4.0(1 Reviews)Half Day Shark Fishing Trip in Panama City
4.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Target Tiger, Bull, Blacktip, Mako, and Sandbar sharks offshoreAll equipment, bait, and permits included with guided serviceHalfday fishing adventure accommodates up to six guests
Ready to test your mettle against some of the Gulf's most powerful predators? This half-day guided shark fishing adventure puts you face-to-face with the apex hunters of Panama City's offshore waters. We're talking Tiger sharks, Bulls, Makos, and more – the kind of fish that'll have your drag screaming and your heart pounding. Our experienced guides know exactly where these giants cruise, and they'll put you on the bite while handling all the heavy lifting when it comes to gear, bait, and permits. With space for up to 6 anglers, this trip strikes the perfect balance between intimate fishing and group excitement.
Your shark fishing adventure kicks off as we motor out into the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, where the continental shelf drops off and the big predators patrol. The vibe is relaxed but focused – we're here to have fun, but we're also serious about putting you on fish. Our guides will get you rigged up with the right tackle while sharing stories about epic battles and close calls from previous trips. The boat ride out gives everyone time to get comfortable with the gear and ask questions. Once we hit the fishing grounds, it's all about patience and preparation. We'll set up a proper chum slick to draw the sharks in, then deploy multiple lines at different depths. The waiting game begins, but trust me – when a shark decides to take your bait, you'll know it instantly. The whole experience flows naturally, with our crew handling the technical stuff while you focus on the fight of a lifetime.
Shark fishing is a different beast than your typical inshore game. We're talking heavy conventional reels spooled with 80-pound test, circle hooks to ensure proper hooksets, and wire leaders that can handle those razor-sharp teeth. Our guides rig everything with fresh bait – usually chunks of bonito, mackerel, or whatever's running hot that week. The technique is all about presenting the right bait at the right depth while maintaining that critical chum line. We'll have multiple rods out, some on the bottom targeting Bull sharks and Tigers, others suspended mid-water for Makos and Blacktips. When a shark picks up your bait, the key is letting the circle hook do its job – no need for a big hookset like you would with bass. Just start reeling steady and let the fish run when it wants to. Our guides coach you through every step, from managing the drag to pumping and winding technique that'll save your back during those long fights.
"Great day on the water. We were on the fish!" - Daniel Nothaft
Shortfin Mako Sharks are the speed demons of the shark world, capable of hitting 45 mph and launching themselves completely out of the water during fights. These silver bullets typically range from 6 to 12 feet in our waters and are most active during the warmer months from April through October. What makes Makos so special is their incredible athleticism – they'll make blistering runs that can peel off 200 yards of line in seconds, then come back at the boat like a torpedo. Anglers love them because they fight dirty, using every trick in the book including those spectacular jumps that'll have everyone on the boat scrambling for their phones.
Bonnethead Sharks might be the smallest sharks we target, but don't let their 3-4 foot size fool you – these little guys are scrappy fighters and perfect for anglers new to shark fishing. They're actually the most abundant shark in the Gulf and can be caught year-round, though spring and fall offer the best action. Bonnetheads are unique because they're one of the few sharks that actually eat seagrass along with crabs and small fish. They've got this distinctive shovel-shaped head that makes them easy to identify, and they're known for their quick, darting runs that can surprise you. Kids especially get a kick out of these because they're manageable on lighter tackle but still give you that authentic shark fishing experience.
Blacktip Sharks are the acrobats of the shark family, famous for their spinning jumps that look like something out of a nature documentary. These sleek predators typically run 4-7 feet and are most abundant from March through September when they're following bait schools along the coast. Blacktips get their name from the distinctive black markings on their fin tips, and they're known for their aggressive feeding behavior. When one hits your bait, expect multiple jumps and fast, erratic runs that'll test your skills. They're a customer favorite because they put on such a visual show – half the boat will be fighting fish while the other half is taking videos of the aerial displays.
Tiger Sharks are the apex predators we're all hoping to see, with their distinctive stripes and massive bulk reaching up to 14 feet in our waters. These guys are active year-round but peak during the summer months when water temperatures climb. Tigers are famous for eating literally anything – they're called the "wastebasket of the sea" for good reason. What makes them so exciting to catch is their sheer power and endurance. A big Tiger will take long, steady runs that can last 20 minutes, testing both your tackle and your stamina. They're also known for their curious nature, often circling the boat after being hooked, giving everyone a chance to see these magnificent predators up close.
Bull Sharks are pound-for-pound some of the strongest fish in the ocean, with their stocky build and aggressive attitude making them a top target for serious shark anglers. These brutes typically range from 6-10 feet and are most active during the warmer months, though we see them year-round in Panama City's waters. Bulls are famous for their ability to swim in both salt and fresh water, and they're known to venture surprisingly close to shore. When you hook a Bull shark, prepare for a slugfest – they
Step aboard our rugged 28ft Parker pilothouse cabin cruiser and head into Panama City's shark-rich waters. This reliable fishing machine packs a serious 250HP Yamaha engine that'll get your crew of up to 6 anglers to the prime offshore spots at a steady 35 knots. The enclosed pilothouse keeps you comfortable while scanning for those big predators, and the onboard fish finder helps locate where the action's happening. Between fights with Bulls, Tigers, and Makos, grab a cold drink from the icebox or use the quiet wireless trolling motor to reposition without spooking your targets. With GPS keeping you on course and a head onboard for longer trips, this boat's built for serious shark fishing in the Gulf's deeper waters. The spacious deck gives everyone room to work when those powerful fish start their runs.
Carcharhinus LimbatusThese are the acrobats of the shark world - when you hook a Blacktip, get ready for some serious aerial action. They'll jump clean out of the water multiple times, spinning and thrashing. Usually running 4-6 feet, they're found in 30-100 feet of water around reefs and structure. Spring through fall are prime time when they're feeding heavily on mackerel and herring. Guests love them because they're aggressive biters and put on a real show. The black-tipped fins make them easy to identify, and they often travel in groups. Pro tip: when chumming for Blacktips, use oily fish like sardines or mackerel. They respond fast to a good chum slick, and once you get one school fired up, the action can be non-stop.
Sphyrna TiburoThe smallest hammerhead you'll encounter, Bonnetheads are perfect for anglers wanting something different without the massive tackle requirements. These shovel-headed sharks usually run 3-4 feet and travel in schools around shallow bays and grass flats. They're most active during warmer months when they move into our inshore waters to feed on crabs and small fish. What's fun about them? They're scrappy fighters for their size and that unique head shape always gets people excited. Plus, they're harmless to humans - just curious little sharks. The secret weapon for Bonnetheads is fresh blue crab cut in half. Hook it through a leg joint and let it sit on the bottom near grass beds.
Carcharhinus LeucasThese stocky, aggressive sharks are built like underwater bulldogs. Bulls typically run 8-10 feet and are known for their bad attitude and powerful bite. They're unique because they can handle both salt and fresh water, often cruising surprisingly shallow areas. Summer's peak season when they move into the Gulf from rivers and estuaries. Anglers love targeting them because they're mean fighters and not too picky about bait. They'll crush just about anything, but they respond well to fresh cut bait and chum. Here's what works: fresh eel is absolute candy to Bull sharks. The high oil content and tough skin make it perfect. Cut it into chunks and let the scent work - Bulls will track it down from amazing distances.
Isurus OxyrinchusThe fastest shark in the ocean, Makos are the ultimate challenge for any angler. These streamlined predators average 8-12 feet and pack serious muscle, hitting speeds up to 30 mph. They're found in deeper Gulf waters, usually 200+ feet, and prefer warmer months when baitfish are abundant. What makes them special? They jump - sometimes 20 feet out of the water when hooked. The fight is legendary, and the meat's actually excellent eating. Makos are smart and aggressive, so expect a battle that can last hours. Here's a tip: when you hook one, keep your boat moving in a wide circle. They'll try to wrap your line around anything they can find, including the hull. Heavy tackle's a must - 50lb class minimum.
Galeocerdo CuvierThe garbage cans of the ocean, Tigers will eat just about anything - which makes them both predictable and exciting to target. These big bruisers can reach 12-16 feet and pack tremendous power. They cruise deeper water during the day, moving shallow at night to hunt. Summer and early fall are best when water temps climb. What draws people to them? The sheer size and those distinctive stripes (more visible on smaller ones). They're methodical fighters - not as flashy as Makos but incredibly strong and stubborn. The meat's decent too. Best bait advice: use something big and smelly. Whole mackerel, tuna chunks, or even stingray works great. Tigers take their time, so be patient and let them fully commit before setting the hook.
4.0 out of 5.0Great day on the water. We were on the fish!
Panama City, FL