Ready to reel in some serious action off the Panama City coast? Our 3/4 day trip is the perfect slice of fishing heaven for anglers looking to make the most of their time on the water. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this 6-hour adventure promises a boatload of excitement and the chance to tangle with some of Florida's most sought-after gamefish.
Picture this: You're cruising out of Panama City as the sun starts to warm up the Gulf. The anticipation builds as we head to our prime fishing grounds. You've got options here - we can drop lines for some bottom fishing action, targeting the likes of Red Snapper and Grouper, or we can troll for the big boys like King Mackerel and Mahi Mahi. It's your call, and we're here to make it happen. With room for up to 4 anglers (and a little wiggle room for a 5th if needed), this trip is perfect for a group of buddies or a family looking to make some memories on the water.
No need to stress about equipment - we've got you covered from rod to reel. Our boat is decked out with top-notch gear, and we'll show you the ropes if you're new to offshore fishing. For bottom fishing, we'll be using heavy-duty tackle to wrestle those reef dwellers from their rocky homes. If we're trolling, get ready to watch those lines zing as a pelagic predator takes the bait. We use a mix of live bait and lures, depending on what's biting. And don't worry about licenses or permits - that's all included in your trip.
Anglers have been crushing it lately with some impressive hauls. Red Snapper season is always a highlight, with many folks limiting out on these tasty bottom dwellers. We've also seen some monster Amberjack being pulled up - these "reef donkeys" will give you one heck of a workout. And let's not forget about the Mahi Mahi - when we find a school, it's non-stop action with these acrobatic beauties leaping out of the water.
Red Snapper: These crimson beauties are the crown jewels of the Gulf. Known for their firm, white flesh and excellent taste, Red Snapper put up a good fight and are a blast to catch. They typically hang out near reefs and wrecks, and when you hook one, be ready for a hard pull - these fish don't give up easily. The best time to target them is during the federally regulated season, which usually falls in the summer months.
Goliath Grouper: True to their name, these massive fish are the gentle giants of the reef. While we practice catch and release for these protected species, hooking into a Goliath Grouper is an experience you won't forget. They can grow to over 800 pounds and are known for their powerful strikes and dogged fights. Look for them around structure like wrecks and reefs, where they ambush their prey.
Grey Triggerfish: Don't let their small size fool you - these feisty little guys pack a punch both in fight and flavor. With their distinctive "trigger" dorsal fin and powerful jaws, they're a unique catch. Triggerfish are crafty bait stealers, so quick reflexes are key when fishing for them. They're typically found over rocky bottom areas and reefs, and the best time to target them is outside of their spawning season closure in the summer.
Mahi Mahi: Also known as Dolphinfish, these colorful speedsters are a favorite among anglers for their acrobatic fights and delicious meat. Mahi are known for their vibrant blue-green and gold coloration, which fades quickly after they're caught. We often find them near floating debris or weed lines, where they hunt for smaller fish. Spring and summer are prime times for Mahi, and when we find a school, get ready for fast and furious action.
Greater Amberjack: Affectionately called "reef donkeys" by local anglers, Amberjack are the heavyweight champions of the reef. These powerful fish will test your strength and stamina - be prepared for a serious workout when you hook one. They typically hang around deep-water structures and wrecks. The best time to target them is in the cooler months when the season is open, as there's a closure during spawning season in the spring and early summer.
It's not just about the fish - though that's a big part of it. Our trips are all about creating an experience you'll want to relive again and again. We know these waters like the back of our hand, and we're always on the hunt for the best spots to put you on the fish. But more than that, we're here to share our love of the ocean and fishing with you. Whether you're looking to learn new techniques, hear some salty sea stories, or just enjoy a day away from it all, we've got you covered.
So, are you ready to get your lines wet and make some fishing memories in Panama City? Our 3/4 day trip is the perfect balance of time on the water and action-packed fishing. Whether you're aiming to fill the cooler with tasty fillets or just want to experience the thrill of battling big game fish, we've got the know-how and the spots to make it happen. Don't let this opportunity slip away - the fish are biting, and your spot on the boat is waiting. Give us a call or book online today, and let's get you out on the water for a fishing adventure you won't forget. Tight lines and see you soon!
Mahi Mahi, also called Dolphinfish, are some of the most colorful and exciting fish you'll catch around here. They usually run 15 to 30 pounds, but can get up to 80 in rare cases. Look for them near floating debris or weed lines, especially in warmer months. These fish are fast growers and great fighters. When hooked, they'll make spectacular aerial leaps and long runs. Anglers love targeting them for both the thrill of the catch and their excellent eating quality. To find Mahi, keep an eye out for frigate birds working the water - they'll often lead you right to them. Trolling with ballyhoo or squid is effective, but here's a fun trick: if you spot a school, toss out a hooked bait and leave it in the water. Mahi are curious, and will often investigate while you reel in others. This way, you can sometimes keep a school around the boat for multiple hookups.
Grey Triggerfish are odd-looking but tasty bottom dwellers you'll find around reefs and hard structures. They typically weigh 2 to 5 pounds, but can reach up to 13. These fish have tough, leathery skin and a small, powerful mouth they use to crush shellfish. Anglers enjoy catching Triggerfish for their unique appearance and excellent table fare. They put up a decent fight for their size, often using their flat bodies to "plane" in the current. To target them, use small hooks and pieces of squid or cut bait. Drop your rig to the bottom, then reel up a few turns. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, don't set the hook right away. Triggerfish often nibble before fully committing. Give them a moment to get the bait in their mouth, then reel steadily to set the hook in their tough jaws. Be ready for a quick, determined fight to the surface.
Red Snapper are prized catches in these parts, known for their bright red color and delicious white meat. They typically run 5 to 10 pounds, but can grow much larger. You'll find them around reefs, wrecks, and other structure in waters 60 to 300 feet deep. Anglers love Red Snapper for their hard fighting ability and excellent eating quality. They put up a strong battle, especially on the initial run when hooked. Late spring through summer is prime time for Red Snapper fishing. Use heavy tackle and drop your bait to the bottom. Live bait like cigar minnows or squid works great. Here's a local tip: when you hook one, reel fast and steady to get it away from the structure. If you give a Red Snapper any slack, it'll dive right back into the rocks and break you off. Keep constant pressure and you'll have a better shot at landing these tasty reef dwellers.
Greater Amberjacks are powerhouses that'll test your strength. These bluish-grey bruisers can reach 6 feet long and push 40 pounds, with females usually growing bigger than males. You'll find them hanging around reefs, wrecks, and offshore structures in the Gulf and Atlantic. Spring's the prime time to target them, as they're spawning from April to May. Anglers love Amberjacks for their hard-fighting spirit. When hooked, they'll dive deep and give you a serious workout. Their meat is prized too, though be aware of potential ciguatera risks in larger fish. To catch one, use heavy tackle - 50-pound test line or more. Live bait like small fish works great, but they'll hit jigs and plugs too. Here's a local tip: if you're marking fish but not getting bites, try slow-jigging near the bottom. Sometimes a different presentation is all it takes to trigger a strike from these aggressive feeders.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 5
Manufacturer Name: Suzuki
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 140