5.0(1 Reviews)Target Amberjack on Panama City's Top Bottom Fishing Trip
5.0(1 reviews)
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
10hour offshore charter targeting amberjack and premium speciesVentures 35 miles into Gulf waters with expert guidanceAll gear included for comprehensive deep sea fishing experience
Get ready for a serious day of bottom fishing in the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This 10-hour charter with Showtime Fishing Charter takes you up to 35 miles offshore where the big fish live. Captain Ashton Lewis knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's going to put you on some of the best bottom structure in Panama City. We're talking about prime amberjack holes, cobia haunts, and snapper ledges that consistently produce trophy-class fish. Running from September through early May with a 6:00 AM departure, this trip is perfectly timed to hit the cooler months when bottom fishing really shines in the Gulf.
This isn't your typical half-day trip – we're talking about a full commitment to fishing the deep Gulf where the monsters roam. You'll be running hard to reach those productive bottom structures 20-35 miles out, but that's where the magic happens. The boat is fully rigged for serious bottom fishing with heavy tackle, quality reels, and all the terminal gear you'll need. Captain Ashton provides everything from hooks to weights, so you can focus on fighting fish instead of rigging lines. The vessel is equipped with top-notch electronics to mark fish and structure, plus it's spacious enough for six anglers to fish comfortably without getting tangled up. Expect to be dropping baits in 80-150 feet of water over rocky bottom, artificial reefs, and natural ledges where amberjack, cobia, and snapper congregate. The early morning departure gets you out there when fish are most active, and you'll have plenty of daylight to work multiple spots.
Bottom fishing in the Gulf requires some muscle and technique, but don't worry if you're not a seasoned angler – Captain Ashton will get you dialed in quick. We're using medium to heavy conventional reels loaded with 50-80 pound test line to handle the big amberjack that can peel off 100 yards before you know what hit you. The standard setup includes egg sinkers heavy enough to reach bottom in the current, usually 4-8 ounces depending on conditions. Circle hooks are the way to go for most species, and we'll be using a variety of live and cut baits including cigar minnows, blue runners, and chunks of bonito. The key to successful bottom fishing is feeling the bite through the weight and current – amberjack hit hard, but snapper can be subtle nibblers. You'll learn to work the structure by dropping down, letting the bait settle, then slowly working it up and down to entice strikes. When a big fish hits, the drill is simple: keep steady pressure and let the drag do its job while the captain maneuvers the boat to help you win the fight.
"A fantastic fishing trip with Showtime Charters and Captain Ashton Lewis! His professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction made for a memorable experience. We caught plenty of fish and had a blast. Will definitely be returning!" - Megan
King Mackerel are speed demons that patrol the offshore waters of Panama City, typically running 10-30 pounds with occasional giants pushing 40-plus. These fish are pure adrenaline – when a king hits your bait, you'll know it instantly as they make blistering runs that can empty a reel in seconds. Fall through spring is prime time for kings around Panama City, especially when baitfish are thick over the deep reefs. They're excellent table fare and put up one heck of a scrap on medium tackle.
Mahi Mahi bring the color and acrobatics to your fishing day. These beautiful gold and green fighters average 10-20 pounds in these waters, though bull mahi over 30 pounds show up regularly. What makes mahi special is their aerial display – they'll jump, tail-walk, and put on a show that'll have everyone on the boat cheering. They're also among the best eating fish in the Gulf, with firm white meat that's perfect for grilling. Mahi tend to follow floating debris and weed lines, so keep your eyes peeled for birds and structure.
Wahoo are the rockets of the reef, capable of speeds over 60 mph and armed with razor-sharp teeth that can slice through wire leader like butter. These silvery torpedoes typically run 20-40 pounds in Panama City waters, and when one hits, you better hold on tight. They make long, powerful runs and have a habit of jumping when hooked. Wahoo are prized for their excellent eating quality – the meat is firm, white, and mild-flavored, making them a favorite among charter customers.
Cobia are the gentle giants of the bottom fishing world, often called "brown sharks" for their appearance and size. These curious fish can reach 30-50 pounds and are known for swimming right up to the boat to investigate. Cobia are fantastic fighters that use their broad bodies and powerful tails to bulldoze their way through the water. They're also exceptional table fare with thick, meaty fillets that taste great grilled, blackened, or fried. Spring is peak season for cobia around Panama City's offshore structures.
Red Snapper are the bread and butter of Gulf bottom fishing, and Panama City's deep reefs hold some true giants. These crimson beauties typically run 5-15 pounds, but 20-pounders are always possible on the right day. Snapper are smart, structure-oriented fish that require finesse and the right bait presentation. They're famous for their excellent eating quality – sweet, flaky white meat that's perfect for any preparation. Red snapper fishing is highly regulated with specific seasons and bag limits, but when they're open, these fish provide consistent action and great table fare.
Captain Ashton's 42' sportfishing vessel puts you right in the heart of Panama City's best bottom fishing action. This fully loaded boat handles the Gulf's bigger waters with ease, running up to 35 miles offshore where the amberjack, grouper, and cobia hang out. The spacious deck gives your group of 6 plenty of room to work the bottom structure, while the fish finder and GPS keep you on the productive spots. Between drops, kick back in the air-conditioned cabin or grab something cold from the fridge. The onboard facilities make those long 10-hour days comfortable - full kitchen, head, and even a bed if someone needs to rest up. Wheelchair accessible design means everyone can get in on the action. All the gear's included, from heavy bottom rigs to spinning tackle for when the mahi show up. The boat's radar keeps you fishing even when the Gulf gets hazy, and that icebox ensures your catch stays fresh for the ride back to the dock.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are the gentle giants that look like sharks but fight like freight trains. These brown beauties average 20-50 pounds and love hanging around structure - wrecks, buoys, and oil rigs in 30-100 feet of water. Spring through early fall is prime time, especially during their spawning runs when they cruise near the surface. What makes them special is the combination of power and amazing table fare - firm, white meat that rivals any fish in the Gulf. They're curious fish that'll often swim right up to the boat. My go-to technique is sight fishing with bucktail jigs in natural colors. Drop it right in front of their nose and work it slow. Once hooked, they'll make long, powerful runs that'll test your tackle.
Scomberomorus CavallaKing Mackerel are speed demons that typically run 15-30 pounds, though we've seen some pushing 50+ pounds out here. They cruise the Gulf waters 40-150 feet deep, often around structure and temperature breaks. These silver torpedoes with razor-sharp teeth are active from late fall through spring when water temps hit that sweet spot of 68-80°F. What makes them special? Pure speed and power - they'll scream line off your reel like few other fish. Plus, they're fantastic eating with firm, flaky meat. One tip I always share: use a wire leader and keep your bait moving fast. Kings love a chase, so troll at 8-12 knots with live bait or spoons. When one hits, hold on tight and enjoy the ride.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are absolutely gorgeous fish averaging 15-30 pounds that love floating debris and structure in open water. They're surface dwellers usually found in the top 50 feet, especially around weed lines and floating objects. Best fishing happens during warmer months when water temps climb above 75°F. What guests love most is watching these golden beauties change colors when brought to the boat - it's like a light show. They're also phenomenal table fare with sweet, firm white meat that's perfect for tacos or grilling. They fight hard too, with lots of aerial displays. Pro tip: when you find one mahi, there's usually more nearby. Keep your lines in the water and work the area thoroughly before moving on.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed Snapper are the crown jewel of Gulf bottom fishing, averaging 3-8 pounds with occasional 15+ pound giants. These crimson beauties live on hard bottom, reefs, and wrecks in 60-200 feet of water. During our season, they're actively feeding and easier to locate around structure. What makes them legendary is the combination of a solid fight and being the best eating fish in the Gulf - sweet, flaky white meat that's restaurant quality. They're smart fish that require finesse. My advice: use circle hooks with fresh cut bait, keep your drag light, and be patient. When you feel that tap-tap-tap, let them take it before setting the hook. The fight to the surface is worth every second.
Acanthocybium SolandriWahoo are the speed kings of the Gulf, hitting 60+ mph and averaging 20-40 pounds. These silver bullets with blue stripes are loners that cruise deeper blue water, usually 30-100 feet down near drop-offs and current breaks. Fall and winter months are prime time when they move closer to shore chasing bait. Anglers love them for two reasons: the smoking fast runs that'll test your drag, and the premium white meat that tastes like a cross between tuna and mahi. They're picky eaters with razor teeth, so we run wire leaders and high-speed trolling rigs. My secret? Troll fast at 15+ knots with diving plugs or bullet-head lures. When one hits, it's like hooking a freight train.
5.0 out of 5.0A fantastic fishing trip with Showtime Charters and Captain Ashton Lewis! His professionalism and dedication to customer satisfact...
Panama City Beach