Panama City Fishing Report

April 7, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – We are officially into our Spring patterns this week and the bite is firing up for the season. Anglers heading out to take advantage of the pier bite can expect to find steady Kings and a fantastic Cobia bite. Morning anglers are finding more and more Pompano as well. Reds, Sheepshead and Whiting have also been caught but are far more prominent inshore and from the surf. Inshore the Trout and Reds are the main target, especially on the flats. Look for the bait to find the fish. Towards the Intracoastal from Destin to Pensacola there has been great numbers of Spanish. The diving Seagulls are giving away their location as they feed. Structure such as bridges and deeper docks in the sound continue to hold and produce decent Sheepshead and Snapper. Live Shrimp has been the key to hooking them. We expect this to continue into the weekend.

OFFSHORE – Anglers fishing nearshore or offshore this week have found plenty of success so far. When the weather allows, boats heading towards the rigs are hooking plenty of Tuna. The sizes have been great and the bite is consistent. Towards the edge we are seeing decent Wahoo as well. When weather or timing keeps anglers restricted to the nearshore bite there has still been many species to target. The Cobia are better than they have been in years, both numbers and sizes. There are also some Kings mixed in however they are not as prominent. If you are heading towards the edges you will find better numbers. Typical of the time of year, the bottom bite has been steadily producing Grouper as well as Tilefish and Sea Bass. Searching structure such as wrecks and reefs has been most productive. Closer in, Mingos have been caught along the edges in roughly 300 feet of water. Scamp and Red Grouper are mixed in. The Red Grouper are more plentiful off East Beach. The Spanish have made their way in and are closer to the beach this week.

For more fish slamming info download the Pro Angler App for hundreds of locations that provide you with more of thousands of GPS Hot Spots, local Pro Reports, What’s Biting, Tide & Weather data along with many more amazing Pro Angler features.

A big THANK YOU to this week’s Pro Report contributors – Half Hitch in Port St. Joe & Navarre, Capt. Larry of Dead Fish Charters, and Gulf Breeze! Find their contact information on the Pro Angler App!





Pro Angler Team

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INSHORE – The Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are hitting really well this week. Redfish (Drum, Red) and Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are still biting. Sheepshead are hot inshore. Anglers are finally catching Cobia in the area. They are still off the beach and have not moved to the pier yet.

OFFSHORE – A few Grouper (Grouper, Gag) have been caught in roughly 120 feet. Anglers are producing good sizes. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are great catch and release fish. White Snapper and Beeliners (Snapper, Vermillion & Grunt, White) are consistent. Kings (Mackerel, King) are swimming as well. Search for them around the whistle buoy and catch them on the troll.

BAIT REPORT – Ballyhoo is in the marina and the bay.


Howell Marine and Tackle Supply
850-785-8548

March 24, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Fishing the Northwest will provide plenty of activity for anglers this week. Trout continue to turn up from Port St. Joe to Navarre. Fishing them early or late in the day using live bait has been best. Reds typically go hand in hand when fishing Trout. They seem to be just about everywhere this week from bays, piers, bridges, passes and beaches. You just need to follow the bait schools to find the fish and then cast artificials to hook them on an outgoing tide. Your Sheepshead will be around on structure while Pompano are making their way onto the beach. Spanish have also shown up on the beach. Hit them with Squid to bring them in.

OFFSHORE – When anglers can make it offshore they are still finding a decent bite. Triggerfish , Snapper, and Grouper are all providing great catch and release action. Vermillion, Porgy, Black Snapper as well as Black and Red Grouper can also be caught offshore but be sure to check the regulations to see where you are permitted to fish for them. Amberjack are now also catch and release as of this week so be sure to keep that in mind when hooking one. Heading towards the Towers and structure nearshore Cobia are following rays and turtles as they move East and West. Cast a jig with live Eels for the best bite. You may also hook onto some Flounder using the same method.

For more fish slamming info download the Pro Angler App for hundreds of locations that provide you with more of thousands of GPS Hot Spots, local Pro Reports, What’s Biting, Tide & Weather data along with many more amazing Pro Angler features.

A big THANK YOU to this week’s Pro Report contributors – Survivor’s Island Bait & Tackle, Half Hitch in Panama & Navarre, and the Ship’s Chandler! Find their contact information on the Pro Angler App!





Pro Angler Team

March 17, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – This week we are beginning to see the Pompano begin to run during the day. Crooked Island beach in the Port St. Joe area has been a particularly good area to fish for them. There are good numbers of Whiting taking Fishbites in similar areas. Anglers are reporting decent Reds and Trout taking soft plastics like Zman lures or live baits such as Shrimp or Minnows. The Trout are increasing in size along with a good amount of slot Reds. Search the shallows to find them. Flounder and Spanish are swimming the bay. You will find them in deeper pockets of water. Spanish are swimming more or less in 6-8 feet towards the North side of the bay. Anglers have been trolling to catch them. Sheepshead are beginning to fire up on structure as usual. The Cobia should begin to arrive soon as well.

OFFSHORE – We continue to see improvement from the region this week. The fishing is firing up, especially the bottom bite throughout the day. There has been a wide variety of fish to take advantage of including Snapper, Grouper, Sea Bass, Triggerfish and even a few Sheepshead a bit closer to shore. Anglers are easily catching good bags of Sheepshead as they are stacked up on structure. Spanish are steady into this week while the Ajs are slowing down. Towards the surface the Bonito are being caught on the troll.

For more fish slamming info download the Pro Angler App for hundreds of locations that provide you with more of thousands of GPS Hot Spots, local Pro Reports, What’s Biting, Tide & Weather data along with many more amazing Pro Angler features.

A big THANK YOU to this week’s Pro Report contributors – Half Hitch in Port St. Joe, Destin, Panama and Navarre! Find their contact information on the Pro Angler App!





Pro Angler Team

March 10, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Redfish and Trout are hungry so there has been no shortage of nice fish this week. The bay has been the key area to fish them in Port. St. Joe and they are swimming the inshore docks and piers in the evening through to Destin. As usual, the moving tide is most productive. Sheepshead are also stacked up on structure from Panama to Destin. Anglers trolling can expect to see Spanish Mackerel along the coast. Clarkspoons and jigs are the best setups to load up on these fish. Pompano and Whiting are running the beach, more prominently towards Port St. Joe. Moving towards bridges anglers can expect to see Flounder and Drum. Catch and release anglers can move their focus to the bay where there are plenty of Tarpon biting.

For more fish slamming info download the Pro Angler App for hundreds of locations that provide you with more of thousands of GPS Hot Spots, local Pro Reports, What’s Biting, Tide & Weather data along with many more amazing Pro Angler features.

A big THANK YOU to this week’s Pro Report contributors – Half Hitch in Port St. Joe, Howell Marine and Tackle Supply, Harborwalk Marina, and Gulf Breeze Bait a& Tackle! Find their contact information on the Pro Angler App!


OFFSHORE – The bottom bite for Amberjack in this area has been taking off this week. Port St. Joe is holding great numbers if you can get out to 150 feet of water. A variety of live bait has been their preference so far. As you move towards Navarre the Amberjack become a bit more scattered while the Snapper and Triggerfish begin to heat up. Nearshore, there has been a good run of Cobia and Spanish Mackerel from Port St. Joe through to Destin.




Pro Angler Team

March 3, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – It has been difficult to hit the inshore waters and not see any Trout or Redfish. They are riddled throughout the intracoastal to canals to the bay. Varying in sizes we are finding both species all the way to Pensacola. Your best bet is to fish moving tides towards inlets. Deeper holes in roughly 6-8 ft of water has been the key. If you are hitting the surf this week not only will you find scattered Redfish but there has also been consistent Whiting and Pompano to fill your cooler with. Start your day off right with a first light bite, or finish with a few cast on the surf at last light for some good sized fish. The Flounder bite is beginning to improve along the seawall however they are far more prominent in the bay. It has been no surprise that Mud Minnows are the best bait to catch them. As we move towards Destin we find they are still holding up in deeper water. A few occasional catches this week include Sheepshead on rock piles and bridges, and Spanish on the beach towards Navarre. We are also starting to see bait such as Pilchards and cigar Minnows return to the surf.

For more fish slamming info download the Pro Angler App for hundreds of locations that provide you with more of thousands of GPS Hot Spots, local Pro Reports, What’s Biting, Tide & Weather data along with many more amazing Pro Angler features.

A big THANK YOU to this week’s Pro Report contributors – Half Hitch – Port St. Joe, Half Hitch – Panama, The Ships Chandler Marine, Half Hitch – Navarre & Gulf Breeze Bait and Tackle! Find their contact information on the Pro Angler App!


OFFSHORE – The nicer weather in the past week has allowed anglers to finally make it offshore. The Amberjack bite is turning on along with a solid mix of Gray Triggerfish. The Triggers are sometimes difficult to avoid when targeting Ajs. Begin jigging in 90-150 ft feet. They are consistent from Port St. Joe through Pensacola. Anglers who are able to make it nearshore can target a steady catch of Snapper and Grouper species along wrecks and reefs. A handful of Cobia have shown up as well and we expect numbers to increase as the Spring patterns set in.




Pro Angler Team

February 24, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Sheepshead have had a decent showing at the passes throughout the region. Surf anglers will enjoy the variety of fish from Panama City Beach over to Pensacola. Pompano and Whiting are the majority of what’s being caught. Other species being caught from the surf include: Redfish, Black Drum, and the occasional Blacktip Shark.
Moving inside the bays, there has been decent Trout bites on Z-man Paddle Tails, some Redfish are hitting these too. Water temperatures are warming up so the fish are in transition. This means you will find some fish in their typical cold water spots, but also in their warmer water spots.

For more fish slamming info download the Pro Angler App for hundreds of locations that provide you with more of thousands of GPS Hot Spots, local Pro Reports, What’s Biting, Tide & Weather data along with many more amazing Pro Angler features.

A big THANK YOU to this week’s Pro Report contributors – Fisherman’s Choice Bait, Howell Marine and Tackle Supply, all of the Half Hitch stores and Gray’s Tackle and Guide Service! Find their contact information on the Pro Angler App!


OFFSHORE – Amberjack have been reported from the bottom this week. They are preferring bigger live baits. Grouper and Triggerfish are mixed in and provide great catch and release action. You’ll have to head a bit farther offshore to find the Ajs this week.
A bit closer in the Triggerfish are becoming more consistent. They are mixed with a solid Snapper variety in 140 ft or less. Moving shallower anglers have found the Flounder continue to bite on wrecks and reefs. When the weather permits anglers to head out to the oil rigs and farther the main target has been Blackfin Tuna and Swordfish.




Pro Angler Team

February 17, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Things are fairly typical of the season despite not having typical February weather. Beaches throughout the Panhandle have been good for Pompano. Whiting have also been on the beaches. Some of the bays and sounds have had a good Trout bite along with Redfish and Drum. Canals have been particularly good for Trout and Reds. Deeper docks towards the West end of Florida have been producing Sheepshead and Mangrove Snapper, they haven’t been on fire quite yet.


OFFSHORE – Keeper Amberjack have been hit or miss from Port St. Joe over to the Alabama border. The best sizes this week have come from 20 miles off of Pensacola. Boats headed out from Panama City have found a good Vermilion Snapper bite. Quite a few fish have been up to 4 lbs and limits are common. Boats out of Pensacola able to travel well past 20 miles have been able to get on Yellowfin Tuna. Most of the Tuna have been caught trolling and live baiting.

For more fish slamming info download the Pro Angler App for hundreds of locations that provide you with more of thousands of GPS Hot Spots, local Pro Reports, What’s Biting, Tide & Weather data along with many more amazing Pro Angler features.

A big THANK YOU to this week’s Pro Report contributors – Half Hitch in Port St. Joe & Navarre, Capt. Larry of Dead Fish Charters, and Gulf Breeze! Find their contact information on the Pro Angler App!




Pro Angler Team

February 9, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Redfish (Drum, Red) are on the flats. They aren’t so much in the canals this week. The outgoing tide is most productive however a moving tide will help either way. Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) are running this week. They are being caught just off the beach and out to a couple of miles. There are some Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) mixed in. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below to reveal tons of information and tips to catch!

OFFSHORE – There hasn’t been much on Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin) as of late. When the weather allows anglers are heading to catch Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) in 60-80 ft. There are many catch and release species to take advantage of offshore as well.

BAIT REPORT – There is tons of Mullet and small Pinfish swimming inshore this week.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

February 2, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The water will begin to heat up but the Redfish (Drum, Red) and Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are all along the flats. Dark colored soft plastics are working well to hook them. Gold Spoons are a great thing to throw for Redfish. Docks and Bridges are holding Sheepshead with the occasional Redfish. Silver Trout (Seatrout, Silver) are in the same areas. A few Flounder (Flounder, Southern) have been caught there as well. PRO ANGLER

OFFSHORE – Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater), Beeliners (Snapper, Vermillion) and Grouper (Grouper, Gag) are being caught offshore. Big live baits, butterfly jigs or bucktail jigs are best for the Ajs. There are also plenty of Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray). Keep in mind that the Triggerfish are catch and release.




Howell Marine and Tackle Supply
850-785-8548

February 2, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The water will begin to heat up but the Redfish (Drum, Red) and Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are all along the flats. Dark colored soft plastics are working well to hook them. Gold Spoons are a great thing to throw for Redfish. Docks and Bridges are holding Sheepshead with the occasional Redfish. Silver Trout (Seatrout, Silver) are in the same areas. A few Flounder (Flounder, Southern) have been caught there as well. PRO ANGLER

OFFSHORE – Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater), Beeliners (Snapper, Vermillion) and Grouper (Grouper, Gag) are being caught offshore. Big live baits, butterfly jigs or bucktail jigs are best for the Ajs. There are also plenty of Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray). Keep in mind that the Triggerfish are catch and release.




Howell Marine and Tackle Supply
850-785-8548

January 26, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The water is really muddy with the recent weather. Despite this there is still plenty Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) being caught in the deeper canals and channels where they can be a bit warmer. Fish the docks closer to the edge using live bait and slow baits. There hasn’t been many reports on Redfish (Drum, Red). A few slots are being caught but not many. It’s been too rough for anglers to head offshore. Decent Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) have been speared but otherwise things are slow. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below to reveal tons of information and tips to catch!






Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

January 19, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The recent cold snap confused the fish as the warm weather has returned and Redfish (Drum, Red) are on the flats. Undersized Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are swimming with a few keepers mixed in. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are still in the bay however most have moved offshore. Sheepshead are consistent under the bridges. Black Snapper (Snapper, Gray) are here and there. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below to reveal tons of information and tips to catch!

OFFSHORE – Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) have been great the past month. They are from 90-120 ft. You can use Squirrelfish or Ruby Lips to hook them. We suspect there are Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin) out there chasing the Minnows as well.

BAIT REPORT – Minnows are in the gulf.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

January 11, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Hey anglers! In order to bring you valuable, up to date content such as regulations, GPS Hotspots, and BRAND NEW features the Pro Angler App Pro Reports will be returning the week of January 16, 2017. Please feel free to take a look at last week’s reports for an idea of what’s biting or give your favorite local bait shop a shout! The Pro Angler App looks forward to bringing you lots of exciting changes as we kick off 2017!






Pro Angler Team

January 5, 2017

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Inshore we are finding a typical bite for the season. Anglers are targeting both Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Redfish (Drum, Red) later in the day during the incoming tide. They are holding up in the grass flats in roughly 6 ft of water. The sizes are fair however you may have to put your time in to find a keeper Red. Live Shrimp under a popping cork is the key setup this week. Soft plastics worked slow is a great artificial alternative. Vudu Shrimp or DOA Shrimp are generally productive. Anglers have found Sheepshead, Snapper (Snapper, Gray), Drum (Drum, Black) and Reds swimming structure such as deeper docks, bridges and seawalls. The sizes are good so far. Cut bait on a circle hook is their preference this week. Surf anglers can find Whiting (Kingfish, Southern), Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish), Pompano (Pompano, Florida), Redfish, Bluefish, Flounder (Flounder, Southern) and Sheepshead when the weather is favorable. Head out in the morning for the best bite. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below to reveal tons of information and tips to catch!

OFFSHORE – Bottom fishing is the hot topic offshore this week! Anglers heading out past 100 ft of water to the larger wrecks and natural bottom are producing Grouper (Grouper, Red), Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion & Snapper, Lane), Hogfish, and Sea Bass (Sea Bass, Black). They are putting up a good fight, especially in areas that have had low pressure from anglers recently. Everyone is also excited that Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are now open and they are very productive right around the 100 ft depth. The numbers and sizes are both great. Gags (Grouper, Gag) are now closed however they are providing some nice catch and release fishing. On the closer wrecks we are finding some decent Flounder (Flounder, Southern) and Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) in roughly 60 ft or less. If you are targeting them you may have to put some time in to find them.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

December 30, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – There have been a lot of Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Redfish (Drum, Red) this week. Search the bays and beach into the sandbars to find them in the afternoon. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are moving back in. They are out at the buoys. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are doing well. Everything is doing well from the surf. The weather has been a bit too crazy to go offshore. Thanks for another great year anglers! Pro Angler is looking forward to seeing all of your great catches in 2017!






Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

December 22, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – There have been some Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Reds moving in. Early in the morning the Trout are hitting topwater. Late in the evening is productive as well. Your deeper running crank baits are also working along with live bait such as Croakers and Shrimp. Reds (Drum, Red) are more active in the middle of the day when the water warms up. They will hunt Crabs so this is the best bait to throw. Inshore Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are mostly gone. A few are remaining in the bay. They are out a little offshore towards the first closer wrecks and a few are up and down the beach. Black Snapper (Snapper, Gray) are around the bridges and Deer Point Dam. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) and Sheepshead are hitting off the piers and beach. Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) are here and there. Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) are also good on the beach. Small Shrimp and Fish Bites are working well along with Ghost Shrimp and chunks of Sand Fleas. Holiday hours at Half Hitch are 6am-6pm and 6am to 5pm on the 24th. Stop in and check out the great sales in store! Wishing you a Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from the Pro Angler Team!

OFFSHORE – A few Permit and surprisingly a few Palmettos have been caught lately.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

December 15, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The various weather changes and full moon phase has changed the fishing a bit. In the surf and on the piers around the pilings we are seeing Sheepshead. Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) have been caught off the beach. Small Shrimp or Fiddler Crabs will work well. Ghost Shrimp are a great alternative. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are hit or miss. Flounder (Flounder, Southern), Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Reds (Drum, Red) have been a main target of inshore anglers as well. Most Captains are staying inshore as it has been a bit too rough offshore. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – Grouper (Grouper, Black & Grouper, Red), Snapper (Snapper, Gray) and Triggers (Triggerfish, Gray) will be the focus for anglers when they can get out. Triggerfish are catch and release.

BAIT REPORT – Bait is scarce with the temperature fluctuations and recent weather.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

December 9, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are picking up well around the pass and along the beach. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) and Drum (Drum, Black) are also on the beach. Sheepshead are on the bridges and the pier. Shrimp and Fiddler Crabs are your best bet to hook them. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are piling up as it’s getting colder. Find them in the deeper holes. MirrOlure Topwaters and suspending twitch baits early in the morning are hitting them well. A few Mangrove Snapper (Snapper, Gray) are around. Shrimp and Fiddler Crabs are working well for them as well. Ghost Shrimp are a great alternative. As the temperature cools the bite begins to slow down and the migratory fish are moving out.

OFFSHORE – Red Grouper and Gag Grouper (Grouper, Red & Grouper, Gag) are still out there. Red Snapper (Snapper, Red) and Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) are plentiful catch and release fish. Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin) have been reported from the rigs offshore. A few Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) are mixed in.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

December 2, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – If you can find some shelter from this wind this week there is a pretty good bite to take advantage of. Redfish (Drum, Red) are biting well from the surf and inshore. They are on the move in good sized schools. Surf rigs will be your best bet to hook them. Tip your hook with cut bait or Crabs. Bluefish can also be caught from the surf however they are a bit more scattered. When you can find them, spoons and bucktails are generally the way to go. Gotcha plugs and hard baits are also great. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) continue to do well. Search the docks, seawalls and pilings to find them. They have also been caught on the beach, piers and structure. From the beach, Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are scattered but if you put some time in you may be able to find them while using surf rigs with Shrimp, Squid or Sand Fleas. Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) are swimming the surf and taking Shrimp, Squid or Fish Bites. On the inshore structure we have also been catching a good amount of Drum (Drum, Black) taking cut or live baits. Mullet, Pinfish, Shrimp, Squid and Ladyfish are your best bet. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are quite scarce but if you are targeting them the early morning bite is your best chance to hook them. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – It’s been way too rough to head out to Federal water this week. Be safe out there!




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

November 23, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Things are slowing down as the temperature drops. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are picking up a bit. Smaller fish are showing up but the bigger ones are expected soon. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are biting on the nearshore wrecks as well as the piers. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are biting in the late evenings along the beach. Ghost Shrimp is the best bet to hook them. A few Kings (Mackerel, King) are around as well. Redfish (Drum, Red) are in the bay under the docks. They are mid to upper slot sized. A few Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) are takings Shrimp and fish bites. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – Blackfin (Tuna, Blackfin) can still be caught but they are slowing down. Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red & Grouper, Scamp) are biting off the bottom. Anglers aren’t having trouble getting limits when fishing past 100 ft. Dropping big Pinfish on the wrecks and structure are working well to get them.

BAIT REPORT – Big Mullet are running. Few Pinfish have been caught with a few Finger Mullet. Schools are difficult to find.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

November 18, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – There are a lot of anglers targeting Flounder (Flounder, Southern) as they begin to move. Search the shallows where there is a cut in the water or you have a ledge. They are stacked up and will begin moving offshore to the wrecks. Live bull Minnows, Alewives and Pilchards are working well. Lure wise anything in a jig head, grub tail or split tail is also working well. They are the main target. There are good reports of oversized Reds (Drum, Red) in the bay area. Mangrove (Snapper, Gray) and Sheepshead are being caught around the jetties.

OFFSHORE – Kings (Mackerel, King) have disappeared as the temperatures cools. Bait is lower. They are hit or miss. Snapper (Snapper, Red) are closed until Thanksgiving weekend. Troll diving lures for Kings. Grouper (Grouper, Gag) are being caught in Federal water. Wahoo have been caught here and there. Grouper are in 90 or more feet of water.

BAIT REPORT – Bait are fairly scarce this week.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

November 10, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Most days have been too windy for much of a run, but close to shore and the bay has been a good respite. Cooler temps haven’t hurt either. From the surf we are seeing Bluefish on spoons, gotchas, bucktails, soft plastics and live/dead baits. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are scattered but you can catch them using surf rigs with Shrimp, Squid or Sand Fleas. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) and Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) have also been caught. The Spanish are great sizes. The Whiting are consistently turning up taking Shrimp, Squid and fish bites. Around the pier and jetties the Redfish have been caught on surf rigs with cut bait or Crabs. Sharks are scattered about. Inshore The Redfish (Drum, Red) are doing very well early in the morning and late into the day. Search the grass to find them. If you are heading out midday they are most likely holding up in the channels. Ladyfish and Bluefish are scattered. The Bluefish will take just about anything if you can find them. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are scarce this week. If you are targeting them head out as early as possible. Drum (Drum, Black) are loving the cut and live baits this week. Mullet, Pinfish, Shrimp, Squid or Ladyfish will work. Flounder are good. Soft plastics on a jighead or Bull Minnows will be your best bets. A handful of Pompano have surprisingly turned up in the bay along with scattered Spanish that are taking spoons, bubble rigs, spec rigs, bucktails, MirrOdines and live bait. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – Moving towards the offshore it has been a bit too windy to get very far out this week however anglers are still making it to the nearshore water. King (Mackerel, King) are scattered. They are slowing down with the drop in water temperatures. On the bottom the Snapper (Snapper, Red & Snapper, Gray & Snapper, Vermillion) are doing well. Keep in mind the Reds are only open weekends in state waters. The Black Snapper can be found around the outer edge of the wrecks. It’s best to chum for them. The Vermillion bite is consistent. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) and Triggers (Triggerfish, Gray) are biting well however they are closed. Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red & Grouper, Scamp) are a bit scattered but if you can get to the wrecks you’ll find the larger sizes.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

November 3, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Redfish (Drum, Red) have been good. They are running the flats in 4-6 ft of water. Reds are in the pass as they are on the move. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are making their way out. Bull Minnows or live Shrimp are best for them. Soft plastics such as Zmans or Gulps are also productive. A few Kings (Mackerel, King) and Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) can be caught inside 3 miles. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – Snapper (Snapper, Red) are open Friday to Sunday in State waters. They are doing well. Live bait such as Pinfish or frozen Northern Mackerel are working well to hook them.

BAIT REPORT – Mullet and Alewives are consistent into this week. They are on the inside. Cigar Minnows are on the reefs and can be caught on Sabiki.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

October 27, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The surf is clear and calm along the beach with winds out of the north. A fair amount of Pompano (Pompano, Florida), some Flounder (Flounder, Southern), Redfish (Drum, Red), Jacks (Jack, Crevalle), and bunches of Ladyfish. Throw in a few Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) and Bluefish and you’ve got the picture. A good bite inshore, recent effects of the full moon have worn off. Flounder, Redfish, Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish), Speckled Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Mangrove Snapper (Snapper, Gray) were the most common catches. You can easily get away with soft plastics for all but the Mangroves. They seem to be too wise for a paddle tail. However live Shrimp and bull Minnows will work for all. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – Recently winds have held a lot of us either close to shore or in the bay, but the next couple of days look decent. Still lots of Kings (Mackerel, King) around, some Sails (Billfish – Sailfish) too. Kings can be caught on double rigs. State waters are still yielding some keeper Red Snapper (Snapper, Red) during the Friday, Saturday, Sunday season. They are taking Cigar Minnows or Northern Mackerel. Further out Gag, Red Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red & Grouper, Scamp) and a few Scamp are reported in the 20 plus mile range. Pinfish works best to hook them. The best bite has been during the day.

BAIT REPORT – Finger Mullet are swimming along with Alewives. You can cast for them.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

October 21, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Around the piers and jetties we are seeing Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) and Whiting (Kingfish, Southern). In the pass there are big Bull Reds (Drum, Red) and in the grassy areas. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are beginning to move in. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – Sails (Billfish – Sailfish) are being caught lately. They are in close, basically State Waters. Gags and Red Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red) have been turning up. Wahoo and Blackfin (Tuna, Blackfin) are past the Whistle Buoy.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

October 13, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Inshore the Redfish (Drum, Red) bite is good in the bay. Search around the bay focusing on the docks and seawalls. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are also doing well before and after dawn and dusk. Any live bait, soft plastic or hard baits are working. Black Drum (Drum, Black) are scattered. They are taking cut and live baits such as Mullet, Pinfish, Shrimp, Squid and Ladyfish. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are also scattered. Search the docks, seawalls and around bridge pilings to find them. From the surf we are seeing Pompano (Pompano, Florida) that are great on surf rigs using Shrimp, Squid or Sand Fleas. Sharks are doing best at night. Mackerel (Mackerel, Spanish) are scattered along with Ladyfish and Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny). Flounder are being picked up along the beach. Kings (Mackerel, King) are coming off the piers. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – Far offshore the Tuna (Tuna, Yellowfin) are biting well. Anglers are hooking them trolling spoons and duster plugs. In the nearshore we are seeing Kings (Mackerel, King) on a good bite. Anglers are trolling dusters, spoons, diving plugs, cedar plugs and flat lining a live bait to hook them as well. Blackfin Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin) have also been caught. The bite is steady so far on spoons, plugs and dusters. Black Snapper (Snapper, Gray) are doing well off the bottom. Search the outer edge of the wrecks. Vermillion Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion) are taking Squid on a stringer rig.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

October 6, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are moving in well. Live Bull Minnows or jigs in the flats and under docks will hook them. They really seem to be picking up and anglers are catching plenty. Redfish (Drum, Red) are going crazy in the East Bay area. The fish are biting all day long taking live Shrimp. Morning or evening are productive on topwaters. The Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) bite has been slow. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are biting early in the morning towards the pass. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – King Mackerel (Mackerel, King) are on fire. Cigar Minnows can be used while flat lining or trolling. There are lots of Sailfish (Billfish – Sailfish) and Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny). Tons of Sails are swimming the piers inshore too. Black Snapper (Snapper, Gray) are on the edges of the wrecks. There are still Vermillion (Snapper, Vermillion) and weekend Red Snapper (Snapper, Red) that are turning up. Reds and Gags (Grouper, Red & Grouper, Gag) can be caught just past the start of Federal waters.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

September 29, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – From the surf we are seeing Redfish (Drum, Red) that are scattered. There are still some reported around the piers and randomly along the beach. Bluefish are biting well. They are taking spoons, gotchas, bucktails, soft plastics and live or dead baits. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are also scattered on the beach. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are mixed in. They are doing well on surf rigs with Shrimp, Squid or Sand Fleas. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are taking teh same bait as Bluefish. Sharks (Shark, Bull & Shark, Blacktip) are scattered. Ladyfish are good. From the piers anglers are hitting Kings (Mackerel, King) and Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny). Inshore Redfish are biting early in the morning or late in the day throughout the grass beds. In the middle of the day search the channels. Ladyfish are also biting well on gotcha plugs, spec rigs, buble rigs and live baits. Bluefish are scattered but will take spoons, gotchas, hard bait and live baits. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are great early in the day. Search canal entrances and grass beds in roughly 6 ft of water. Black Drum (Drum, Black) have also been scattered. Cut bait such as Mullet, Pinfish, Shrimp, Squid and Ladyfish are best. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are good on Bull Minnows on a short leash or soft plastics on a jighead. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are hit or miss on spoons, bucktails, Mirrodines and live baits. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – The nearshore is the farthest out that anglers have headed this week. They are catching Kings (Mackerel, King) on the troll using dusters, spoons, diving plugs, cedar plugs or flat lining live bait. Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) are mixed in with them. They are biting well on bucktails, spoons and diving plugs.Farther out the Dolphin, Wahoo and Sails have been caught as well. Dolphin are a bit scattered however the Wahoo are doing well about 30 miles out in the blue water. Sails (Billfish – Sailfish) are also biting well. The numbers are great. Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin) are hit or miss. On the bottom the Snapper (Snapper, Red & Snapper, Black) are good, but keep in mind they are only open in state waters during the weekend. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are scattered, and only open in state waters. Gags (Grouper, Gag) are hit or miss. Search the larger wrecks or reefs in 100 ft or more to find them. There are a few Red Grouper (Grouper, Red) mixed in throughout Federal water. Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion) can be caught on a stringer rig using Squid. Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) are swimming but closed for harvest.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

September 23, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – There are a lot of Redfish (Drum, Red) biting inshore this week. They are thick around docks and on the flats around the drop offs. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are really showing up, finally! They are decent sizes. Inshore there are some Sails (Billfish – Sailfish) and Blackfin (Tuna, Blackfin). Sails can be caught off the pier and the numbers are good. Threadfin Herring is what they are chasing. Troll not too far off the beach to find them as well. There hasn’t been a lot of Mahi (Dolphin) yet. Kings (Mackerel, King) are starting to pick up at the pier and inshore. Bull Reds are running the beaches and the passes.

OFFSHORE – Anglers are catching Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion & Snapper, Red) and Grouper (Grouper, Red). The Red Snapper are doing well on weekend when you are allowed to catch them. There are tons of Triggers (Triggerfish, Gray) that must be released. Wahoo are about 25 miles out in the blue water.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

September 16, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Redfish (Drum, Red) are on the flats and around docks. Live Shrimp, MirrOlures and DOA shrimp will hit them early in the day or late in the afternoon. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – On the weekends Snapper (Snapper, Red) is open in State Waters up to 9 miles so this has been the main target for most anglers. They are chumming heavy and dropping Cigar Minnows, Squid Strips or Northern Mackerel.

BAIT REPORT – Small Hardtails and Cigar Minnows can be Sabiki’d around buoys this week.


Howell Marine and Tackle Supply
850-785-8548

September 9, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The Redfish (Drum, Red) are good. They are still biting early in the morning and late in the day from the surf and grass. Midday the bite has been productive in the channels. Bluefish are also swimming but are scattered farther out. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are hit or miss off the beach. Search the docks, seawalls and bridge pilings to find them. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are biting well however most are undersized. The Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish), Sharks and Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) are scattered along the beach. Shrimp, Squid and Fish bites will do the trick. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are good in the back bayous. The cooler water may heat up the bite. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish below for additional tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – The King (Mackerel, King) bite has been fantastic from the piers and just offshore. There are some Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) mixed in. On structure We are seeing a great Snapper (Snapper, Red & Snapper, Gray & Snapper, Vermillion) bite as well. Search the outer edge of the wrecks to find them, and keep in mind closures for the Reds. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are scattered along with Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red). The Grouper can be found on natural bottom using live Pinfish, Cigar Minnows or chunked Squid. Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) are good, but closed. Farther offshore the Wahoo are scattered but can be caught on the high speed troll. Dolphin and Tuna (Tuna, Yellowfin) are also hit or miss.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

September 1, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Anglers are still waiting to see how the recent weather will affect the shore and inshore fishing however prior to the storm we were seeing a nice variety of fish turn up and we hope to see things set back into place soon. From the surf, Redfish (Drum, Red) are scattered. Anglers were searching the piers and the beaches for them. As far as the inshore goes they are doing well in the bay around the docks and seawalls. Bluefish were biting well both from the surf and inshore. They were not picky so spoons, gotcha plugs, bucktails, plastics as well as live or dead bait were all working. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) also had a good bite but most of them are quite short. Spanish Mackerel (Mackerel, Spanish) and Kingfish (Kingfish, Southern) were both scattered along the surf. Shrimp, Squid of fish bites were doing the trick to hook them. Tapon were hit or miss as well. Ladfish had been steady. They were taking the same baits as Bluefish. Sheepshead were scattered around structure as usual. Shrimp and Crabs were generally a good bait to hook them. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) were hitting early in the morning around the canal entrances and grass beds. Search roughly 6 ft of water. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) were hit or miss. Docks, Seawalls and bridge pilings were holding the best sizes. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – With this system pushing through most of Florida, we expect a lot of wind and tough conditions. Most of the fishing from last week should fire back up once the storm passes. Expect to see the rainfall cool off inshore waters. This will help some of the fish that prefer cooler conditions. Stay informed on all the coming weather systems using your Pro Angler App!

OFFSHORE – Conditions may be tough due to the upcoming weather system however once things subside we can expect to see Wahoo caught on the high speed troll. The storm may help the Dolphin bite as it may push some weedlines. As of now, Dolphin are a bit scattered. There are a few incidental catches of Sails (Billfish – Sailfish) as well however they are not plentiful. Moving closer to shore, the Kings (Mackerel, King) were biting well prior to the weather conditions. Anglers can search the piers or just into the offshore. Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) are also doing well on the nearshore reefs. They are taking bucktails, spoons and diving plugs. On the bottom the Snapper (Snapper, Red & Snapper, Black & Snapper, Vermillion) are holding up on the outer edge of the wrecks. Keep an eye out as the Reds are closed along with Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) and Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) that have also been hooked. Grouper (Grouper, Gag) are a bit scattered however if you search the larger wrecks and reefs in 100 ft of water you may find a few.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

August 26, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Early in the morning some Redfish (Drum, Red) have been reported patrolling the trough, a few Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) are getting caught and Bluefish, Ladys (Ladyfish) and Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are coming through in spurts. Also a few Tarpon and Jacks (Jack, Crevalle) are still getting spotted in the less traveled areas. Still a lot of runoff from the recent rains, not really getting a high tide in the bay because of it. However the fish are still there and hungry. Bring your A game, scents, chum and bright colors will all help to make your offering get noticed in the dark brown waters. Lots of lady fish busting the surface gobbling up Menhaden and drawing the attention of the pelicans and seagulls. They can be fun to catch and if nothing else they make good cut bait and chum. Plenty of Mangrove Snapper (Snapper, Gray), good numbers of Redfish, and a few Flounder (Flounder, Southern) and Sheepshead around. Try the larger docks, bridge pilings, under boats anchored long term and marinas. If you are out there early enough (or late enough) you can get into some Trout (Seatrout, Spotted), a lot of juveniles but every now and then you’ll luck into a few adults. Bigger baits will help on that front, not saying a small Shrimp won’t catch a big trout but a nice finger Mullet will stand a better chance. Check out the new Shimano and Rapala Products in store this week! PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish listed below the report for more angling tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – The daytime bite was a little tough last week but seems to be improving lately. Better reports on King Mackerel (Mackerel, King), big Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) and Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny). Way out in bluer waters Wahoo and Dolphin reports are improving too. Bottom fishing is still proving to be worthwhile even though you cannot keep Amberjack (Jack, Amberjack Greater) in federal waters, or Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) or Red Snapper (Snapper, Red) in either state or federal waters. Other species like Grouper (Grouper, Gag), Black Snapper (Snapper, Gray), Vermillion Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion), White Snapper (Porgy, Red), Lane Snapper (Snapper, Lane), Black Sea Bass (Sea Bass, Black), and Beeliners are there to help fill the void. On a side note, recreational anglers and non Federal permit holders get another shot at red snapper Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (including Labor Day) for the months of September and October. Visit Myfwc.com for more info on State waters and gulfcouncil.org for Federal.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
www.halfhitch.com

August 18, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – There have not been a lot of reports from inshore since the rain last week has produced such muddy water. This has slowed down inshore fishing quite a bit. It is expected to clear up for the weekend. It is a bit choppy offshore as well. Anglers heading out are targeting Kings (Mackerel, King) and Bonita (Bonito, Little Tunny) in the nearshore. X Raps or Stretch 25s are your best bet to catch them. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are on the reefs however there is nothing legal in State waters so far. Bucktails on a vertical jig or butterfly jig are working well. When conditions clear up we expect to see Snapper (Snapper, Red) pick up offshore before they open and Spanish (Mackerel Spanish) as well as Redfish (Drum, Red) inshore. Check out the new Shimano and Rapala Products in store this week! PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish listed below the report for more angling tips and tricks!



BAIT REPORT – The past week’s conditions has made bait difficult to find.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

August 11, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The weather has made fishing tough the past few days. There are still some Redfish (Drum, Red) around. A few Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are at the pier. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Redfish should pick up once conditions subside. Big fish will be in the passes and the flats, behind Shell Island and on Redfish point. Fish incoming to high tide. Check out the new Shimano and Rapala Products in store this week! PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish listed below the report for more angling tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – King (Mackerel, King) fishing has been spotty. The weather should help it a bit. Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) are plentiful. Schoolie Dolphins have also been caught. From the bottom we are seeing lots of Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) and Red Snapper (Snapper, Red) which are closed.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

August 4, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – From the surf this week there are still a few Sharks (Shark, Bull & Shark, Blacktip) that have been caught. Whiting (Kingfish, Southern), Ladyfish, Tarpon and Pompano (Pompano, Florida) have all be caught in close this week. Tarpon are taking big swim baits, live Mullet, Crabs, and Ladyfish. Whiting seem to prefer Shrimp, Squid, and Fish bites. There have been some reports of Bluefish having a good bite this week as well. Soons, Gotchas, Bucktails, soft plastics or live bait will do the trick to catch them, and will also work for Ladyfish. They have also been caught throughout the inshore on the same bait. Redfish (Drum, Red) are a bit scattered but can be sight fished or caught on surf rigs from the pier. If you are searching the inshore for them they are hanging out in the grassy areas. Fish the early morning or late day bite for the best fish. If you can only make it out mid day try targeting the channels. Spanish Mackerel (Mackerel, Spanish) are scattered as well and seem to love the same setup as Bluefish. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) have been reported from the inshore as well. They are not picky and will take live baits, soft plastics or hard baits. A few Black Drum (Drum, Black) are scattered around structure. The Flounder (Flounder, Southern) bite has been great on bull minnows on a short leash or soft plastics on a jighead. PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish listed below the report for more angling tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – We continue to see some great action coming from offshore this week. Anglers are still catching Wahoo on a high speed troll. There have also been reports of Dolphin around the floating weedlines. Tuna (Tuna, Yellowfin) have been scattered but are still out there if you are targeting them. The Sail (Billfish – Sailfish) bite has slowed down a bit but they, too, are still there. Closer to the shore there has been a solid bottom bite for Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion & Snapper, Gray & Snapper, Red). The Vermillions are biting well for Squid on a stringer rig. Keep in mind the Reds are closed but if you are targeting Mangrove you can usually find them by working the outer edge of the wrecks. Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red & Grouper, Scamp) also continue to turn up this week. The big Reds are out in Federal Waters however the Gags are holding up on larger wrecks and reefs in more than 100 ft. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) and Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) both have a great bite this week, although the Triggerfish are closed to harvest and the Ajs are only open in state waters. Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) are biting bucktails, spoons and diving plugs from structure. Finally, moving a bit closer we are seeing a nice mix of Cobia and Kings (Mackerel, King) this week. The Cobia are beginning to slow down and anglers are finding the bite is more ‘luck of the draw’. The King bite is fantastic for anglers trolling dusters, spoons, diving plugs, cedar plugs or flat lining live bait.

BAIT REPORT – Bluerunners are thick this week.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

July 28, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Inshore the Redfish (Drum, Red) have been great in the backwaters either the day before or the day after high tide. We are seeing few come out of the pier and surf areas however they are swimming in small schools. Sheepshead are holding up in the grass beds this week. They are very spooky. Ladyfish have been a bit scattered. Anglers are using spoons, gotchas, spec rigs, bubble rigs and live bait to hook them. They are also swimming the surf however they are more scattered in this area. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) have been great before and after dawn and dusk. Any life bait, soft plastic or hard bait will work well to hook them. Drum (Drum, Black) have a sporadic bite this week. If you are using cut Mullet, Pinfish, Shrimp, Squid or Ladyfish you will do well. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) have been caught inshore on bull Minnows. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) have been taking spoons, bubble rigs, spec rigs, bucktails, MirrOlures and live bait however the bite is a bit scattered. Tarpon are running the inshore as well as the beach. Fro teh inshore they are loving live Mullet, Ladyfish or Blue Crab while if you are targeting them from the surf they prefer swim baits, Mullet Crab and Ladyfish. From the surf there are also some Bluefish and Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) swimming this week. They will take just about anything. The Shark (Shark, Blacktip & Shark, Bull) continue to produce a good bite into this week. Check out Half Hitch’s new inventory as well as all their great sales on this weekend! PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish listed below the report for more angling tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – Offshore this week anglers have caught a few Wahoo about 15 miles out. Anglers are high speed trolling for them. Be sure to look for the clean water. The Dolphin bite has been good. Anglers are searching weed lines and debris to find them and using bucktails, gold spoons, soft plastics and live bait. The Tuna (Tuna, Yellowfin) have been sporadic but they are out there if you are willing to travel a bit. There are a few Blackfin (Tuna, Blackfin) that have been caught however they are not the hot bite this week. From the bottom we are seeing Snapper (Snapper, Gray & Snapper, Red & Snapper, Vermillion). The Reds are closed however the Mangroves have a great night bite for those who are chumming. If you are targeting Vermillions you can use a Squid on a stringer rig for the best sizes. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) and Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red) are mixed in. The Gags can be found on larger wrecks or reefs about 100 ft out while the Reds are on natural bottom. Use live Pinfish, Cigar Minnows and chunks of Squid to catch them. Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) have a great bite but are of course, closed to harvest. Closer to shore The Kings (Mackerel, King) have produced a decent bite on the troll. Anglers are using dusters, spoons, diving plugs, cedar plugs or are flat lining live bait. The Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) have also been turning up in good numbers. Bucktails, spoon and diving plugs are the best way to hook them.

BAIT REPORT – Bluerunners are swimming the beach this week.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

July 22, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – From the surf catches here include Jack, Crevalle, Whiting (Kingfish, Southern), Redfish (Drum, Red), Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish), Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny), Bluefish, Tarpon, and lots of small Sharks (Shark, Bull). Early is key here too. Around the pass and larger bridges several sightings of Tarpon rolling in the current. It is a blast to jump ’em, large swim baits, live Ladyfish, Mullet or Crabs are all go to’s for bait. A good morning Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) bite, unfortunately lots of them are small but good to see the nursery is still working. A few keepers are being caught, but you have to be there before dawn, dusk or at night. Pretty good Redfish bite too, early some pups and lower slot can be found in the grass beds fairly shallow, but once the sun gets overhead you will have to do your prospecting in deeper waters and try using some chum. You may also find some Sheepshead and Black Drum (Drum, Black) in these same areas. Also work some of the drop offs and deeper docks for Flounder (Flounder, Southern), a few nice ones are being reported. Check out Half Hitch’s new inventory as well as all their great sales on this weekend! PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish listed below the report for more angling tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – A great pelagic bite right now but you have to go early, the full moon is having it’s effect on the bite. Better yet go at night. King Mackerel (Mackerel, King) and Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) are being reported close enough to the beach to be caught from the piers and offshore over and around the wrecks and reefs. And if you can get out of sight of land Dolphin, Wahoo and a few Blackfin Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin) are a good bet too, From the bottom side plenty of species we cannot keep like AJ’s (Jack, Amberjack Greater), Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray), and Red Snapper (Snapper, Red) but beyond them there are plenty of those we can. You just have to change tactics and possibly locations. For instance chumming up Black Snapper (Snapper, Black) at night from the outer edges of a wreck, or fishing a natural bottom area with small chunks of Bonito or Squid for Vermillion Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion). Furthermore when targeting Grouper (Grouper, Gag), the first drop you make on a wreck or reef should be with a large bait to see if there is one lurking below. Otherwise you take the chance that you might spook the boss back in his/ her hidey hole.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

July 15, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Reds (Drum, Red) and Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are on the flats this week. This is the main bite inshore. Kings (Mackerel, King) and Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are running a bit off the beach. They are a couple miles out and anglers are taking the Mackerel Trees and Dusters to hook them. Stretch 25s have also produced some success. Check out Half Hitch’s new inventory as well as all their great sales on this weekend! PRO ANGLER APP USERS – Tap a fish listed below the report for more angling tips and tricks!

OFFSHORE – Reports have been slow however some anglers are heading out Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion) from 60-70 ft and up to 90 ft. Grouper (Grouper, Gag) and Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are coming off the bottom. There are Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) mixed in. Wahoo have been scarce. Small Dolphin are hit and miss. Search the weedlines for the best sizes. Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny) are around the buoys.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

July 7, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Redfish (Drum, Red) and Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are the main target for most anglers this week. Soft plastics are the best bet to hook them. If you can get your hands on Shrimp it is usually a good bet. Tarpon are being caught from the beach this week.

OFFSHORE – Snapper (Snapper, Red) is still open in State water so a lot of anglers are taking advantage. Cigar Minnows have been the most productive bait. There are also some Grouper (Grouper, Gag) within 9 miles.




Howell Marine and Tackle Supply
850-785-8548

June 29, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Flounder (Flounder, Southern), Redfish (Drum, Red), Trout (Seatrout, Spotted), Spanish Mackerel (Mackerel, Spanish), Ladyfish, and Black Drum (Drum, Black) were all reported catches. Go early or go late for the best bite, the middle of the day has been when the tide is changing which slows the bite. Live bait is great if you can get it, but all will respond to artificial baits as well. In the surf there are lots of lady fish, some spanish, whiting, and plenty of hard tails. Occasionally a school of Tarpon, Redfish (Drum, Red) or Jack, Crevalle come throu

OFFSHORE – Nice weather has allowed for some productive long range trips, topside Wahoo, Kings (Mackerel, King), Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny), a few Sails (Billfish – Sailfish) and Dolphin. Down deep Red Snapper (Snapper, Red), Black Snapper (Snapper, Gray), White Snapper (Porgy), Beeliners (Snapper, Vermillion), Gag and Red Grouper (Grouper, Red & Grouper, Gag). Plenty of Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) and AJ`s (Jack, Amberjack Greater) too but their season is currently closed. Admittedly a few days after the full moon, the bite was slow, but most were able to make it worth going.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

June 24, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The inshore has been holding Redfish (Drum, Red) and Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) for the most part. The Trout are swimming the deeper water this week. Tarpon are biting strong. There is definitely no shortage of them. Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) are slow however the Sharks (Shark, Blacktip) are showing up as well.

OFFSHORE – Offshore the Wahoo and Dolphin are biting well this week. We continue to see a great catch of Tuna (Tuna, Yellowfin) as well. Billfish are coming in with great numbers including Sails (Billfish – Sailfish), Swords (Billfish – Swordfish), and Blue and White Marlin (Billfish – Marlin, Blue & Billfish – Marlin, White). Closer to shore the Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red) are coming off the bottom. We are also seeing Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion & Snapper, Red) on the reefs. The Kings (Mackerel, King) are consistent and mixed in with Bonito (Bonito, Little Tunny).




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-837-3121
https://www.halfhitch.com

June 17, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – From the surf, Ladyfish, Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish), Whiting (Kingfish, Southern), Pompano (Pompano, Florida), Tarpon, Redfish (Drum, Red) and Jack, Crevalle have all been reported. Inshore, In spite of the rains from the tropical depression, the Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Redfish bite is pretty good. All three sections of our bay have had good reports. Black Drum (Drum, Black), Spanish, lady fish, Mangrove Snapper (Snapper, Gray), some Sheepshead and a few Flounder (Flounder, Southern) are also likely.

OFFSHORE – There are a lot of good sized Red Snapper (Snapper, Red) being brought to the dock, cut and live baits were both working. Gag Grouper (Grouper, Gag) are a pretty good bet too, live baits are best here and Pinfish will do the trick. Plenty of AJ’s (Jack, Amberjack Greater) and Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) around but their season is currently closed. Beeliners (Snapper, Vermillion), Black Snapper (Snapper, Gray), Lane Snapper (Snapper, Lane), White Snapper (Porgy), and a few Scamp (Grouper, Scamp) helped to fill the box. Kings (Mackerel, King), Wahoo, and a few Dolphin can be found trolling, anything floating should be investigated.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-939-9885
https://www.halfhitch.com

June 9, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Once the Tropical Storm is cleared up we expect to see the Bluefish, Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish), and Tarpon heat up on the beach again. From the inshore the Reds (Drum, Red) and Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) will be more populous once the water clears up. Until then anglers can check out our GPS Hotposts and Fish feature to plan your next trip on the water.

OFFSHORE – Well with Tropical Storm Colin racing across the gulf there is not much to report today but morning rains and some king mackerel at the pier.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-837-3121
https://www.halfhitch.com

June 3, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Redfish: Good. bigger fish in the channels but pups can be found working grass beds Sheepshead: Good. have to chum ’em up Ladyfish: Good. Bluefish: Few. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted): Good. in about 6 to 12 feet of water, suspended live baits have worked best Drum, Black: Few. bigger ones in the channels but some smaller ones are roaming the grass beds Flounder, Southern: Good. reported catches are all over the place, mixed bottom in the sandy patches are good. Mackerel, Spanish: Good. along the edges of the shipping channels and along beach drive Tarpon: Few. NEARSHORE and REEF REPORT: Mackerel, King: Good. early some were caught then the action dropped off till the afternoon Snapper, Red: Good. but closed till the 28th (state waters) Snapper, Black: Good. at night was best Jack, Amberjack Greater: Good. live bait has been best, in 100 feet or more of water Grouper, Gag: Few. but again closed season Grouper, Red: Few. best reports came from thirty miles out but some keepers from eight or ten Snapper, Vermillion (Beeliner Mingo): Good. some big ones brought in lately Triggerfish, Gray: Good. loads of them, some keepers too Pink Porgy (White Snapper): Good. Grouper, Scamp: Few.

OFFSHORE – Wahoo: Few. as little as 20 miles Dolphin: Few. Yellowfin (Tuna, Yellowfin): Few. 20 plus miles out was the last report Swordfish (Billfish – Swordfish): Few.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

May 26, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The inshore fish are hit and miss this week. There is a good variety however they all seem a bit scattered. The Pompano and Bluefish are swimming the surf. Look in the less travelled areas. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are good for anglers fishing the beach and the piers. If you are targeting Spanish throughout the inshore search the green water and on the tide lines. Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) are scattered. Ladyfish have also been reported and they are biting just about anything including spoons, soft plastics and jigs. Cobia are very scarce but if you search the wrecks you may find a few. Kings (Mackerel, King) are a bit slow due to the full moon but are still fairly easy to find. Redfish (Drum, Red) are great. They are turning up on all varieties of live bait around the marinas, bridge channels and the pass. Sheepshead are few and far between along with the inshore Bluefish. Trout are doing well on Topwaters and suspending baits. The early and late bite is most productive. Drum (Drum, Black) are hitting in the deep channels and bridges. Live or cut bait has worked best. Flounder (Flounder, Southern) have begun to show up around docks, drop offs and in the eddies down current of the bridges. A few Tarpon have been reported but they are not consistent as of yet.

OFFSHORE – Anglers willing to go a bit farther out are seeing some great fish this week. Around the 20 mile mark the Wahoo are hit and miss, but if you put some time in they’ll be there. Dolphin (Mahi) and Tuna (Tuna, Yellowfin) are also swimming the area. Closer in anglers can expect a nice bag of fish. The bottom is producing Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red) around 80 ft or more. They are taking Frozen bait but prefer live. Keep in mind the Gags are closed. Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion & Snapper, Black & Snapper, Red) are great this week. The Vermillions are taking Squid on a stringer rig. The Blacks are great along the outer edges of the wrecks and over natural bottom. Live or frozen bait will do well to hook them. Reds are hitting well but keep in mind they are closed in state waters until the 28 of May. Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) and Porgy are also swimming the area. Moving in we are seeing Barracuda (Barracuda, Great) and Bonita (Bonito, Little Tunny). The Bonita are swimming around the bait that are busting the surface, so keep an eye out. In the nearshore the Kings (Mackerel, King) and Cobia are hit and miss. The Kings are good in the early morning. The action seems to drop until late in the afternoon.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

May 20, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Redfish (Drum, Red) are biting in the bay this week. Usually they are around the docks. The nighttime bite has been a bit more prominent. Shrimp or small baitfish on a popping cork has been best in the early morning over the grass flats. The conditions should be clear. Nearshore Jacks (Jack, Crevalle) and Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are hitting. There are some Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) mixed in. Kings (Mackerel, King) are being caught off the pier and there are even a few Tarpon coming in. If you are targeting Cobia you may find a few stragglers around the rocks, however they have mostly moved out at this point.

OFFSHORE – The Snapper (Snapper, Red) are now intermittently open and hot this week. This is for State only so far. Some of the catches have been really good. There are plenty to catch and release as well. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) have been reported a bit farther out. Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin & Tuna, Yellowfin) are hitting out by the oil rigs but you will have to go farther out to find them.




Bass Pro Shops World Wide Sportsman
850-269-6200

May 12, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – From the surf there are a good many species being caught in the surf lately, Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish), Bluefish, Pompano (Pompano, Florida), Redfish (Drum, Red), Jacks (Jack, Crevalle) to name a few in descending order. As usual the “change of light” bite has been best but plenty of fish are caught in the middle of the day. Inshore Good things happening here too, the grass beds are coming alive. Smaller Reds, a few Speckled Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and moving out a little deeper Spanish and Ladyfish. The waters are still pretty stained so you’ll need to call attention to your offering one way or the other, popping corks, a little chumming or scent and if using artificial go with bright flashy colors and a scent. Deeper waters like the pass and the bridges are still holding plenty of Reds, some Black Drum (Drum, Black) and a few Sheepshead but not many. Working the docks and marinas you may find mangrove snapper, flounder, along with some Reds.

OFFSHORE – Now that we can keep a couple Red Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion) on weekends (in state waters) it has become well worth a trip out to one of the wrecks. If you plan to venture into Federal waters, do that first then come back in and do your Snapper hunting, that’ll keep the man off your back. Trolling is beginning to be worthwhile, Kings (Mackerel, King), Bonita (Bonito, Little Tunny) and a few Blackfin (Tuna, Blackfin) have been reported, out in the thirty mile range a few Dolphin too. Plenty of AJ’s (Jack, Amberjack Greater) around the larger wrecks, new reg’s make it harder to get a keeper but it is getting done. Where you find the AJ’s you should be able to get some stringer fish so bring along some Squid and small circle hooks. Keep your eyes open, there are some cobia still around and there have been quite a few Tripletail reported.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

May 6, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Redfish (Drum, Red) and Bluefish are hit and miss this week. Reds are swimming the random deep cuts in the bar, and around the piers. The Blues can be found around the pass and the piers. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are hot this week. The early and late bite are most productive. Search for the cuts in the bar to find them. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are also hitting well. There are some great numbers off the beach, in the bay and at the piers. Cobia are slowing down a bit. They are on the beach. Kings (Mackerel, King) are scattered. Jacks (Jack, Crevalle) are mixed in with them. Bonita (Bonito, Little Tunny) have shown up. They are not hot yet but we expect them to heat up as the weather gets better.

OFFSHORE – The Yellowfin (Tuna, Yellowfin) are beginning to heat up this week. Kings (Mackerel, King) are biting well. Anglers are trolling dusters and live baiting over wrecks to find them. Blackfin (Tuna, Blackfin) are hit and miss. They can be trolled or flat lined and are they are coming up over the wrecks. Red Snapper (Snapper, Red) are good, but are closed until May 7 in State waters. Snapper are slowing down. The night time bite is better. AJs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are consistent. They prefer live baits or jigs. Most of them are shorts but there are the occasional keepers. Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red) are both hitting. Keep in mind Gags are closed until June in State and July in Federal. You will have to go out deep to find them. Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) are in roughly 100 ft of water and can be found on the larger wrecks. It has been a bit windy but anglers can expect to see a few when the weather allows. We expect this bite to continue into the weekend.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

April 27, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – We are excited to see a Spring pattern having set in this week. From the inshore the Redfish (Drum, Red) are great. The bigger fish are in the channels but the pups can be found in the grass beds. From the beach they are few and far between in the deep cuts in the bar and piers. Sheepshead continue to bite this week. They are holding up in the pass and, of course around the bridges and structures. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are beginning to become scattered and difficult to find. Anglers targeting them can search the back bay near the creeks and the dam for some decent sizes. Drum (Drum, Black) are slowing down but that is a typical of the time of year. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are good, especially during the early bite around deep water point. There are also good numbers coming off the beach. The incoming tide in the pass has been the most productive. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are great on surf rigs with Shrimp and Squid. They are turning up off the beach. Whiting (Kingfish, Southern), Cobia and Kings (Mackerel, King) are few however they are present for anglers targeting them.






Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

April 22, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – This week we are seeing Redfish (Drum, Red) in the channels and bridges. The sizes are good and the bite is steady so far. Sheepshead are doing well on structures which is typical for them. The bridges and deeper docks are holding the best sizes. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are becoming a bit scattered this week. Anglers will have to put some time in to find them. This may be because of the fresh water in the bay. Drum (Drum, Black) are few and far between. They are mixed in the same areas as the Sheepshead. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are hitting at the passes as well as the surf. They are thick in the pass however slower on the surf. The early and late bite has been best. Look for cuts in the bar to find the. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) are scattered this week both throughout the inshore and off the beach. They are a bit difficult to find however anglers moving towards the East are a bit more successful.

OFFSHORE – Cobia and Kings (Mackerel, King) have made their way to the nearshore however there have only been a few reported. They are not plentiful but they are worth targeting. The best area for the Kings are around the wrecks. Snapper (Snapper, Red) are showing up but they are closed right now. Black Snapper (Snapper, Gray) are scattered this week. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are great. Anglers are using butterfly or curly tail jigs to hook them. Search in about 120 ft of water to find them. Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red) are biting however they are a bit thin. Keep in mind the Gags are closed right now. Beeliners (Snapper, Vermillion) are hot this week. Squid on a stringer rig has been the perfect setup. Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) continue to hit this week. There are tons of them and some keepers are mixed in. Porgy are beginning to thin out at this point.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

April 14, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The surf is improving here too, pompano, lots of Spanish, good numbers of redfish and throw some Bluefish, Sheepshead and a couple Flounder (Flounder, Southern) in for good measure. We are still dealing with the tannin stained waters from all of the recent rains, but sheepshead, Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) and Redfish (Drum, Red) don’t seem to mind. Really good bite all three, the pass is on fire. Other areas like the two bigger bridges for Reds and Sheepies, and you can work the shipping channels for Spanish. Up in shallower waters we are finding Redfish, a few Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and if not too shallow Spanish.

OFFSHORE – The water is warming up and bait is beginning to show up. Really good bite on Amberjack (Jack, Amberjack Greater) but you have to get some distance between yourself and shore in order to find keeper size fish, new reg’s of 34 inch to the fork makes it harder to find one you can put in the box. Lots of Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) around too, similar story on size, new reg’s of 14 inch fork measurement makes finding a keeper a little more difficult but not impossible. Red Grouper (Grouper, Red), Vermillion Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion), Black Snapper (Snapper, Black), White Snapper (Porgy) and a few Scamp (Grouper, Scamp) can be found on the bottom. Cobia, one of our favorite species is starting to be found both inshore and off. Bonita (Bonito, Little Tunny), Blackfin (Tuna, Blackfin), and King Mackerel (Mackerel, King) are also being reported. It is pretty much game on out there, we just need a few more warm sunny days with south winds and we’ll be there.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

April 7, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The inshore is full of fish this week. We are seeing tons of Redfish (Drum, Red) that are biting well this week. The bigger fish are in the channels while the pups are working the grass beds. They can also be found in the deep cuts in the bars and piers. Sheepshead are great this week. The pass and inshore wrecks are the best places to look for them. Bridges and structure will also be holding some great sizes. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are a bit scattered but the early bite is producing the best results in roughly 6 ft of water over grass areas. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) are showing up around the pass and on the surf. Anglers are using Shrimp and Squid to catch them. Spanish have been great so far. They are all over the bay and there are some great numbers along the beach and piers. Cobia are scattered but if you are targeting them you can look to the West to find them. Kings (Mackerel, King) and Bonita (Bonito, Little Tunny) have been making an appearance in the inshore but they are few and far between.

OFFSHORE – The Kings (Mackerel, King) are making their way back inshore this week. Bonita (Bonito, Little Tunny) are close behind. The Snappers (Snapper, Red & Snapper, Black & Snapper, Vermillion) are beginning to heat up however keep in mind not all species are open. The sizes are great so far. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are hot this week. Live baits are working best to hook them. Butterfly or Curl Tail jigs in 100 ft or more of water is key. Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red) can be found roughly 30 miles out but again, not all species are open. Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) continue to do well this week in 100 ft of water over large wrecks. There are some Porgy in the area as well.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

March 30, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – In the surf the Spanish Mackerel (Mackerel, Spanish) are pretty thick, the Squid have showed up and brought them in. Pompano (Pompano, Florida) can be at times (mostly am and pm). Bluefish, the occasional school of Redfish (Drum, Red) and a few Flounder (Flounder, Southern) have also been picked up. Inshore, Sheepshead are the main attraction lately, and it’s no wonder they are in, in full force. Spanish are making a showing as well, so far it has been closer to the pass, not so much back in the bay yet. Bull Reds (Drum, Red) for the most part in the pass and bridge channels, if you are wanting slots look in the grass beds late in the day or even at night. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) have been somewhat hard to find in St Andrews bay, East bay has held some around the creeks and culverts but they were just legal. However in the coastal dune lakes to the west in Walton county it seems to be a different story. Might be due to all of the red tide we endured. If you get time to go, it should be a good time. Let us know how you did, and if you like share some pictures. See you on the water!

OFFSHORE – Water is warming up, a few Cobia have been caught, Sheepshead are in full spawn mode and Spanish Mackerel (Mackerel, Spanish) are finally here. It is really starting to get good out there. Not too much to report from way offshore, need a little more time (and better weather). Amberjack (Jack, Amberjack Greater) and Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) have been great, pretty much all of the larger wrecks are holding fish. Good sized bee liners, plenty of Porgies, some Black Sea Bass (Sea Bass, Black) and a few Red Grouper (Grouper, Red) (in State waters) are being reported.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

March 24, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – We are beginning to see some action from the water this week! Redfish (Drum, Red) have been great. All varieties of live bait have been working well in the marinas, bridges, channels and throughout the pass. They are also being found from the surf. In this area anglers are using Carolina Rigs with live or cut bait. We are also seeing a great bite of Sheepshead around structures. They always love live Shrimp or Fiddler Crabs. The Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) bite has continued into this week and is still very consistent. The late day bite over the grass flats in about 6ft is best. The Bluefish are beginning to show up this week as well. The bite is not hot yet but we expect it to pick up. From the surf side they are doing very well on bucktails, spoons or spec rigs.There are also some Flounder (Flounder, Southern) and Drum (Drum, Black) hanging around the surf however they are a bit scattered. If you put some time in you will catch a few. Spanish Mackerel (Mackerel, Spanish) have moved in and the bite is great. The early bite is best and the deeper inshore water is where you will find them. The surf is also producing some Pompano (Pompano, Florida) that are biting well this week. They, too, love the early morning and late night bite. Cuts in the bar are holding the best sizes. Whiting (Kingfish, Southern), Sharks (Shark, Bull) an Cobia are few and far between from the beach however there are a few scattered reports of Bonita (Bonito, Little Tunny).

OFFSHORE – We are beginning to see some Bonita (Bonito, Little Tunny) show up in the nearshore this week. There have also been reports of Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin) from the same area. Snapper (Snapper, Red & Snapper, Black) are good, especially on the outer edges of wrecks or over natural bottom. Keep in mind the Reds are not legal to keep at this time. Live bait or frozen bait will do best to hook them. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are great this week on butterfly or curly tail jigs. They can be found in roughly 120 ft of water. The bottom is producing some Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red) but again, take a look at your regulations to see what is open. Beeliners (Snapper, Vermillion) are doing great this week. Some big sizes are coming up so far. Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) are also a great fish to target. They are holding up on wreck in roughly 100 ft of water. Finally, Porgy have shown up and are consistent in their bite.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

March 17, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – This area seems to have fish just about everywhere. Redfish (Drum, Red) continue to turn up throughout the channels and bridges so far. They have also been found running the surf however the bite is not as prominent. They are taking live or cut bait on Carolina Rigs. The Sheepshead bite has also remained hot this week for anglers fishing het pass, bridges and anything that grows barnacles. If you can get your hands on crab, they will generally love this however live or similarly artificial Shrimp will work as an alternative. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) have been holding up in the grassy areas. Most of them are shorts so you will have to put some time in to find a keeper. If you are targeting them, the best time to fish will be at dawn. A few Bluefish have also shown up along the surf this week. This is a good sign the Spring bite is on it’s way. The Pompano, Florida are a bit scattered in the same area. Anglers are using surf rigs with Shrimp and Squid to hook them. The most exciting fish this week has been the Mackerel, Spanish moving in! We expect the bite to pick up very soon.






Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

March 9, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – It has been extremely windy in this area as of late. We are seeing some nice, big Redfish (Drum, Red) in the channels as well as puppy drum in the grass beds. Sheepshead have also been caught around the bridge pilings, the pass and deeper docks. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) are few and far between. The best sizes are being caught in the back bay near the creeks and dam. Drum (Drum, Black) are also spotty however anglers are searching for them in deeper water this week, especially around the oyster beds. There are some Bluefish coming off the surf so far. Anglers are excited as Mackerel, Spanish have finally shown up along with a few Bonito, Little Tunny.






Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

March 3, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – This week we continue to see a good Redfish (Drum, Red) bite on live bait. Anglers are working the marina, bridges, channels and passes to find them. Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) also have a consistent bite however most are small fish and you may have to put some time into find some keepers. Sheepshead are of course on structure and are hitting live Shrimp or Crabs. Drum, Black have begun to hold up in the deeper channels and bridges. Live or Cut bait has been the most productive method in hooking the bigger sizes. The surf is holding Bluefish, Pompano (Pompano, Florida), and a few Bonito. The Blues are loving small bucktails, spoons or speck rigs. The Pompano can be sight fished while looking for clear water. There are some Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) and Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) in the area as well but the bite has been fairly scattered.

OFFSHORE – Bonito, Little Tunny have been turning up in the offshore this week. Snapper (Snapper, Red & Snapper, Black) have been scattered. Make sure if you catch a Red you are releasing it. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) have been good in 10 miles and more off the beach. They are holding up on wrecks so far. Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red) are spotty this week. Make sure if you catch a Gag you are releasing it. The Snapper, Vermillion bite has been great so far along with some Triggerfish, Gray and Porgy as well.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com

February 24, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The Reds (Drum, Red) continue to do well in the channels and under the bridges. The Sheepshead have been great along the bridges and structures as well. They have also turned up in the passes this week. There are a few Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) however a lot of them are small at this point. The best sizes are turning up at dawn. Drum, Black have been caught in the deep channels and bridges on live or cut bait this week.

OFFSHORE – We are seeing a few Bonito, Little Tunny being caught in the nearshore this week. The bite is spotty but they are there. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) have been great on butterfly or curly tail jigs in roughly 120 of water and farther out. The Grouper, Red have been slow, and catch and release anyways. Snapper, Vermillion are heating up along with the Triggerfish, Gray bite so far.




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

February 18, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Surf – Here it seems to change not only daily but hourly, first you can’t buy a bite then all of a sudden both rods are getting a bite at the same time. Schools of Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) and Pompano (Pompano, Florida) have been getting reported. Also reported were a few Redfish (Drum, Red), Flounder (Flounder, Southern), and Bluefish. See more at: www.HalfHitch.com Inshore – When the water temps are in the upper fifties in the open bay like we have now, seek out warmer waters. Explore the canals, creeks and bayous to find it and you will likely find Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) and Redfish. Getting them to eat can be tricky though, they are easy to spook and a little slow to respond. Artificial baits work pretty well back there and live bait is even better. Sheepshead don’t seem to be as sensitive and they are a good bet around the bridges, deeper docks and the pass. See more at: www.HalfHitch.com

OFFSHORE – Has not been a lot of offshore runs, one front after another has kept all but the most determined from going. Of the few days someone has been able to make a run the bite was pretty good. Amberjack (Jack, Amberjack Greater), Sea Bass (Sea Bass, Black), Snapper (Snapper, Black & Snapper, Vermillion), and a few Flounder (Flounder, Southern) were among the reported catches (that you can keep).




Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

February 10, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The wind has hit this area hard so anglers are finding it difficult to get out and fish. This week we are seeing a few Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) turn up however the bite is quite spotty. There are also some Bluefish swimming the same area but the bite is also hit and miss. There have been no reports from unsheltered areas and no one has made it offshore at this time.






Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

February 4, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The Beach has been great since the water is still warm. Pompano, Florida are still hanging around up to 4 lbs. The afternoon bite has been great after the water heats up. There are Reds (Drum, Red) that are huge and mostly in slot limit as well. Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) are surprisingly still swimming and can be caught in great sizes. The bite is fairly hot so far this week. The bays are holding Reds you can find if you get away from the mud. The recent rainfall has brought some freshwater mix and flooding in the rivers. We hope to see this clear up soon.

OFFSHORE – The weather has kept a lot of anglers off the water as of late. Anglers who have managed to hit the water when the weather breaks have been seeing Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) that are keeper size. When the weather is nice you can even catch your limit. There are some Ajs being lost to Sharks as well. They’re not quite keeper yet but there are a few bigger ones mixed in. Anglers are limiting out on Snapper, Vermillion. There aren’t many legal Triggerfish, Gray as of yet but we expect to see them turning up soon.




Capt. Larry Pentel Dead Fish Charters
850-685-1092
http://deadfishcharters.com/

January 28, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The weather has not been favorable in this area lately however have still been able to get some great reports from the water. The winds have died down so the waters have settled a bit producing a great bite. The Reds (Drum, Red) are doing well this week. They schooling up in the cooler water so though they are more difficult to find they are still present. Sheepshead are turning up on rock pilings and structures. They are being caught on Fiddler Crabs or Sand Fleas this week. A few Bluefish have turned up on spoons however the bite is spotty at best. The most prominent fish throughout the inshore have been Drum, Black and Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf). They are being caught off both the pier and the deeper inshore. Live Bull Minnows and strip baits have been the best method of catching them so far. There are a quite a few good keeper sizes but not all of them are slot yet. The Cobia have also been great from the surf while the Pompano, Florida are beginning to slow down. The nearshore reefs are producing a great Bonito, Little Tunny run and several are being caught from this area. Now that the weather is beginning to clear up we hope to see some great catches by the weekend.






Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

January 22, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The bite in this area has been great as of late. Along the surf there are some Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) swimming the rigs and hitting fish bites or Shrimp. The piers are holding a few good Redfish (Drum, Red) however they are fairly scattered. The Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) are biting along the beach and inshore wrecks mixed in with some Bluefish and Bonito, Little Tunny. On the bars anglers can find some Pompano, Florida on the early or late bite. The backwater, canals, creeks and bayous are all host to some nice sizes of Reds and Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) the bite has been consistent this week and they are loving live or artificial Shrimp. There are a few Drum, Black hanging out in the same spots however they are preferring live or cut bait and can be found deeper in the channels. Anglers can search places with structure such as bridges and deeper docks for great sizes of Sheepshead this week. They typically love live Fiddler Crabs. Bay fishing has moved into the winter mode at this time. Fish will be deeper and in more covered spots. The best time to fish will be when the sun has heated up the water, so the early afternoon bite is generally best. A slow retrieve will allow the fish time to chase and bite and match their pace for the season.

OFFSHORE – Farther out there are some great sizes of Bonito, Little Tunny that are schooled up right around the offshore mark. Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) are swimming however the keeper sizes are found past the ten mile mark. Triggerfish are doing well in the same water as the Ajs.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

January 15, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – This week has been great for Reds (Drum, Red). They are hitting around the marinas, bridges, channels and the pass on anything live. The Sheepshead bite is heating up so far in the same areas, basically anywhere that grows barnacles. The Bluefish have slowed down however are doing well in the pass and around the piers. Trout are swimming throughout the backwaters and anglers are searching for them on the late day bite. Drum, Black are spotty throughout the channels and bridges but will bite for live or cut bait. Pompano, Florida can be found around the piers and in holes along the beach this week. Their sizes have been pretty good. There are also a few Bonito, Little Tunny reported from the surf on small bucktails and clark spoons. Live bait is always a good option as well.

OFFSHORE – Farther off the shore The Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion) bite has been good off the bottom. Mixed in are some catch and release Grouper, Red and Grouper, Scamp. Porgie, Bonito, Little Tunny are swimming above in the same area. Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Gray) and Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) can be found slightly farther out in the deeper water.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

January 6, 2016

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The water is moving pretty well this week due to super low tides in the morning and high tide after sunset. This is producing awesome conditions for the great mixed bag of fish swimming so far. The nearshore and reefs are holding some big schools of Bonito, Little Tunny and the bite is fairly frequent. The Tuna (Tuna, Blackfin) bite has died down a bit however anglers flat lining over a wreck or trolling above should have better chances of finding them. Snapper, Black are on the outer edges of the wrecks or over natural bottoms. They are loving live or frozen baits. The AJ (Jack, Amberjack Greater) and Triggerfish (Triggerfish, Ocean) have been starting to turn up consistently in slightly bigger sizes, nothing great yet. The Grouper (Grouper, Red & Grouper, Scamp) have been slowing down and are expected to have moved farther out. Inshore we are seeing Reds (Drum, Red) in bigger sizes throughout the channels while smaller sizes can be found in the grass beds. The Sheepshead bite has improved now that the temperature has dropped slightly. They, as usual, are loving Fiddler Crabs. The best sizes are appearing around bridges and through the pass, basically any structures. The Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) bite has turned on and the best bite has been the early bite. They have been swimming roughly 6 ft of water over the grass. Shrimp is always a good bet to catch them however they are not picky and will eat anything live. The deep channels are holding Drum, Black as well as the bridges. Live or cut bait has produced the best results so far. The surf, piers, bridges and jetties are holding a few decent Reds that are coming up on Carolina Rigs. Bluefish have been good on small bucktails, spoons or spec rigs. There have been a few reports of Flounder (Flounder, Gulf & Flounder, Southern) however they are not consistent. The beaches are the best place to find them if you are targeting Flounder. Pompano, Florida are turning up in the early morning or late evening, hiding in the oyster bars. Whiting (Kingfish, Northern & Kingfish, Southern) have been found in the surf this week on fish bites or live Shrimp. Artificials such as a DOA or Vudu can work well too.

OFFSHORE – There is not a lot happening in the offshore this week. Most anglers are staying towards the nearshore and inshore however anyone that does head out can expect to see a spotty bite of Tuna, Yellowfin so far this week.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

December 29, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The best inshore bite this week is the Bull Reds (Drum, Red) in the channels preferring the live bait, usually Shrimp. Sheepshead have also been good since the temperatures have dropped slightly. They are holding up on the deeper docks and bridges. The Bluefish bite has slowed down however the Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) bite has picked up in the backwaters. The sizes are still not amazing but there are enough keepers to make a good trip. The Drum, Black have become spotty this week and have moved to the deep channels and bridges. Live or cut bait is the best bet to hook the big ones. Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) have also moved out for the most part. Docks, drop offs and the jetties are the best place to find the leftovers. Pompano, Florida and Mackerel, Spanish are swimming the nearshore though it has not been easy for anglers to get out there. The Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) bite has dropped off however there are still a few out there for anglers who put their time in.

OFFSHORE – It has been too windy for most anglers to get out to the nearshore or offshore this week. We expect the bite on Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Red), Snapper (Snapper, Vermillion & Snapper, Yellowtail) to continue once conditions lie down.




Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

December 21, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The bridges, piers and jetties are all holding some great sizes of Reds (Drum, Red) along with the channels. There are also White Trout (Seatrout, Sand) in the back of the harbor. Both fish prefer Shrimp dead or alive and alternatively will take similar soft plastics like a DOA or Vudu. A few Pompano, Florida have turned up for surf fishermen this week along with a few spotty Reds. Specks (Seatrout, Spotted) have been holding up around docks and flats as well in decent sizes. Live bait is the preference here as well. Sheepshead are beginning to pick up on live Fiddler Crabs and will most likely become the focus once they turn on with the cold weather. There are no signs of Whiting or Flounder so far this week.

OFFSHORE – Not a lot has changed in this area from last week. We are still seeing a spotty Wahoo bite which has slowed down a bit with the warmer weather. Dark colored lures in purple/black are the best bet for catching this week. On the bottom there are great sizes of Snapper (Snapper, Black & Snapper, Vermillion) along with Amberjack (Jack, Amberjack Greater) that are turning up in great numbers too. Anglers can throw cut bait such as Squid to hook them. The Grouper (Grouper, Red & Grouper, Goliath) bite has slowed down this week and are not the target for most anglers. Mackerel, King are still swimming a little closer in however they, too, are not as frequent of a bite.

BAIT REPORT – Shrimp, Bull Minnows and Crabs (Crab Fiddler) are working well for all inshore fish.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

December 17, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The inshore is holding a lot of great fish again this week. Reds (Drum, Red), Spotted Trout (Seatrout, Spotted), White Trout (Seatrout, Sand) Sheepshead and Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) are continuing to turn up on live bait. Reds can be found around structures including the bridges and channels in the area. The White Trout are staying mostly in the harbor this week and are coming up in fairly decent sizes. This will increase in both quality and quantity once the temperature drops. This will also be similar with the Spotted Trout bite which has been hot around the docks and flats this week. The bite has been steady while the Drum (Drum, Black) bite has slowed down. The surf is producing a hit and miss bite of Pompano, Florida, Reds and a few Whiting (Kingfish, Southern).

OFFSHORE – There is a some action from nearshore and offshore this week. The bite has been a bit spotty however once anglers are on the fish they are doing well. The nearshore is holding some Kings (Mackerel, King) and Ajs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) while the reefs are producing a solid bite of Tuna, Blackfin, Snapper (Snapper, Black & Snapper, Vermillion) as well as Grouper (Grouper, Gag & Grouper, Scamp & Grouper, Red). A bit farther out there have been reports of Wahoo however this bite is becoming more spotty and is not the main target for most anglers this week.

BAIT REPORT – Shrimp, Bull Minnows and Fiddler Crabs are plentiful this week. Anglers will have no problem stocking up for the weekend.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

December 11, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The nearshore is producing a few Reds around the piers and scattered along the beach. There are very few Bluefish although they are turning up incidentally on Shrimp thrown for the Reds. Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) are also mixed in around the piers however the bite is spotty as well. Pompano, Florida are turning up for early or late anglers. They are holding at the bar looking for cut bait. Spanish (Mackerel, Spanish) and Whiting (Kingfish, Southern) are also swimming the nearshore. The numbers are good however the sizes are still small at this point so smaller live bait is the best choice yet this week. There have been some reports of Bonito, Little Tunny swimming the nearshore reefs.The Reds (Drum, Red) continue to be bigger throughout the channels. The grass beds are holding some keepers as well. Shrimp are the first preference for the Reds this week or artificially a similar soft plastic such as a DOA or Vudu. The channels are also producing a decent Drum (Drum, Black) bite as well as around the bridges. They are not quite as picky as live or cut bait will do for them. The Sheepshead are swimming the intercoastal waterways this week as well as around the bridges. They are coming up in decent sizes, anglers just have to look for water. As usual, Fiddler Crabs are a great bait for them. The Trout (Seatrout, Spotted) bite has begun to heat up this week. They are hiding in the grass so the best bite is the early morning or late afternoon when there is less movement in the water and they are slightly more active. Anything live is working well to hook them so far. The Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) bite is beginning to slow down. They can still be found around docks, drop offs and around the bridges around. Again, anglers must look for moving water to find them this week.

OFFSHORE – There is not a lot going on in the offshore this week however anglers who would like to hit the deeper water can stock up on some bait. Alewives and Pinfish are swimming around the buoys so far this week and they are always a preference for most inshore fish. The weather has been good lately so this has made for great offshore conditions. Boaters can move a little closer to the shore to find some decent fishing.

BAIT REPORT – There are still some Bull Minnows swimming the inshore this week and are working well for both inshore and nearshore fish. Alewives and Pinfish are very populated in the offshore and working extremely well for most fish this week. It is a great idea to throw them as cut bait.


Half Hitch
850-234-2621
https://www.halfhitch.com/

December 3, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The inshore has been producing solid action over the past week now that the weather has cleared up a bit. There are plenty of AJs (Jack, Amberjack Greater) nearshore along with a great bite of Snapper, Vermillion. Most anglers have been hitting their limits of them. The Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) have scattered back out with the warm water temperatures. Normally they would be more schooled together and close in at this time but it is unseasonably warm on the water.

OFFSHORE – The boats are just starting to get back out now that the recent spurt of bad weather has seemed to pass. The ocean has finally calmed down this week and boats and charters have headed out today. Since Gag Grouper is now closed there is not a lot of action in the offshore. There have been no reports yet however anglers hitting the water this weekend can always check out our Tips feature which provides additional information and suggestions to help improve the catch.

BAIT REPORT – There are tons and tons of Cigar Minnows and Herring in roughly 40 ft. of water for live baiters to catch this week.


Capt. Larry Pentel Dead Fish Charters
850-685-1092
http://deadfishcharters.com/

November 26, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) have been biting jigheads and strip baits. There have also been reports of Snapper (Snapper, Red & Snapper, Vermillion) swimming in the nearshore. From 3-4 miles off the beach anglers are seeing Jacks (Jack, Crevalle) and Jack, Amberjack Greater swimming with some Mackerel.

OFFSHORE – It has been a tough go in the deeper water as of late. The unfavorable weather has made getting on the water extremely difficult for anglers. Anyone who would like to head out on the water this holiday when conditions lie down can always check out our Tips feature which provides additional information and suggestions on how to improve your catch.

BAIT REPORT – Still lots of Cigar Minnows are swimming off the beach this week and working well for inshore fish.


Capt. Larry Pentel Dead Fish Charters
850-685-1092
http://deadfishcharters.com/

November 20, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – The bite inshore has been much more active this week. Both Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) and Reds (Drum, Red) have had a solid and consistent bite over the last week. The night fishing for Seatrout, Spotted has been doing well too. Anglers are fly lining live Shrimp. Little baitfish are difficult to find lately so Live Shrimp or small jerkbait is a good bet as well. For Flounder, a bouncing gulp on the bottom is key as the bite has begun to pick back up. East, past the jetties is doing great for Pompano, Florida and slot Reds. The occasional Sheepshead has turned up on Live Shrimp as well. Crabs are working well too however they are difficult to find in this area.

OFFSHORE – Weather has made offshore fishing difficult for anglers this week. Not many have made it out however our sources expect that when the weather finally does lay down that the King (Mackerel, King) bite will continue to do well in roughly 100 ft and within 5 miles. Anglers have been looking for birds as well as Bonito. Once one is caught, some fishermen have been chunking the schools and hitting some good sizes and numbers.

BAIT REPORT – There is not much bait pushing through at this time. There is the occasional Mullet however they have become extremely spotty at this time of year.


Adventure Marina Bait, Fuel and Watersports
850-243-5721

November 13, 2015

Panama City

INSHORE – Closer to shore there is a lot of action happening lately. Jack, Crevalle are hungry and most anglers are hitting their limits. Snapper, Vermillion are also coming up in great numbers as it seems to be the go to fish in this area. They can be found at the edge of the shallow water. As the season is coming to an end our sources are gearing up for Flounder (Flounder, Southern & Flounder, Gulf) to start heating up.

OFFSHORE – The weather has been up and down lately in this area. As of recently conditions have cleared up and the Red Tide has not affected any reef fish. Bottom fishing has been excellent despite conditions. Offshore fishermen are seeing tons of Grouper, Gag and Grouper, Red, usually hitting their limits. Kings (Mackerel, King) are also biting quite well in the deeper water as anglers troll with spoons, stretches or skirted Cigar Minnows. The Snapper, Red season is now closed so most people have moved on to some bottom fishing.

BAIT REPORT – Baitfish were the most affected by the remnants of Red Tide. Mullet, Pinfish and Croakers were not in good condition however Mackerel are still running along the beaches.


Capt. Larry Pentel Dead Fish Charters
850-685-1092
http://deadfishcharters.com/

November 6, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

INSHORE – Fishing has been slow in the shallow water. Flounder, Southern has been biting as well as some Seatrout, Spotted, however they are fairly quiet. The bridges are hiding some slot Reds (Drum, Red). Bouncing a gulp on the bottom is working well for each of these species as well as, of course, live bait such as Bull Minnows or Shrimp.

OFFSHORE – Snapper, Red and Sheepshead are biting on the wrecks within 9 miles of the shore. There is less than 100 ft of water at that point so they are fairly close. Anything cut will work well to hook either of these. Cigar minnows or Squid along the bottom are working well too. There has been a great Kingfish bite and anglers are slow trolling for them using spoons, stretches and skirted Cigar minnows. Follow the bait and the birds to find the fish.

BAIT REPORT – Running bait is fairly limited with the exception of some sporadic Pinfish in the sound. You can always check out Adventure Marina Bait, Fuel and Watersports to stock up on anything you can’t find in the water.


Adventure Marina Bait, Fuel and Watersports
850-243-5721
adventuremarina.com

October 28, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

OFFSHORE – Fishing over natural bottom using live cigar minnows on a carolina rig are producing well for red snapper. Depths right to look for are anywhere from 60 to 90 feet of water. The Mahi fishing has been decent along the floating debris. Capt Todd uses live Pilchards, Spro jigs, and flies for them. Deceiver flies in chartreuse/white or white/blue are working pretty well. You can even just flip the fly out that and twitch it and they’ll hammer it.

Capt. Todd Jones
www.panamacityinshore.com
www.backbayadventures.com

August 14, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

Inshore- The early morning Redfish bite has been steady around Panama City. With the temperatures as they’ve been, you’ll certainly want to look to the deeper holes and bomb those fish down a live shrimp or some Mullet. With the Mullet, people are bumping into a lot of bonus Shark hook ups.

Offshore- The fishing further out from Panama City has been hit and miss. Not because the fish aren’t around, because the weather has been making things tough. If you can manage to catch a break with the conditions, the Amberjack fishing in the wrecks has been great. Load up some Sand Perch or flat sided vertical jigs.

Bait- The bays are showing good numbers of Pinfish, and the piers are seeing Elewives caught by nets. The pass had a bait slick recently of mixed fish so surrounding areas should yield mixed bags of bait fish.

Half Hitch Bait and Tackle
2206 Thomas Dr
Panama City, FL
850-234-2621

July 31, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

OFFSHORE – Gulf water temps have been in the low eighties for a while now and you have to put some distance between you and shore to get where it drops any at all. When you find that cooler water is when you expect to get into big game fish but lately that hasn’t necessarily been the case. Some good fish have been picked up in water you wouldn’t expect, green warm water that isn’t that clear. So if you are out there and wanting to try your hand at Wahoo, Dolphin, or even Marlin don’t discount the chances solely on water clarity. Plenty of Kings and Bonita around but watch out for the Sharks, they seem to be everywhere lately. Also keep your eyes peeled for anything floating, a few Tripletail were reported, they will hang around even the smallest thing so long as it floats. On the bottom end of things most have said the bite has been kind of slow, even divers are saying fish seem somewhat scarce on local wrecks, (other than lion fish). Better reports have come from natural bottom and not wrecks. Gotta give it to the divers for at least trying to put a dent in the lionfish population, one I spoke to said he got sixty off one wreck and he says they really do taste good. After the first few he says cleaning them wasn’t a chore at all.

SURF – On the days that there is some wave action the bite was better than those without. Big Tarpon, Ladyfish, Bluefish, and Small sharks are there for sure but now and then some Redfish and Spanish mackerel make an appearance.

INSHORE – Early in the morning and with the tide topping out way up in the backwaters of the bay you’ll see schools of LY’s and menhaden all bunched up and getting struck by all manner of predators. Reds, Blues, and a few Trout were found flat lining under one of these under a cork, but when the sun got overhead it shut down. Working the deeper waters around the bridges yielded some sheepshead, red, and black drum and a few flounder. Mid day has been a little tough so be prepared to work for your bites.

Half Hitch Bait & Tackle
1 850-234-2621

July 23, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

OFFSHORE – Trevor at Half Hitch was telling me that Grouper opened up on the 1st and the Red Snapper bite is still good. The Dolphin are out there but they follow the weedlines religiously. If you can find one of those go ahead and troll some Ballyhoo. There are a few Bonita and Wahoo around but not that many. The King Mackerel bite is good right now and can be caught as close inshore as the Pier. They really like Cigar Minnows but you can troll a Mann’s Stretch from wreck to wreck.

INSHORE – The inshore has stayed consistent for the last little while. The bay has a good Trout and Redfish bite early in the morning. There are Flounder around the piers and docks but which piers and docks is random. In the pass there is more Redfish and Mangrove Snapper. Near Halfway bridge you start getting into Shark territory, but there are some good sized Redfish there too.

BAIT REPORT – There is bait around right now. A lot of Alewives are out at the pier, and there is a few Goggleyes too.

Trevor
Half Hitch
2206 Thomas Dr, Panama City, FL

1 850-234-2621

June 26th, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

OFFSHORE: I have to say there is plenty to do out here. On the trolling side kings rule, but if you get one of those perfect days like we have had a few of recently you can get a little further out comfortably and get into some of your more “exotic” pelagic species. Straight out our pass and about twenty miles you run into a crystal clear blue water and it is holding wahoo, big kings and mahi-mahi. There are a few weeds around but nothing real heavy yet so trolling hasn’t been a chore. Bring along some binoculars and or get familiar with your radar system if you have one so you can tune into any bird activity in the area. This will increase your chances of success exponentially. Bottom fishing has been great too. Hang out at one of the local docks and you’ll see several species of snapper, red grouper, and scamp posing for pictures. We still have a little bit of our summer red snapper season left with more to come in the fall. Be sure to familiarize yourself with current regulations on red snapper as they are different for State and Federal waters, and even for recreational anglers and charter boats.

SURF: Here the action has been best at daybreak or around sunset. Mostly lady fish, bluefish and Spanish. Some redfish, good numbers of tarpon, a few pompano and a lot of sharks. At the piers you can add in king mackerel and some sheep head.

INSHORE: With the summer sun doing it’s thing the local waters have gotten nearly bath water warm. If you are going to fish the grassy areas, do it early. After the sun starts to bear down, you should think about moving your expedition somewhere deeper, cooler or with a good tidal flow that counteracts the heating effect of the long sunny days we have been experiencing. Setting up on the leeward side of a land mass, over a shallow grass bed, in the middle of the day and with a falling tide has a good three strikes against it (maybe four). It has been a little tough on the bay lately but there are fish being caught, you just have to put some thought into it. Deeper waters like those around bridges and the pass have a distinct advantage this time of year. A larger dock with a little depth or just a good drop off can be enough to provide a cooler spot for a redfish, flounder or trout to lay in wait for it’s prey. Also taking time to acquire good live bait like small crabs for reds, or finger mullet and pilchards for trout will up the chances in your favor. If you are using artificial baits choose well, lifelike action, natural coloration if waters are clear and adding a scent will help to seal the deal. Then when you locate fish you have an irresistible offering that’ll make them take notice. Presentation is also very important, wire leaders, giant shiny hooks and baits spinning in the current are all recipes for failure. When conditions are tough you have to bring your “A” game.

2206 Thomas Drive 
Panama City Beach, FL 32408 
850.234.2621 

 June 19,2015 

Panama City Fishing Report

OFFSHORE – You’ll find Scamp, Red Snapper, Grouper, Trigger and Amberjack. You’ll want to bottom fish for those using a Shimano jig. This is particularly effective for Triggerfish in about 65 feet of water. If you’d rather troll for Kingfish then head out near the Whistle Buoy and use a Mann Stretch 5 with Cigar Minnows.

INSHORE – Around the Bridges and Jetties you’ll find lots of fish. There are Redfish, Spanish Mackerel and King Mackerel around the Hathaway Bridge. The Mangrove Snapper are on the Jetties. they are biting well on live Shrimp. Fish the switch in tide if you can. If you go with artificial use Voodoo Shrimp and Mirrolure Mirrodean or Gulp Shrimp.

BAIT REPORT -There are always Pinfish around.

Half Hitch Bait and Tackle has Live shrimp and live bull minnows does rod and reel repair.

Trevor
Half Hitch Bait and Tackle
2206 Thomas Dr, Panama City, FL
850-234-2621

June 11th, 2015

Panama City Fishing Report

OFFSHORE – The Snapper season is now open so get out and enjoy it! They love it when you drop down live or frozen bait, as well as cut bait. For live bait use Spanish Mackerel, Bull Minnows, Shrimp. For frozen bait your best options are frozen Boston Mackerel,Shrimp or Squid.

INSHORE – The Redfish and Trout bite is hot right now! Both of these fish are taking live bait or lures. In terms of live bait you’re going to want to go with Shrimp. Some lures that are work MirrOlure, Jigs, Gulp and DOA Jigs. Try fishing Pier 98 for Redfish, Snapper and Mutton.

BAIT REPORT – You’ll find Pinfish in the grass and Bull Minnows on the beach.

Pier 98
5904 US-98

850-874-8723

DISCLAIMER:
Since fishing conditions change from minute to minute we try to keep our reports as updated as possible. Unfortunately, Florida is a large state, so we try to keep our Panama City Fishing Report updated once a week. If you would like to contribute to the Panama City Fishing Report, feel free to email your fishing tips to trevor@proangler.us. We rely on even small contributions to inform us that fishing conditions have changed so we can update the Panama City Fishing Report.

The Panama City Fishing Report is brought to you by the ProAngler team and many, many, highly skilled Captains and bait shop owners.