History
joisyshowaa Flickr.com
Costa Rica was first settled by Europeans in 1522 after Christopher Columbus discovered it in 1502. In the 16th century, Spain conquered the native people and Costa Rica became part of the Spanish Territory. After years of trying to find gold and valuable minerals, the Spanish gave up and turned to agriculture. It was not until the 19th century that banana and coffee cultivation brought wealth to the area.
Geography
Costa Rica is 8 degrees north of the equator, so the weather is tropical year-round. It's perfect for a outdoorsman who enjoys fishing.
Saltwater Fishing
Jonathan.vails Flickr.com
There are many exotic saltwater fish that are abundant in Costa Rica. Some of the most popular to fish for are sailfish, marlin, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, cubera and roosterfish.
Freshwater Fishing
jennyhuang Flickr.com
With hundreds of lakes and rivers that stretch into the jungle, there are some spots undisturbed for two decades. Some of the native fish are barracuda, jacks, kingfish, sierra, tripletail and grouper.
Natural Hazards
Costa Rica has earthquakes, hurricanes, lowland flooding and landslides; also, there are four active volcanoes. The most recent eruption from a volcano was in 1963 until 1965.
