Never been fishing? You do not need experience or your own gear to catch your first fish in Panama. On a private charter with Majo Fishing Lodge, the captain and mate handle the technical work, teach you as you go and hand you the rod when a fish bites. Here is how to plan your first fishing trip on Panama’s Pacific Riviera, step by step.
Do I Need Experience or My Own Gear?
No. Every charter includes the fishing license, rods and tackle, a fighting chair, ice and water, an air-conditioned cabin with a bathroom, the captain and a mate, and cleaning and filleting of your catch. The crew shows you how to hold the rod, when to reel and how to fight the fish. All you bring is your group and the will to have a good time.
Which Trip Should a Beginner Choose?
| Trip | Boat and price per boat | Max. guests | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Fun Fishing · 4 h | Stamas 39 · US$900 | 8 | First-timers, children and grandparents. Close to the coast, small and medium-size species, and a chance to see dolphins and other marine life. |
| Fun Fishing · 6 h | Hatteras 40 · US$2,100 Stamas 39 · US$1,600 | 8 | Groups who want more time and range: coastal and near-offshore waters for small and medium-size game fish. |
| Pro Fishing · 10 h | Hatteras 40 · US$2,850 Stamas 39 · US$2,400 | 5 anglers | When you are ready for a full offshore day after sailfish, marlin, tuna and dorado. |
Our advice: for your first time, or if you are fishing with children, start with 4 hours. If your group wants more action and more range, choose 6 hours. Save the full-day Pro Fishing for when you want to target big offshore species. Prices are per boat, not per person, and do not include taxes (ITBMS).
What Can I Catch?
Inshore waters on the Pacific Riviera hold species such as roosterfish, cubera snapper, amberjack and Spanish mackerel. Offshore, the Pro Fishing day targets sailfish, marlin, yellowfin tuna, dorado (mahi-mahi) and wahoo. What you catch depends on the season, the weather and the bite, so nobody can promise a fish, but a good crew puts the odds on your side. We release billfish; tuna, dorado and other table fish can be kept, and the crew cleans and fillets them for you.
Each species has its best months: see our Panama fishing season calendar.
What Does a First Fishing Trip Look Like?
- Meet at Vista Mar Marina. Fun Fishing trips usually leave around 8:00 AM; we confirm the exact time when you book.
- Short briefing. The captain explains the plan for the day and the crew shows you how the rods work.
- Fishing. The crew sets the lines and watches them. When a fish bites, the mate hands you the rod and coaches you until the fish is at the boat.
- Photos and release or keep. Billfish go back to the water; table fish can be kept.
- Back at the marina. The crew cleans and fillets your catch so you can take it with you.
What to Bring
- Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses (polarized lenses help you see the water).
- A light long-sleeve shirt, a towel and a change of clothes.
- Your phone or camera, ideally in a waterproof bag.
- Seasickness medication if you need it, taken before the trip as directed.
- Drinks and snacks can be added for US$20 per person.
Tips to Avoid Seasickness
- Eat a light breakfast and drink water before you go.
- Stay on deck in the fresh air and look at the horizon.
- If you are prone to seasickness, take your medication before boarding, not once you feel unwell.
- Tell the crew how you feel; they have seen it all and will help.
Where Do Trips Depart From?
Every trip departs exclusively from Vista Mar Marina in San Carlos, Km 92 of the Pan-American Highway: a short drive from Coronado and Río Hato and about an hour and a half west of Panama City by road. Round-trip transportation can be added: US$100 from Buenaventura or Río Hato, or US$300 from Panama City.
How to Book
Choose your trip, boat and date online and pay a 30% deposit by card to confirm it; every trip is paid in full before departure. Questions? Write to us on WhatsApp at +507 6306-0690.
Your first fishing trip in Panama
Family Fun Fishing 4 h · Stamas 39 · US$900 · Fun Fishing 6 h · Hatteras 40 US$2,100 or Stamas 39 US$1,600 · up to 8 guests.
Private boat; prices per boat, taxes (ITBMS) not included.
Book Family Fishing 4 hBook Fun Fishing 6 hAll fishing charters
Fishing for Beginners FAQ
Do I need fishing experience?
No. The captain and mate handle the technical work, show you how to use the rod and coach you while you fight the fish. The fishing license, rods and tackle are included.
Which fishing trip is best for beginners in Panama?
The 4-hour Family Fun Fishing trip on the Stamas 39 is the easiest start, especially with children. If your group wants more time and range, choose the 6-hour Fun Fishing trip.
How much does a beginner fishing trip cost?
The 4-hour trip costs US$900 on the Stamas 39. The 6-hour trip costs US$2,100 on the Hatteras 40 or US$1,600 on the Stamas 39. Both take up to 8 guests; prices are per boat and do not include taxes (ITBMS).
Is fishing good for kids?
Yes. The 4-hour trip is designed for families, children and grandparents: it stays close to the coast and the crew guides everyone the whole time.
Can I keep the fish I catch?
We release billfish such as marlin and sailfish. Tuna, dorado and other table fish can be kept, and the crew cleans and fillets your catch.