5.0(2 Reviews)Private Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Panama City
5.0(2 reviews)
Private Trip
Wrecks/Reefs Fishing
8hour deep sea charter targeting amberjack and multiple speciesExpert guidance provided with all equipment and tackle includedSmall group experience accommodating up to 5 guests maximum
Captain Ashton Lewis and the Showtime Fishing Charter crew know exactly where the big fish hang out in Panama City's deep waters. This 8-hour morning charter puts you right in the thick of some of the Gulf's most productive fishing grounds, all within 25 miles of shore. Whether you're a weekend warrior or someone who's never held a fishing rod, you'll be targeting trophy species that make Panama City famous among serious anglers. The boat's fully rigged with everything you need – rods, reels, tackle, and fresh bait – so you can focus on what matters: landing fish and making memories.
Your day starts early with a 6:00 AM departure, which puts you at the best fishing spots right when the action heats up. This isn't some cattle-boat operation – you're looking at a maximum of 5 anglers, so there's plenty of elbow room and personal attention from Captain Ashton. The boat's equipped for both bottom fishing and deep sea trolling, depending on what's biting and where the fish are holding. You'll be working waters that range from 60 to 150 feet deep, hitting structure and ledges where Amberjack stack up like cordwood and Grouper hide in the shadows. The season runs September 1 through May 10, which covers some of the most consistent fishing Panama City has to offer. Spring migration brings Cobia and Mahi moving through, while fall and winter months light up with Red Snapper and Grouper action.
Captain Ashton runs a tight ship when it comes to fishing techniques. For bottom fishing, you're looking at heavy conventional reels spooled with 50-80 pound test, paired with stout rods that can handle the pull of big Amberjack and Grouper trying to dive back into structure. The boat carries an arsenal of circle hooks, sinkers, and fresh cut bait – typically Cigar Minnows, Sardines, and Squid that drive these species crazy. When conditions are right for trolling, the crew switches gears to target pelagic species like Wahoo, King Mackerel, and Mahi. That means pulling lures and rigged baits at various depths and speeds, covering water until you find where the fish are congregating. The boat's electronics – GPS, fish finder, and depth sounder – help locate structure and bait schools that attract the gamefish you're after.
"Had a wonderful time with Captain Ashton on Showtime Charters. He knew all the best spots and made sure we were comfortable throughout the trip. The boat was clean and well-equipped. Can't wait to go again!" - John
"Captain Ashton Lewis and Showtime Charters exceeded our expectations! His knowledge of the area and friendly attitude made our fishing trip both fun and productive. We caught more fish than we imagined. A must-do in Panama City Beach!" - Sarah
Mahi Mahi, or Common Dolphinfish as they're officially known, are absolute freight trains when they hit your line. These fish typically show up in Panama City waters during spring migration, usually April through early June, following warm water currents and bait schools. Most Mahi you'll encounter run 10-25 pounds, though bulls can push 40-plus pounds and provide fights that'll test your endurance. What makes Mahi special is their aerial show – they'll jump, tail-walk, and put on a display that gets everyone on the boat excited. They're also fantastic table fare with firm, flaky white meat that's perfect for grilling or making fish tacos.
Wahoo are the speed demons of Panama City's offshore scene, capable of hitting 60 mph and making screaming runs that'll burn line off your reel in seconds. These torpedo-shaped predators typically range 20-50 pounds in local waters, with occasional giants pushing 70-80 pounds. Fall and early winter are prime time for Wahoo fishing, when they're chasing bait schools along the continental shelf. Their razor-sharp teeth require wire leaders, and their lightning-fast strikes often come when you least expect them. The meat is phenomenal – similar to King Mackerel but with a milder flavor and firmer texture.
Cobia are the gentle giants that provide some of the most exciting visual fishing Panama City offers. These brown sharks-lookalikes cruise near the surface during spring months, often following rays and sharks looking for stirred-up bait. Mature Cobia in these waters typically weigh 30-60 pounds, with fish over 70 pounds caught regularly. What makes Cobia fishing special is sight-casting to individual fish you can actually see swimming near the boat. They're curious by nature and will often approach the boat, giving skilled anglers multiple shots with live bait or jigs.
Red Snapper remain the bread-and-butter species that keep Panama City anglers coming back year after year. These crimson-colored bottom dwellers live around structure in 80-150 feet of water, typically weighing 5-15 pounds with occasional monsters hitting 20-plus pounds. Red Snapper are smart and finicky, requiring precise presentation of fresh bait near bottom structure. When you hook one, they make strong, steady runs back toward their rocky homes. The reward is some of the finest eating fish in the Gulf – sweet, flaky white meat that's perfect for any preparation.
Gag Grouper are the heavyweight champions of Panama City's bottom fishing scene, with mature fish commonly weighing 15-30 pounds and giants exceeding 40 pounds. These mottled gray predators live in caves and ledges, ambushing prey that ventures too close to their territory. Gag Grouper fishing requires heavy tackle and quick reflexes – once hooked, they'll try to dive straight back
Captain Ashton's 42-foot sportfishing vessel cuts through Panama City waters with serious fishing power. This well-equipped boat handles wreck fishing like a champ, loaded with GPS, radar, and fish finder to locate those productive bottom structures where amberjack, grouper, and cobia hang out. The spacious deck gives you room to work big fish, while the air-conditioned cabin provides relief between bites. Full galley kitchen, onboard head, and sleeping quarters mean comfort during those long 8-hour trips targeting everything from mahi to king mackerel. Cold storage keeps your catch fresh and drinks icy. Wheelchair accessible design welcomes all anglers. With professional tackle setup and room for 5 guests, this boat's built for serious offshore fishing adventures in the Gulf's productive waters.
Rachycentron CanadumCobia are the bulldogs of the Gulf - big, brown, and built for battle. These fish average around 30-50 pounds but can push 100+ pounds, making them a serious trophy target. You'll find them around reefs, wrecks, and structure in 30-70 feet during spring and summer months. What's cool about cobia is they're often solo hunters, so spotting one on the surface is pure sight fishing excitement. They fight hard and taste even better - firm, white meat that rivals any fish in these waters. The trick is using heavy bucktail jigs in the 4-8 ounce range and working them near structure. When you see one, make your first cast count because they can be picky about what they'll eat.
Mycteroperca MicrolepisGag grouper are the tricksters of the reef - masters at using structure to their advantage in any fight. These mottled gray fish typically run 20-30 inches but can reach 50+ inches and 80 pounds. We target them around rocky reefs, ledges, and wrecks in 60-180 feet of water, with best action during our fall and winter months. What makes gags exciting is their ambush style and powerful runs straight back to cover. They're also excellent table fare with firm, white meat perfect for any recipe. The secret is heavy tackle and no mercy - once hooked, keep your drag locked tight and muscle them up immediately. If you give them an inch, they'll find a hole and you'll be retying your rig.
Coryphaena HippurusMahi are some of the most colorful fish you'll see out here, with brilliant blues and golds that change right before your eyes when landed. They average 15-29 pounds but can hit 40+ on a good day. We find them around floating debris, weedlines, and current breaks in 100-400 feet of water. Our season runs strong from late spring through early fall when water temps climb. What makes mahi special is their incredible fight - they'll jump, run, and put on a real show. Plus, they're absolutely delicious with firm, white meat that's perfect for the grill. Pro tip: when you hook one, keep your eyes peeled for more. They often travel in small schools, so we'll circle back and try to pick up his buddies.
Lutjanus CampechanusRed snapper are the crown jewel of Gulf bottom fishing and every angler's favorite dinner guest. These bright red beauties average 1-2 feet but can grow to 35+ pounds and live over 20 years. We find them on hard bottom, reefs, and structure from 60-200 feet deep. Season runs June through July in federal waters, making those trips extra special. What makes snapper fishing great is their strong fight - they'll head straight for cover and test your gear. The payoff is some of the best eating fish in the Gulf with sweet, flaky white meat. My advice: use circle hooks with fresh squid or cigar minnows, and when you hook up, keep steady pressure and don't let them get back to the rocks.
Acanthocybium SolandriWahoo are pure speed demons that'll test your drag and your nerves. These sleek fish average 3-5 feet and can hit 60 mph when they want to, making them one of the fastest fish in the Gulf. We target them in open water from 60-300 feet, often around oil rigs and structure during our cooler months from October through March. The thrill is in the initial run - nothing compares to that screaming reel when a wahoo takes off. They're also top-shelf eating with mild, flaky white meat that's perfect for fish tacos. Here's the key: troll fast at 12-15 knots with wire leaders because their razor-sharp teeth will slice through anything else. When one hits, hold on tight and enjoy the ride.
5.0 out of 5.0Had a wonderful time with Captain Ashton on Showtime Charters. He knew all the best spots and made sure we were comfortable throug...
Captain Ashton Lewis and Showtime Charters exceeded our expectations! His knowledge of the area and friendly attitude made our fis...
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