We recommend a good quality popper rod with a casting weight of around 150-180 g in lengths between 7’6″ and 8 feet, which covers pretty much all fishing methods with poppers and stickbaits. (There are a lot of good rods on the market now).For some time now, we have preferred 3-piece models for fishing trips to Costa Rica, which are much easier to transport in larger suitcases/travel bags. This saves the bulky rod tube and additional costs for luggage.
For reels, spinning reels like Shimano’s Stella 14000XG (or 10000SW) are recommended. If you specifically want to fish for larger tuna in Costa Rica, we tend to advise 18000 models with larger line capacity and stronger brakes. We recommend using lines in the 80-100 lbs class. With thinner lines you can cast a little further, but unfortunately you will also have to complain about more line breaks.
For light tackle fishing, stationary reels of the 6000 size are best suited in combination with lighter popper rods with a casting weight of up to 100g.
For jigging we use special short jig rods with a recommended jig weight of up to 300 g in combination with a Shimano Stella or Twin Power 8000PG. For more line capacity we use 14000 spools, which easily hold more than 250m of PE6-8 class line.
Good poppers for Costa Rica include HeruCubera, Dumbell Pop (L) and HALCO Roosta Popper. As a stickbait, the J1 Tropic from HYBRIDA should not be missing. We will be happy to advise you personally.
We recommend that you bring a good selection yourself.
BUT: If something is missing or some bait gets lost while fishing, the boats also have a small selection ready to help out. Joe in the lodge is sure to have a bait or two for you as well.