Absolutely. Panama is one of the top fishing destinations in the world, offering year-round action for both saltwater and freshwater anglers. With access to the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, lakes, rivers, and the Panama Canal, it's perfect for targeting big game fish like Marlin, Tuna, Roosterfish, Tarpon, and Peacock Bass.
Fishing tours in Panama typically start at $250 USD and can go up to $1,200 USD, depending on the location, type of boat, and target species.
The best fishing months in Panama are December to April, when the dry season brings calm seas and peak activity for Marlin, Sailfish, and many inshore species. However, fishing is productive year-round in different regions.
Panama straddles two mighty oceans and boasts nearly 1,800 miles of coastline. The country’s very name comes from an indigenous word meaning “abundance of fish,” and anglers quickly see why – more than 50 species of game fish thrive here, and over 250 world records have been set in Panamanian waters. From marlin exploding out of deep bluewater to trophy roosterfish and cubera snapper prowling rocky inshore points, Panama delivers action for every style of angler.
Two distinct coasts offer different experiences. The Pacific side, particularly the Gulf of Chiriquí and Piñas Bay, produces giant black and blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, sailfish and wahoo just a short run from shore. The Caribbean coast offers tarpon, snook and jack crevalle amid mangrove lagoons. Combine this rich marine life with warm tropical weather, well-run lodges, modern fleets and experienced captains, and it’s easy to see why Panama fishing charters rank among the best in the world.
Anglers come to Panama for its wide variety of big game and inshore species.
Marlin (Black & Blue) – Panama’s signature big game fish. Black marlin over 1,000 pounds patrol offshore seamounts like Hannibal Bank and Zane Grey Reef. The prime season for black marlin is December through February, though they’re caught year-round. Blue marlin over 700 pounds appear during the same winter months and again in June through September.
Yellowfin Tuna – Often weighing 200 pounds or more, these hard-fighting tuna feed around Hannibal Bank and Isla Montuosa. Peak tuna season runs from April through July, but March also produces big fish when marlin are abundant. The offshore waters boil with surface-feeding tuna in summer; casting poppers and jigs into frenzied schools is a highlight of Panama fishing tours.
Sailfish – Pacific sailfish over 100 pounds show up mainly from December through February, with another push in June. They often accompany marlin and tuna; catching a grand slam of marlin, sailfish, and tuna in one day is possible.
Dorado (Mahi Mahi) – Known for their acrobatics and brilliant colors, dorado peak in January through March. They are willing strikers on trolling baits or fly rods, making them a favorite for beginners and families.
Wahoo – These speedsters patrol reef edges from September through December. Trolling high?speed lures along drop?offs near Isla Montuosa often produces multiple strikes.
Roosterfish – A truly unique species with a spiky dorsal comb. Panama is one of the few places on Earth where anglers regularly catch trophy roosterfish over 50 pounds. They are available all year round, but January through March offers the best shot at a record fish. Roosters smash surface poppers along rocky points and shallow reefs.
Cubera Snapper – The apex predator of the snapper family. Good fish weigh 40 pounds, while true trophies top 70 pounds. Cubera snapper feed along underwater pinnacles and rocky shorelines in the Gulf of Chiriquí. They bite year-round with two peaks: November–March and July–August. Catch and release is encouraged because cubera grow slowly.
Jack Crevalle & African Pompano – Aggressive fighters often encountered while casting for snappers. They travel in packs and will devour poppers, stickbaits, and live baits. While not highly valued on the table, they provide endless action.
Mackerel & Amberjack – Inshore waters hold cero mackerel, rainbow runners, and amberjack, particularly around Isla Parida and Islas Secas. These fish strike both lures and bait; amberjack can exceed 50 pounds.
Tarpon & Snook – On the Caribbean coast, tarpon up to 150 pounds and big snook prowl river mouths and lagoons. The tarpon season runs February through May, while snook bite well in the green season.
Panama fishing charters come in many flavors: half-day inshore trips, full-day offshore adventures, and multi-day packages that include lodging. Understanding the options helps match your budget and interests.
Half Day (4–6 hours) – Perfect for families or anglers new to saltwater fishing. You’ll stay close to shore, targeting roosterfish, cubera snapper, and jacks. Prices start around US $400 per boat for 2–3 anglers.
Full Day (8–10 hours) – The most popular option. Full-day charters venture offshore to Hannibal Bank, Isla Montuosa or Piñas Bay, or split time between inshore and offshore. Expect rates around US $700 per boat (gear, bait, captain and mate included).
Multi Day & Lodge Packages – Serious anglers book 3–7 day all-inclusive packages that pair charters with beachfront or island lodging. These packages usually cost $2,000+ per person, depending on boat class and accommodations. They include lodging, meals, fishing, ground transfers and sometimes domestic flights.
Charters in Panama are fully licensed and supply everything you need: boats with twin engines, experienced captains and mates, high-quality quality rods, reels and tackle, bait, safety gear, fuel, and onboard meals or snacks. Visitors do not need a personal fishing licence, as charter boats carry the necessary permits. Crews welcome novice anglers and provide instruction. It’s customary to tip the crew 10–20 percent of the charter price (around $150–$300 per day) for good service.
Panama is a world leader in catch-and-release billfish fishing. Marlin, sailfish, roosterfish, and cubera snapper are released to ensure healthy populations. Species like tuna, dorado, wahoo, and smaller snappers may be kept for dinner, within reasonable limits. Charters will fillet your catch and vacuum-seal it if you plan to bring fish home. Always follow your captain’s guidance and local regulations.
PescaYa simplifies the booking process. Their online platform allows you to search by destination, target species, trip length, and budget. Once you choose a charter, you can see boat photos, captain bios, real customer reviews, and available dates. PescaYa collects a 15% deposit to confirm your trip, with the balance due on the day of fishing. They offer secure payment, bilingual customer support, and flexible cancellation policies. By partnering with vetted local operators, PescaYa ensures your Panama fishing charter meets high safety and service standards.
Staying at a lodge combines upscale accommodations with world-class?class fishing right at your doorstep. Here are some of Panama’s finest fishing lodges and resorts:
Rated one of the top lodges in Central America, this private island retreat sits on Islas Paridas, 12 miles off Panama’s western Pacific coast inside the Gulf of Chiriquí National Park. The lodge features air conditioned villas, gourmet dining, and a fleet of 33 foot World Cat catamarans. Because the lodge is off the mainland, travel times to Hannibal Bank and Isla Montuosa are significantly shorter than from Boca Chica. Guests return to cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and three course dinners at sunset. The lodge supplies top shelf tackle and caters to serious anglers chasing yellowfin tuna, marlin, roosterfish and cubera snapper. Due to its exclusivity (just three villas), bookings fill quickly—especially during peak tuna season from March through July—so plan at least 9–12 months in advance.
Located 150 miles southeast of Panama City in remote Piñas Bay, Tropic Star Lodge has more International Game Fish Association (IGFA) world records than any other resort on Earth. With over 60 years of history, it consistently ranks as one of the best fishing resorts globally. The lodge operates a fleet of classic and premium Bertram sportfishers crewed by veteran captains and mates. The nearby Zane Grey Reef is only 20 minutes from the dock, meaning you spend more time fishing and less time running. Tropic Star waters teem with black marlin, blue marlin, sailfish, giant dorado, roosterfish and cubera snapper. Accommodations range from classic rooms to private villas with rainforest views. Amenities include fine dining, a rainforest spa, and family friendly activities. Due to its remoteness and popularity, reservations often sell out a year in advance.
Perched on a hill overlooking the Gulf of Chiriquí, Paradise Fishing Lodge combines spectacular views with modern comforts. It’s home to the only full-service marina in the Gulf. The lodge offers all-inclusive packages, including gourmet meals, award-winning coffee from the owner’s plantation, daily happy hour snacks, a full bar, laundry service, fibre optic WiFi, and even ground transportation from the airport. Meals range from hearty breakfasts to four-course dinners featuring fresh catch, shrimp, lobster, beef, and local delicacies. The lodge’s fleet includes six 28 and 32-foot Contender center consoles, two 33-foot World Cats, and a 31-foot Bertram with an air-conditioned salon. Its prime location is a quick run to Hannibal Bank, Montuosa Island, and prime inshore reefs. If you crave luxury and convenience, Paradise Fishing Lodge delivers.
Few experiences compare to watching a marlin charge your lure and then leap clear of the water. Panama offers several legendary spots for marlin and other big pelagics.
Hannibal Bank lies about 50 miles off the Pacific coast in the Gulf of Chiriquí. This underwater ridge rises from thousands of feet deep to as little as 150 feet, creating an upwelling of nutrient?rich water that attracts baitfish and, consequently, marlin, tuna and dorado. During peak months (December–March for black and blue marlin; April–July for tuna), anglers can see multiple marlin strikes daily. Blue marlin here average 250–300 pounds with many over 500 pounds, and black marlin frequently top 500 pounds, with fish over 800 pounds not uncommon.
Zane Grey Reef (also known as Piñas Reef) lies 150 miles southeast of Panama City near Tropic Star Lodge. This underwater pinnacle rises to just 120 feet below the surface, drawing baitfish and predators year?round. Anglers here often encounter giant black marlin, plus abundant blue marlin and sailfish just twenty miles from the lodge. Its proximity to shore means more time fighting fish than transiting.
Beyond these famous banks, Panama offers numerous productive areas:
Isla Montuosa & Coiba – Rich seamounts and drop?offs teem with tuna, marlin and wahoo.
Gulf of Chiriquí National Park – Protected waters hold roosterfish, cubera snapper and jacks on the inshore side and provide launching points for offshore trips.
Pedasí & Cambutal (Azuero Peninsula) – Quick runs to deep water produce mahi mahi, tuna and seasonal billfish; ideal for anglers based on Panama’s central Pacific coast.
Pearl Islands & Panama City – Accessible for travellers staying in the capital; these islands offer mixed bag fishing with marlin and tuna offshore and snapper and jacks inshore.
Caribbean Tarpon Grounds – On the north coast, rivers like the Rio Chagres offer tarpon up to 150 pounds and trophy snook.
Panama’s diversity means anglers can practice multiple techniques during a single trip.
Inshore fishing takes place within 15 miles of shore in water less than 30 metres deep. Seas are generally calm, making this style ideal for beginners or those prone to seasickness. Target species include roosterfish, African pompano, jack crevalle and cubera snapper. Anglers throw surface poppers, stickbaits, jigs and live baits around rocky points and reef edges. Panama offers good inshore fishing all year, but the heavy rains from August through November can make conditions unpredictable. If you want to target big cubera or roosterfish, plan your visit between January and March when the action peaks. Hot spots include Islas Secas and Isla Parida, which lie only 4–15 nautical miles from many lodges.
Offshore fishing in Panama often means traveling 20–60 minutes to reach deep blue water. Trolling is the primary method for marlin and sailfish: heavy-duty rods with outriggers drag a spread of skirted lures, teasers, and natural baits. Captains watch for birds, bait, and temperature breaks to find fish. Once marlin are hooked, anglers strap into fighting chairs or stand?up harnesses for the fight of a lifetime.
Live bait slow trolling is deadly on marlin, tuna, and wahoo when fish are located. Crews slow the boat and deploy whole bonito or mullet rigged on circle hooks, keeping baits swimming in the prop wash. When pelagics are feeding near the surface, popping and jigging provide exciting topwater strikes—especially for yellowfin tuna and wahoo. Kite fishing, which keeps live baits on the surface away from the boat, also produces explosive bites.
Fly anglers can experience world-class action in Panama. Small sailfish, dorado, jack crevalle, and roosterfish readily take flies. Guides will position the boat upwind of feeding fish while anglers make precise casts with 10–14-weight rods. Inshore flats near mangroves offer shots at snook and baby tarpon on the fly. Kayak fishing and slow-pitch jigging have also become popular for cubera snapper, amberjack, and grouper, allowing anglers to enjoy light tackle battles from the relative stability of a kayak.
Booking a charter or lodge has never been easier. Follow these steps to plan your dream trip:
Visit PescaYa.com – Select your language (English or Spanish) and choose Deep Sea Fishing, Inshore Fishing or other styles.
Search Destinations – Use the search bar to explore locations like Chiriquí, Pedasí, Pearl Islands or Bocas del Toro. You can filter by trip duration, species, boat size and price range.
View Listings – Each charter listing shows boat photos, captain profiles, target species, departure points and what’s included. Multi-day packages describe lodging amenities, meal plans and transfer details.
Check Availability – Choose your dates and number of anglers. PescaYa displays real-time availability and pricing. Use the built-in calendar to avoid sold-out dates during peak marlin and tuna seasons.
Book & Pay – Reserve your trip with a secure online payment. A 15 percent deposit locks in your charter. PescaYa accepts major credit cards and offers flexible cancellation policies through its operators.
Receive Confirmation – You’ll get an email itinerary with directions, packing tips and contact information. PescaYa’s bilingual support team can arrange domestic flights, ground transfers and extra activities like eco tours or sightseeing in Panama City.
By booking through PescaYa, you avoid language barriers, confusing deposit requirements and unverified operators. The platform curates the best captains and lodges in Panama, so you can focus on enjoying your fishing adventure.
To help you budget, here’s what most Panama fishing charters and tours include:
| Charter Type | Typical Cost (Boat) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Half Day Inshore | ~US $400 | Boat, fuel, captain, mate, rods, reels, bait, bottled water and snacks |
| Full Day Offshore | ~US $700 | All of the above plus lunch, upgraded tackle (80lb class rods), outriggers and safety gear |
| Multi Day Packages | US $2,000+ per person | Daily fishing, lodging, meals, open bar, ground transfers, fish cleaning, optional domestic flights |
Packages often cover accommodation, meals, drinks, fishing (boat or kayak), gear, bait, local transfers and sometimes domestic flights. Crews clean and fillet your catch. Tips and alcoholic beverages may be extra on some boats. Deposits vary by operator; PescaYa standardizes them at 15 percent. Crew gratuities (10–20 percent) are greatly appreciated.
Panama has two primary seasons: the dry season (December–April) and the green season (May–November). Luckily, there is productive fishing year?round.
This is the peak tourism season and the best time for marlin and sailfish. Sunshine and calm seas dominate the Pacific coast, with temperatures around 90 °F. The first half of the dry season (December–February) sees excellent marlin and sailfish action, while March marks the start of peak tuna fishing. Inshore species like roosterfish and cubera snapper are abundant because baitfish hatch in the shallows. Hotel and airfare prices are higher and book up quickly, so plan early.
Also called the rainy or winter season, the green season brings afternoon showers that turn the landscape lush. Mornings are generally sunny, and offshore fishing for yellowfin tuna, dorado and wahoo is phenomenal. June and July offer some of the best wahoo and roosterfish action. July and August also mark a secondary peak for cubera snapper. While storms can roll through, seas remain fishable most days. Rates are often lower, and lodges may offer deals to fill spots.
Panama’s geography creates micro?climates. Piñas Bay in the east and the Gulf of Chiriquí in the west enjoy calm conditions during the dry season, while the central Bay of Panama experiences strong winds that make fishing difficult. On the Caribbean side, December and January can be rainy and windy, so tarpon trips are best February through May when the weather stabilizes. Always consult local operators or PescaYa to adjust your travel dates based on current conditions, as events like El Niño and La Niña can shift peak seasons.
Getting to your fishing grounds is straightforward but requires some planning.
Passport Validity – Ensure your passport is valid for at least 90 days beyond your return date; airlines will deny boarding otherwise.
Fly into Panama City (PTY) – Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is the main gateway. Copa Airlines (Panama’s flag carrier) offers direct flights from cities across the Americas and Europe, but other major airlines also serve PTY.
Connect to David (DAV) – Most Pacific coast lodges depart from Boca Chica or the Gulf of Chiriquí, roughly 1 hour from David. You can fly from Panama City to David via Copa Airlines or Air Panama (a 45 minute flight) or drive 6–7 hours across the country. Lodges and PescaYa can arrange ground transfers from David. If you plan to explore Panama City, spend a night there before catching your domestic flight.
Piñas Bay & Darién – To reach remote Piñas Bay, Tropic Star Lodge arranges charter flights from Panama City directly to their airstrip. Travel is included in many packages.
Caribbean Destinations – For tarpon fishing, fly into Panama City and then board domestic flights or boat transfers to Bocas del Toro or the Chagres River region.
Sun Protection – Bring high SPF sunscreen, a wide brim hat, polarized sunglasses, buff or scarf and lightweight, long sleeved clothing.
Rain Gear – During the green season, pack a rain jacket and quick dry clothing.
Seasickness Remedy – Even on calm days the run to offshore banks can be bumpy. Pack motion sickness tablets or patches if you are prone to seasickness.
Camera & Waterproof Bag – Capture the moment when a marlin tail?walks across the wake. Keep electronics protected from salt spray and rain.
Personal Gear – Charters supply rods and reels, but you may bring your favourite lures or fly rods. Bring a copy of your booking confirmation, passport copies and cash for tips and incidentals.
Many anglers spend a night in Panama City before or after their fishing trip. The city offers everything from international hotel chains to boutique Old Town inns. After fishing, consider extending your stay to explore the Panama Canal, Casco Viejo, San Blas Islands, or the highlands of Boquete. PescaYa’s team can arrange eco tours, surfing, diving or cultural excursions. Remember to book your flights and lodging well in advance during peak marlin season.
PescaYa is more than just a booking site; it’s a full?service platform designed specifically for anglers. Here’s what sets it apart:
Curated Charters & Lodges – PescaYa partners with the best captains, guides and resorts in Panama. Every listing is vetted for safety, professionalism and sustainability.
Transparent Pricing – View live rates, availability and what’s included. No hidden fees; the price you see is the price you pay.
Bilingual Support – Customer service is available in English and Spanish to answer questions, recommend destinations and resolve issues quickly.
Secure Payments – Deposits and final payments are processed through trusted platforms, protecting your financial information.
Flexible Cancellation – Plans change; PescaYa offers flexible cancellation and rebooking policies depending on the operator.
Local Expertise – The company is based in Panama, so you receive on?the?ground advice about weather, travel logistics and fishing conditions.
Multi Destination & Custom Packages – Combine a few days in the Gulf of Chiriquí with time in Piñas Bay, add snorkeling or jungle tours, or book group packages for corporate retreats or family reunions.
In short, PescaYa removes the guesswork from planning a Panama fishing vacation. By booking through a local, angler focused platform, you get the best options at fair prices while supporting local captains and communities.
Panama offers an unrivalled combination of prolific fisheries, spectacular scenery and warm hospitality. Whether you dream of releasing a 500 pound marlin, feeling the bulldog pull of a 70 pound cubera, casting poppers to giant roosterfish, or simply relaxing at a luxury fishing lodge, Panama has it all. By planning your trip around species and seasons, choosing the right lodge and charter, and booking through PescaYa, you ensure a seamless, world class angling experience.
Don’t just read about giant marlin and huge tuna – experience them for yourself. Browse PescaYa’s curated listings, pick your preferred destination and dates, and secure your Panama fishing charter today. Your next fishing story begins in Panama.
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