Gulf Coast Inshore PM Charter - Expert Guided

Published Date: July 17, 2025
Fishing

Panama City Beach
$600 - $1,400 price range
Updated Date: October 25, 2025

Summary

Spend a relaxed afternoon on the water with this 6-hour inshore fishing trip in Panama City. Leaving later in the day, you'll head out to the calm, shallow waters of the Florida Panhandle's bays, grass flats, and estuaries. Your guide will help you target popular inshore species like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder using light tackle. It's a great setup for consistent action, whether you're an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time. The charter provides all the gear you need, so just bring along some sun protection, drinks, and snacks. With room for up to 4 guests, it's a perfect outing for families or small groups looking to enjoy some laid-back fishing. You'll get a real feel for the local waters and hopefully land some nice catches as you explore the rich fishing grounds of the Gulf Coast.

Gulf Coast Inshore PM Charter - Expert Guided

Inshore Catches & Views

Anglers fishing in FL with big 38-inch catch

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Two people fishing on the beach in Panama City Beach

Bowfishing vibes after dark

arget locked in Panama City

PCB night bowfishing magic

Laid-Back Afternoon Fishing in Panama City

Hey there, fellow angler! If you're looking to wet a line without the crack-of-dawn wake-up call, I've got just the trip for you. This 6-hour afternoon charter with Nautical Time Adventures is perfect for folks who want to ease into their day and still catch some of Panama City's best inshore action. We'll hit the bays, grass flats, and backwaters where the redfish, trout, and flounder hang out. It's a chill way to spend an afternoon, whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod.

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You roll up to the dock around lunchtime, coffee fully kicked in, ready to hit the water. We'll cruise out into Panama City's inshore playground – we're talking calm waters, plenty of structure, and fish that are ready to play. This trip is all about light tackle and big fun. We provide all the gear, so you just need to bring your sun protection, some snacks, and a cooler of your favorite drinks. It's perfect for families, buddy trips, or solo anglers looking to squeeze in some quality fishing without sacrificing their entire day.

Fishing the Flats

Alright, let's talk strategy. We'll be working the shallow waters with light tackle, which means you'll feel every nibble and pull. We might start by drifting over grass flats, tossing soft plastics for speckled trout. Then we could move to some docks or oyster beds to tempt those crafty redfish. If the sheepshead are biting, we might drop some fiddler crabs near bridge pilings. The beauty of inshore fishing is the variety – one minute you're sight-casting to tailing reds, the next you're working a topwater for explosive trout strikes. And don't worry if you're new to this – I'll show you the ropes and have you casting like a pro in no time.

Fish on the Menu

Let's chat about what's swimming around out there. Panama City's inshore waters are like a buffet for anglers, and we've got some real crowd-pleasers on the menu.

Redfish: These copper-colored bruisers are the rock stars of inshore fishing. They love to hang around structure and will put up a fight that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. In the afternoons, look for them tailing in shallow water or busting bait near the banks. A well-placed artificial lure or live bait can trigger some explosive strikes.

Speckled Trout: These guys are the bread and butter of inshore fishing. They're beautiful to look at and even better to eat. Afternoon fishing can be prime time for specks, especially as the water starts to cool down. We'll target them over grass flats or near drop-offs, using both artificial lures and live bait. When you hook into a big one, that head-shaking fight is something special.

Flounder: Ah, the humble flounder – flat as a pancake but twice as tasty. These ambush predators like to hang out on sandy or muddy bottoms, waiting for an easy meal to swim by. We'll use a slow retrieve with soft plastics or live bait to tempt them. The bite can be subtle, but once you set the hook, it's game on. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like fresh flounder for dinner.

Sheepshead: These striped convicts are the ultimate bait stealers, but man, are they fun to catch. They love structure like bridge pilings and oyster beds. We'll use light tackle and small hooks baited with fiddler crabs or shrimp. The bite is quick, so you've got to be on your toes. But when you hook one, that sideways pull is unmistakable. Plus, they're excellent table fare – mild, flaky, and delicious.

Why Folks Keep Coming Back

You know what makes this trip special? It's not just about the fish – it's about the whole experience. There's something magical about being out on the water as the afternoon sun starts to dip. The wind dies down, the water gets glassy, and the fish start feeding. It's the perfect time to unwind, swap stories, and maybe even learn a new trick or two. And let's be honest, there's nothing like the feeling of that first big hit of the day, when your rod doubles over and the drag starts singing. Whether you're here with family, friends, or flying solo, these are the moments that stick with you.

Ready to Hit the Water?

Listen, I could go on all day about the joys of afternoon fishing in Panama City, but the best way to experience it is to get out there yourself. This 6-hour trip is the sweet spot – enough time to really get into the action without taking up your whole day. Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to fishing, impress your buddies with your angling skills, or just enjoy some quality time on the water, this is the trip for you. The fish are biting, the weather's great, and we've got a spot on the boat with your name on it. So what do you say? Let's make some memories and catch some fish. Book your spot now, and I'll see you on the water!

Learn more about the species

Redfish

Redfish, or Red Drum, are one of our most popular targets here in Panama City. They're easy to spot with that trademark black dot near their tail. Most run 28-33 inches, but they can grow over 40 inches and 50 pounds. You'll find them in super shallow water, sometimes with their backs out of the water. They love hanging around oyster reefs, grass flats, and manmade structures. Fall's prime time when they're feeding heavily before winter. Redfish put up a great fight and taste fantastic. They'll hit just about any bait, but here's a local secret: try using cut mullet on a circle hook. Let it sit on the bottom near a structure, and hold on tight when that red hits!

Sea Trout

Sea Trout, also called Speckled Trout, are a favorite around here. They're usually 14-24 inches long, with a sleek, silvery body covered in spots. You'll find them in grass flats and shallow waters, especially at night. They love to hang out in water 1-4 feet deep. Winter's a great time to target them when they school up in deeper holes. Sea Trout are known for their soft, delicate meat - just be careful not to overcook it. They're fun to catch on light tackle and put up a good fight. Here's a tip: try using a popping cork with a shrimp imitation about 18 inches below. The noise attracts them, and they can't resist hitting that shrimp as it dances in the water.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are one of the quirkiest fish you'll catch around here. They're nicknamed "convict fish" for their black and white stripes, and they've got a set of teeth that look straight out of a dentist's office. You'll find them around any structure with barnacles - docks, bridges, reefs. They typically run 1-8 pounds, but the big ones can hit 20. Spring's the best time to target them when they gather to spawn. Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers, so you've got to be quick on the hook set. They put up a solid fight and make excellent table fare. Local tip: use a small, sharp hook and thread a fiddler crab on it sideways. That makes it harder for them to steal your bait without getting hooked.

Summer Flounder

Summer Flounder are a unique flatfish that'll keep you on your toes. These "chameleons of the sea" can change color to blend in with the bottom, making them tricky to spot. You'll find them in depths from 20 to 100 feet, often near structures like wrecks or reefs. They average 15-20 inches but can reach over 20 pounds. Fall's the best time to target them, as they move inshore to spawn. Flounder are ambush predators, so they'll wait for bait to come to them. They put up a good fight and taste great too. Here's a local tip: when you feel a bite, wait a few seconds before setting the hook. Flounder often grab the bait sideways first, then turn it to swallow. That pause lets them get the bait fully in their mouth, improving your hookup rate.

About the Carolina

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4

Manufacturer Name: Mercury

Maximum Cruising Speed: 30

Number of Engines: 1

Horsepower per Engine: 200

Hop aboard for a laid-back afternoon of fishing in Panama City's picturesque waters. This 6-hour trip is perfect for those who prefer a later start to their day. You'll cruise the calm inshore areas, targeting popular catches like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. The shallow bays and grassy flats offer prime spots for light tackle fishing, keeping things exciting for anglers of all levels. No need to worry about gear - it's all provided. Just bring some snacks, drinks, and sun protection to stay comfortable while you cast your line. Whether you're a family looking for a fun outing or a casual angler wanting to wet a line, this relaxed charter lets you soak up the beauty of Florida's Gulf Coast while reeling in some great catches.

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