Marlin University is now Marlin Expeditions! We travel to the best big-game destinations on Earth, at peak times of the year, and teach the most cutting-edge techniques to catch billfish. Check out our 2025 expeditions.
If there ever was a year to push your angling skills to the limit, 2026 would be it. Marlin Expeditions continues its rich tradition of leading anglers to the world’s most exciting big-game destinations, blending rugged fisheries with world-class instruction, prime accommodations, unmatched camaraderie and unforgettable moments. This year’s lineup features our most ambitious schedule yet, with expanded dates and adventures designed to test your skills and reward your persistence. Each trip is guided by some of the most experienced fishermen in the sport, ensuring that every hookup counts. So, whether you’re interested in chasing blues and spearfish off Kona, battling huge striped marlin in the Galápagos, or trying some inshore and offshore fishing in Costa Rica, there’s an expedition designed for every angler.
Los Sueños, Costa Rica
February 11–16
$11,395 per couple; limited to four couples
Why go: This trip truly stands out due to its combination of offshore sailfishing days, superb accommodations and a touch of indulgence, including private dining experiences. It’s ideal for spouses or couples who want both fishing and comfort. With four days on the water, paired with culinary adventure and hospitality at the famous Los Sueños Resort & Marina, it’s the perfect way to introduce your better half to sport fishing.
Galápagos Islands: San Cristóbal, Ecuador
April 2–9 & April 10–17
$11,595 per angler; limited to six anglers per trip
Why go: If you’ve been yearning for a place where marine biodiversity, wild landscapes and striped marlin intersect, this is it. These trips give you four days of fishing the banks off San Cristóbal, where striped marlin are in their prime, often pushing 200 to 250 pounds, with the chance to fish conventional or fly. Add in a snorkeling and nature day for a 360-degree tour around the island, and you have a package that feeds both your angler and explorer sides.
Casa Vieja Lodge, Guatemala
Ladies Only: April 26–May 1
Co-Ed: May 14–19 & December 14–19
$7,495 per angler; limited to 12 anglers per trip
Why go: Guatemala’s Pacific coast keeps delivering big numbers. Casa Vieja Lodge is a finely tuned platform for anglers of all skill levels to practice dead-baiting, pitch-baiting and other techniques over four full fishing days. The lodge’s fleet, captains and crew are among the best in the world. And it’s not just fishing. The final day’s shootout brings friendly competition. The atmosphere is relaxed, but charged with some of the best billfishing you can find. For those who are after consistent action and skill building, Guatemala is hard to beat.
Kona, Hawaii: The Big Island
May 23–June 1 & June 2–11
$12,595 per angler; limited to nine anglers per trip
Why go: Kona’s calm Pacific blue marlin grounds are nothing short of legendary, and this expedition is dialed in for anglers who want that heavy-tackle thrill of a chair fight. It’s six full days of bluewater fishing with expert support, two lay days to rest and explore, luxury lodging, and nearly everything included. If you’ve never fought a blue marlin a par five from land, want a heavy-tackle introduction, or want to sharpen your game, this is the place to do it.
Playa Flamingo, Costa Rica: Guanacaste Region
July 15-20
$6,995 per angler; limited spots
Why go: As we finalize the details, we invite you to consider Marina Flamingo. One of the most diverse experiences we offer on our calendar, you’ll enjoy a mix of offshore and inshore fishing, as well as adventure days. Think local culture, wildlife, zip-lines through the jungle with ocean views above the canopy, and horseback riding. Add great meals, beautiful marina-side lodging and premium service, and you have a moderately intense trip for those who want both fishing and land experiences. It’s also good for folks who’ve always wondered what the northern part of Costa Rica is like, or who want to see if fishing is their thing.
What Sets 2026 Apart?
- Instruction: Each expedition features expert instructors to help you learn or refine your angling techniques. Whether you’re new or advanced, expect to come home a better angler.
- Limited Group Sizes: Our expeditions cap participation, so the boats are less crowded and you can spend more time perfecting your skills.
- Fully Curated Logistics: Beyond the boats and fishing, our packages typically include lodging, most meals, transfers, licenses and standard boat tips. While airfare is excluded, these are mostly turnkey experiences.
- Diverse Destinations: From famed billfish grounds and far-flung islands where wildlife steals your attention to luxury resort fishing and more rugged adventures, there’s something for everyone.
The Final Take
If 2025 whetted your appetite for even more adventure, 2026 offers the feast. These trips aren’t just about catching fish; you can master your craft, push your limits, build stories, and share adventures with others who love the water as much as you do.
