Trails
Paths through rainforest and volcanic rock, with Arenal always nearby.
Laguna Tabacón · Arenal Volcano
Arenal Rainbow Bass: fly fishing at Laguna Tabacón
One experience, carefully run: boat, rainbow bass, rainforest and Arenal in the background.
- 10 km from La Fortuna
- Rainbow Bass
- All levels
- Catch & release
The experience
One lagoon, one species, one volcano
Fly fishing on calm water at the foot of Arenal, with the rainforest as the only background noise.
Live an unforgettable fishing experience in the heart of La Fortuna, where nature and adventure meet. Picture yourself fishing in lush tropical scenery, with a spectacular view of Arenal Volcano, listening to birds and discovering the wildlife that lives around the lagoon.
Our main goal is the rainbow bass (guapote azul), the emblematic species of these waters, known for its vivid colors and fighting spirit. More than a day of fishing, we invite you to live a genuine Costa Rican expedition, connect with nature and take home a story of your own.
We are 10 kilometers from downtown La Fortuna de San Carlos, on the slopes of Arenal Volcano, surrounded by rainforest, volcanic rock and Laguna Tabacón. The property is a recreation center and eco-camp, and every activity is environmentally friendly.
The day
How the experience flows
No rigid schedule: the lagoon sets the pace. This is the usual rhythm of a trip.
- 01
Arrival
We meet you in the heart of the park, with Arenal in the background and the rainforest all around.
- 02
Briefing and gear
We talk about your experience, rig the rod and choose the flies for the day.
- 03
On the lagoon
We work the calm water, reading the banks, the shade and the structure.
- 04
The eat
We look for the rainbow bass, the fish that gives the lagoon its character.
- 05
Photos and release
We admire it, photograph it and put it back in the water.
- 06
Time in the park
Trails, a swim in the lagoon or the picnic area: the day continues after the boat.
Timing and order adapt to the weather, availability and your group.
In motion
The lagoon on video
Three moments from a real trip: the cast, the net and rigging up.
Short clips, lightly edited. The footage is from our own trips.
The species
Rainbow bass, the fish of the lagoon
Guapote azul. The reason it is worth getting up early.
The rainbow bass is one of the most prized freshwater species in Costa Rica. In Laguna Tabacón it holds along the banks and in the shade, and when it eats, it does not give up easily. That is why we chase it with a fly: reading the water, presenting well and waiting for that moment when the line goes tight.
We admire it, photograph it and release it. The kind of fishing we care about leaves the lagoon the same or better than we found it.
- SpeciesRainbow Bass (guapote azul)
- WhereLaguna Tabacón
- TechniqueFly fishing from a boat
- PhilosophyCatch and release
No surprises
What's included
The idea is that you only have to think about fishing. We take care of the rest.
What's included
- Local fly fishing guide
- Boat on Laguna Tabacón
- Full gear: rod, line and flies
- Life vest and safety briefing
- Drinks and snacks
- Photos from the experience
- Date and weather coordination
Final details are confirmed when you book. If you prefer your own gear, you are welcome to bring it.
What to bring
- Hat or cap and sunglasses
- Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent
- Light, quick-dry clothing and a change of clothes
- Closed shoes or sandals with grip
- Camera or phone in a waterproof case
- Reusable water bottle
The gallery
The water, the boat and the volcano
Photos and video from our trips on Laguna Tabacón. Tap any image to see it full size.
Photography and video: La Fortuna Fly Fishing.
The park
The day does not end on the boat
Laguna Tabacón is a recreation center and eco-camp. After fishing, the park stays open for you.
The lagoon
Calm water for a swim or simply sitting on the shore.
Picnic area
Green spaces to spend the day and eat outdoors.
Wildlife
Birds, plants and animals: the whole park is part of the experience.
Every activity in the park is environmentally friendly.
Close to everything
Hotels near the lagoon
Approximate driving times from the park. Downtown La Fortuna is 15 minutes away.
Approximate driving times; not affiliated with the hotels. If your hotel is not listed, message us and we will help you work out the distance.
Check my hotel- Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa1 min
- Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa2 min
- Nayara Springs6 min
- Amor Arenal7 min
- The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & ResortAdults only7 min
- Baldi Hot Springs8 min
- The Springs Resort & Spa11 min
- Downtown La Fortuna15 min
Before you come
Frequently asked questions
What you need to know before booking. If something is still unclear, message us.
Book on WhatsAppWhere does the tour take place?
At Laguna Tabacón, 10 km from downtown La Fortuna de San Carlos, at the foot of Arenal Volcano. We send the exact location and directions when you book.
How do I get there?
Most guests drive from their hotel in the Arenal area. We share the location and directions when your booking is confirmed.
Do I need fly fishing experience?
No. We adapt the trip to your level, from your first cast to advanced techniques. Instruction is included.
What species will we target?
Rainbow bass (guapote azul), the emblematic species of the lagoon, known for its colors and its fight.
What is included?
Local guide, boat, full fly fishing gear, life vest, drinks and snacks, photos and coordination. Final details are confirmed when you book.
How long is the trip?
Timing is arranged around your group and the conditions of the day. Message us and we will build a plan that works for you.
Can I come without fishing?
Yes. The park has trails, the lagoon and a picnic area for companions who prefer not to fish.
What should I bring?
Hat or cap, sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent, light quick-dry clothing, shoes with grip, a camera and water. If you have your own gear, bring it.
What happens if it rains?
It rains often in the area. If conditions are not safe, we arrange a new date based on availability.
How do I book and pay?
Via WhatsApp or the form. We confirm availability and a personalized quote; payment is arranged at booking.
Is transport from my hotel available?
Ask us. We coordinate transport options depending on your hotel and availability for your date.
Can I bring companions?
Yes. The park is ideal for companions who want to enjoy the lagoon, the trails or the picnic area while you fish.
Booking
Book your trip
Tell us when you are coming and how many of you there are. We will reply with availability and a personalized quote.
The fastest way
Message us on WhatsApp and we will reply between 5:00 AM and 8:00 PM. You can also call or use the form.
+506 8832 6644 estebanfishingguide@gmail.com- 01
You message us with your date and group size.
- 02
We confirm availability and send you a quote.
- 03
We arrange the meeting point and the final details.
Tell us about your trip
Getting here
On the slopes of Arenal
We are 10 km from downtown La Fortuna, inside the Laguna Tabacón park, at the foot of Arenal Volcano. When you book, we send the exact pin and directions from your hotel.
The map location is approximate. The exact meeting point is shared when your booking is confirmed.
Open in Google Maps
Your next story
The lagoon is waiting
One trip, one rainbow bass and Arenal in the background. Write to us and we will find a date.
We reply between 5:00 AM and 8:00 PM.