The Hunt For Big Fish with Larry Dahlberg

We are planning a trip to the Rio Indio Lodge in March of 2007. We saw one of your shows a while ago when you were there. We prefer a place with few people, but did you feel the Rio Indio was worth the time and effort to get there? Also, did you feel it was a "safe" place to go?

We have heard there is great inland waterway fishing, but do you feel the inshore and offshore were worth it? We're not that big on sailfishing, but tarpon and snook would be wonderful.

Thank you - and thank you for your shows!

Hi db,
Rio Indio is very safe, and well run in every regard. You're right about the inland fishing, and although it may not be the top tarpon place on costa rica's atlantic side, there are always tarpon somewhere in the vicinity of the river mouths, surf or ocean if weather allows you to get to them.
It's vertical jigging with spoons, coast hawks,etc; live sardines which you can catch on sabiki rigs. fish on circle hooks is most effective way.
Lots of "fat" snook. Good to eat, fun on light tackle, 4-8lbs.
Don't waste your time with sailfish. If you want those, go on the pacific side.
Large snook can also be encountered either in the surf or estuary. Cast jigs in surf. Trolling also often effective.
best,
L

Thank you so much for your incredibly prompt answer! I just got a bit uneasy when they suggested that we tip our "guards", but everything else looks incredible.

Have you fished from the Rain Goddess, and if so - how would you compare it to Rio Indio?

I just sort of stumbled onto this site, but it's a permanent addition now.

Thanks again!

the rain goddess is now on Lake Arenal. Might be ok for a day's diversion, but only Guapote.
I have a feeling "guards" really meant "guides", although it's always smart to post guards in the third world. It makes the camp, which is rich in outboards, alchohol etc a "hard target" and local thugs go elsewhere.
Best,
L

Thank you again. We're really looking forward to this trip, and we appreciate your information!