Wahoo are among the fastest fish in the ocean, and one of the most exciting bites you can get on a day of offshore fishing in Panama. They hit hard, run fast and are excellent to eat. At Majo Fishing Lodge, every wahoo 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 the best time for wahoo fishing in Panama?
On our one-day trips in the Gulf of Panama, the best months for wahoo are June and August through November. Those months overlap with other offshore species, so a single day can bring several different bites:
| Species | Best months on day trips |
|---|---|
| Wahoo | June and August–November |
| Dorado / mahi-mahi | June–October |
| Yellowfin tuna | June and August–October |
| Sailfish | May–August |
| Marlin | July–August and October–November |
Compare every species month by month in our Panama fishing season calendar. Seasons are a guide, not a promise: the weather, the water and the bite decide each day.
Where do wahoo hold?
Wahoo are predators of open water. They patrol structure and edges where bait gathers, so our crew looks for:
- Drop-offs and changes in depth, where the bottom rises and pushes bait up.
- Island edges and points with clean, blue water close by.
- Current lines and color changes, where bait concentrates.
- Floating objects and weed lines, which can hold dorado and, sometimes, wahoo nearby.
Because wahoo travel fast and cover a lot of water, time on the water matters. The more ground the boat can cover, the better your chances.
How we target wahoo
Wahoo are famous for their speed and their razor-sharp teeth. That changes the way we fish for them:
- Faster trolling. Wahoo chase lures pulled faster than a normal billfish spread.
- Wire or heavy leaders. Their teeth cut through light line in a second.
- Lures that run deep. Diving plugs and weighted lures reach the depth where wahoo often hunt.
- A ready crew. When the reel screams, the mate clears the other lines and hands you the rod.
Your captain adjusts the plan to the conditions of the day. If the wahoo are not there, the same offshore day can switch to dorado, tuna or billfish.
Which trip is best for wahoo?
For wahoo, choose a trip that gives you range and time offshore:
- Pro Fishing, 10 hours: the best option for wahoo. A full day to reach offshore water, for up to five anglers. US$2,850 aboard the Hatteras 40 “Makaira” or US$2,400 aboard the Stamas 39 “Majo V”.
- Fun Fishing, 6 hours: a shorter day in coastal and near-offshore waters, for up to eight guests. US$2,100 aboard the Hatteras or US$1,600 aboard the Stamas.
Prices are per private boat and exclude ITBMS. See all our private fishing charters and compare our fleet.
For longer trips farther offshore, the Pro Fishing Expedition goes to an agreed destination, such as the southern Pearl Islands or Piñas Bay.
Can you keep a wahoo?
Yes. Wahoo is one of the best fish to eat, and table fish such as wahoo, tuna and dorado can be kept. The crew cleans and fillets your catch at the marina so you can take it with you. Billfish, such as marlin and sailfish, are always released.
Plan your wahoo trip
Captain Jorge Petti is an IGFA-certified captain and fishing guide in Panama, with more than 22 years of experience in the Gulf of Panama. Tell him that wahoo is your main target when you book, and he will plan the day around it.
A 30% deposit reserves your date, and every trip is paid in full before departure.
Book your wahoo fishing trip
Book at majoyachtgroup.com or message us on WhatsApp at +507 6306-0690. Tell us your dates, group size and target species, and we will plan your departure from Vista Mar Marina, San Carlos.
Go offshore for wahoo
Pro Fishing 10 h · Hatteras 40 “Makaira” US$2,850 or Stamas 39 “Majo V” US$2,400 · up to 5 anglers.
Private boat; prices per boat, taxes (ITBMS) not included.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best months for wahoo fishing in Panama?
On our one-day trips from Vista Mar Marina, June and August through November.
Which trip should I book for wahoo?
The 10-hour Pro Fishing trip, because wahoo are found offshore and a full day gives you more range and time.
Can I keep the wahoo I catch?
Yes. Wahoo, tuna and dorado can be kept, and the crew cleans and fillets them for you. Billfish are always released.
Is a wahoo guaranteed?
No. Wahoo are wild fish and every day is different. The right season and a full day offshore improve your chances.