Meet Captain Jose Soto

For Captain Soto, a passion for the open ocean started early in life. Driven by a desire to work on the water, he began his maritime career gaining practical experience on commercial vessels before transitioning into charter guiding—a background that traces back 27 years across international waters. Those early years on commercial boats provided a foundation in seamanship, vessel mechanics, and reading ocean currents. Over the years, Captain Soto has navigated diverse marine environments across multiple regions, mastering pelagic trolling, deep-drop bottom fishing, and heavy-tackle rigging techniques alongside seasoned sport fishermen. Throughout his career, he has guided guests of all experience levels—including captaining a multi-day trip for a former President of Mexico escorted by the Mexican Navy around the Islas Marías.

After spending extended time fishing abroad and in the USA, Captain Soto returned home to Quepos, Costa Rica. Today, he combines his broad international background with a deep knowledge of the Central Pacific Coast, applying proven ocean tactics to the marine-rich waters off Marina Pez Vela and Manuel Antonio. His familiarity with local current breaks, underwater rock structures, and seasonal feeding habits helps ensure every group has a rewarding day on the water, whether targeting surface billfish or deep-water bottom species.

On the water, Captain Soto is known for his calm, patient, and welcoming approach. He believes every charter should be enjoyable and educational, making him an exceptional teacher for beginners, children, and families. Whether guiding a guest through their first coastal roosterfish hookup or assisting a seasoned angler with a yellowfin tuna or sailfish, Captain Soto handles every trip with care, attention, and safety in mind.

The Vessel: 30-Foot Robalo Built for the Pacific

To provide a smooth, comfortable, and secure trip on the ocean, Captain Soto operates a 30-foot Robalo (excluding motors) powered by twin 200 HP Suzuki outboard engines for reliable speed and stability. The boat is equipped with modern Garmin navigation electronics, depth sounders, VHF radio, standard safety equipment—including children's size life vests—a live bait well, fishing tackle, an onboard portable restroom, and a layout comfortable for up to 6 guests. Additionally, Monster Fishing Quepos CR is pet-friendly, so dogs are welcome to join you on board. Whether trolling offshore current seams or deep-drop fishing 300-foot reefs for snapper and grouper, Captain Soto brings decades of maritime knowledge to ensure a well-guided day in Quepos.