Ready to test your skills against some of the Gulf's most prized fish? Our 10-hour private charter takes you deep into the rich waters off Panama City, where the big boys play. We're talking monster Amberjacks, hard-fighting Cobia, and those delicious Red Snappers everyone's after. Leaving at the crack of dawn, we'll cruise up to 35 miles out, hitting the sweet spots where the fish are biting. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, our crew's got your back. We'll have you dropping lines and hauling in keepers before you know it.
Rise and shine, anglers! We cast off at 6 AM sharp, so grab your coffee and get ready for a full day of non-stop action. Our 10-hour trips run from September 1st to May 10th, prime time for hooking into some real beauties. You and five of your buddies will have the whole boat to yourselves, so there's plenty of elbow room for when that big one hits. We provide all the gear you need, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. Just bring your game face, some snacks, and maybe a cooler for your catch (trust me, you'll need it). Our experienced crew will be right there with you, offering tips on technique and making sure everyone's having a blast.
Bottom fishing is the name of the game out here, and we've got it down to a science. We'll motor out to some of our favorite spots, where the seafloor is teeming with fish. Once we're in position, it's time to drop those lines. You'll be using heavy-duty gear to wrestle with whatever's lurking below. Feel that tug? Give it a sharp jerk to set the hook, then start reeling! It's a workout, but man, is it worth it when you see that flash of color coming up from the deep. We target a mix of species, so every catch is a surprise. One minute you might be hauling up a hefty Red Snapper, the next you're locked in battle with a hard-charging Amberjack. And keep your eyes peeled – sometimes we'll switch it up and do a bit of trolling if we spot signs of Mahi Mahi or Wahoo near the surface.
"A fantastic fishing trip with Showtime Charters and Captain Ashton Lewis! His professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction made for a memorable experience. We caught plenty of fish and had a blast. Will definitely be returning!" - Megan
King Mackerel: These sleek speedsters are a blast to catch. They're known for their blistering runs and acrobatic leaps when hooked. Kings can top 40 pounds, though 10-20 pounders are more common. Late spring through fall is prime time for these toothy predators. Anglers love 'em for their fight and their tasty fillets.
Mahi Mahi: Also known as Dorado or Dolphinfish, these are the beauty queens of the offshore world. With their electric blue and gold colors, they're a sight to behold. Mahi are fast-growing and can hit 30+ pounds in our waters. They're most active in the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. Pound for pound, they're some of the best fighters out there, known for their aerial displays when hooked.
Wahoo: Speed demons of the sea, Wahoo are built for the chase. They're streamlined torpedoes that can hit speeds up to 60 mph. While they can grow to over 100 pounds, most we catch are in the 15-40 pound range. Wahoo prefer warmer waters, so we see more of them in late summer and early fall. Anglers prize them for their incredible runs and their firm, white meat that's excellent for grilling.
Cobia: These curious bruisers are always a welcome sight. They've got a distinctive shark-like profile and can grow to over 100 pounds, though 20-50 pounders are more common. Cobia start showing up in our waters in spring and stick around through fall. They're known for their powerful, determined fights and their excellent table fare. Hook into one of these, and you'll be talking about it for weeks.
Red Snapper: The crown jewel of Gulf bottom fishing. These ruby-red beauties are as good-looking as they are good-eating. They typically run 5-15 pounds but can get much bigger. Red Snapper season is strictly regulated, usually opening in June for a limited time. When it's on, it's game on – these fish are aggressive feeders and put up a great fight on the way up. There's nothing quite like the feeling of bringing a big snapper over the gunwale.
Look, I could go on all day about the fish we catch and the good times we have out there. But why not come see for yourself? Our 10-hour trip is the real deal – plenty of time to get out where the big ones live and fill the box with some quality fish. Whether you're looking to test your skills against some hard-fighting gamefish or just want to spend a day on the water with your crew, we've got you covered. Spaces fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait. Give us a call or hit that 'Book Now' button. We'll see you at the dock, bright and early, ready to make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime.
August 3, 2023
Cobia are unique fish - they look a bit like sharks with their flat heads and single dorsal fin. Most run 20-40 pounds, but 100-pounders show up. You'll find them around buoys, wrecks, and other structure in 30-300 feet of water. Spring and early summer are peak Cobia seasons as they migrate along the coast. Anglers love Cobia for their hard fights and excellent eating quality. They're curious fish and will often follow hooked buddies right to the boat. Sight fishing is a popular way to target Cobia. Look for them swimming near the surface, often following rays or sharks. Once you spot one, cast a live eel, crab, or large jig in front of it. Be ready for a powerful first run when they hit. Cobia fight dirty and will try to wrap you in structure, so be prepared to muscle them away.
King Mackerel are fast, powerful fish that'll give you a real fight. They typically run 20-40 pounds but can get up to 90. Look for them in open water, usually 30-150 feet deep. They love hanging around structure like reefs and wrecks. Summer and fall are prime seasons here in Panama City. Kings are popular targets because they're exciting to catch and make great eating. That silvery, torpedo-shaped body can hit speeds up to 60 mph when they're chasing bait. To land a big one, try slow-trolling live bait like blue runners or menhaden. Use wire leaders - those razor sharp teeth will slice through mono. Kings often bite the back half of the bait, so a stinger hook setup can improve your hookup ratio. Keep your drag set light at first to let them run, then tighten up for the battle.
Mahi Mahi are some of the most colorful fish you'll see, with electric blues and greens that fade fast once they're caught. They average 15-30 pounds but can top 60. You'll find them offshore in blue water, often under floating debris or weed lines. Spring and summer are best for Mahi here. Anglers love targeting them for their acrobatic fights and excellent table fare. They're fast growers and quick to mature, so the population stays healthy. To catch Mahi, troll with ballyhoo or squid, or cast jigs or live bait if you spot them. Watch for birds working - that often means Mahi are feeding below. Once you hook one, keep it in the water to attract others. The school will often stay with their hooked buddy, giving you shots at multiple fish.
Red Snapper are the prize of the Gulf - beautiful crimson fish that taste as good as they look. Most run 5-15 pounds, but 20-30 pounders aren't rare. You'll find them on reefs and wrecks in 60-300 feet of water. Summer is prime Snapper season here, but regulations change yearly so check before you go. Anglers target them for their hard-pulling fights and world-class fillets. There's nothing quite like seeing that flash of red come up from the deep. For the best shot at big Snappers, use heavy tackle and drop large live baits like pinfish to the bottom. They often hang right in the structure, so you'll need to pull hard to get them out. Once you catch one, get ready for more - they often school up. A hot Red Snapper bite is some of the most fun you can have bottom fishing.
Wahoo are like ocean missiles - long, sleek, and incredibly fast. They can hit 60 mph in short bursts. Most run 20-40 pounds, but 100-pounders aren't unheard of. You'll find them in deep blue water, often near dropoffs or underwater structures. Fall is prime Wahoo season here, but you can catch them year-round. Anglers prize them for their blistering runs and high-quality meat. That first scorching run when a Wahoo hits will test your drag and your nerves. For the best shot at Wahoo, try high-speed trolling at 12-15 knots. Use wire leaders and lures like jets or bullet-heads. Bright colors like pink and chartreuse work well. Keep your hooks razor sharp - Wahoo have tough, bony mouths and can shake loose if you don't get a good hookset.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Caterpillar
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 375
A fantastic fishing trip with Showtime Charters and Captain Ashton Lewis! His professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction made for a memorable experience. We caught plenty of fish and had a blast. Will definitely be returning!