3-Hour Family Trolling Trip in Panama City Beach
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Threehour trolling trip targeting Spanish Mackerel in St. Andrew's BayFamilyfriendly charter accommodates up to six guests with included equipmentMultiple departure times available March through midMay season
Looking for a fishing trip that works for everyone in the family? Long Shot Charters' 3-hour trolling adventure is your ticket to some of the best Spanish Mackerel action along Florida's Emerald Coast. Running from March through mid-May, this trip hits peak season when these speedsters are feeding heavy in the bay. You'll fish the productive waters of St. Andrew's Bay and cruise along those famous sugar-white beaches that put Panama City Beach on the map. With three departure times daily and room for six anglers, it's perfect for families wanting to get kids hooked on fishing or groups looking for a shorter trip that still delivers the goods.
This isn't your typical charter where you're stuck in one spot all day. We're constantly moving, covering water, and putting you on fish. The morning 6:00 AM trip catches the cooler temperatures when Spanish Mackerel are most active, while the 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM slots work great for families with younger kids who don't do well with early wake-up calls. St. Andrew's Bay offers protected waters perfect for first-timers, and when conditions are right, we'll venture along the beachfront where the fishing can be absolutely electric. Don't be surprised if we pick up some bonus dolphin sightings or spot Florida Ospreys diving for baitfish – it's all part of the Panama City Beach experience. Everything you need is covered: tackle, bait, and fishing licenses, so just show up ready to fish. Fair warning though – bring good sunscreen and snacks because three hours on the water flies by when the fish are biting.
Trolling is hands-down the most effective way to cover water and locate Spanish Mackerel schools, especially during their peak season here. We'll be pulling small spoons, diving plugs, and sometimes live bait behind the boat at varying speeds to trigger strikes. The beauty of trolling is that it works for all skill levels – beginners can learn the basics of fighting fish without worrying about casting or complex techniques, while experienced anglers appreciate the consistent action. Our spread typically includes multiple lines at different depths, giving us the best shot at finding where the fish are holding. When we mark baitfish on the fishfinder or spot birds working, we'll adjust our pattern to work those areas harder. The tackle is perfectly matched for Spanish Mackerel – light enough to feel every run but strong enough to handle their blazing speed. Kids especially love trolling because there's always something happening, and when a rod doubles over, the excitement is contagious.
Spanish Mackerel are the stars of this show, and for good reason. These torpedo-shaped fighters average 2-4 pounds in our waters, but don't let the size fool you – they're pure muscle and attitude. What makes them so exciting is their lightning-fast runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. March through May is prime time because water temperatures hit that sweet spot around 70-75 degrees, and baitfish are thick in the bay. Spanish Mackerel are voracious predators, often feeding in schools, which means when you find one, there's usually more around. They're also excellent table fare with firm, flaky meat that's perfect for grilling or blackening. For families, these fish are ideal because they fight hard enough to get everyone excited but aren't so big that kids can't handle them. The bonus is they bite consistently during this season – it's rare to come back empty-handed when the Spanish Mackerel are running. Plus, their beautiful silver sides with distinctive yellow spots make for great photos, especially when the kids land their first one.
This trip books up fast during peak Spanish Mackerel season, and there's a reason why. Long Shot Charters has dialed in the perfect formula: productive fishing grounds, family-friendly approach, and multiple departure times that work with everyone's schedule. The 3-hour format gives you serious fishing time without wearing out the kids, and the March-May window hits the absolute best bite of the year. With free cancellation if you give us a week's notice, there's no risk in securing your dates early. Whether you're introducing the family to saltwater fishing or just want a fun morning on the water, this trip delivers exactly what Panama City Beach fishing is all about. The Spanish Mackerel are waiting, the weather's perfect, and the memories you'll make are worth every minute on the water.
Step aboard The Long Shot and The Big Shot for your 3-hour family trolling adventure in Panama City Beach's pristine waters. These custom-built fishing boats have been guiding anglers through St. Andrew's Bay since 2011, with experienced captains who know exactly where the Spanish Mackerel are biting. The spacious boats comfortably handle up to 6 guests, making them perfect for families wanting to experience Gulf Coast fishing together. Your floating fishing platform comes loaded with everything serious anglers need - advanced fish finders to locate schools, GPS navigation for pinpoint accuracy, and radar for safe travel in any conditions. The flybridge gives you elevated views of the water while trolling the sandy-white shorelines. When you need a break from reeling in fish, retreat to the air-conditioned cabin, grab cold drinks from the refrigerator, or use the onboard facilities including a private head and comfortable sleeping area. The multimedia system keeps everyone entertained between catches, while the large icebox ensures your fresh catch stays perfectly chilled. With all tackle, bait, and licenses included, you'll focus on what matters most - watching your family's faces light up when they hook their first mackerel of the day.
undefined, undefined