NBA icon Michael Jordan touched down in Costa Rica yesterday, marking his fourth trip to the country in the past year. Local reports confirm his private jet arrived at Juan SantamarÃa International Airport around 8 a.m., with immigration officials verifying his entry. Jordan quickly made his way to the Pacific coast, where he prepares to compete in the 10th annual Pelagic Rockstar Offshore Tournament at Marina Pez Vela in Quepos.
The tournament kicks off on January 15 and runs through January 18, drawing top anglers from around the world. Teams register on the first day, followed by two intense days of fishing and an awards ceremony on the final day. Anglers target species like sailfish, marlin, tuna, and dorado under strict catch-and-release rules for billfish, aligning with Costa Rica’s conservation efforts. This year’s event celebrates its decade milestone, building on last year’s success that featured 58 teams and a $1 million prize pool.
Jordan, a six-time NBA champion and avid angler, brings his custom yacht Catch 23 to the competition. Videos and photos from local sources show him already in Quepos, ready to hit the water. His participation last year placed him in the spotlight, with his team securing several releases of blue marlin and sailfish on the first day alone. This repeat appearance highlights his growing connection to Costa Rica’s fishing scene.
Jordan’s trips have become a regular feature in Costa Rica. He visited at least three times in 2025, including stints in January for the same tournament and later outings in Playa Herradura for the Triple Crown Billfish series. In one event, his team finished 15th out of 46, scoring 6,000 points. These visits often include time on his luxury yacht, where he enjoys the sport amid Costa Rica’s rich marine life.
The Pelagic Rockstar event boosts the local economy during the dry season peak. Hotels, restaurants, and charter services in Quepos see increased business as participants and spectators arrive. Organizers promote the tournament as a showcase for Costa Rica’s position as a leading sportfishing destination, with rules that protect ocean resources. Jordan’s star power adds to this appeal, drawing global attention to the Central Pacific coast.
For now, details on Jordan’s exact plans remain private, but his presence energizes our fishing community. As the tournament begins, eyes turn to the seas off Quepos, where competitors chase the Grand Champion title.
