The Catalina Islands are a short run out of Flamingo and produce the same inshore species as the Bat Islands but not in the numbers as the islands to the north. At times they have a great run of wahoo that stop at the island to feed during their migratory runs. The volcanic underwater structure of the islands make for great haunts for a variety of species to prowl the fertile waters. Because of the little fishing pressure in this area, inshore species like roosterfish, snapper, grouper, amberjack, wahoo and dorado are readily available. Anglers have even been surprised with marlin and sailfish hook-ups fishing for other species.
Tamarindo is also an excellent spot to stay while on a blue water quest.
A little more laid back than Flamingo, there are luxury hotels as well as more inexpensive but comfortable lodging. There are several American captains fishing out of Tamarindo with over 20 years experience fishing these waters. Charter boats range from 22 to 38 feet in length. You will also find a few boats working out of Nosara, Punta Guiones, Garza, Samara, and Playa Carrilla. The number of boats increases in Playa Carrilla from December through March when the unpredictable Papagayo winds blow to the north.