Just off the coast of Panama, there are a couple of different kinds of fishing that are fun to learn about. One type is inshore fishing, which involves catching fish in shallower, not-so-distant waters. Although deep-sea fishing is always a popular choice in our area, inshore fishing in Panama presents its own unique challenges and rewards.

Here are some information about Panama inshore fishing and tips for having the best inshore fishing experience possible.

What Is Inshore Fishing?

The difference between inshore fishing and offshore fishing are in both the water depth and the distance away from the shoreline. Inshore fishing is defined as the type of fishing that takes place in waters that are less than 30 meters deep and within nine miles of the shoreline.

The waters around inshore fishing areas tend to be calmer and don’t require as much time, energy, or boat features to reach. The conditions are more predictable inshore, the experience is a little more peaceful, and the species of fish you’ll catch here are different.

Fish Targeted for Inshore Fishing

There are certain types of fish that gravitate towards specific parts of the ocean, including the inshore area. For example, the fish that we target while inshore fishing in Panama include cubera snapper, jack crevalle, african pompano, roosterfish. blue trevalle and over 20 more species we regularly catch.

Meanwhile, the tuna are farther out in the offshore areas around Hannibal Bank, which we reach by making a 40-mile run out from our lodge on Isla Paridas. Here in the Gulf of Chiriquí overall, we have more than 20 pelagic and inshore game fish species available.

Best Inshore Fishing Techniques

In our experience, we have found that some techniques work better for fishing inshore than others. It is important to check the local tide charts so that you can plan your fishing outing based on the movement of the tides. Baitfish usually follow the tide, and game fish follow those baitfish. Going fishing early or late is generally best, and you’ll need to have different tackle to catch different kinds of fish.

It helps to wear polarized sunglasses so that you can see the fish well in the water, use a rod that is seven to eight feet long, and use live or natural baits for the most consistent biting. When you book a day charter or package trip with us, we’ll show you everything we know about Panama inshore fishing. We are also very fortunate to have amazing inshore fishing opportunities right at the doorstep of our sport fishing lodge.

When to Go Inshore Fishing in Panama

In general, the best time to go inshore fishing in Panama is in February and March. This is when inshore fishing really picks up with cubera and roosterfish. We often have excellent success with inshore fishing during the month of March, but also good results all the way through August.

If you’re ready to book your trip and try inshore fishing in Panama for yourself, contact us today!