World-Class Panama City Offshore Fishing Charters

Published Date: July 18, 2025
Fishing

Panama City, FL
$600 - $1,600 price range

Summary

Captain Jason leads offshore fishing trips in the Gulf of Mexico out of Panama City, FL. You can choose from 4, 6, or 10-hour charters to target popular species like Snapper, Grouper, Mahi Mahi, and Amberjack. The trips mix up techniques, including trolling and fishing around reefs and wrecks where big fish hang out. Everything you need is provided – rods, reels, bait, and even permits – so you just need to show up ready to fish. Whether you're an experienced angler looking to land a trophy or someone new to saltwater fishing, these trips offer a great day on the water. With room for up to 6 guests, it's perfect for small groups or families. The Gulf is known for its productive fishing grounds, and Captain Jason knows where to find the action. You'll be in for a fun day of battling hard-fighting fish and hopefully bringing home some tasty fillets.

World-Class Panama City Offshore Fishing Charters

Gulf Fishing Action

Catching big fish in Panama City

Best fishing trips in Panama City

Gag Grouper fish caught while fishing in FL

Trophy catches in Panama City waters

Impressive King Mackerel caught while fishing in FL

Fun fishing adventures Panama City

Gulf Fishing: Reel in Big Game Off Panama City

Get ready to hit the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico for some serious offshore action. Captain Jason's got the know-how to put you on the fish, whether you're after tasty bottom-dwellers or hard-fighting pelagics. With trips ranging from quick half-day runs to full-day adventures, there's something for every angler looking to bend a rod and fill the cooler.

What to Expect on the Water

Hop aboard Reel Steel Charters' well-equipped vessel for a day of non-stop fishing excitement. We'll cruise out past the sandbars into the open Gulf, where the real monsters lurk. Depending on your chosen trip length (4, 6, or 10 hours), we'll hit prime fishing grounds anywhere from a few miles offshore to well beyond sight of land. The Gulf's known for its variety, so be prepared to switch tactics as we chase different species throughout the day. Whether we're dropping baits to the bottom for grouper or trolling the surface for mahi-mahi, Captain Jason's got the inside scoop on where the fish are biting.

Techniques & Gear Rundown

Leave your tackle box at home - we've got you covered with top-notch gear suited for Gulf fishing. You'll be using heavy-duty conventional reels spooled with braided line, perfect for muscling big fish up from the depths. We'll employ a mix of fishing methods depending on our targets and conditions. Expect to do some bottom fishing with cut bait or live pinfish for snapper and grouper. When targeting pelagics like king mackerel or mahi, we'll troll with rigged ballyhoo or artificial lures. And for those bruiser amberjacks, get ready for some serious jigging action that'll test your stamina. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques - the crew's always happy to show you the ropes.

Top Catches This Season

The Gulf's been on fire lately, with anglers hauling in some real beauties. Red snapper season's been productive, with plenty of 10-15 pounders coming over the rails. The gag grouper bite's been steady too, especially around some of the deeper wrecks we fish. Mahi-mahi have been showing up in good numbers, providing some fast-paced action when we find a school. And for pure muscle, nothing beats tangling with a big amberjack - we've been seeing some real shoulder-busters in the 40-50 pound range.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Red Snapper: These crimson beauties are the Gulf's most prized catch for good reason. They put up a great fight and taste even better on the plate. Red snapper typically hang around reefs and rocky bottom in 60-300 feet of water. They're opportunistic feeders, so fresh cut bait or live pinfish are your best bet. The average size is 5-10 pounds, but 20+ pounders aren't uncommon. Red snapper have a limited season, so book early if you want to target these tasty fish.

Gag Grouper: When it comes to bottom fishing, gags are the heavyweight champs of the Gulf. These bruisers love to hole up in rocky ledges and wreck structures. They'll inhale just about any bait that passes by, but live pinfish or squid are top choices. Be ready for a battle - gags are known for their powerful initial run trying to get back to their hole. Most keeper gags are in the 10-20 pound range, but 30+ pounders are caught every year. They're available year-round, but the bite's usually best in cooler months.

King Mackerel: If you're looking for a speed demon, kings are your target. These toothy missiles can hit speeds of 60 mph when chasing bait. We usually target them by slow-trolling live baits or pulling diving plugs. Kings are most active in the warmer months, often found around bait schools near the surface. Average size is 10-20 pounds, but 40+ pound "smokers" aren't unheard of. Be ready for screaming runs and acrobatic jumps when you hook into one of these speedsters.

Mahi Mahi: Also known as dorado or dolphinfish, mahi are prized for both their fighting ability and their delicious meat. These colorful fish are usually found in the warmer months, often associating with floating debris or weedlines. We'll troll ballyhoo or artificial lures to entice them. Once you hook one, be ready for aerial displays and lightning-fast runs. Mahi in the Gulf typically range from 5-30 pounds, with larger "bull" dolphin reaching 50+ pounds. They're often found in schools, so multiple hookups are common.

Greater Amberjack: If you want a true test of strength, look no further than the amberjack. These bruisers are often called "reef donkeys" for good reason - they pull like a freight train. We usually target AJs over deep wrecks and reefs, either jigging or dropping live bait. Be prepared for a workout, as these fish will try to bull their way back to structure. Most keeper AJs are in the 20-40 pound range, but 80+ pounders are caught each year. They're available year-round but have seasonal closures, so check the regs before targeting them.

Time to Book Your Spot

Whether you're an experienced angler looking to tangle with some Gulf giants or a newcomer wanting to learn the ropes of offshore fishing, Reel Steel Charters has you covered. With a range of trip options and a seasoned captain at the helm, you're in for a day of rod-bending action and cool-filling results. Don't miss your chance to experience some of the best fishing the Gulf Coast has to offer. Grab your sunscreen, bring a lucky hat, and let's hit the blue water for an unforgettable day of offshore adventure. Book your trip now and get ready to make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime!

Learn more about the species

Gag Grouper

Mahi Mahi, also called dolphin or dorado, are some of the most exciting fish to catch in the Gulf. They're fast-growing and can reach up to 30 pounds in their short 4-5 year lifespan. You'll spot them by their vibrant colors - electric blues, greens, and yellows that fade quickly after they're caught. We usually find Mahi hanging around floating debris, weed lines, or other structure offshore. They're most active in the warmer months from late spring through early fall. These acrobatic fighters will leap and tail-walk across the surface when hooked. Mahi hit just about anything - small live baits, cut bait, or artificial lures like plastic squid skirts all work well. My go-to method is trolling with ballyhoo or flying fish. Pro tip: when you hook one, keep it in the water. More Mahi will often follow it up, giving you shots at multiple fish. Aside from the great fight, Mahi are prized for their delicious, mild white meat. They're also one of the fastest-growing and most sustainable fish out there. Whether you're an experienced angler or first-timer, hooking into a bull dolphin is always a thrill.

Greater Amberjack

King Mackerel

King Mackerel, or "kingfish," are one of the fastest fish in the Gulf. These sleek predators can hit speeds over 60 mph and grow up to 5 feet long, though most we catch are in the 15-30 pound range. Look for their trademark forked tail and razor-sharp teeth. Kings migrate through our waters from spring to fall, following bait schools. We find them anywhere from just off the beach out to 200 feet of water. They like to hang around reefs, wrecks, and bait pods. Spring and fall are prime seasons when the water temperature is in the mid-70s. These fish are known for blistering runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Light tackle anglers love targeting them for their speed and fighting ability. Live bait like blue runners or menhaden works great, but kings will also hit trolled spoons, plugs, or strip baits. Here's a local trick: when a king hits, let it run for a few seconds before setting the hook. Their mouths are soft, so a gentle hookset works best. Kings make good eating too, though larger ones can be a bit oily. Smoked kingfish dip is a local favorite. Just watch out for those teeth when you're handling them!

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Gag Grouper are one of our most popular bottom fish. These bruisers can grow over 50 pounds, but most we catch are in the 5-15 pound range. They're brown or gray with a marbled pattern that helps them blend in with rocky bottoms. You'll find Gags hanging around reefs, ledges, and wrecks in 60-250 feet of water. They prefer structure with lots of nooks and crannies to hide in. The best fishing is usually in cooler months from fall through spring. Gags are known for their powerful first run. Once hooked, they'll try to dive straight back into their hole. You've got to muscle them up quick or risk getting broken off. Heavy tackle and stout leaders are a must. Live bait like pinfish or grunts works great. For artificial lures, try large jigs or diving plugs. Here's a local secret: use oversized baits to target bigger fish. Gags have huge mouths and aren't afraid to attack large prey. The fight is fun, but the real payoff comes at dinner. Gag Grouper is some of the best-eating fish in the Gulf. Their white, flaky meat is mild and sweet. Whether you're after a trophy or just a good meal, Gags are always a great target.

Red Snapper

Greater Amberjack are big, powerful fish that'll give you a serious workout. These bruisers can grow up to 6 feet long and weigh over 100 pounds, though most we catch are in the 30-50 pound range. You'll find them hanging around reefs, wrecks, and offshore structures in 60-240 feet of water. Amberjack season runs April through May, then reopens August through October. They're known for their explosive strikes and bulldog fighting style - once hooked, they'll dive straight for cover and test your arms and gear. Bring heavy tackle, at least 50-pound test line. Live bait like blue runners or threadfin herring works great. If you're using artificial lures, go with heavy jigs or large diving plugs. My top tip: When you hook one, get it away from the structure fast or it'll break you off. Crank hard and don't give an inch. The fight is what makes Amberjack so fun to target. These fish make excellent table fare too. Just be aware they can carry ciguatera toxin in some areas, so check local advisories. Overall, Amberjack are one of the hardest-fighting fish in the Gulf - you won't forget tangling with one of these reef donkeys.

About the Cabin Cruisers

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Yamaha

Maximum Cruising Speed: 35

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Get ready for an action-packed day of offshore fishing in the Gulf of Mexico with Captain Jason at the helm. Whether you're looking for a quick 4-hour trip or want to spend a full 10 hours on the water, we've got you covered. Our trips are designed to put you on the fish, targeting popular species like Snapper, Grouper, Mahi Mahi, and Amberjack. We'll hit the best spots for trolling, reef, and wreck fishing, maximizing your chances of landing some impressive catches. No need to worry about gear - we provide everything you need, including rods, reels, tackle, bait, and fishing licenses. Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a snack or two. Our trips are perfect for experienced anglers looking to test their skills or newcomers wanting to learn the ropes. With room for up to 6 guests, it's a great way to spend time with family or friends while enjoying the beautiful Panama City waters. Don't miss out on this chance to create lasting memories and maybe even catch dinner - book your trip today!

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