Where
Anywhere - Trip Date - Who
Showing results 1-3
The best time depends on the species. December to April is great for marlin, dorado, and sailfish. May to October is peak season for yellowfin tuna.
Hannibal Bank and the waters near Isla Montuosa are top spots for yellowfin tuna fishing.
Prices start at $300 for half-day inshore trips and can go over $1,500 for full-day offshore fishing.
Absolutely! Many captains offer beginner-friendly trips with full guidance and all gear provided.
Roosterfish, tuna, marlin, mahi-mahi, cubera snapper, snook, jack crevalle, and sailfish are among the most common species.
Most trips depart from Boca Chica, but there are also options from Pedregal, Puerto Armuelles, and Isla Secas.
For tourists on guided charters, the fishing license is covered by the captain's permit—no need to get one separately.
Yes! You can go snorkeling, whale watching (July to October), visit tropical islands, or explore Boquete after your trip.
Inshore fishing happens near the coast—great for snapper, roosterfish, and snook. Offshore fishing takes you deep sea for tuna, marlin, and mahi-mahi.
If you’re looking for a fishing trip that delivers both excitement and unforgettable views, Chiriquí is the place to be. Located on Panama’s Pacific coast, this region offers access to some of the most productive fishing grounds in Central America—whether you’re just starting out or chasing trophy fish.
Whether you're searching for “where to fish for tuna in Panama” or “best place to catch roosterfish in the Pacific”, this guide answers your questions with real, on-the-water experience.
Chiriquí is packed with legendary fishing spots that attract anglers from all over the world. Whether you're targeting giant tuna offshore or casting for snapper along the coast, these are the top areas you need to know before planning your trip:
Best for: Yellowfin Tuna, Marlin, Sailfish, Dorado
Distance from shore: ~60 miles offshore from Boca Chica
This underwater seamount is one of the most famous big game fishing spots in the Eastern Pacific. Known for its deep drop-offs and powerful currents, Hannibal Bank is where you go when you want a shot at a trophy. Tuna often travel in huge schools here, especially between May and October.
Best for: Marlin, Tuna, Cubera Snapper, Amberjack
Distance from shore: ~50 miles from Boca Chica
This remote island is surrounded by deep waters, reefs, and drop-offs—perfect habitat for a wide range of species. Montuosa is often combined with Hannibal Bank on full-day or overnight charters for a high-adrenaline offshore adventure.
Best for: Roosterfish, Snapper, Jacks, Snook
Distance from shore: ~12–15 miles from Boca Chica
Ideal for inshore trips, Isla Parida is part of a protected national marine park and offers crystal-clear waters, rugged coastlines, and abundant reef structures. A great choice for shorter trips or family outings with plenty of action close to shore.
Best for: Marlin, Tuna, Wahoo
Distance from shore: Variable, southwest of Montuosa
This deep underwater ridge is a highway for pelagic species moving between the Pacific and the waters around Coiba. While more remote, it's a prime spot for hardcore anglers chasing serious offshore game.
Best for: Launch point for all major fishing areas
This small coastal town is the main gateway to most fishing spots in Chiriquí. It's home to several lodges and marinas, and the jumping-off point for both inshore and offshore charters. Many captains and outfitters operate out of Boca Chica.
Best for: Inshore fishing, eco-tours, and wildlife watching
Covering more than 14,000 hectares, this protected area includes dozens of islands, reefs, and mangroves. It's a scenic and productive area for targeting snappers, jacks, roosterfish, and other inshore species while surrounded by tropical beauty.
Best for: Roosterfish, Snapper, Light Tackle Fishing
A luxurious and remote option, Isla Secas offers boutique lodge access with productive fishing grounds nearby. The waters around the island are rich with bait and structure, making it a solid spot for anglers who prefer comfort with their casting.
Best for: Budget-friendly inshore and nearshore fishing
Located further west near the Costa Rican border, Puerto Armuelles offers access to quality fishing with fewer crowds. A good option if you're exploring that side of Chiriquí or want a more low-key launching point.
Quick access to deep water without long boat rides.
Incredible biodiversity, with everything from dorado and roosterfish to marlin and tuna.
Experienced captains who’ve spent decades navigating these waters.
Nearby hotspots like Hannibal Bank, Isla Montuosa, and Isla Parida known across the sportfishing world.
1. Offshore Fishing (Deep Sea)
Best for anglers looking to fight big fish like:
Yellowfin Tuna
Blue and Black Marlin
Sailfish
Dorado (Mahi-Mahi)
Most charters launch from Boca Chica, Pedregal, or Puerto Armuelles and head toward legendary grounds like Hannibal Bank, where dolphins, birds, and tuna often feed together in a dramatic show of nature.
2. Inshore Fishing (Nearshore)
Perfect for shorter trips, especially for:
Roosterfish
Cubera Snapper
Jack Crevalle
Snook
This style of fishing happens near islands, rocky coastlines, and reefs using live bait, lures, casting, or trolling techniques.
3. Fly Fishing
Although not the most common in the region, some operators do offer fly fishing near calm shorelines or mangrove areas, ideal for technical anglers looking for a challenge.
Dry Season (December to April): Great for marlin, sailfish, and dorado. Calm seas make it easier to venture offshore.
Rainy Season (May to November): Prime time for yellowfin tuna. Schools follow baitfish near the surface, often alongside dolphins and seabirds.
| Species | Fishing Style | Best Season |
|---|---|---|
| Yellowfin Tuna | Offshore | May to October |
| Blue & Black Marlin | Offshore | December to April |
| Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) | Offshore | December to April |
| Roosterfish | Inshore | Year-round |
| Cubera Snapper | Inshore | Year-round |
| Sailfish | Offshore | January to March |
| Jack Crevalle, Snook | Inshore | Best during rainy season |
Prices vary depending on the type of boat, trip duration, and destination. Here's a general idea:
Half-day inshore trip: from $300 per boat (2–3 people)
Full-day offshore trip: from $950 up to $1,800
Multi-day expeditions or island lodges: from $2,000 and up
All tours typically include fishing gear, bait, guide, cooler with ice, and drinks. Some captains also provide meals and transportation from David or nearby accommodations.
You can book directly with local captains or use a trusted platform like PescaYa.com, where you can compare tours, check reviews, and reserve online.
PescaYa partners with the top-rated, licensed captains in the region and helps you pick the right trip based on your skill level, target species, and budget.
Explore the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park
Hike and go birdwatching in Boquete
Relax on tropical islands like Isla Parida or Isla Bolaños
Go whale watching (July to October)
Thank you for your interest in joining PescaYa! We are currently in our testing phase and, for now, we are accepting captain registrations manually. If you're interested, please contact us directly via WhatsApp at +507 6685-8732. Thank you for your understanding – we look forward to hearing from you!