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Premium 4-Hour Nearshore Trolling | Bluewater
- Published Date: July 18, 2025
- Fishing
- Panama City, Florida
- $400 - $850 price range
- Updated Date: September 14, 2025
Summary
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Reels Screaming
Reel in Kings & Cobia Near Panama City
Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready for some fast-paced action just off the Panama City coast? This 4-hour nearshore trip is all about hooking into hard-fighting fish without venturing too far from shore. We'll be targeting the crown jewels of these waters - King Mackerel and Cobia - plus whatever else decides to crash our party. I'm Captain Stephen Hess, and I'll be your guide to the hottest fishing spots within sight of the beach. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time wetting a line, we'll get you on fish and have a blast doing it.
What's the Deal?
Picture this: You're cruising just beyond the breakers, the skyline of Panama City at your back, and your line starts screaming. That's the kind of day we're after on this trip. We'll be trolling the nearshore waters, which means constant movement and plenty of chances to hook up. Spring brings in the Spanish Mackerel, but from April through September, it's all about the Kings. And let me tell you, when a King Mackerel hits, it's like trying to stop a freight train with dental floss. But that's not all - we might tangle with a bruiser Cobia, a acrobatic Wahoo, or if Lady Luck is really smiling, maybe even a Sailfish. I've got all the gear, bait, and licenses covered, so all you need to bring is your game face and maybe a sandwich.
How We Roll on the Water
Alright, let's talk tactics. We'll be doing what's called trolling - that's where we drag lures or bait behind the boat as we cruise along. It's a killer method for covering water and finding the fish. We'll be using a mix of live bait and artificial lures, depending on what's working that day. I've got a bunch of rods rigged up with different setups, so we can switch it up on the fly if needed. We'll be running anywhere from a quarter mile to a few miles offshore, always keeping an eye out for birds, bait, or any other signs that fish are in the area. It's a real hands-on experience - when we hook up, you'll be the one battling that fish to the boat. Don't worry if you're new to this; I'll show you the ropes and have you fishing like a pro in no time.
Fish You'll Want to Tangle With
Let's break down the heavy hitters we're after on this trip. First up, the King Mackerel. These speedsters are like the sports cars of the sea - sleek, fast, and boy do they pull. Kings can top out at over 50 pounds, though most we'll catch will be in the 10-30 pound range. They're famous for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics. April through September is prime time for Kings, and they love to hang around structures like reefs and wrecks.
Next, we've got Cobia. These guys are the bruisers of the bunch. They might look a bit like sharks, but they fight like freight trains. Cobia can push 100 pounds, though a 30-pounder will give you all the fight you can handle. They start showing up in spring and stick around through fall. What's cool about Cobia is they're curious - sometimes they'll follow the boat, giving us a chance to sight cast to them.
Spanish Mackerel are the smaller cousins of the Kings, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and taste. These guys are perfect for anglers who want non-stop action. They show up in big schools in early spring and can stick around into fall. They're also delicious, so if you're looking to take home some dinner, Spanish Mackerel are hard to beat.
Last but not least, there's always a chance of hooking into something unexpected like a Mahi Mahi (Dorado) or even a Sailfish. These pelagic wanderers occasionally cruise into our nearshore waters, especially when the bait is thick. Landing one of these on a nearshore trip is like hitting the fishing lottery - it doesn't happen often, but when it does, it's a day you'll never forget.
Time to Get Your Fish On
Alright, folks, here's the bottom line: This trip is all about maximizing your time on the water and putting you on fish. We're talking about a solid four hours of fishing action, just a stone's throw from Panama City Beach. It's perfect if you want to squeeze in some serious angling without taking up your whole day. Plus, with a max of four guests, you're getting a personalized experience that caters to your skill level and what you want to catch. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler with tasty Spanish Mackerel, battle it out with a hard-charging King, or try your luck at landing a trophy Cobia, this is the trip for you. So what do you say? Let's get out there and make some fishing memories. The fish are biting, and your spot on the boat is waiting. Don't let this chance slip away - book now and let's go catch 'em up!
Learn more about the species
Cobia
Cobia are one of the hardest-fighting fish you'll encounter off Panama City. These bruisers average 30-50 pounds but can exceed 100. Look for them around buoys, wrecks, and other structure in 30-300 foot depths. Spring and early summer are prime, as they migrate along the coast. Anglers prize cobia for their bulldog-like fights and excellent table fare. Their firm, white meat is delicious grilled or blackened. To target them, sight-fish with large jigs or live eels when you spot them near the surface. They often follow large rays or sharks, so keep your eyes peeled. A local tip: when you hook one, get it away from the structure fast or it'll likely break you off. Be prepared for a long, grueling fight – cobia never give up easily.
King Mackerel
King Mackerel are a prized catch off Panama City, known for their speed and fight. These streamlined predators typically run 20-40 pounds but can reach over 90. You'll find them in 40-150 foot depths, often near structure or following bait schools. April through September is prime time, as they migrate along the coast. Anglers love Kings for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics when hooked. Their firm, flavorful meat is excellent grilled or smoked too. To up your odds, try slow-trolling live bait like blue runners or mullet on a wire leader. Keep an eye out for birds working the surface – that often means Kings are feeding below. When you hook one, be ready for screaming runs that'll test your gear and skills.
Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish
Mahi Mahi are one of the most exciting fish to catch near Panama City. These colorful acrobats average 15-30 pounds but can top 50. Look for them around floating debris and weed lines, often in 100-400 foot depths. Spring through fall is best, with summer being prime time. Anglers love Mahi for their spectacular aerial displays and beautiful, iridescent colors. They're also excellent eating, with firm white flesh perfect for grilling. To target them, troll ballyhoo or squid near the surface, or pitch live baits when you spot them. A local trick is to keep the first Mahi you catch in the water – others in the school will often stick around. Be ready for explosive strikes and have a gaff handy for larger fish.
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel are a blast to catch near Panama City, especially for light tackle enthusiasts. These speedy predators usually run 2-4 pounds but can reach 12. You'll find them in large schools, often in 20-40 foot depths near beaches, piers, and inlets. Spring and fall are prime as they migrate along the coast. Anglers love Spanish for their fast runs and tendency to skyrocket when hooked. They're also tasty eating, great for grilling or smoking. To catch them, try casting small spoons or jigs into feeding schools, or troll clark spoons behind planers. A local trick: look for birds diving on bait – Spanish are often feeding below. When you find a school, work it quickly because they move fast. Light wire leaders are a must to prevent bite-offs from their razor-sharp teeth.
About the Bluewater
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Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Yamaha
Maximum Cruising Speed: 40
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150
