Expert-Led Inshore Fishing Charters in Panama City

Published Date: July 16, 2025
Fishing

Panama City Florida
$500 - $750 price range

Summary

Ready for some prime fishing in Panama City? Join Captain Travis Rolan of Flats And Fathoms for a four-hour inshore adventure that's perfect for anglers of all levels. This small-group trip maxes out at just two guests, so you'll get plenty of personal attention as you cast your line. Whether you're after your first catch or looking to land a trophy, Captain Travis knows all the local hotspots. The charter leaves at 8 AM, giving you a full morning on the water. You'll cruise the flats and shallows, targeting whatever's biting that day. Expect hands-on guidance if you're new to fishing, or some pro tips if you're more experienced. With all gear provided and fish cleaning included, all you need to bring is your enthusiasm and maybe a snack. It's a great way to experience Panama City's rich fishing grounds without the hassle of organizing everything yourself.

Expert-Led Inshore Fishing Charters in Panama City

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Reel in the Big Ones: Panama City Fishing

If you're itching to wet a line in Panama City, you've come to the right place. Flats And Fathoms offers a top-notch fishing charter that'll have you hooked from the get-go. Led by the sharp-eyed Captain Travis Rolan, this four-hour trip is perfect for both seasoned anglers and greenhorns alike. With just two spots per trip, you'll get the kind of one-on-one attention that can turn a good day on the water into a great one. So grab your hat and sunscreen, because we're casting off at 8 AM sharp!

What to Expect on the Water

When you step aboard with Flats And Fathoms, you're in for a treat. This isn't your average tourist trap fishing trip – it's the real deal. Captain Travis knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's all about putting you on the fish. You'll be targeting some of Panama City's most prized inshore species, from the hard-fighting redfish to the tasty sea trout. The beauty of this charter is its flexibility; whether you're looking to learn the ropes or fine-tune your technique, Captain Travis has got you covered. And with just you and a buddy on board, you'll have plenty of elbow room to cast and reel to your heart's content.

Techniques & Tackle Talk

On this trip, you'll get to try your hand at a variety of fishing methods. Depending on what's biting, you might be sight-casting to tailing redfish in the shallows, or working a jig for pompano along the sandbars. Captain Travis is a pro at reading the water and adjusting tactics on the fly. He'll set you up with top-quality gear, but feel free to bring your favorite rod if you've got one. Light tackle is the name of the game here, which means even if you hook into a bruiser of a black drum, you're in for a fun fight. And don't worry if you're new to this – the captain's got plenty of patience and plenty of tips to share.

Top Catches This Season

Panama City's inshore waters are teeming with life, and you've got a shot at some real beauties. Here's the lowdown on what you might find at the end of your line:

Florida Pompano: These silvery speedsters are a local favorite. They might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but what they lack in size, they make up for in taste. Pompano put up a scrappy fight on light tackle, and they're absolute dynamite on the dinner plate. Look for them cruising the sandbars and surf zones.

Black Drum: These cousins of the redfish can grow to monster sizes, but the ones you'll likely encounter are perfect for a fish fry. They've got a distinctive thumping sound that gives them away, and once hooked, they pull like a freight train. Black drum love hanging around structure, so keep an eye out near docks and bridges.

Sea Trout: Also known as speckled trout, these spotted predators are a blast to catch. They've got paper-thin mouths, so setting the hook just right is key. Sea trout are most active at dawn and dusk, making them perfect targets for our early morning start. Nothing beats the thrill of a trout smashing a topwater lure!

Redfish: The rock stars of inshore fishing, redfish (or red drum) are what bring many anglers to Panama City. They're known for their copper color and distinctive spot near the tail. Reds can be found tailing in shallow grass flats or hanging around oyster bars. Hook into one of these, and you're in for a real slugfest.

Cobia: While not as common inshore, you might just luck into one of these bruisers. Cobia are curious fish that often follow rays and sharks, so keep your eyes peeled. They grow big, fight hard, and taste great – the trifecta of gamefish. Landing a cobia is always a highlight of any fishing trip.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Flats And Fathoms has built a solid reputation among local and visiting anglers alike. It's not just about the fish – though there are plenty of those. It's about the experience. Captain Travis goes above and beyond to make sure you're not just fishing, but learning and having a blast while doing it. The four-hour trip length is perfect – long enough to get into some serious action, but short enough that you won't be wiped out for the rest of the day. And let's be honest, there's something special about being out on the water as the sun comes up, rod in hand, with the promise of a great catch ahead.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're ready to experience some of the best inshore fishing Panama City has to offer, it's time to get in touch with Flats And Fathoms. Remember, with only two spots per trip, these charters can fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're looking to bend a rod, learn some new techniques, or just enjoy a morning on the water, Captain Travis and his team have got you covered. So what are you waiting for? Grab your fishing buddy, book your trip, and get ready to make some memories (and maybe catch dinner while you're at it). The fish are biting in Panama City – come and get 'em!

Learn more about the species

Black Drum

Black Drum are big bruisers, usually 5-30 pounds but can reach 90 pounds or more. You'll find them around oyster beds, mudflats, and estuaries. They use those powerful jaws to crush shellfish, so listen for their distinctive drumming sound. Spring's the hot time to target them when they school up to spawn. Anglers love the challenge - these fish put up a stubborn fight. For eating, stick to smaller ones under 15 pounds for the best flavor and texture. To catch 'em, use fresh crab or clams on a circle hook. Fish it right on the bottom and be patient. Here's a tip: after a cold front, try fishing creek mouths where drum gather to warm up. Just remember to check the regs, as there are usually size and bag limits.

Cobia

Cobia are bruisers, often 30-50 pounds but can top 100. They're loners, cruising near the surface around buoys, wrecks, and other structure. Spring's the time to target them as they migrate north. Sight-fishing for cobia is a blast - look for their distinctive shark-like profile just under the surface. They put up a heroic fight and taste great too. To catch one, have a heavy rod ready with a bucktail jig or live eel. When you spot a cobia, make a long cast ahead of its path and let the bait sink. Here's an insider tip: cobia often follow big rays and turtles, so keep an eye out for those too. It's an exciting way to fish that'll test your casting skills and your arms.

Florida Pompano

Florida Pompano are prized catches around here, usually running 1-3 pounds but sometimes up to 8-9 pounds. You'll find them cruising the surf zone and sandy flats, looking for crabs and small fish. Spring and fall are peak seasons when they migrate along the coast. Anglers love targeting pompano for their strong fight and excellent table fare - the meat is delicate and buttery. To land one, try small hooks with live bait like sand fleas or pieces of shrimp. Bright jigs work well too, especially yellow or orange in clear water. A local trick is to look for deeper troughs or cuts in the sandbar where pompano often feed. Cast just beyond and retrieve slowly along the bottom for your best shot at hooking up with one of these tasty fighters.

Redfish

Redfish are a staple here, usually 3-10 pounds inshore but big bulls over 40 pounds roam offshore. You'll find them tailing in shallow flats, around oyster bars, and near mangroves. They love crabs and shrimp, so those are top baits. Fall is prime time when they school up before spawning. Anglers go nuts for their powerful runs and dogged fights. Plus, they're excellent eating with a sweet, mild flavor. To spot 'em, look for their copper color or tails breaking the surface as they feed. Here's a trick: on hot days, find redfish laid up in deeper potholes on the flats. A well-placed soft plastic or live bait will often get slammed. Just watch for that telltale black spot near the tail - it's a dead giveaway.

Sea Trout

Sea trout, or speckled trout, are a favorite inshore target here. Most run 14-24 inches and 1-5 pounds, but some monsters over 10 pounds show up. Look for them around grass flats and shallow bays, especially at night. They're ambush predators, so work lures like jerk baits or topwater plugs around structure. Spring and fall are prime seasons when water temps are right. Anglers love sea trout for their aggressive strikes and decent fight. They're also great eating with a mild, flaky meat. Here's a local tip: on calm mornings, look for subtle surface disturbances called "nervous water" - that's often feeding trout. Cast beyond it and work your lure through for some exciting topwater action.

About the Dolphin Super Skiff

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 2

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 25

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 70

Ready for some fish-filled fun in Panama City? Captain Travis Rolan of Flats And Fathoms has you covered with his four-hour inshore fishing trips. Whether you're a pro angler or just starting out, these charters are perfect for reeling in some great catches. With room for just two guests, you'll get plenty of personal attention and tips from the captain. The early bird gets the worm (or in this case, the fish), so trips kick off at 8:00 am. You'll have time to learn new techniques, swap fishing stories, and hopefully land some impressive catches to brag about later. It's a great way to spend a morning on the water and maybe even bring home dinner. So grab a buddy, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to make some waves with Captain Travis!

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