Panama City Beach Shark Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Bay fishing adventure targeting multiple shark species in calm watersFamilyfriendly charter accommodating all ages with flexible scheduling optionsSeasonal opportunity from July through September with photo opportunities
Get ready for a shark fishing experience that'll have you talking for years. This isn't your typical offshore grind – we're heading into Panama City Beach's protected bay waters where the action stays steady and the ride stays smooth. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned anglers alike, this trip puts you face-to-face with some of the Gulf's most exciting predators without the rough seas. Limited to just 2 guests, you'll get personalized attention from our crew while we target multiple shark species in the calm inshore waters. Available July through September when these apex predators are most active in our local waters.
This bay fishing adventure takes place in the protected waters around Panama City Beach, where calm conditions make for comfortable fishing and better hookups. We'll anchor up in strategic spots where sharks cruise the shallows looking for easy meals. The beauty of inshore shark fishing is the intimacy – you're not dealing with massive offshore swells or long boat rides. Instead, we're fishing smart in 10-20 feet of water where sharks feel confident hunting. Most of the sharks we catch are photo-friendly, meaning you'll get those grip-and-grin shots that make your buddies jealous. The calm bay environment also means kids and nervous first-timers can focus on the fishing instead of fighting seasickness. Early morning and late afternoon trips tend to produce the best action, though these predators can surprise you any time of day.
We're running medium-heavy conventional setups spooled with 30-50 pound test – heavy enough to handle a decent shark but light enough to feel every head shake and run. Circle hooks are the standard here for both conservation and hookup success. Our go-to technique is simple but effective: we'll set out a spread of baits at different depths using sliding sinker rigs that let the sharks pick up the bait naturally. Fresh cut bait works best – think bonito, mackerel, or whatever's running fresh. We'll also throw out some live pinfish or grunts when available. The key is keeping multiple lines out to increase your odds. When a shark picks up your bait, you'll know it – that steady pull followed by screaming drag is unmistakable. We'll coach you through the fight, making sure you're applying steady pressure while the fish makes its runs. Most fights last 5-15 minutes depending on the species and size.
Blacktip sharks are the bread and butter of Panama City Beach inshore fishing during summer months. These athletic fighters typically run 3-5 feet and put on a spectacular aerial show when hooked. They're aggressive feeders and often the first to hit your baits. Blacktips are perfect for photos – manageable size with that classic shark profile everyone recognizes. They're most active during the warmer months when baitfish are thick in the shallows.
Bonnethead sharks might look different with their flattened, shovel-shaped heads, but they're scrappy fighters that surprise anglers with their strength. Usually measuring 2-4 feet, they're the most docile for handling and great for kids to experience their first shark catch. These unique sharks are actually the smallest member of the hammerhead family and feed heavily on crabs and shrimp in our grass flats. Peak season runs July through early September.
Nurse sharks are the gentle giants of our local waters, often reaching 6-8 feet but fighting more like bulldogs than racehorses. They're bottom dwellers that provide a different kind of challenge – pure power and stubbornness rather than speed. These sharks are incredibly photogenic and calm during the release process. They prefer deeper holes and structure in the bay, making them a bit more challenging to locate but worth the effort when you connect.
Spinner sharks live up to their name with dramatic spinning jumps that'll get your heart racing. Similar in size to blacktips but with even more acrobatic tendencies, they're a favorite among anglers who appreciate a good show. These sharks are fast, aggressive, and provide some of the most exciting fights you'll experience in shallow water. They tend to school up in summer months, so when you find one, there's usually more around.
Panama City Beach shark fishing is a seasonal opportunity that only runs July through September, so don't wait to secure your dates. With just 2 spots available per trip, this top-rated experience books up fast during peak summer months. Whether you're looking to introduce someone to shark fishing or add a unique chapter to your angling story, this bay fishing adventure delivers the goods without the offshore commitment. The combination of calm waters, multiple species, and photo opportunities makes this a customer favorite for good reason. Contact Old Town Charters today to reserve your spot for this world-class inshore shark fishing experience.
Our 2016 Tidewater center console is perfectly rigged for Panama City Beach shark fishing adventures. This reliable 24-footer runs smooth with a 200HP Yamaha outboard that'll get you to the fishing grounds fast, cruising at speeds up to 45 knots. The boat's equipped with everything you need for a successful shark trip - fish finder to locate the action, GPS for precise navigation, and radar when weather conditions get murky. An onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold during those hot summer days on the water. The center console design gives you plenty of room to fight these powerful fish while staying safe. Perfect for small groups of up to 2 anglers who want a more personalized shark fishing experience in the calm bay waters around Panama City Beach.
Panama City