World-Class Offshore Fishing in Contadora Island

Published Date: September 15, 2025
Fishing

Panama City
$890 - $2,580 price range

Summary

Looking for a serious day of fishing in Panama? This full-day trip out of Contadora Island is the real deal. You'll be targeting a variety of game fish around the Pearl Islands, including snapper, grouper, mahi-mahi, and amberjack. The local crew knows these waters inside and out, and they'll have you set up with all the right gear for jigging, popping, and trolling. It's a versatile trip - you might be deep dropping for grouper one minute, then chasing surface action the next. With a full day on the water, you'll have time to really explore and find where the fish are biting. The boat can take 2 guests, so it's perfect for a couple or a pair of fishing buddies. If you want, they can even sort out food and transport with a bit of notice. It's a great way to experience some of Panama's best offshore fishing without any hassle.

World-Class Offshore Fishing in Contadora Island

Offshore Action

A group of 6 little tunny and dogtooth tuna fish caught in Panama

Offshore day in Panama City

Hooked up just off the coast!

Photograph of a greater amberjack fish caught while fishing in Panama City

Offshore action in Panama waters

Sunrise fishing in Panama City

Reel in the Big Ones: Full-Day Fishing off Contadora

Ready for some serious action on the water? Our extended full-day fishing trip out of Contadora Island is where it's at. We're talking about hitting up the hottest spots around the Pearl Islands, where the fish are always biting and the scenery's drop-dead gorgeous. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, we've got you covered with top-notch gear and a crew that knows these waters like the back of their hand. So grab your hat and sunscreen, 'cause we're about to show you why this is the go-to fishing spot in Panama!

What's on the Menu Today?

Alright, let's break it down for you. We're not just puttering around the bay here - we're talking a full day of non-stop fishing action. We'll cruise around Contadora, Saboga, and some secret spots nearby that are teeming with fish. You name it, we're after it: Snapper, Grouper, Mahi Mahi (that's Dorado for you old-schoolers), Amberjack, Spanish Mackerel, Jack Crevalle, and if we're lucky, maybe even a Wahoo. It's like a buffet out there, and we're bringing our appetites!

We've got room for two on the boat, so bring your fishing buddy or make it a date - nothing says romance like reeling in a monster fish together, right? And don't sweat the gear. We've got all the top-of-the-line stuff you need. Just show up ready to fish your heart out. Oh, and while we don't include meals, give us a heads up, and we can sort out some grub to keep you fueled up for the long day ahead.

Tricks of the Trade

Now, let's talk shop. We're not just tossing lines over the side and hoping for the best. We're pulling out all the stops with jigging, popping, and trolling. It's like a three-ring circus of fishing techniques, and you're the star of the show!

Jigging's perfect for those deeper waters where the big boys hang out. We'll drop those jigs down and work 'em like a puppet master. Then there's popping - it's loud, it's splashy, and it drives the fish crazy. We'll be working those surface lures, making a ruckus that'll have fish charging in from all directions. And let's not forget trolling - we'll be cruising along, dragging those lures behind us like a mobile buffet for the fish. It's a great way to cover ground and find where they're biting.

Our crew's got years of experience under their belts, so they'll show you the ropes (literally) and make sure you're in the right spot at the right time with the right technique. It's like having a cheat code for fishing!

Raves from the Waves

"My wife and I went on a full-day trip, and it was an absolute blast! We caught 21 fish from six different species. The captain and his first mate were incredibly helpful, guiding us every step of the way to ensure we had the best chance of landing fish. Their knowledge and expertise really stood out. I can't recommend this trip enough!" - William

Fish on the Radar

Mahi Mahi, or as we like to call 'em, the acrobats of the sea. These beauties are known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. They're fast, they're colorful, and they're delicious (if you're into that). Best part? They're around pretty much year-round, but if you want the cream of the crop, aim for late spring to early fall. Mahi can grow up to 30 pounds or more in these waters, so get ready for a fight!

Greater Amberjack - now these are the bruisers of the deep. They hang out near reefs and wrecks, and when they hit, it's like you've hooked a freight train. We're talking fish that can top 100 pounds! They're most active in the cooler months, so if you're here in winter, you're in for a treat. Just remember to bring your A-game and maybe hit the gym before you come - these guys don't give up easy!

Indo-Pacific Sailfish - the rock stars of the offshore world. With their massive sail-like dorsal fin and incredible speed (we're talking up to 68 mph), these fish are the holy grail for many anglers. They're seasonal visitors, typically showing up from December to April. Landing one of these beauties is like winning the fishing lottery - it's all about the right place, right time, and a whole lot of skill (and maybe a little luck).

Pacific Bonito - these little speedsters might not be the biggest fish in the sea, but what they lack in size, they make up for in fight. They're part of the tuna family, so you know they're built for speed. They school up and can create quite a frenzy when feeding. Bonito are great for light tackle fishing and they're around most of the year. Perfect for when you want non-stop action!

Cubera Snapper - the bullies of the reef. These guys are ambush predators with a serious attitude problem. They lurk around rocky areas and reefs, waiting to pounce on anything that looks tasty. Cuberas can grow to over 100 pounds, and when they're big, they're not afraid of anything - including your bait. They're a year-round target, but the bigger ones tend to come out more at night. Landing a big Cubera is like arm-wrestling a gorilla - it's all power and no quit.

Time to Get Your Fish On!

Look, if you're still reading this, you know you want to come fishing with us. We've got the spots, we've got the gear, and we've got the know-how to put you on fish. Whether you're after that trophy catch or just want to bend a rod and have a good time, we've got you covered. The Pearl Islands are a world-class fishery, and we're your ticket to the action.

So what are you waiting for? The fish aren't going to catch themselves (though sometimes it feels that easy out here). Give us a shout, lock in your date, and get ready for a day on the water you'll be talking about for years to come. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not booking sooner. Let's go fishing!

Customer Review

Fishful Frenzy

My wife and I went on a full-day trip, and it was an absolute blast! We caught 21 fish from six different species. The captain and his first mate were incredibly helpful, guiding us every step of the way to ensure we had the best chance of landing fish. Their knowledge and expertise really stood out. I can't recommend this trip enough!

William S

January 4, 2024

Learn more about the species

Cubera Snapper

Cubera Snapper are the heavyweights of the snapper family, often 30-40 pounds but can reach over 100. You'll find them around rocky areas and reefs in depths of 60-180 feet. These bruisers are most active at night, especially around the full moon. Anglers target them for their powerful fights and tasty fillets. Cubera are known for their initial run to the bottom, so you need heavy tackle to turn them. Live bait like small tuna or big squid works best. They spawn from May to August, which can be a good time to catch them. Be careful though - they have serious teeth and powerful jaws. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, let the fish take the bait for a few seconds before setting the hook. This gives them time to get it in their mouth and increases your chances of a solid hookup.

Greater Amberjack

Greater Amberjack are bruisers of the deep, typically weighing 30-40 pounds but can reach over 100. Look for them around reefs and wrecks in 60-240 feet of water. These powerful fish are a favorite for their hard-fighting nature - they'll test your arms and your gear. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they're most active. Jigs and live bait work well, but be ready for a battle. Amberjack will often make a strong initial run for the bottom, so you need to turn them quickly. Their firm, white meat is good eating too. Here's a local tip: when you hook one, pump the rod and reel down quickly. This technique helps prevent them from diving back to structure and breaking you off.

Indo-Pacific Sailfish

Sailfish are the sprinters of the ocean, capable of speeds up to 68 mph. These beauties average 6-8 feet long and 120-220 pounds. You'll find them in warmer offshore waters, often near the surface. They're known for their distinctive sail-like dorsal fin and long, pointed bill. Sailfish are most active here from December to May. Anglers love them for their acrobatic jumps and blistering runs when hooked. Trolling with rigged ballyhoo or mullet is the go-to method. Live bait works great too. These fish are catch-and-release only, so we focus on the thrill of the fight and a quick photo before letting them go. Pro tip: when a sailfish takes your bait, give it a few seconds to swallow before setting the hook. This increases your chances of a solid hookup.

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Mahi Mahi are a favorite around here, known for their stunning colors and acrobatic fights. These fish typically range from 15 to 30 pounds but can get up to 87 pounds. You'll find them near the surface, often around floating debris or weed lines. They're fast growers and voracious eaters, which makes for great action. Best fishing is June through November when the water's warmer. Mahi put on an amazing show when hooked, with high jumps and powerful runs. Their meat is delicious too - firm, white, and mild. For the best chance at landing one, look for frigate birds circling. They'll lead you right to the fish. When you spot a school, cast a live bait or colorful lure their way and hang on tight!

Pacific Bonito

Pacific Bonito are small but mighty, usually 2-10 pounds and great fun on light tackle. These streamlined cousins of tuna are found near the surface, often in large schools from the coast out to about 100 miles offshore. They're most active here from June to November. Bonito are aggressive feeders and will hit a variety of lures and baits. Anglers love them for their fast runs and the way they school up, providing non-stop action when you find them. They're also good eating when prepared fresh. To catch bonito, try casting small, shiny lures or spoons and retrieve them quickly. A local trick is to look for birds diving - that's often a sign of bonito feeding on the surface. When you spot them, cast beyond the school and reel through it for best results.

About the BERTRAM 31'

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Sole Marine

Maximum Cruising Speed: 18

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 145

Ready for an action-packed day on the water? This full-day fishing trip takes you to the prime spots around Contadora, Saboga, and nearby islands in Panama. You'll be targeting a variety of game fish like Snapper, Grouper, Mahi Mahi, Amberjack, Spanish Mackerel, Jack Crevalle, and Wahoo. The crew knows all the best techniques - from jigging and popping to trolling - to maximize your chances of landing the big one. No need to worry about gear; everything you need is provided on board. With room for 2 guests, it's perfect for a fishing duo looking to make the most of Panama's rich waters. Want to level up your experience? Just give a heads up, and the team can arrange catering and pick-up services. Get ready to reel in some memories in one of Panama's top fishing destinations!