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Contact us
How can we help you?
We value your inquiries, questions and feedback. Need help with your booking? You have a customized trip in mind? Other questions? We’re happy to assist you…
Embarkment
Boca Chica - Chiriqui
General inquiries
+1 888 451 0606 tol free OR +507 6165 0154
Email address
info@panamasportfishingcharters.com
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year to fish?
Fishing is excellent year-round near the equator. Dry Season (Dec–Apr) offers calmer seas and is prime time for Billfish. Green/Rainy Season (May–Nov) is often best for massive Yellowfin Tuna runs.
Do I need a fishing license?
No, tourists fishing on a licensed charter vessel generally do not need a personal fishing license. The vessel and crew are licensed by the Panama Maritime Authority.
Is fishing tackle and gear provided?
Yes, all necessary rods, reels, tackle, and terminal gear are provided by the charter. Guests are usually welcome to bring their favorite personal equipment as well.
What items should I bring on the trip?
The essentials are sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, a hat/cap, a camera, light rain gear, and any personal food or beverages you may want outside of what is provided.
What kind of fish can we expect to catch?
The most sought-after species are Yellowfin Tuna, Black/Blue Marlin, Pacific Sailfish, Dorado (Mahi-Mahi), and Roosterfish. Reef and bottom fishing target species like Cubera Snapper.
Can I keep the fish that I catch?
Catch-and-Release is mandatory for all Billfish (Marlin, Sailfish) and Roosterfish, and highly encouraged for other protected species. Other game fish (e.g., Snapper, Tuna) may be kept and filleted.
Do you clean and fillet our catch?
Yes, the crew will clean and professionally fillet your edible fish (those not subject to catch-and-release rules) for no additional charge.
What's included in the charter price?
Typically includes the boat, licensed crew, fuel, all fishing gear, live/artificial bait, bottled water, soft drinks, and snacks and/or a boxed lunch.
Is there protection from the sun on the boat?
Yes, our sportfishing boat has a hard top or Bimini top to provide adequate shade in the cockpit area.
What are the duration options for the charters?
Our typical fish day charter takes around 10 hours, we can offer you other options on simple request.
How many anglers/people are allowed on the boat?
Vessel capacity can accommodate 4 anglers, if you are with more anglers we can arrange another boat.
How much should I tip the crew?
Tipping is customary for hard work. The standard recommended gratuity is 10% to 20% of the total charter price, or a set daily amount per boat/crew.
Is the trip safe, and are the operators certified?
Our charter is fully licensed by the Panama Maritime Authority, and our vessel is equipped with all necessary safety gear and certified crew.
Is there an age limit for children?
There is typically no age limit. Charters are family-friendly, and the crew is experienced in assisting children with fishing.
What's your cancellation and refund policy?
If the captain cancels the trip due to unsafe weather or mechanical failure, you will receive a full refund or have the opportunity to reschedule.
How far offshore do we travel?
It varies based on the target species. Inshore trips stay close to shore, while deep sea trips to hotspots like Hannibal Bank or Isla Coiba can be 20 to 60 miles offshore.
Can we request to target a specific fish species?
Yes, but the captain will ultimately advise on what is feasible and most active based on the current season and water conditions.
What should I do about seasickness?
If you are prone to motion sickness, it is strongly recommended to take medication (such as Dramamine) before leaving the dock, as it works best when taken proactively.
What fishing techniques do you use?
We use a variety of techniques, including heavy-tackle trolling for marlin and sailfish, live bait drifting/slow-trolling, and casting/jigging with poppers and artificial lures, especially for Yellowfin Tuna and Roosterfish.
Can I bring my non-fishing partner/family member?
Yes, non-fishing guests are welcome. There is plenty of space for relaxing or watching the action. Non-fishing day excursions can be booked separatly.
How do I book and what are the payment terms?
Booking requires a deposit (usually 10–50%) to secure the dates, with the remaining balance due a set period before the trip or upon arrival.
What is the policy on consuming alcohol on board?
Alcohol is generally permitted, cool beers are available on board. Excessive intoxication is prohibited for safety reasons.
What is the local currency and are credit cards accepted?
Panama uses the US Dollar (USD) as its currency. Credit cards are accepted for the charter booking, but cash (USD) is strongly recommended for crew gratuities and remote purchases.
Terms & policy
1. Booking & Payments
Deposits: 15% deposit to secure the date
Balance: 30 days prior to departure
Currency: Prices in Panama are in USD
Taxes: Panama’s sales tax7% ITBMS is included in our prices
2. Cancellation & Refund Policy
Client Cancellation:
> 60 days before departure : credit for any deposits made towards a future trip minus a fixed flat fee of 300$ per package
< 60 before departure: refund of 50% minus fat fee of 300$ per package
Less than 30 days / No-Show: no refund
Weather Cancellation (Captain’s Call):
The Captain reserves the exclusive right to cancel a trip due to unsafe weather conditions (high winds, lightning). Rain is not considered unsafe. In the event of a Captain’s cancellation, we will attempt to reschedule. If rescheduling is not possible, a full refund will be issued.
3. Panamanian Fishing Regulations
Billfish Conservation: In accordance with Panama Maritime Authority regulations, all Billfish (Marlin, Sailfish) and Roosterfish are strictly Catch & Release.
Protected Species: The harassment or capture of Sea Turtles is strictly prohibited by law.
Fishing Licenses: Personal fishing licenses are not required for tourists; our vessel covers the necessary permits for all guests.
4. Safety & Conduct
Captain’s Authority:
The Captain has the final authority on the vessel. Non-compliance with safety instructions will result in the immediate termination of the charter without refund.
Drugs & Alcohol:
Zero tolerance for illegal drugs. If found, the trip ends immediately, and police will be notified upon return to port.
Alcohol is permitted in moderation. The Captain reserves the right to stop serving alcohol or terminate the trip if a guest becomes intoxicated and unsafe.
Liability Waiver:
Guests assume all risks associated with sport fishing and the inherent risks of the sea (motion sickness, slippery decks, handling fish hooks,…). Panama Sport Fishing Charters is not liable for personal injury or loss of personal property.
5. Jurisdiction
These terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of Panama. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of Panama City
6. Privacy Policy (Data Protection)
Panama has specific data privacy laws (Law 81 of 2019) that you should generally align with.
1. Information Collection
We collect personal information such as names, passport numbers (often required for marina clearance), and payment details solely for the purpose of booking and complying with maritime authorities.
2. Media Release (Marketing)
Fishing charters rely heavily on photos of catches. By participating in our charter, you grant Panama Sport Fishing Charters permission to use photos and videos taken during the trip for marketing purposes (social media, website) without compensation. If you prefer not to be photographed, please inform the Captain before departure.