Historic achievement by a Costa Rican sport fishing athlete

Costa Rican sport fishing reached a milestone on the global stage as angler Erika Sandi delivered a standout performance at the **2026 Offshore World Championship, one of the most prestigious tournaments in international sport fishing. The event brought together elite anglers from around the world, competing under strict rules that emphasize billfish catch-and-release practices and sustainable sport fishing techniques.

Top performer at a global sport fishing event

Competing aboard the vessel Pura Vida, Erika Sandi excelled over the course of the multi-day championship, earning both Top Angler and Top Lady Angler honors by releasing 28 sailfish during the competition — an exceptionally high count that underscored her skill, consistency, and mastery of offshore fishing tactics. Her achievement stood out among hundreds of anglers representing dozens of countries, demonstrating the high level of competitive angling coming from Costa Rica.

About the Offshore World Championship

The Offshore World Championship is widely regarded as the “Olympics of sport fishing,” drawing top competitors and expert crews from across the globe. Held in coastal waters rich with billfish species like sailfish and marlin, the 2026 edition featured a revamped format and expanded participation, with teams competing in a variety of offshore conditions and challenging scenarios.

Sport fishing tournaments like this emphasize ethical catch-and-release practices, which help protect marine biodiversity and sustain populations of gamefish, aligning with global conservation principles promoted by the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) and leading sport fishing bodies.

Significance for Costa Rica

Erika Sandi’s historic performance not only highlighted her personal talent but also showcased Costa Rica’s growing presence in competitive offshore sport fishing. With Pacific waters known for abundant billfish and diverse pelagic species, Costa Rica has become a world-renowned destination for anglers seeking international-class fishing experiences — from sailfish to marlin and beyond.

Her accomplishment serves to inspire both recreational and competitive anglers in Costa Rica, and adds to the country’s tradition of excellence in outdoor and marine sports. It also reinforces the importance of sustainable fishing practices that contribute to the health of marine ecosystems while celebrating sport and skill.

Official and informative sources

• The Marlin Group — Coverage and results of the 2026 Offshore World Championship.
• International Game Fish Association — Guidelines and standards for offshore sport fishing and responsible catch-and-release practices.
• FECOP — Costa Rica’s sport fishing federation, highlighting national angler achievements and participation in international competitions.