Marina Bahía Golfito proudly celebrated the successful conclusion of the 2026 Battle of the Bay sportfishing tournament, held May 7–9 in the spectacular waters of Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica. Hosted in partnership with Crocodile Bay and The Zancudo Lodge, this year’s tournament welcomed 16 competing boats and anglers from across the region for two unforgettable days of world-class fishing, community engagement, and coastal celebration.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica, Battle of the Bay once again showcased why the destination is recognized as one of the world’s premier sportfishing destinations. Competitors battled across multiple divisions including Billfish, Roosterfish, Gamefish, and the prestigious Triple Crown category, while visitors and participants enjoyed a full weekend of entertainment, sustainability initiatives, artisan showcases, and cultural programming.
Throughout the tournament, Marina Bahía Golfito’s Human Social Responsibility Program led several community-focused activities, including sustainable fishing workshops for both children and adults, tree planting initiatives at Paca Paca, waste collection efforts at Zancudo Beach, and cultural presentations featuring Indigenous Brunca performances. Local entrepreneurs and artisans were also invited to participate throughout the weekend, showcasing and selling handmade products and regional crafts at the Marina Village.
The tournament concluded Saturday evening with a lively awards ceremony and celebration at Marina Bahía Golfito, recognizing standout performances across all divisions. Top honors of the 2026 Battle of the Bay included:
- Z1 captured the tournament’s highest honors, winning the Gamefish Division and taking First Place in the prestigious Triple Crown category, along with the Day 1 Tuna Daily Jackpot, earning a total payout of $13,040.
- Seaduction delivered an impressive performance in the Billfish competition, claiming the Billfish Release Division title as well as the Day 1 Billfish Release Daily Jackpot and Day 1 Dorado Daily Jackpot for a total of $7,000.
- Colio secured the Day 2 Tuna Daily Jackpot with winnings totaling $5,600.
- Jailhouse Croc earned recognition in the Roosterfish division, winning both the Roosterfish Release Division and Day 1 Roosterfish Daily Jackpot for a combined $4,400.
- Los Cocos claimed the Day 2 Billfish Daily Jackpot, earning $4,400.
- ALKY finished Third Place in the Triple Crown standings while also winning the Day 2 Roosterfish Daily Jackpot for a total of $4,160.
- Tic Toc 2 secured Second Place in the Triple Crown division with winnings of $2,400.
- Gladiator rounded out the winners list by taking the Day 2 Dorado Daily Jackpot with winnings of $1,400.
With another successful year completed, Marina Bahía Golfito looks forward to continuing to elevate Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica as a world-class destination for sustainable sportfishing and tourism.
