Tropic Star Lodge - Fishing

The word "Panama" means "an abundance of fish" and Piñas Bay truly lives up to this meaning. In the waters around Tropic Star Lodge, you can catch dolphin, rainbow runner, snapper, tuna, grouper, amberjack, roosterfish, and mackerel. In the last few years, "Pacific" tarpon (which made the trip through the canal) have been caught in the 50- to 100-pound range. Black, blue, and striped marlin abound in strong numbers, particularly during the winter, and are normally "right outside the front door," making this a unique location. Through the years, more than 150 world records have been set at this internationally known lodge -- more than anyplace else in the world.

Tropic Star operates a fleet of twelve 31-ft twin-engine Bertrams, which can comfortably accommodate one to four anglers. All conventional tackle is provided but fly fishermen must take their own gear. The majority of fishing is within 20 minutes of the lodge.

All species of billfish and non-billfish can be caught year-round in the pristine waters off Piñas Bay. The prime black marlin season runs from mid-December through April. Then the Pacific sailfish move in during April through June with July bringing another run of marlin. The striped marlin season is considered mid-March through May. Most of the fishing is done six to fifteen miles offshore in calm waters, although the waters can get a bit rough in late January and February when the north wind brings the cooler water and tailing marlin. 

Panama strictly adheres to catch-and-release practices in order to preserve the sportfishing industry. All billfish, such as marlin and sailfish, are protected by catch-and-release laws, and the crew will make every effort to safely and successfully release these species immediately after photos are taken. However, table fare, such as tuna, snapper, dorado (mahi mahi), wahoo, snook, etc., may be harvested.