture of learning and Spanglish.
They told us that we were going about 20-24 miles out. We sat back, lathered up, and Warner hit the throttles and we were humming. We were going for Mahi, Sail, and Marlin. I really want ROOSTER but not best time for them. I will be back : ).
We sang, talked, and rested as we cruised out to the spot. I will tell you this. Always check the moon phases, many captains and mates will tell you, 3 days prior and after are just not productive fishing. Having been on many charters and some during that time frame. They are correct. Not going to lie while at our house and in the pool I looked at the moon and let out a big sigh.
Capt Warner throttled us down and Leo and Miguel got the poles read for some action. On the way out the views were spectacular. We saw birds and Sting Rays jumping out of the water. It was great. Leo and Miguel got the lines in the water and we started trolling along. I was watching the back left (right side) baits and I yelled because I saw a Bull Mahi screaming across the water. Leo saw it at the same time. It SLAMMED the bait. We, since 6 of us, decided "catching order" for the fish. My nephew's girl friend who never been was on. It took her some time to reel it in. Not because she was a novice but because this Bull was bucking. The Bull was finally landed and it was BEAUTIFUL. Leo and Miguel handled it like champs. Got the lines back in the water, took photos, and we celebrated. I looked a the moon and smiled.
We went on for quiet a while before any other action. That is why it is fishing and not catching. However, Miguel (chef) prepared some sashimi for us amongst other great snacks.
These guys, all 3, were VERY professional, very personable, and just a pleasure to be around.
My niece was up next and KABOOM that Blue Marlin hit that bait and started dancing across the water. If you haven't seen it happen...just wait. I wasn't sure who celebrated more us or the crew. HAHA. They said the Marlin have been pretty scarce so that was awesome.
When cruising look for diving birds and dolphins (pods) this is great indicator of bait fish which brings other fish. Was eerily quiet though. As a matter of fact we came upon 4 dolphins swimming and watching a couple sting rays jumping/playing right before the Marlin hit.
Unfortunately, that was our only two fish but you can't be made at a Bull and Blue. Having been on many/many charters I can tell you that Capt Warner, Leo,and Miguel did everything possible to lure in the fish. it was just not happening. I applaud and thank them.
While trolling we did get to see a Blue Marlin jump out of the water twice chasing fish. I have never seen that. Only while on a hook. It was amazing.
Of course this trip wouldn't have been complete without the National Geographic Turtle (Play) that we witnessed. HAHA.
Fishing was done and I could see the disappointment on crew's face that there was not more action. Like I said, not their fault.
Getting to know them I can tell you this....If/when I get back to Tamarindo/Play Flamingo I will reach back out to Erika to set up with this crew. One of the best crews I have fished with.
Gracias, mi Familia!!!!!!!!