Fishing in Panama

Panama is rated as one of the top saltwater fishing destinations in the world and for very good reason too. There are few countries on the planet that can boast such huge biodiversity and an impressive selection of sporting fish to target. It’s a mecca for globetrotting anglers and provides some truly world-class fishing for even the most well-traveled, experienced anglers out there.

No matter what time of the year it is, there is always some great fishing to be found. With so many different environments to choose from, there is something to suit every kind of angler too. From fishing far offshore on a big game boat to deep inside a jungle estuary system on a panga….Panama has it all!

On the lesser fished Caribbean coast, inshore fishing is exciting and largely unexplored. This coast is about as wild as it comes in places and sure to appeal to the adventurous, pioneering kind. Here you can expect to find Tarpon, Snook, and Jack Crevalle as the species of most interest; those with a passion for fly fishing and throwing lures will find plenty to keep them busy. This is backcountry fishing at its finest and will test the skills of even the most experienced fisher-folk. The best times to try your luck are in the months of March, April, August, and September when the swells ease and the weather is generally better with less rain.

Over on the Pacific coast, the fishing is very different with the majority of the countries famous fishing lodges being located on the Pacific coast. The access is easier, there is much better infrastructure and a huge amount of incredible sporting fish to pit your wits against. Here we find desirable species such as Yellowfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Marlin, Roosterfish, Cubera Snapper, Wahoo, Amberjack, Sailfish, and many more. You can fish from the shore, kayak, panga, huge sportfishing boats, and just about everything in between. There is plenty of choices available and sport fishing is a big deal to the Panamanians on this coast.

The fishery on the Pacific side is at its best from December through to September with October and November best avoided as they coincide with the worst of the weather and water conditions.

If favorites like the Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and the other pelagic species offshore are your thing then May through to September offers the best chances during the wet season.

Inshore, then there is solid action to be found throughout the year from a huge variety of species, there is always something willing to bite! The Roosterfish and Cubera Snapper fishing in Panama is easily some of the best in the world. February through to July are the best months to fish for these impressive creatures and anglers from all over the planet come here especially for this.

If you’re a passionate angler and considering relocating or retiring, then Panama could just be the right choice for you!