Looking for a relaxing day on the water? BlueWater Charter offers a variety of Panama City Florida fishing charters and Santa Rosa Beach fishing charters, providing both inshore fishing and offshore fishing options to suit your needs. Whether you're interested in deep sea fishing Panama City Florida or a more relaxed experience closer to shore, you’ll be able to target exciting species like Cobia, Mahi Mahi, Red Grouper, King Mackerel, Redfish, and Mangrove Snapper. The local waters are known for excellent fishing opportunities, making fishing trips Panama City Florida a great way to enjoy the outdoors. You can try your hand at bottom fishing, trolling fishing, and even deep sea fishing, depending on what you’re hoping to catch. Planning a family-friendly adventure? BlueWater Charter welcomes kids, making it a perfect choice for a memorable outing. Be sure to check if there are child-sized life vests onboard, or bring your own if needed. Packing snacks is also important to keep everyone energized during your fishing trips Panama City Florida. You’ll be fishing aboard a well-equipped 21' Key West center console, designed for comfort and functionality. It accommodates up to four passengers and features downriggers for optimal trolling fishing. With Captain Stephen’s guidance, you can explore both Santa Rosa Beach fishing and deep sea fishing opportunities, depending on the type of adventure you seek. From inshore fishing for Redfish and Speckled Trout to offshore fishing for larger species, there’s something for everyone. Captain Stephen provides all necessary fishing gear, including rods, reels, and lures, with live bait available as well—just ask if you’ll be catching the bait yourself. No need to worry about licenses—Panama City Florida fishing charters with BlueWater cover that for you. However, it’s always a good idea to ask about specific regulations or limited seasons for certain fish. Be prepared for your trip by bringing sunscreen (non-spray), sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of bottled water. Whether you're seeking the thrill of deep sea fishing or prefer a relaxing day of inshore fishing in the beautiful waters of Santa Rosa Beach, BlueWater Charter makes it easy to plan an unforgettable day. Captain Stephen’s years of local experience and knowledge ensure a fantastic day of bottom fishing, trolling fishing, and more. Contact BlueWater Charter today to book your next fishing trip and experience the best Panama City Florida fishing charters has to offer!

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Fishing expedition in FL with 3 fish caught

4 spanish mackerel fish caught while fishing in FL

Four people enjoy a fishing trip in Panama City

A person fishing for a king mackerel in Florida

A great barracuda fish caught while fishing in FL

School of Spanish Mackerel and King Mackerel in FL waters

Don't miss your chance to experience an unforgettable fishing adventure with Captain Stephen Hess! Book your trip today and reel in the excitement of fishing in the beautiful waters of Panama City, Florida!

At Bluewater Charter in Panama City, Florida, Captain Stephen Hess delivers guided fishing trips designed around hospitality, personalization, and flexibility. Unlike many local fishing guides, he offers solo charters as well as family-friendly trips, making him a top choice for first-time anglers and parents introducing kids to saltwater fishing. With a service-first mindset shaped by his years as a Ford service manager, Captain Stephen treats every guest like a friend, ensuring that each fishing trip feels welcoming, comfortable, and never rushed. Whether you’re booking a private 2-, 4-, or 6-hour fishing charter, his focus is always on creating a laid-back experience tailored to seasonal conditions and your preferences—whether that means chasing redfish inshore, targeting grouper offshore, or enjoying the quieter months of late summer and fall for snapper. Specializing in Panama City fishing charters across both inshore and nearshore waters, Bluewater Charter offers everything from light tackle trips for redfish and speckled trout to bottom fishing for snapper and grouper, plus trolling for king mackerel and other pelagic species. With decades of experience fishing the Gulf Coast, Outer Banks, and Tennessee freshwater lakes, Captain Stephen brings a wealth of knowledge and versatility to every outing. His calm, hands-on approach makes him a favorite among beginners, seasoned anglers, and families alike. Conveniently located near Santa Rosa Beach and serving the Emerald Coast, Bluewater Charter combines professional service with local expertise to provide safe, memorable, and customized fishing adventures for anglers of all skill levels.

BlueWater Charter: The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from Panama City Florida

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BlueWater Charter: The Ultimate Fishing Charter Experience from Panama City Florida

Captain Stephen Hess has spent a lifetime on the water, blending decades of fishing experience with a strong background in customer service. Growing up fishing the coastal waters of Virginia, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Outer Banks, he developed a deep respect for the ocean and the rhythms of the fish that call it home. Later, he spent over 20 years in Tennessee guiding for trophy striped bass, sharpening his skills in freshwater environments while never losing touch with his saltwater roots. His journey into full-time guiding reflects not only his passion for fishing but also his commitment to creating experiences that feel personal, welcoming, and stress-free. What sets Captain Stephen apart is the way he brings his customer service values into every charter. Before launching Bluewater Charter, he spent nearly two decades as a service manager at Ford, where clear communication and customer satisfaction were at the heart of his work. He carries that same philosophy into guiding by explaining each trip upfront—what species to target, how the conditions look, and what techniques they’ll use—while giving guests the flexibility to choose how the day unfolds. For those who prefer to leave it in his hands, his “Captain’s Choice” approach ensures every trip matches the season, the weather, and the opportunities at hand. Stephen’s move to Panama City came after years of visiting the Gulf Coast and fishing alongside local friends. When the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped his path, he and his wife decided to make the Emerald Coast their permanent home. Today, he’s known not only for his knowledge of inshore and nearshore fisheries but also for his calm, hands-on style that makes anglers of all skill levels feel comfortable. Whether it’s helping kids catch their first saltwater fish, guiding seasoned anglers to a trophy grouper, or simply making the day feel like time spent with a friend, Captain Stephen has built a reputation as a trusted and approachable guide who understands the value of every trip. <h3>Fish in Comfort Aboard a Top-Tier Center Console Boat</h3>Captain Stephen operates a 21-foot Key West center console boat, built in 2023 for peak performance and reliability. Equipped with a 150HP Yamaha engine, this sleek vessel reaches cruising speeds of up to 35 knots, allowing for quick access to prime fishing spots. Designed with both comfort and functionality in mind, the boat accommodates up to four anglers, providing ample space for fishing gear and movement. Whether navigating the inshore flats or venturing into offshore waters, this well-equipped boat ensures a smooth, safe, and enjoyable fishing experience for all.

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Meet Captain Stephen Hess – Your Expert Fishing Guide

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Common Questions: What are the average prices for Panama City Florida fishing charters?Prices for Panama City Florida fishing charters typically range from $375 to $750, depending on the duration and type of trip. Factors like the season and the number of anglers can also influence the cost. What types of fishing trips are available in Panama City?At BlueWater Charter, we offer a variety of fishing trips, including deep sea fishing in Panama City Florida, inshore fishing, and bottom fishing trips tailored to your preferences. How long do fishing trips in Panama City Florida usually last?Fishing trips in Panama City can vary in duration, typically ranging from 2 to 6 hours. Our most popular trips include half-day options (4 hours) for both trolling fishing and offshore fishing. What species can I expect to catch on a deep sea fishing trip?On our deep sea fishing trips, anglers can expect to catch a variety of species, including Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Grouper, and King Mackerel. The specific catch will depend on the time of year and the type of trip chosen. Do you offer Santa Rosa Beach fishing charters?Yes! We provide Santa Rosa Beach fishing charters, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful waters and target species such as Redfish and Speckled Trout while enjoying the stunning scenery. What is included in the price of the fishing trips?Most fishing trips in Panama City Florida include bait, tackle, and fishing licenses. We also provide a knowledgeable captain and a well-equipped boat to ensure a great experience on the water. Is there a difference in pricing between inshore and offshore fishing?Yes, inshore fishing trips are generally more affordable compared to offshore fishing or deep sea fishing trips, as they require less travel time and fuel costs. However, the experience can be equally rewarding! Can I customize my fishing trip?Absolutely! At BlueWater Charter, we offer customizable fishing trips to meet your needs. Whether you’re interested in bottom fishing, trolling fishing, or a mix of different styles, we can tailor the trip to your preferences. What is the best time of year for fishing in Panama City?The best time for fishing trips in Panama City Florida varies by species. Generally, spring and fall offer excellent opportunities for deep sea fishing and bottom fishing, while summer is ideal for trolling fishing for larger species. How do I book a fishing charter with BlueWater Charter?Booking a fishing charter is easy! You can visit our website or contact us directly to inquire about available dates, pricing, and the types of trips we offer, including our Santa Rosa Beach fishing charters and other options. Don't wait—secure your spot today!

Saint Andrew Bay - Bay, FL Fishing Report on 23rd Aug, 2025 - 2

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