The African pompano is a prehistoric-looking fish species that is one of the many types of fish we catch off the coast of Panama. These beautiful fish can be elusive and a challenging to catch, which is why many people book a fishing charter or customized Panama fishing trip with us.

Here is what you should know about the African pompano and how to catch pompano to eat or just for sport.

Details About the African Pompano

African pompano fish have silver bodies that have a metallic look and appear to be armor-plated. They are part of the Jack family of fish and known to be aggressive and fight hard in the water. African pompano can weigh over 30 pounds and live around structures at various depths of ocean. Anglers fish for African pompano because they are fun to catch and delicious to eat.

Best Bait for Pompano

Small, live baits are typically the best bait for pompano. It is common to use multiple hookups when baits are fished in similar areas. Live pilchards, shrimp, squid, sand flea, and cigar minnows work well to catch pompano. You can also catch African pompano with jigs and by slow trolling if you find the fish close to the surface of the water.

Where to Catch African Pompano

We often catch African pompano around Hannibal Bank, which is also a great place to catch tuna and marlin. Outside of Panama, you can also fish for pompano along the eastern and western coasts of the U.S., Africa, Australia, and Asia. It is common to find schools of African pompano around wreck sites and reefs.

These fish swim in coastal waters that range in temperature between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. When the waters reach their highest temperatures in August and September, you’ll generally see more African pompano around.

How to Catch Pompano

Like other members of the Jack family, this type of fish is impressive for its size and puts up a big fight. You’ll find young pompano in open water and adult pompano about 180 feet underwater and around ledges, reefs, wrecks, and other structures. Jigs, lures, and feathers can attract fish, as well as small fish for bait. Live bait typically works best in the summer when pompano move inshore, but jigs are great in the winter when the fish move deeper into the water.

Catch an African Pompano with Us!

If you are interested in Panama fishing and catching your own African pompano, contact us at 011 (507) 6675-7191 or [email protected] to book your trip. We’ll teach you everything we know about how to fish for pompano. Not only will we take you out on an epic African pompano fishing adventure, but we’ll also welcome you back to our sport fishing lodge for comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and amenities to help you feel right at home.