Mahi-mahi fishing in Panama starts with choosing the right dates. At Majo Fishing Lodge, our day-trip season for dorado runs from June through October, and our catches include dorado of 64 and 58 pounds. Every trip departs from Vista Mar Marina in San Carlos, about 90 minutes from Panama City and close to Coronado, Río Hato and Playa Blanca.
When is dorado season in Panama?
For one-day fishing trips, the dorado window is June to October. Compare it with the other species you may want to target:
| Species | Season for day trips |
|---|---|
| Dorado / mahi-mahi | June–October |
| Yellowfin tuna | June and August–October |
| Wahoo | June and August–November |
| Sailfish | May–December; best May–August |
| Marlin | October–November is among the best windows |
| Roosterfish | Almost year-round; best April and September |
See our full Panama fishing season calendar to compare dates.
June and July
Both months fall within the dorado window and within the best sailfish months for day trips (May to August). If you would like both species, tell us when you book.
August through October
August, September and October overlap the seasons for dorado, yellowfin tuna and wahoo, the most complete mix of the year for a day trip. October is also one of the best windows for marlin. Black marlin is always a possibility, never a guarantee, and all billfish are released.
How big are the dorado we catch?
Our dorado catches include fish of 64 pounds and 58 pounds. They are individual catches, not an average, but they show what these waters can produce. Dorado is also one of the best fish to eat: tuna, dorado and other table fish can be kept, and the crew cleans and fillets them for you.
How we look for dorado
Dorado are fast, colorful and acrobatic, and they are drawn to anything floating in the open ocean. On a dorado day we look for:
- Floating objects: logs, debris and weed lines often hold dorado underneath.
- Color changes and current edges, where bait gathers.
- Birds working the surface, a sign of bait being pushed up.
Dorado often travel in groups. When one is hooked, others may follow it to the boat, so the crew stays ready for a second bite. Every day is different, and the crew adjusts the plan to what the water shows.
Where do our dorado trips begin?
All our trips begin at Vista Mar Marina, San Carlos. If you are searching for mahi-mahi fishing near Panama City, allow about 90 minutes to reach the marina; we do not depart from the capital. Round-trip transportation from Panama City is available.
For longer trips, the Pro Fishing Expedition goes to an agreed destination, such as the southern Pearl Islands or Piñas Bay. The June-to-October window above applies to day trips.
Which private fishing trip fits your plans?
| Fishing option | Duration | Hatteras 40 “Makaira” | Stamas 39 “Majo V” | Maximum guests |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pro Fishing | 10 hours | US$2,850 | US$2,400 | 5 |
| Fun Fishing | 6 hours | US$2,100 | US$1,600 | 8 |
| Family Fishing | 4 hours | — | US$900 | 8 |
Prices are per private boat and exclude ITBMS.
Pro Fishing gives up to five anglers ten hours to reach the best water. Fun Fishing gives up to eight guests six hours. The four-hour family trip, on the Stamas only, is ideal for a shorter day; if dorado is your main goal, a longer trip gives you more time to find them.
Choose your boat
The Hatteras 40 “Makaira” is a classic 40-foot sport fisherman, fully remodeled and updated in 2026. The Stamas 39 “Majo V” is fast, stable and comfortable. Compare our fleet before you choose.
Transfers, extras and payment
Round-trip transportation costs US$300 from Panama City or US$100 from Buenaventura or Río Hato. Drinks and snacks are an optional US$20 per person.
Captain Jorge Petti is an IGFA-certified captain and fishing guide with more than 22 years of experience in the Gulf of Panama. Tell him whether dorado is your main goal or one of several species you want to target.
A 30% deposit reserves your trip, and the balance is paid before departure.
Plan your dorado fishing trip
Explore our private fishing charters and book at majoyachtgroup.com, or message us on WhatsApp at +507 6306-0690. Tell us your dates, group size and interest in dorado to plan your departure from Vista Mar Marina, San Carlos.
Fish for dorado from June to October
Pro Fishing 10 h · Hatteras 40 “Makaira” US$2,850 or Stamas 39 “Majo V” US$2,400 · Fun Fishing 6 h · US$2,100 or US$1,600.
Private boat; prices per boat, taxes (ITBMS) not included.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best months for a dorado day trip?
June through October, our dorado season for day trips.
How big are the dorado you have caught?
Our catches include dorado of 64 and 58 pounds. Sizes vary from trip to trip.
Do you depart from Panama City?
No. Every boat departs from Vista Mar Marina in San Carlos, about 90 minutes from the city. Round-trip transportation from Panama City costs US$300.
Can I keep the dorado I catch?
Yes. Dorado, tuna and other table fish can be kept, and the crew cleans and fillets them for you. Billfish are always released.