The Best Places to Go Fishing in Panama
March 24, 2025 | reading time 10 minutes
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Panama’s very name comes from an indigenous word for “abundance of fish,” a description that still rings true today. Sitting at the crossroads of two oceans and two continents, the country is blessed with world‑class sportfishing, vibrant local fisheries, and some of the toughest conservation rules in the Americas. For anglers and travelers alike, Panama offers everything from 1‑hour city trips in the Panama Canal to multi‑day expeditions to remote islands where world records are broken regularly.
Why trust this guide?
As avid fishermen and tour organizers based in Panama, we combine first‑hand experience with data from the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), government tourism reports, and the latest research on sustainable fishing. Panama holds IGFA records for more than 30 different species, including 19 all‑tackle world records and even a hybrid Trevally named after the visiting angler who discovered it. Our goal is to provide practical, trustworthy advice for both seasoned anglers and first-timers and to highlight how you can book trips legally and responsibly through PescaYa, Panama’s home-grown fishing-tour marketplace.
Why Panama is a World‑Class Fishing Destination
Panama is the only country in the world where you can fish the Pacific and Atlantic oceans on the same day. Two ocean currents – a cold current from Antarctica and a warm current from the south – converge off the Pacific coast. This collision fuels plankton blooms, attracts bait fish, and creates ideal conditions for big game species like marlin, tuna, and sailfish.
The country’s geography also offers every type of fishing environment: deep‑sea blue water, rocky reefs, mangrove estuaries, and freshwater lakes. Piñas Bay in Darién province alone holds over 300 deep‑sea world records, the most of any location on Earth. Gatun Lake, an artificial lake within the Panama Canal, covers more than 180 square miles and hosts a mix of freshwater and ocean-going species such as peacock bass, tarpon, and even small sharks.
The Best Places to Fish in Panama
Panama’s waters can be divided into four broad zones: the accessible Panama Bay and Pearl Islands near the capital, the remote Isla Coiba national park, a series of Pacific hotspots along the Gulf of Chiriquí and Azuero coast, and the Freshwater & Caribbean areas that include Gatun Lake, Bayano, Piñas Bay, and Bocas del Toro. This section outlines what to expect in each region and which species to target. When you’re ready to book, PescaYa makes it easy to compare charters and secure a spot with trusted captains.
Panama Bay
Why fish here?
Just off Panama City, Panama Bay is the quickest way to get on the water. With nutrient-rich currents flowing through, it produces tuna, dorado, and roosterfish within sight of the skyline.
Key species & seasons
- Yellowfin Tuna: June–Nov, with fish often topping 150 lbs.
- Sailfish & Marlin: Dec–Apr offshore.
- Dorado (Mahi): Dec–Apr.
- Roosterfish & Snapper: Year-round inshore.
Local tip: Very close to the city, and you can mix your charters with fishing and beach time.
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Pearl Islands Fishing Charter
Pearl Islands
Why fish here?
About 20 minutes by boat from Panama City, the Las Perlas archipelago offers stunning islands and diverse fisheries. Known for mixed bags on short trips.
Key species & seasons
- Yellowfin Tuna: June–Nov; giants near Isla Contadora & Pacheca.
- Sailfish & Marlin: Dec–Apr offshore.
- Dorado: Dec–Apr.
- Roosterfish & Snappers: Year-round; peak Dec–Apr.
Local tip: Pearl Islands is considered one of the best fishing spots near Panama City.
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Lake Gatun (Panama Canal)
Why fish here?
This 180-square-mile lake forms the heart of the Panama Canal. Anglers find an unusual mix of freshwater and saltwater species.
Key species & seasons
- Peacock Bass: Dec–Apr best clarity; trophies reach 10 lbs.
- Tarpon & Snook: Year-round migrants.
- Catfish & Tilapia: More active in the wet season.
Local insight: Lake Gatun is peacock bass heaven and an excellent spot for conventional or fly fishing.
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Bayano River
Why fish here?
Two hours east of Panama City, Bayano is a freshwater and estuarine system surrounded by jungle.
Key species & seasons
- Peacock Bass & Machaca: Strong Dec–Apr (dry season).
- Tarpon & Snook: Year-round, with best runs mid-summer.
Local tip: Bayano is one of the best places in Panama for fly fishing.
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32 ftGulf of Chiriquí
Why fish here?
On the western Pacific, this gulf hosts legendary spots like Hannibal Bank and Isla Montuosa.
Key species & seasons
- Yellowfin Tuna: Feb–Sep, peaking Apr–Jun.
- Blue & Black Marlin: Dec–May.
- Sailfish & Dorado: Dec–May.
- Roosterfish & Snapper: Year-round.
Local tip: If you’re looking to land a massive tuna offshore, the Gulf of Chiriqui is the place to do it.
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30 ftCambutal
Why fish here?
A surf and fishing village at the end of the Azuero Peninsula. Just minutes to deep water and rugged coastlines.
Key species & seasons
- Marlin & Sailfish: Dec–May offshore.
- Tuna: Mar–Jul nearshore runs.
- Roosterfish & Cubera: Year-round along rocky points.
Local tip: Cambutal is known for great fishing all year round. Great for jigging, popping, and live bait.
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Pedasí
Why fish here?
Known as part of the “Tuna Coast,” Pedasí offers incredible access to massive yellowfin plus diverse inshore action.
Key species & seasons
- Yellowfin Tuna: Feb–Sep, with fish 200+ lbs standard.
- Sailfish & Marlin: Dec–May.
- Dorado: Dec–May.
- Roosterfish & Snappers: Year-round.
Local tip: Located on the Tuna Coast and it’s one of the best places to fish pelagics during winter time.
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Palo Seco
Why fish here?
A quiet fishing hub on the Pacific coast that gives quick access to offshore pelagics and productive inshore reefs.
Key species & seasons
- Yellowfin Tuna & Marlin: Offshore Dec–May.
- Dorado & Sailfish: Dry season peak.
- Inshore Roosters & Cubera: Consistent year-round.
Local tip: Less traffic than big-name hubs means calmer waters and more untouched reefs — perfect for jigging.
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What Can You Catch in Panama?
Below is a quick reference to the most popular game fish in Panama, their sizes, and prime seasons. Remember that many species, such as roosterfish, snappers, and groupers, are available year‑round.
| Fish Species | Typical Size & Notes | Best Season (general) | Primary Regions |
| Blue & Black Marlin | Among the largest billfish; Panama records exceed 1,000 lbs. Light‑tackle records (6‑16 lb line) were set here. | December–May (Pacific), May–August for light‑tackle marlin. | Hannibal Bank, Isla Coiba, Cambutal, Palo Seco, Pedasí |
| Sailfish | Known for spectacular jumps; strictly catch‑and‑release by law. | December–May | Gulf of Chiriquí, Isla Coiba, Pedasí |
| Yellowfin Tuna | 40–200+ lbs; schooling fish that migrate along Pacific islands. | Feb–Aug, peaking April–June; slows by August. | Hannibal Bank, Pearl Islands, Cambutal, Palo Seco |
| Roosterfish | Strong inshore predator with comb‑like dorsal fin; up to 80+ lbs. Can be targeted from shore or boat. | Year‑round; most active mid‑winter and mid‑summer when seas are calm. | Pacific coast from Pearl Islands to Cambutal |
| Cubera Snapper | Aggressive reef fish; commonly 20–80 lbs. | Year‑round; best during dry season when water is clear. | Coiba, Gulf of Chiriquí, Palo Seco |
| Peacock Bass (Tucunaré) | Introduced cichlid; common at 4 lbs, trophies up to 10 lbs. | Dry season (Dec–Apr). | Gatun Lake, Bayano Lake |
| Tarpon | “Silver king” up to 150+ lbs; found in both Caribbean and freshwater systems. | Year‑round, slightly better mid‑summer. | Bocas del Toro, Bayano River, Gatun Lake |
| Snook & Corvina | Coastal favorites; 5–30 lbs; great eating. | Best during dry season (Dec–Apr). | Panama Bay, Pedasí, Palo Seco, Bayano |
| Wahoo | Fast predator; 20–60 lbs; peaks in late spring. | April–June. | Offshore reefs near Coiba, Hannibal Bank |
When Is the Best Time to Fish in Panama?
Panama offers year‑round fishing, but the optimal months depend on the species you’re targeting. Use the calendar below as a guideline.
| Month | Best Targets | Notes |
| Jan–Feb | Sailfish, marlin, dorado, roosterfish, snappers, peacock bass | Dry season on the Pacific; calm seas and clear water; great for inshore and offshore trips. Yellowfin tuna action begins to pick up in February. |
| Mar–May | Marlin, sailfish, dorado, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, roosterfish | Peak offshore season; Hannibal Bank and Coiba are bustling with billfish. Wahoo runs in late spring. |
| Jun–Aug | Yellowfin tuna, roosterfish, cubera snapper, tarpon, snook | Tuna migration peaks April–June and slows by August. Mid‑summer provides calm seas for roosterfish. |
| Sep–Nov | Roosterfish, snappers, grouper, tarpon, machaca | Wet season brings higher water levels, improving freshwater fishing in Gatun and Bayano; fewer offshore boats mean less pressure. |
| Dec | Blue and black marlin, sailfish, dorado, roosterfish | Transition back to dry season; excellent mixed‑bag fishing near Cambutal, Pedasí and Panama Bay. |
How to Fish: Methods & Tips
Deep-Sea Trolling
The default for marlin, sailfish, tuna, dorado. Spread lures, rigged baits, and teasers; bump up sizes when specifically hunting blue/black marlin. Many charters run 30–80 lb stand-up or chair gear.
Live-Bait & Jigging
Deadly for snappers, groupers, amberjack, snook. Slow-pitch and speed jigs both have a place. Around seamounts and reefs, be ready for sudden freight-train strikes.
Spinning & Popping
Few things beat a tuna explosion on a surface popper or a rooster charging a stickbait. Use stout leaders, especially near rocks where abrasion will punish mistakes.
Fly Fishing
Salt or fresh, Panama has genuine fly targets: tarpon, snook, jacks in the Caribbean and canal systems; peacock bass and machaca in lakes and rivers; even sailfish and snappers on blue-water fly with the right crew.
Kayak & Shore
Protected bays (Bocas, Azuero coves, Boca Chica) are great for kayak missions. Shore casters score snook, roosters, snappers, blue runners—especially in the dry season when visibility improves.
Freshwater Tactics
For peacock bass, work shorelines with small crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and streamers. Machaca crushes topwater; think light tackle and explosive takes.
Regulations & Sustainability
- Licensing: Visitors do not need a personal recreational license; charter boats must be permitted and carry proper documentation.
- Protected species: Billfish (marlin/sailfish) are catch-and-release by law. Sea turtles are fully protected.
- Seasons & gear: Shrimp/lobster seasons are regulated; parks like Coiba require angling permits and have species/harvest rules.
- Best practices: Circle hooks, quick releases, minimal handling, and keep-what-you-eat ethics. Ask your captain about release protocols before you book.
Economic Impact & Tourist Insights
Sport‑fishing tourism supports thousands of jobs. A Billfish Foundation report found that in 2011 roughly 86,250 visitors fished in Panama, spending US $97 million; this generated US $170.4 million in total sales and supported more than 9,500 jobs. The number of anglers doubled between 2001 and 2011, 87% were satisfied with their trips, and 68.5 % chose Panama based on recommendations. Responsible tourism and positive word‑of‑mouth remain crucial drivers of Panama’s fishing economy.
Is Panama fishing sustainable?
Panama has some of the strictest fishing regulations in Central America. Hunting any species of marlin or sailfish is illegal; these billfish must be released immediately. Long‑line vessels over six tons are banned. Individual anglers do not need a personal fishing license, but all charter boats must carry permits and up‑to‑date documentation. Protected species such as turtles are strictly off‑limits, and seasons for shrimp (Feb–Apr and Sept–Oct) and lobster (Mar–Jul) help protect breeding cycles. These measures have helped Panama maintain vibrant fish populations despite growing tourism.
Price Snapshot by Region (Typical Ranges)
Numbers are indicative and vary by boat, fuel, season, group size, and inclusions.
| Region / Hub | Typical Targets | Trip Type | Typical Range (USD) |
| Panama Bay & Pearl Islands | Rooster, snapper, dorado, seasonal tuna/sails | Half/Full-day | 600–1,200 |
| Gulf of Chiriquí (Hannibal/ Montuosa) | Yellowfin, marlin, sails, wahoo | Full-day / Multi-day | 700–1,500 (day); 1,800–4,000+ (packages) |
| Azuero (Pedasí, Cambutal) | Tuna, rooster, cubera, marlin/sails (seasonal) | Half/Full-day | 300–1,000 |
| Isla Coiba | Marlin, sails, tuna, roosters, big reef fish | Day / Multi-day (permit req.) | 350–1,500+ |
| Gatun Lake / Canal | Peacock bass, snook, tarpon | Half-day / Full-day | 200–400 |
| Bayano River & Reservoir | Snook, tarpon, machaca | Full-day | 200–400 |
| Bocas del Toro | Tarpon, snook, reef mix | Half/Full-day | 200–600 |
| Piñas Bay (Darien) | Marlin, sails, tuna, wahoo (lodge) | Multi-day packages | 3,500+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best fishing destination in Panama?
It depends on what you want to catch. For big game like marlin and tuna, Hannibal Bank, Isla Coiba and the Tuna Coast are top choices. For a variety closer to town, try the Pearl Islands or the Pacific Hotspots, and for freshwater, head to Gatun Lake or the Bayano River.
2. When is the best time of year to fish in Panama?
The dry season (December–May) offers the best marlin, sailfish and dorado action. Yellowfin tuna peak from April–June, and inshore species such as roosterfish, snappers and snook bite well all year.
3. What gear should I bring?
For offshore trolling, 30–80 lb rods with high‑speed reels and skirted lures cover marlin, sailfish and tuna. Inshore, 20–50 lb spinning outfits with jigs, poppers and live‑bait rigs work for roosterfish and snapper. Freshwater anglers use lighter 10–20 lb tackle with small crankbaits and flies.
4. Do I need a permit or fishing license?
No personal license is required, but charter boats must have permits. National parks require special permits, which reputable operators will arrange.
Why Book with PescaYa?
PescaYa is Panama’s home‑grown platform connecting anglers with fully vetted captains and charter operators. We offer:
- Verified Captains & Boats: Every boat is inspected and captains’ permits are checked to ensure compliance with Panamanian regulations.
- Transparent Pricing: See all costs up front—no hidden fees or brokerage commissions.
- Flexible Options: From half‑day bay trips to multi‑day offshore expeditions, we have tours for every budget and skill level.
- Support & Local Knowledge: Our bilingual team is based in Panama and ready to answer questions about seasons, gear or logistics.
- Sustainable Practices: We partner only with operators who practice catch‑and‑release for billfish and follow best conservation protocols.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler chasing marlin records or a first‑time visitor looking for a fun family adventure, Panama has a fishing experience for you. Book your adventure through PescaYa today and join us on the waters that gave our country its name!
