Elite Panama City Inshore Fishing with Flats And Fathoms

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

Panama City Florida
$500 - $750 price range
Updated Date: October 25, 2025

Summary

Looking for a serious half-day fishing adventure in Panama City? Captain Travis Rolan's got you covered with this four-hour charter perfect for skilled anglers. You and a buddy will hit the local waters, using advanced techniques to target prized inshore species like redfish, speckled trout, and whatever's biting that season. The 8 AM start time puts you on the water when the fish are most active. All your gear and bait are included, so you can focus on strategy and landing the big ones. This trip is all about quality over quantity - with just two guests, you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with the captain to fine-tune your approach. The local knowledge and personalized attention make this perfect for anglers looking to step up their game. Just remember, deposits are non-refundable, so be ready to commit when you book. If you're after a focused, action-packed morning of fishing, this is your ticket.

Elite Panama City Inshore Fishing with Flats And Fathoms

Inshore Action Shots

One Gag Grouper caught while fishing in Panama City Beach

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Two blackfin tuna caught while fishing in Panama City Beach

Massive bluefin tuna catch!

Reel in the Big Ones: Panama City's Half-Day Hotspot

Hey there, angler! Ready to put your skills to the test in some of Panama City's most productive waters? Flats And Fathoms has just the trip for you. This isn't your average tourist fishing jaunt – we're talking about a serious half-day adventure that'll have you targeting the cream of the crop when it comes to inshore species. If you've got game and want to step it up, Captain Travis Rolan's got your back on this four-hour fishing frenzy.

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You and a buddy (yeah, it's just two of you max) hopping aboard at the crack of dawn – well, 8 AM to be exact. That's prime time for the fish to be biting, and you'll want every minute of those four hours. We're not messing around with beginner stuff here. This trip is tailored for those who know their way around a rod and reel. You'll be working those inshore honey holes, going after the big boys like redfish, speckled trout, and whatever else is running hot that season. And get this – all the gear and bait are covered, so you can focus on what really matters: outsmarting those fish and filling the cooler.

Tactics and Terrain

Alright, let's talk strategy. This isn't about sitting back and waiting for a bite. We're going active here, folks. Depending on what's biting, you might be sight-casting to tailing reds in the flats, working topwater lures for explosive trout strikes, or jigging deep holes for monster black drum. Captain Travis knows these waters like the back of his hand, so he'll clue you in on the hot techniques for the day. Maybe you'll be flipping soft plastics under docks, working a popping cork along grass lines, or slow-trolling live bait for those bruiser cobia. The beauty of this trip is its flexibility – we go where the fish are and use what's working.

Species Spotlight

Florida Pompano: These silver speedsters are a Panama City favorite. They might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but pound for pound, they're fighters. Look for them cruising the sandbars and cuts, especially in spring and fall. Pompano love a well-presented jig or sand flea, and they're absolute dynamite on light tackle. Plus, they're delicious – talk about a win-win!

Black Drum: Don't let their ugly mugs fool you; these cousins of the redfish are a blast to catch. They can grow to monster sizes, with some topping 50 pounds in our waters. Black drum hang around structure and love crustaceans. When you hook into a big one, hold on tight – they pull like a freight train. Spring and fall are prime time for the bigger ones.

Sea Trout: Ah, the speckled trout – a Panama City staple. These guys are ambush predators, so working lures or live bait around grass flats and oyster bars is the ticket. They're known for their soft mouths, so a gentle hook set is key. The real magic happens at dawn and dusk when they come out to play. A topwater lure walked across the surface at first light? That's the stuff fishing dreams are made of.

Redfish: The crown jewel of inshore fishing, redfish (or red drum) are what bring anglers back time and time again. In the fall, you might spot them tailing in shallow water, their copper backs glinting in the sun. They'll eat just about anything, from live bait to artificial lures. When they're on, the action can be non-stop. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the pull of a bull red on light tackle.

Cobia: These bruisers are the wildcards of our inshore waters. They show up in spring and stick around through summer. Cobia are curious fish, often following rays, turtles, or even your boat. Sight-fishing for cobia is a rush – when you spot one, you've got to be quick on the draw. They grow big, fight hard, and taste great. Landing a cobia is always a highlight of any trip.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Listen, I've been running these waters for years, and there's a reason folks book this trip over and over. It's not just about the fish – though trust me, we catch plenty. It's about the challenge, the skills you'll hone, and those "holy cow!" moments when a big one hits. You're not just a passenger on this trip; you're an active participant. We work as a team to put you on the fish, and when it all comes together, it's magic. Plus, with just you and your buddy on board, it's like fishing with a friend who happens to know all the local secrets.

Time to Book Your Spot

So, what do you say? Ready to test your mettle against some of Panama City's finest inshore species? This half-day trip with Flats And Fathoms is your ticket to the action. Remember, we're talking early start, focused fishing, and the potential for some serious bragging rights. Just keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable – but trust me, once you're out there hauling in fish after fish, that'll be the last thing on your mind. Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait around. Get in touch, lock in your date, and get ready for some of the best inshore fishing Panama City has to offer. See you on the water!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are the big bruisers of our inshore waters. Adults typically range from 5 to 30 pounds but can top 90 pounds. Look for them around oyster beds, mudflats, and pier pilings in brackish areas. Spring is prime time as they school up to spawn. Black Drum are known for the croaking sounds they make, which can help you locate them. They put up a stubborn fight, especially the bigger ones. Smaller drum under 15 pounds are best for eating - the meat gets tough in larger fish. Use fresh crab, shrimp, or cut bait on the bottom. Here's a local trick: when you feel that telltale thump, give them a second to get the bait in their mouth before setting the hook. Black Drum offer a mix of power and table fare that keeps anglers coming back.

Cobia

Cobia are hard-fighting bruisers that show up in our waters from spring through fall. These sleek, brown fish average 30-50 pounds but can top 100. Look for them around buoys, wrecks, and even free-swimming near the surface. Spring is prime time as they migrate along the coast. Cobia are known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps. They're also excellent eating, with firm, white meat. Sight-fishing for them is a rush - scan for their distinctive shark-like profile. Live eels or large jigs work well. Here's a pro tip: always have a ready rod with a bucktail jig - cobia often appear suddenly and don't stick around long. Whether you're after a trophy fish or just want to tangle with a true heavyweight, cobia deliver an unforgettable experience.

Florida Pompano

Florida Pompano are prized catches in Panama City. These silvery, flat-sided fish typically run 1-3 pounds but can reach 8-9 pounds. You'll find them in shallow coastal waters, especially around sandbars and passes. Spring and fall are prime seasons as they migrate. Pompano put up a great fight for their size and make excellent table fare with their buttery, mild meat. To target them, use small hooks - their mouths are tiny. Live bait like sand fleas works well, or try bright-colored jigs in clear water. A local tip: pompano often feed right in the surf zone, so don't be afraid to cast close to shore. Their delicious taste and sporty nature make them a favorite for both eating and the exciting challenge of landing one.

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are one of our most popular inshore targets. They average 28-33 inches when mature but can push 45 inches and 50 pounds. Look for them tailing in shallow flats, around oyster bars, and near mangroves. Fall is prime time as they school up, but you can catch them year-round. Reds are known for their coppery color and black tail spot. They put up a strong, determined fight and make excellent table fare. Try sight-fishing with gold spoons or scented soft plastics. Here's a local tip: on calm days, cruise the flats and look for their fins or tails breaking the surface. Redfish offer that perfect mix of sight-fishing excitement, hard-pulling action, and good eating that keeps anglers coming back for more.

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a staple of our inshore fishing. These spotted beauties usually run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds. You'll find them in grass flats, around oyster bars, and in deeper channels during winter. They're active year-round but really fire up in spring and fall. Sea Trout are known for their soft, white flesh and put up a fun fight on light tackle. They'll hit a variety of lures, but live shrimp under a popping cork is hard to beat. Here's a tip: work your bait with subtle twitches - trout often prefer a more subtle presentation. At night, try fishing lighted docks or bridges where trout gather to feed. Whether you're after a mess for dinner or just want steady action, Sea Trout rarely disappoint.

About the Dolphin Super Skiff

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 2

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 25

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 70

Hop aboard for a half-day fishing adventure in Panama City with Captain Travis Rolan. This four-hour trip is perfect for experienced anglers looking to test their skills against some of the area's most sought-after inshore species. With room for just two guests, you'll get plenty of one-on-one guidance as you target redfish, speckled trout, and other seasonal catches using advanced techniques. Setting out at 8:00 am, you'll hit the water during prime fishing hours to maximize your chances of success. All the gear and bait you need is provided, so you can focus on refining your strategy and reeling in the big ones. Just remember, deposits are non-refundable, so come ready to make the most of your time on Panama City's rich fishing grounds.

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