I have been lucky enough to travel the world in pursuit of Billfish and all other kinds of fish species. Over the last 20 years I have been looking to catch a bucket list rooster fish which doesn't exist in our local waters. Central and South America are two areas where roosterfish reside. I have seen them caught on TV during fishing shows along the rocky coasts of these other countries. Myself and six other anglers traveled last week to Flamingo Costa Rica in pursuit of the rooster and anything else new that we could catch. We stayed at a beautiful place called "Villa Oceano" located directly on the beach next to the marina. I highly recommend this villa as the place itself was stunning. We felt like we were in a majestic jungle compound! Please reach out to me for info on booking details.
The local captain of the 47-foot Freeman center console "Next Level" Carlos was shocked when we told him we were not interested in billfish as that is the main focus of most anglers traveling to Costa Rica. I checked off my roosterfish box the first morning of fishing. Not only did I catch a rooster on live bait but it was pushing 47 pounds which is big for that species. What a start to a spectacular trip. The second day was filled with catches of sailfish and yellowfin tuna. The third day as we were deep dropping in 400 feet of water I caught my first congrio. It almost looks like a redfish head with an eel body. These fish were about 15 pounds, and we caught them on chicken rigs with circle hooks. We had been catching snowy grouper when we hooked three of these special fish. The locals told us they were fantastic eating and they sure were right! The diet of the congrio consists of shrimp which makes their meat fantastic. I would put the flavor right up there with golden tile fish.
Local anglers were not fishing all week due to the rough sea conditions. Friday looks like the first day that the ocean will subside. Mahi-mahi should be abundant close to shore inside of 500 water due to the east push of wind and waves.
For and up to the minute fishing report please tune in to Big 105.9 Paul Castronovo Papas Pilar fishing report Friday morning at 6:20a.m. You can also call the shop RJ Boyle studio at 954-420-5001
Tight lines,
RJ Boyle
