Panama City Beach Fishing Charters
Panama City Beach fishing charters work the Gulf’s nearshore reefs, offshore wrecks, and inshore bays for red snapper, grouper, king mackerel, speckled trout, and more.
Top Rated Charters in Panama City Beach
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Panama City Beach, FL Fishing Guide
Panama City Beach sits on Florida’s Emerald Coast, giving anglers year-round access to a mix of inshore, nearshore, and deep-water fisheries. St. Andrews Bay is the primary inshore playground, with grass flats, oyster bars, and deep channels holding speckled trout, redfish, sheepshead, and flounder. Charter captains run both half- and full-day trips here, often staying within sight of the beach or slipping into the back bay for calmer water. Spring through fall, nearshore runs to artificial reefs and wrecks just a few miles out produce big catches of red snapper, vermilion snapper, amberjack, triggerfish, and king mackerel. Farther offshore, 8–40 mile runs put you over deepwater ledges for grouper, amberjack, and seasonal pelagics like mahi and wahoo.
Most offshore boats leave from Captain Anderson’s Marina or Treasure Island Marina, both well-equipped with fuel, bait, and parking. Smaller inshore and bay boats often launch from public ramps at St. Andrews State Park or the Hathaway Bridge. Summer snapper season draws heavy boat traffic, so early departures are common, while winter trips target sheepshead and black drum around bridge pilings and jetties. Common techniques include live bait fishing, vertical jigging, trolling for kings, sight-casting cobia, and bottom fishing with cut bait. Fly anglers work the grass flats and sandy potholes for redfish and trout, especially in the cooler months when the water clears.
Run distances vary—bay trips may travel just a few miles from the dock, while full-day offshore runs can stretch 50 miles into the Gulf depending on the target species. If weather turns, nearby Choctawhatchee Bay and West Bay provide sheltered alternatives. With its combination of protected waters, short runs to prime reefs, and access to deepwater pelagics, Panama City Beach offers one of the most versatile fisheries on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Fishing Seasons in Panama City Beach
Spring (March–May)
Spring fishing kicks off with Spanish mackerel runs along the beaches, plus cobia migrations moving west along the Gulf. Inshore, redfish and trout get active as water temps climb, and sheepshead peak around jetties and bridge pilings. Offshore, amberjack and vermilion snapper are steady, with early mahi possible on longer runs. Charters this time of year often mix trolling with bottom fishing, and calmer weather windows make for comfortable offshore runs.
Summer (June–August)
Summer brings the red snapper season in full swing, drawing both private and charter boats offshore to reefs and wrecks. King mackerel and bonito are thick nearshore, while dolphin and wahoo show up farther out. Inshore, trout feed aggressively on topwater early, and redfish school along grass edges. Full-day trips may split time between bottom fishing and trolling for pelagics, while half-days stick to nearshore reefs. Afternoon heat can be intense, so morning departures are popular.
Fall (September–November)
Fall offers lighter crowds and excellent fishing. Offshore, grouper bite well on deep ledges, and king mackerel school up for their fall migration. Inshore, redfish gather in larger schools and trout action improves as water temps drop. Spanish mackerel, flounder, and bluefish round out the mix. Many charters run shorter trips this time of year, taking advantage of calm mornings and consistent nearshore action without long runs.
Winter (December–February)
Winter fishing focuses on inshore and nearshore waters, with sheepshead, black drum, and redfish steady around structure. Trout remain active in deeper bay holes, especially on warmer afternoons. Offshore runs are possible on calm days for amberjack and grouper, but most captains stick closer to shore to avoid rough Gulf conditions. Light tackle jigging and slow live bait presentations work best in cooler water, and the clear winter tides make sight-fishing reds possible on sunny days.
Gamefish in Panama City Beach
- Red Snapper – 5–20 lbs. Caught on reefs and wrecks in summer using live or cut bait.
- Gag Grouper – 10–30 lbs. Found on deep ledges and rocky bottom, best in fall and winter with live pinfish.
- King Mackerel – 10–40 lbs. Nearshore trolling with spoons and live bait spring through fall.
- Speckled Trout – 1–5 lbs. Inshore grass flats and potholes year-round, topwater early and live shrimp later.
- Cobia – 20–60 lbs. Migrating along the beaches in spring, sight-cast with jigs or live eels.
- Redfish – 5–30 lbs. Found on flats, docks, and channels year-round, with fall schooling action.
- Amberjack – 20–80 lbs. Offshore wrecks and ledges year-round, heavy tackle with live bait.
- Sheepshead – 2–8 lbs. Around pilings and jetties in winter and early spring, fiddler crabs work best.
Panama City Beach Fishing FAQs
What are the main launch points for fishing charters?
Most offshore charters leave from Captain Anderson’s Marina or Treasure Island Marina, while inshore trips often launch from St. Andrews State Park or Hathaway Bridge ramps.
How long are typical fishing trips here?
Half-day trips run 4–5 hours and focus on inshore or nearshore waters. Full-day trips last 8–10 hours and can reach deep offshore ledges.
Do charters provide fishing gear?
Yes, most Panama City Beach charters include all rods, reels, bait, and tackle needed for the trip.
When is the best time for red snapper fishing?
The Gulf’s red snapper season is usually in summer, often June and July, when regulations allow harvest.
What fishing techniques work best in the area?
Live bait bottom fishing dominates offshore, while trolling works for kings and Spanish. Inshore, anglers use popping corks, topwater lures, and soft plastics.
Which species are common inshore?
Redfish, speckled trout, sheepshead, and flounder are the most common inshore catches around Panama City Beach.
How many people can join a charter?
Most bay boats carry 2–4 anglers, while larger offshore vessels can take 6–12 passengers depending on their license.
Are fishing licenses included?
Yes, fishing licenses are covered under the boat’s charter license, so clients don’t need to purchase one separately.
Are there specialty trips available?
Yes, some captains offer night fishing, shark fishing, and seasonal cobia sight-casting trips along the beaches.