Fishing in Panama City Beach: The Ultimate Guide

Many reasons set Panama City Beach apart as a fishing destination. This emerald jewel of Florida stands out with its diverse fish stock, active season, and coast that brings fishing prime spots for diverse techniques throughout the year.

Whether you are a fan of deep-sea fishing or prefer offshore, this paradise in the Gulf of Mexico offers you the opportunity to experience it all. 

Good organization, charter services, a beautiful coast, and experienced guides – all this, together with a variety of fish, is part of local culture and folklore. Read our guide below if you plan to treat yourself to a Panama City fishing experience. We will take you through a breathtaking yet unique fishing adventure in this beautiful location.

Fish Species in Panama City Beach

Panam City Beach is a specific area in the Gulf of Mexico. The warm waters enhance the richness of the ecosystem, housing over 3000 fish species. Here's a sneak peek at the diverse marine life awaiting Panama City Beach anglers.

Native Species

Undoubtedly, Panama City Beach is a haven and home to many fascinating fish creatures. Whether you're fishing in the calm waters of St. Andrew Bay or from the wonderful reefs of the Gulf of Mexico, you will come across native fish of all sizes and shapes. Discover which native species are most attractive to anglers below. 

Redfish

Redfish are a coveted catch due to their fighting and bold nature. They have a robust, copper-bronze body with a distinctive red spot near the tail. Beyond their combativeness, they easily adapt to different habitats, so catching them in shallow flats, marshes, and deeper channels is possible. They tend to hunt in shallows, becoming easy prey for offshore fishermen. 

• Best Time to Catch: During spring and fall

• Habitat: Shallow flats, marshes, and deeper channels

• Preferred Bait: Shrimp, mullet, menhaden

• Fishing Technique: Casting, sight fishing 

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 

• Depth: Shallows 

Redfish is present in Panama waters throughout the year but is most abundant in spring and fall. Medium to heavy rods, paired with solid reels, are ideal for handling the power of these fish. When it comes to bait, it is best to use live bait, such as shrimp, and cut bait, such as mullet or menhaden.

It also can be caught with artificial lures, including soft plastics, spoons, and topwater lures. The key is to mimic the movements of their natural prey to attract their attention. The adaptability and the thrill of the fight make Redfish a captivating target for anglers exploring the diverse waters of Panama.

Snapper

Many subspecies of Snapper Fish, such as Red Snapper, Mangrove Snapper, and Strip Snapper, inhabit the Gulf waters. They live closer to the seabed, reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottoms, which makes them ideal for bottom fishing. Fishermen use specialized devices to present baits near the seabed, luring hunters from their hiding places. 

• Best Time to Catch: Year-around

• Habitat: Seabed, reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottoms

• Preferred Bait: Artificial lures, soft plastic

• Fishing Technique: Bottom fishing, jigging

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 

• Depth: Deep

Some anglers use artificial lures for gravel fishing; jigging with artificial or soft plastics has also proven effective with this species. Almost all fish species are a delicacy in Panama year-round, making them both a fishing and culinary delight.

Red Snapper

The Red snapper is striking in appearance, with its vivid red color and sharp fangs, and represents one of the trophy fish of Panama City Beach fishing.

They can reach impressive sizes, with some individuals exceeding 20 pounds. Known for their strength and tenacity, they give anglers a challenging and rewarding battle. Red Snapper is active throughout the year but is most abundant from May to September.

• Best Time to Catch: May to September

• Habitat: Reefs, wrecks, and structures

• Preferred Bait: Jigs, minnows, and squid

• Fishing Technique: Bottom fishing, jigging

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 

• Depth: Deep

Its habitats are reefs, wrecks, and underwater natural structures where it can hide. Therefore, bottom fishing is the ideal technique for this species. You will need a strong rod and good tactics to lure him.

Red Snappers respond well to live bait, including jigs, minnows, and squid. Cut bait, such as mullet or bonito, is also effective in luring them out of their hiding places. Some anglers use artificial lures to target Red Snapper, where jigging with large, flashy lures can be successful. 

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel is fast, dynamic, and remarkably agile. It is admired for its elusiveness and somewhat humorous behavior. With an elegant, elongated body covered with silvery scales and with very long fins, it is easy to spot and recognize. However, capturing the species is complex, given the competitive spirit it incites in fishermen. 

• Best Time to Catch: During spring and summer

• Habitat: Reefs, wrecks, and structures

• Preferred Bait: Small fish or shrimp

• Fishing Technique: Bottom fishing

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 

• Depth: Deep

Their presence in the waters of Panama City Beach is more pronounced during the warmer months. Spring and summer are particularly favorable seasons for targeting these high-energy fish. It usually swims inshore and is a target for shore anglers.

Also, Spanish Mackerel are opportunistic feeders, responding well to live bait such as small fish or shrimp. This makes them susceptible to techniques such as bottom fishing or free fishing in areas where they are known to congregate.

Migratory Species 

Many migratory fish visit Panama City Beach's diverse shores. A complex system of canals, estuaries, and various underwater structures is an ideal habitat for many fish to spawn. Some migrate here for warmer water and better food, and some continue their journey. Here are the most famous migratory fish species.

King Mackerel

If you are looking for excitement and a special adrenaline thrill from fishing in Panama City Beach, then King Mackerel hunting will provide you with that type of fishing rush.

With an elegant and dynamic body, they are not called royal for no reason; they fight bravely and do not give up easily. King Mackerel are predators and respond well to live bait, such as small fish, making trolling an effective technique for attracting them. 

• Best Time to Catch: May to September

• Habitat: Reefs, wrecks, and structures

• Preferred Bait: Live bait such as small fish

• Fishing Technique: Trolling

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 

• Depth: Deep

They can be found deep in the open sea, but since they are always on the lookout for food, they can be found everywhere: around reefs, in shoals, and wrecks. They are present in Panamanian waters throughout the year, but their official season is from May to September.

Cobia

Cobia, often called the lone hunter or "Black Kingfish," has an attractive appearance. Its striking black body has a fin that extends the entire back length. It can grow considerably, becoming a large and heavy species, with some individuals exceeding 100 pounds.

Known for their solid and robust fights, Cobia presents an exciting challenge to anglers. It is possible to find it in the waters of Panama throughout the year, but it becomes more active in late spring, from May to June, August, and September.

• Best Time to Catch: May to June, at the end of August, and September

• Habitat: Reefs, wrecks, and structures

• Preferred Bait: Eels, crabs, or small fish

• Fishing Technique: Trolling, bottom fishing, sight fishing

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 

• Depth: Shallow to deep

Cobia is an easily adaptable species found in the shallows and depths hidden among the reefs. It is known for its tendency to swim close to the surface, making it a prime target for sight fishing. Live bait, such as eels, crabs, or small fish, attracts Cobia. Anglers are drawn to this captivating fish because of its catchability with different techniques and inspiring character.

Mahi Mahi 

Mahi Mahi is a colorful acrobatic species with a shiny body that displays colors from green to yellow and blue. In addition to their vibrant appearance, they are also recognizable by their long dorsal fins.

These fast and agile marine predators offer strong and adventurous resistance to anglers. Preferring warm ocean currents, Mahi Mahi is most abundant in Panama during the summer. 

• Best Time to Catch: During summer

• Habitat: Floating debris, such as patches of seaweed

• Preferred Bait: Live bait

• Fishing Technique: Casting, trolling

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging 

• Depth: Shallow to deep

They are often found in floating debris, such as patches of seaweed, logs, or other floating structures. Because they occupy most of the sea surface, they are most easily caught using trolling. Anglers often use lure-casting techniques or present live bait to attract Mahi Mahi.

Amberjack

Often called the "Reef Donkey," this species is robust, muscular, and extremely difficult prey for anglers. They are distinguished by janitorial body color, which, combined with their aerodynamic body, creates a fish with a striking and powerful appearance. They are a species that is challenging for experienced anglers, but they also bring them glory once they catch it. 

• Best Time to Catch: July to November

• Habitat: Wrecks and around reefs

• Preferred Bait: Heavy metal jigs, large bait fish, or squid

• Fishing Technique: Jingging

• Difficulty: Challenging 

• Depth: Deep

Amberjack likes to swim in deep, open water and hide in wrecks and around reefs. The best time to pursue them is from July to November. According to fishermen's experience, the technique of vertical jigging, which involves using heavy metal jigs that imitate prey, has proven to be the most effective. Amberjack reacts well to live bait, such as large bait fish or squid.

Mola Mola

A species with a unique appearance that sometimes seems like a cartoon character. They are often called "Sunfish" or "Moonfish." Mola Mola holds the title of the heaviest bony fish in the world. These creatures possess a shortened disc-shaped body, and when measured with huge fins, the height of this fish can go up to 14 feet, which is truly impressive. 

• Best Time to Catch: July to November

• Habitat: Shallows, surface 

• Preferred Bait: Squid

• Fishing Technique: Trolling, drifting

• Difficulty: Challenging 

• Depth: Shallow

Due to their size and specificity, they are not a frequent target of fishermen, and hunting is forbidden in many locations worldwide. However, for those who find joy in exploring marine ecosystems and like to research and observe them, meeting with Mola Mola can be a very memorable experience. They swim very close to the sea surface and can be seen in the waters of Panama from July until November.

Prime Fishing Spots in Panama City Beach

Fishing in Panama City Beach can be a life-changing experience. It all depends on what kind of fishing you like and what you want to try. There are many good locations, and here are some of them:

Russell-Fields Pier

A cult place and structure represents a fishing monument in Panama City Beach. It offers a beautiful view of the Gulf of Mexico and a distinct breeze that smells of salt and fish. The vast area provides the possibility of relaxed fishing, whether you are alone or on an excursion with family and friends. Here, you can catch King Mackerel, Pompano, and magnificent Cobia.

Moreover, the resort offers amenities to enhance the overall experience. Fishing enthusiasts can find solace in shady areas and benches for relaxed moments. This is one of the iconic local spots, and embracing the community spirit is important to make your experience as colorful as possible.

St. Andrew's State Park

A place where you can fish marine and freshwater species and enjoy techniques from the coast or open sea. You can cast and explore the grassy shoals, targeting popular inshore fish such as Redfish, known for their spirited fighting, and Flounder, which often hides in the sandy bottom waiting for prey. The shallows are also frequented by Spotted Seatrout. The rocky docks provide an ideal habitat for species such as Spanish Mackerel.

City Pier at Pier Park

The city's central coastal oasis for anglers. It blends seamlessly with its surroundings and offers a variety of fish, making it a preferred destination for those who want to test their fishing skills.

This tucked-away urban fishing spot lets you catch Spanish Mackerel, King Mackerel, or Sheepshead. It is a fascinating location where peaceful fishing, noisy city life full of passers-by, and cafes coexist undisturbed. It's one of those places you want to take advantage of, even if you're not an angler.

Mexico Beach Artificial Reef System

Not far from Panama Beach is the expansive canvas of the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef System. These underwater structures serve as evidence of marine conservation efforts and are prime locations for offshore fishing. Their specific eco-friendly production offers anglers a gateway to a thriving ecosystem under the Gulf's waters.

These reefs act as magnets for marine life, providing shelter, breeding, and feeding grounds for diverse species. Species such as Skipjack, with their huge size and tasty meat, the reefs also attract the iconic species of Snapper and Amberjack.

This beautiful and unusual place calls for preserving nature without denying anyone the possibility of fishing. That's why it's important to use it respectfully.

The Hathaway Bridge Fishing Area

Another interesting fishing hot spot is under the Hathaway Bridge. It is conceived as a small refuge and gateway to the diverse marine ecosystem of the Bay of St. Andrew. The water is deep, with many channels, and that's where you'll most often encounter Redfish. Bridge piers are natural structures that this species likes and uses as shelter. 

Here, you can also catch Speckled Trout due to their inclination to hide and swim around underwater structures. The sandy bottom is ideal for Flounder; you'll also encounter this species if you're lucky. Hathaway Bridge is another iconic place that offers a unique fishing experience in Panama City Beach.

Fishing Techniques in Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach invites everyone to try fishing. Thanks to the excellent organization, a good offer of charters, and instructors, everyone can experience the thrill of angling.

However, fishing in Panama City Beach is mainly associated with calmer, more relaxed techniques. Below, we list and explain those techniques in more detail.

Bottom Fishing

Bottom fishing is one of the most popular techniques, and it is appreciated for its relaxed approach and diverse fish species. It is excellent for beginners and those who do not seek competitive fishing. It involves lowering the bait and nets to the bottom of the ocean, targeting species such as Grouper and Snapper, Gag, and Amberjack. 

Bottom fishing is attractive as an option for family outings and extreme beginners. For many, it can be tedious due to the need for patience and waiting, but that is also part of the fishing experience. As an added advantage, you can experiment with cut and live baits, such as squid. 

Inshore Fishing

It is characterized by a similar relaxed and calm approach to the bottom technique, emphasizing the ease of fishing from the shore and shallow waters. It's a simple technique; you don't need a boa and can easily change location.

Inshore anglers mostly hunt Redfish, Trout, and Flounder. Especially attractive is the Redfish, being bold and not so easy to catch, which brings a touch of wildness and thrill of risk to this peaceful technique.

For equipment, you will need lighter rods and reels; for bait, live ones have proven to be best, such as shrimp or small fish bait. Also, it is vital to keep an eye on the tides, as they directly affect the abundance of certain species.

Kayak Fishing

Kayak fishing brings the advantage of exploring locations relatively quickly and quietly. A light boat that moves with the help of oars allows for calmer fishing but still with a dose of strategic excitement.

The kayak is easy to maneuver, and you can get close to places much larger and more equipped boats cannot. It is loved by anglers who prefer a combination of patience and ambush and those who like the tranquillity of the surroundings.

Sit-on kayaks are favored for their stability and body balance, allowing the angler to maneuver better. The rod must be light and flexible. However, although it seems easy, driving a kayak requires good shape, body strength, and an excellent ability to balance and stay on the water. Bring a life jacket and be aware of the tides if you plan to go into deeper waters.

Surf Fishing

This exciting technique involves directly casting lines from the shore onto the surf. It is also a straightforward and peaceful option for fishing in Panama City Beach. With surf fishing, it is possible to catch species such as Pompano or Spanish Mackerel.

In addition to the apparent simplicity, the advantage of this technique is that it is available year-round, and you can choose locations from piers, beaches, hidden bays, or any other place that suits you.

You will need longer and stronger rods, and as far as baits are concerned, live ones, such as sand fleas, shrimp, and cut baits, have proven to be the best, while artificial baits are suitable for attracting certain gamefish.

Charter Options

Although known for more straightforward fishing techniques, Panama City Beach also presents various, much more risky, and adventurous fishing opportunities. Thanks to fishing charters, it is possible to go on deep sea fishing trips or explore small coves and bays closer to the coast.

Given the excellent organization, expert and licensed captains and guides provide charter expeditions and excursions, from whom you can always learn a few more tricks. Anglers generally choose to target different species, including Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, and Grouper. However, the flexibility of charter options allows anglers to customize their expedition to align with their preferences and desired fishing experience.

Fishing Regulations and Licenses in Panama City Beach

To fish in a relaxed manner, it is essential to ensure the preservation of nature and the fish population. This means that you need to be aware of local fishing regulations and rules. Before beginning your fishing trip, you must make sure that you have a valid fishing license.

Both residents and non-residents must possess a fishing license, which can be acquired online or from authorized retailers. You must carry your license with you at all times while fishing. To support sustainable fishing practices, certain species have a limit on the number of fish you can keep in your bag, i.e., a daily catch limit. 

Authorities and responsible fishermen commonly advocate for catch-and-release tactics because they promote the reproduction and preservation of the species. Additionally, there are certain times of the year when hunting certain species is prohibited and protected areas where fishing is not allowed.

Final Thoughts 

As you might have guessed from our guide, Panama City Beach cherishes its long fishing tradition and strives to synchronize it with the modern. It is an excellent location, abundant with species, which, thanks to decades of fishing practice, has additionally profiled itself as a location that supports hunting but also works to preserve species. 

If you are an angler who knows the best fishing destinations around the world, you will surely be hard-pressed to resist the intriguing combination of urban and wild in Panama. Since we love to share experiences and tell fishing stories, if you have one related to fishing in Panama City Beach, please share it with us in the comment section.