Fishing in Cambutal, Panama: Top Destination for Sailfish, Dorado and Cubera

May 7, 2025 | reading time 5 Minutes
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Pesca en Cambutal, Panamá: Destino Top para Pez Vela, Dorado y Cubera

Located at the southern end of the Azuero peninsula, Cambutal has become a key destination for lovers of sport fishing in Panama. With direct access to deep waters of the Pacific, Cambutal offers perfect settings to capture species such as sailfishdorado (mahi-mahi)cubera snapperblue marlinmackerel, and yellowfin tuna.

Unlike other busier tourist spots, Cambutal maintains a wild and authentic atmosphere that attracts local and foreign fishermen looking for real action, without the crowds.

Best Fishing Tours in Cambutal

AFT- Cambutal

New Cambutal
26 ft Up To 4 People

Trips from

$370

Guarare Fishing Tours

New Cambutal
26 ft Up To 4 People

Trips from

$180

Offshore Fishing: Marlin and Tuna Fishing in Panama

From the coast, in a few minutes you reach ideal depths for open sea fishing. Here, the blue marlin and black marlin are always roaming. They are abundant during the dry months (December to April), when the currents bring schools and activity to the surface of the water. It is also the best season for sailfish, famous for its acrobatics and power.

From May to November, the rains enrich the waters and attract the yellowfin tuna, one of the most desired species for its flavor and intense fight. At this time it is also possible to troll for dorado (mahi-mahi), a fast, colorful and aggressive fish that does not disappoint.

For those looking for variety and adrenaline, the wahoo They appear during the transitions between seasons, offering a fast and forceful fight.

 

Coastal Fishing: The Territory of Cubera Snapper and Roosterfish

Cambutal's rocky coast, combined with its rivers and estuaries, creates the perfect environment for coastal or inshore fishing. The cubera snappers, rooster fish, and groupers. They hide in rocky bottoms and nearshore reefs, where good live bait can be the key to a big catch.

The rooster fish, another of the great trophies of the Pacific, is abundant in this region. Its power and spectacular nature make it one of the favorites among sport fishermen.

You can also capture species such as:

  • Jack crevalle & blue jacks: aggressive and fast.
  • Spanish Mackerel: very common and excellent for jigging.
  • Corvina and Snook: ideal for fishing near rivers or from the shore.

 

When to Go Fishing in Cambutal: High and Low Season in Cambutal

Cambutal offers fishing opportunities throughout the year, but the season determines which species are most active:

  • December to April: Blue marlin, sailfish, dorado, cubera snapper.
  • May to November: Yellowfin tuna, wahoo, roosterfish, corvina and spanish mackerel.
  • All year: Snappers, groupers, mackerel and snook.

Additionally, during the green season, estuary fishing becomes especially productive, ideal for those who prefer more technical techniques or fishing from a kayak.

 

Beyond Fishing: Nature and Adventure in Cambutal

In addition to fishing, Cambutal is a place to completely disconnect. Its secluded beaches, nearby jungles, surf lessons and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal destination to combine adventure with relaxation.

The accommodation offer includes everything from eco-lodges to beachfront boutique accommodations, ideal for fishing groups as well as for couples or family trips.

Among the most popular activities in Cambutal are surfing and hiking. Its powerful waves attract surfers from all over the world, especially between April and October. If you prefer dry land, you can explore hiking routes to hidden waterfalls, spot tropical birds, or tour ecological farms where high-altitude coffee is grown. In addition, many visitors simply enjoy the silence, the sunsets facing the sea and the slow pace of this corner of the Panamanian Pacific.