Panama. The very name, said to mean “an abundance of fish” in a local indigenous language, conjures images of deep blue waters teeming with life. It’s no coincidence that this country has earned a legendary reputation as one of the world’s premier sport fishing destinations, drawing elite anglers from every corner of the globe.
But what makes Panama’s fishery so extraordinary? The answer lies in its unique geography. Here, the cold, nutrient-rich Humboldt Current flowing north from Antarctica collides with warm tropical waters from the north. This convergence creates an incredibly fertile breeding ground for plankton, which ignites an explosive marine food chain, attracting the giant predators that anglers dream of.
Add to this nearly 1,800 miles of coastline on two oceans and some of the strictest conservation laws in Central America—mandating catch-and-release for all billfish—and you understand why Panama is a paradise for the modern, conservation-minded angler.
Panama’s Legendary Fishing Grounds
While incredible fishing can be found across the country, a few locations have become the stuff of legend:
- Piñas Bay: Known as the billfish capital of the world, this remote bay holds over 300 deep sea fishing world records, more than any other place on Earth. It’s the dream destination for anyone seeking a record-sized black or blue marlin.
- The Gulf of Chiriquí: This vast area on Panama’s western Pacific coast is a diverse ecosystem in its own right. It’s home to two of the most famous hotspots:
- Hannibal Bank: A seamount rising from the depths, creating the perfect feeding ground for massive yellowfin tuna, marlin, and wahoo.
- Isla Montuosa: Located further offshore, this island is renowned for its huge billfish and explosive tuna boils.
- The Pearl Islands: A short run from Panama City, this group of over 200 islands offers fantastic inshore and nearshore fishing for roosterfish, cubera snapper, dorado, and sailfish.
The Angler’s Calendar: When to Fish in Panama
Knowing when to come is key to maximizing your chances of landing the catch of a lifetime. While the fishing is excellent year-round, target species shift with the seasons. We’ve created this definitive guide to help you plan your adventure.
| Month | Primary Target Species | Fishing Quality | Location | Majo Package |
| January | Cubera Snapper, Grouper, Mackerel | Good | Inshore / Bottom | Fun Fishing 6H |
| February | Cubera Snapper, Sailfish, Mackerel | Good | Inshore / Offshore | Fun Fishing / Pro Fishing |
| March | Sailfish, Snapper, Yellowfin Tuna | Good / Peak | Inshore / Offshore | Pro Fishing |
| April | Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Marlin | Peak | Offshore | Pro Fishing |
| May | Yellowfin Tuna, Marlin, Mahi Mahi | Peak | Offshore | Pro Fishing |
| June | Yellowfin Tuna, Black Marlin, Roosterfish | Peak | Offshore / Inshore | Pro Fishing |
| July | Black Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Roosterfish | Peak | Offshore / Inshore | Pro Fishing |
| August | Black & Blue Marlin, Wahoo, Sailfish | Peak | Offshore | Pro Fishing |
| September | Marlin, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi | Good | Offshore | Pro Fishing |
| October | Marlin, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi | Good | Offshore | Pro Fishing |
| November | Mahi Mahi, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo | Good / Peak | Offshore | Pro Fishing |
| December | Marlin, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi | Good | Offshore | Pro Fishing |
Whether you dream of the brute strength of a Hannibal Bank yellowfin or the acrobatics of a sailfish in the blue water, Panama has a season and a spot for you. The key is going with an experienced operator who understands the rhythms of the ocean.
Your Gateway to Paradise: Majo’s Exclusive Hacienda del Mar Package on San Jose Island
For the ultimate multi-day fishing adventure, Majo Fishing Lodge offers an exclusive package to Isla San José in the heart of the Pearl Islands, with luxurious accommodations at the Hacienda del Mar eco-resort. This secluded paradise, the second-largest island in the archipelago, is surrounded by over 35 pristine beaches and thousands of acres of virgin tropical rainforest.
The waters around Isla San José are a fisherman’s dream, offering some of the best jigging and popping in Panama. These rich fishing grounds are home to a staggering variety of species, including the chance to jig for Cubera Snapper, battle huge Amberjacks, and pop the rocky coasts for Roosterfish and Blue Jacks. Further offshore, the deep blue waters are home to marlin, sailfish, massive schools of tuna, wahoo, and dorado.
Our multi-day pro fishing packages allow you to fully immerse yourself in this world-class fishery with our seasoned captains and top-of-the-line gear. After a thrilling day on the water, unwind in your private beachfront bungalow or oceanfront suite at Hacienda del Mar, enjoying stunning views and indulging in fresh seafood and authentic Panamanian cuisine.
- Hatteras 40FT – Hacienda del Mar ALL INCLUSIVE Package: From $3,100.00 / 3 days x 4pax
- Stamas 39 FT – Hacienda del Mar ALL INCLUSIVE Package: From $2,700.00 / 3 days x 4pax
This is more than a fishing trip; it’s an escape to an untouched paradise where luxury and adventure meet.