Meet Our Experienced Team

Professional captains and crew with decades of combined experience

Our team combines local knowledge, professional expertise, and genuine passion for fishing. Each member brings unique skills and personality to ensure your charter experience exceeds expectations.

104+ Years

Combined Experience

100%

Safety Record

25+

Tournament Wins

Our Team Philosophy

We believe that great fishing starts with great people. Our team doesn't just know how to catch fish - we know how to create experiences. Every member of our team is passionate about fishing, committed to safety, and dedicated to ensuring you have the trip of a lifetime.

Safety is our top priority on every trip

Local knowledge passed down through generations

Patience and enthusiasm for teaching

Respect for marine conservation

Commitment to exceeding expectations

Meet Our Team

Get to know the experienced professionals who will make your fishing trip extraordinary

Founder & Head Captain

30+ years

Captain Frank Berrocal

Founder & Head Captain • 30+ years

Captain Frank Berrocal is the proud founder of Coyote Sportfishing, a trusted name in Tamarindo, Costa Rica sportfishing since 1993. A Tamarindo native, Frank has deep roots in the area—his grandfather once owned large parts of the region in the early days. Today, Frank carries on that legacy by sharing his love of the ocean with anglers from around the world. After spending time in the United States learning English, Frank returned home and began working in local tourism, guiding turtle nesting tours and fishing trips in the Tamarindo estuary. His passion for the ocean led him to purchase his first boat—a 21-foot panga. With the support of his longtime friend Tom Parker, who helped him acquire the engines, Coyote Sportfishing was born. With over 30 years of experience, Captain Frank has watched Tamarindo grow into one of Costa Rica's top fishing destinations. What sets Captain Frank apart is not just his experience, but his dedication to every guest. For him, fishing is about more than just the catch—it's about creating unforgettable memories and seeing the joy on his clients' faces.

Specialties

Light Tackle Fishing Specialist Master of Traditional Costa Rican Fishing Methods Live Bait Rigging & Casting Techniques Deep Sea Trolling & Jigging Proficiency Roosterfish & Marlin Targeting Expertise Experienced Navigator of Pacific Coast Waters Fluent in English & Spanish for Client Communication U.S. Tourism & Guiding Experience Knowledgeable in Local Marine Wildlife & Ecosystems

Certifications

✓ USCG Captain's License
✓ Commercial Fishing License
✓ CPR/First Aid Certified

Favorite Spot

Gulf of Papagayo

Favorite Species

Yellowfin Tuna

"Fishing is about more than just the catch—it's about creating unforgettable memories and seeing the joy on my clients' faces."

Notable Achievements

★ 30+ years fishing charter experience
★ Former commercial fishing captain
★ Expert in traditional Costa Rican fishing methods
★ Founded Coyote Sportfishing in 1993

Sales & Marketing Manager

10+ Years in Luxury Yachting, Sportfishing & Videography

Samuel Chia

Sales & Marketing Manager • 10+ Years in Luxury Yachting, Sportfishing & Videography

Sam is the Sales & Marketing Manager at Coyote Sportfishing, combining over a decade of hands-on experience in the luxury yachting industry with a lifelong passion for the ocean. His journey began as a dive master and evolved through roles as a deckhand, watersports instructor, onboard fisherman — and eventually, a videographer capturing marine adventures across the globe. After years at sea, Samuel earned his Yachtmaster license, serving as a mate on yachts that sailed through the Caribbean, Mediterranean, South Pacific, and beyond. His work onboard involved not just navigation and fishing, but crafting visual stories through high-end videography, bringing the magic of yachting and marine life to life for luxury clients. Now based in Costa Rica, Samuel blends his global experience, creative eye, and marketing expertise to design and promote world-class sportfishing adventures. Whether it's crafting custom charters or creating compelling content, he's dedicated to delivering unforgettable experiences on the Pacific coast.

Specialties

10+ years aboard luxury yachts around the world Licensed Yachtmaster with global sailing and mate experience Onboard videographer specializing in marine and travel content Background in diving, watersports, and offshore fishing Expert in customized sportfishing adventures Sales and marketing professional in the luxury travel space

Certifications

✓ Yachtmaster Certified
✓ Digital Marketing Certified
✓ Customer Service Excellence
✓ Tourism Industry Specialist

Favorite Spot

Tamarindo Bay

Favorite Species

Wahoo

"The perfect fishing trip starts with understanding your dreams and ends with the execution of a trip of a lifetime."

Notable Achievements

★ Transitioned from global yacht crew to leading sportfishing expert in Costa Rica
★ Delivered exceptional experiences for luxury clients in over a dozen countries
★ Proven success in sales, client relations, and brand storytelling
★ Skilled in creating cinematic content that showcases the thrill of ocean life
★ Deep knowledge of local species, fishing conditions, and seasonal patterns

First Mate & Deckhand

10+ years

Isaac Meza "The Rasta"

First Mate & Deckhand • 10+ years

Isaac Meza, known by everyone as "The Rasta," is the energetic and passionate deckhand of Coyote Sportfishing. Though he's been part of the crew for just under a year, Isaac brings over 10 years of hands-on fishing experience on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. Originally from Guanacaste, Isaac grew up around the ocean and has always had a natural connection to the water. He's deeply passionate about sportfishing and thrives on helping guests catch fish, learn new techniques, and most importantly — have a great time on the water. Isaac is known for his friendly, upbeat personality, strong work ethic, and deep knowledge of both inshore and offshore fishing techniques. Whether it's rigging bait, spotting fish, or celebrating your catch, Isaac is there with a smile and a helping hand. He's an essential part of the Coyote crew, making sure every trip is safe, smooth, and unforgettable.

Specialties

Over 10 Years of Fishing Experience Expert in Rigging, Baiting & Gear Handling Great with Guests – Friendly, Helpful, and Fun Experienced in Both Inshore & Offshore Techniques High-Energy Crew Member with a Passion for Fishing

Certifications

✓ Marine Safety Certified
✓ First Aid Certified
✓ Local Fishing Guide

Favorite Spot

Catalinas Island

Favorite Species

Mahi Mahi (Dorado)

"Every day on the water is a chance to help someone catch their dream fish and create memories that last forever."

Notable Achievements

★ 10+ years of experience fishing the Pacific coast of Costa Rica
★ Experienced in inshore and offshore sportfishing techniques
★ Specialist in bait rigging, gear setup, and guest support
★ Local angler with deep knowledge of Tamarindo fishing waters

Expert Sportfishing Captain

13+ years

Captain Mario Jaén

Expert Sportfishing Captain • 13+ years

Captain Mario Jaén is a highly experienced and trusted sportfishing captain with over 13 years of fishing charter expertise in Flamingo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. As the longest-serving member of the Coyote Sportfishing team, Mario has been a key driver in the company's success and growth along the beautiful Pacific coast. A true local expert, Mario has in-depth knowledge of both inshore and offshore fishing grounds. He skillfully targets popular game fish species such as roosterfish, sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, and yellowfin tuna, providing anglers of all levels with exciting and successful fishing experiences. At the helm of the Flamingo II, Captain Mario ensures every fishing charter is safe, smooth, and tailored to guests' needs. Whether you're booking a private fishing charter, family-friendly fishing trip, or a full-day deep sea fishing adventure, Mario's professionalism and passion for sportfishing guarantee an unforgettable day on the water.

Specialties

13+ years leading sportfishing charters in Flamingo and Guanacaste Targeting roosterfish, sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, and yellowfin tuna Experienced captain of the Flamingo II with a focus on safety and efficiency Specialist in both inshore and offshore fishing techniques Excellent client communication and personalized charter experiences Committed to delivering memorable private and family-friendly fishing trips

Favorite Spot

Flamingo Bay

Favorite Species

Sailfish

"Every charter is an opportunity to share my passion for Costa Rica's incredible waters and help guests create memories that will last a lifetime."

Notable Achievements

★ Over 13 years of professional sportfishing charter experience in Flamingo and Guanacaste
★ Skilled in targeting Pacific Coast game fish including roosterfish, sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, and yellowfin tuna
★ Expert in running safe and efficient private and family-friendly fishing charters aboard Flamingo II
★ Deep knowledge of both inshore fishing hotspots and offshore fishing grounds in Costa Rica
★ Proven track record of delivering memorable Costa Rica deep sea fishing adventures
★ Strong leadership and communication skills ensuring excellent guest satisfaction and repeat clients

Skilled Deckhand & Mate

20+ years

Luis Leal Guadamuz

Skilled Deckhand & Mate • 20+ years

Luis Leal Guadamuz brings over 20 years of fishing experience to the Coyote Sportfishing team. Although he recently joined Coyote just a few months ago, Luis is a seasoned angler with a deep passion for the sport and a strong connection to Costa Rica's Pacific fishing culture. Luis's extensive background in fishing has equipped him with expert knowledge in both inshore and offshore techniques, making him a valuable asset onboard. Known for his hardworking attitude and friendly personality, Luis is dedicated to providing guests with a safe, fun, and productive fishing experience. Whether assisting with bait rigging, gear management, or supporting clients during the fight, Luis plays a crucial role in ensuring every charter runs smoothly and that guests enjoy their time on the water.

Specialties

20+ years of experience fishing Costa Rica's Pacific coast Proficient in both inshore and offshore sportfishing techniques Expert in bait rigging, gear setup, and fishing equipment management Strong guest support skills – assisting anglers and enhancing their fishing experience Knowledgeable about local fishing hotspots in Guanacaste and surrounding waters Committed to safety, teamwork, and delivering memorable fishing charters

Favorite Spot

Witch's Rock

Favorite Species

Blue Marlin

"With 20 years on these waters, every day still brings new excitement. My goal is to help every angler experience the thrill of Costa Rica's incredible fishing."

Notable Achievements

★ Over 20 years of fishing experience along Costa Rica's Pacific coast
★ Skilled in inshore and offshore sportfishing techniques and gear handling
★ Recently joined Coyote Sportfishing with a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences
★ Experienced in rigging bait, managing fishing gear, and assisting anglers during trips
★ Strong knowledge of local fishing hotspots in Guanacaste and surrounding waters
★ Committed to safety, teamwork, and creating memorable sportfishing adventures

Captain of Salsa

20+ years

José Cruz

Captain of Salsa • 20+ years

Born and raised in Tamarindo, José Cruz is the seasoned captain of Salsa, bringing over two decades of deep local knowledge, instinct, and passion to every charter. Fishing runs in his blood — his father was a fisherman, and José grew up on the water, learning the rhythms of the ocean and the behavior of the fish from an early age. He began his career as a mate, working tirelessly to master every aspect of offshore sportfishing. Over the years, he earned a reputation for his dedication, calm under pressure, and unmatched understanding of Tamarindo's rich marine life. Today, as captain, José leads with experience, heart, and a genuine love for sharing the thrill of the catch. When he's not guiding guests to bucket-list hookups, José enjoys taking his one-year-old son out on the boat, proudly passing down the legacy of fishing just as his own father did.

Specialties

20+ years of local fishing experience in Tamarindo Expert in Pacific Coast species and seasonal migrations Highly skilled in offshore trolling, live baiting & inshore tactics Natural leader with a calm, professional presence on the water Dedicated to creating fun, safe, and productive fishing trips

Certifications

✓ Certified Captain – Costa Rica
✓ First Aid & Safety at Sea
✓ Tourism & Guest Service Training

Favorite Spot

Catalina Islands

Favorite Species

Roosterfish

"Fishing is more than a job — it's a way of life. I grew up on these waters, and now I get to share them with my son and with every guest who steps on board."

Notable Achievements

★ 20+ years fishing the Pacific waters off Costa Rica
★ Worked his way up from mate to captain through dedication and skill
★ Known for consistently putting guests on fish, season after season
★ A true local expert with deep generational knowledge of the sea
★ Proud father keeping the family fishing tradition alive

Deckhand & Rising Talent

1+ year

Kendall Rosales

Deckhand & Rising Talent • 1+ year

Kendall Rosales may be the newest member of the Coyote Sportfishing crew, but he's already made a strong impression with his drive, awareness, and eagerness to learn. Joining the team just a year ago, Kendall quickly embraced the fast-paced world of sportfishing and has proven himself to be a sharp, dependable deckhand. As the crew's rookie, Kendall is immersed in learning from the best — soaking up the tricks and trades passed down by the seasoned captains and longtime mates of Coyote. He's highly attentive on deck, quick on his feet, and always ready to lend a hand, whether it's rigging lines, handling gear, or supporting guests. His natural enthusiasm and respect for the ocean make him a promising new face in Tamarindo's sportfishing scene — and someone to watch as he grows into his role at sea.

Specialties

Quick learner with a strong work ethic Focused on safety, service, and guest experience Eager to master advanced fishing techniques Excellent team player with strong situational awareness Committed to continuous improvement and learning from senior crew

Certifications

✓ Basic Safety at Sea
✓ Crew Training & Guest Service
✓ Working toward additional maritime qualifications

Favorite Spot

Anywhere offshore when the bite is hot

Favorite Species

Mahi-Mahi

"I'm here to learn from the best, work hard, and make sure every guest has an awesome day on the water."

Notable Achievements

★ Joined the Coyote team and quickly became a reliable deckhand
★ Respected by veteran crew for his attitude and work ethic
★ Fast learner already contributing to successful fishing trips
★ Represents the next generation of Tamarindo sportfishing talent

Licensed & Certified Professionals

Our crew maintains the highest industry standards and certifications

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USCG Licensed

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CPR Certified

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FWC Licensed

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IGFA Member

Why Experience Matters

🎣

Local Knowledge

Our crew has been fishing these waters for decades, knowing exactly where and when to find fish.

🛡️

Safety First

Every crew member is trained in safety procedures, first aid, and emergency response.

🎓

Teaching Excellence

Patient instruction and enthusiasm for sharing fishing knowledge with anglers of all levels.

Fish with the Best Crew in Tamarindo

Our experienced team is ready to share their knowledge, ensure your safety, and help you create unforgettable fishing memories. Book your charter today!

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