Summer is in full swing here on the Florida Panhandle, and the fishing is holding up beautifully. If you are planning a trip this July, the water is warm, the Gulf has been relatively calm, and the fish are definitely hungry. Whether we are running out to the reefs or staying close to home in St. Andrews Bay, here is what we are seeing right now on our Panama City Beach fishing trips.

Offshore Fishing: Snapper, Kings, and Mahi
The deep sea fishing in Panama City Beach has been highly productive. We are running the 26-foot Panga 15 to 30 miles offshore, and the bottom bite is doing great. Red snapper season in Panama City Beach is always a favorite for our guests, and we have been putting some very nice fish in the box, alongside solid catches of grouper and triggerfish over the local wrecks.

If you are looking for surface action, summer fishing in Panama City Beach means the pelagics are around. King mackerel are biting well, and our mahi fishing trips are seeing great success. Capt. JP has been finding good weed lines and floating debris that are holding schooling dolphin fish, which makes for fantastic light tackle fishing.

Inshore & Bay Fishing: Early Mornings Produce
For our inshore fishing charters, the secret to July fishing in Panama City Beach is getting out early to beat the midday heat. We are hitting the shallow grass flats right at sunrise. Capt. JP is finding those big "Gator" speckled trout, which are eagerly taking topwater plugs and his custom-tied Clouser minnows for our fly fishing guests.

As the morning progresses, we are shifting to deeper channels and dock structures to find redfish and flounder. The bay waters remain a great option for our kid-friendly fishing trips, providing steady catches in calm, comfortable conditions.

Book Your Summer Trip
With the warm weather and clear waters, now is a great time to get out on the Gulf. Remember, Capt. JP only runs one private fishing charter per day to ensure your group gets his full attention.

July 2026: Summer Temperatures Bring Excellent Offshore and Bay Action

Welcome to Advanced Fishing With JP, your premier destination for deep sea fishing in Panama City Beach, FL. Guided by Captain James "JP" Pic—a seasoned expert with decades of local experience—we provide world-class private fishing charters in the crystal-clear emerald waters of the Florida Panhandle. Whether you want to fish the backcountry for redfish or head into the Gulf for trophy catches, Captain JP knows exactly where the fish live; in fact, he has their zip code! We specialize in highly productive Panama City Beach fishing trips tailored to your group. Operating a custom 26-foot Panga—one of the fastest and most versatile boats in the area—we can navigate shallow bay waters or quickly reach offshore reefs. Our deep sea fishing trips take you 15 to 30 miles offshore to target massive red snapper, grouper, powerful amberjack, triggerfish, cobia, and king mackerel. If you want to catch mahi mahi on a regular basis, Capt. James is an absolute expert at finding them. Prefer staying closer to shore? Advanced Fishing With JP provides the best light tackle fishing experience in the area. Captain JP is a "Gator" speckled trout expert who has been putting big trout in the box since he was a kid. As a former Orvis Pro Guide, he is also a fly fishing specialist. We supply his personally tied Clouser minnows, proven to catch multiple species over the last 30 years, giving you the chance to land red snapper or trout on a fly. We offer flexible options, from 4-hour family fishing trips in Panama City Beach to full day 8-hour offshore excursions. Our half day fishing charters are perfect for beginners or small groups of up to four people. When you book a Gulf fishing charter with us, everything is included. We provide your fishing license, quality Orvis fly fishing equipment, Penn spinning gear, bait, and complimentary fish cleaning so your catch is ready to take home and cook. Whether it is peak summer snapper season or off-season winter fishing, there are always big fish to catch. Join a top-rated local fishing guide to make lasting memories and take something delicious home to eat. See you on the water!

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Cobia fishing catch in Panama City FL waters

Fishing charter displaying King Mackerel and Mahi Mahi catch on boat deck in Panama City FL

Mahi mahi fish caught during fishing trip in Panama City FL on boat deck

Angler holding freshly caught fish on fishing boat in Panama City FL

Two mahi mahi fish caught during fishing charter in Panama City FL

Mahi mahi catch displayed on fishing boat in Panama City FL waters

Speckled trout caught fishing in Panama City FL

Mahi mahi caught during fishing trip in Panama City FL

Mahi mahi caught while fishing in Panama City FL

Fishing catch displayed on boat in Panama City FL waters

Speckled trout catch from fishing trip in Panama City FL

Speckled trout fishing catch in Panama City FL

Tarpon catch on fishing boat in Panama City FL

Explore the Other Side of Panama City Beach: A Local’s GuideWhile the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico are legendary for their marine life, Panama

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Custom Light-Tackle  Fly Fishing Rods in Panama City, FLTailored Fishing Rods Built for Florida WatersWhether you need a specialized inshore spinning 

Handcrafted Custom Fishing Rods in Panama City, FL

Precision Action  Big Inshore Catches with Captain James PicPremier PCB Light Tackle Fishing ChartersIf you appreciate maximum feel, active casting, a

Inshore Light-Tackle Fishing in Panama City, Florida

Secure your spot with Advanced Fishing With JP in Panama City Beach today and prepare for an unforgettable day on the water! Book now to join a local pro and haul in the trophy catch you have always dreamed of landing.

Discover why JP Fishing Charters (Advanced Fishing With JP) is the top choice for an unforgettable Panama City Beach, Florida fishing experience. Captain James “JP” Pic brings over 30 years of local guiding experience on the Emerald Coast, combining decades of knowledge, advanced techniques, and a passion for putting guests on the bite.Capt. JP’s fishing background goes far beyond traditional offshore fishing. He has been fly fishing his entire life and was an Orvis indoor instructor in 1995, bringing a deep understanding of fly presentation, casting techniques, and specialized angling methods to every trip. His passion for fly fishing extends into the Gulf, where he enjoys targeting exciting pelagic species such as mahi-mahi, bonito, and other offshore game fish on the fly. Capt. JP also designs and handcrafts his own mahi-mahi lures, using years of on-the-water experience to create proven lures that consistently attract offshore game fish.Whether you want to explore the calm, shallow waters of St. Andrews Bay or head offshore for deep-sea fishing near Panama City Beach, Capt. JP offers highly successful private trips tailored to your goals. From families looking for an exciting day on the water to experienced anglers chasing offshore action, every charter is built around personalized service, expert instruction, and unforgettable fishing experiences.We specialize in private charters for up to four guests aboard our versatile 26-foot Panga boat. Our trips are perfect for anglers searching for deep-sea fishing near Panama City, Florida without crowded head boats. Whether you are targeting productive offshore reefs, chasing pelagic species, or looking for a close-to-shore Panama City Beach fishing adventure, Capt. JP provides quality fishing equipment, live bait, and all required Florida fishing licenses.With a lifetime of fly fishing experience, decades of local knowledge, handcrafted offshore lures, and a commitment to quality instruction, JP Fishing Charters delivers a one-of-a-kind fishing experience on the Emerald Coast. Dates fill up fast, so book your private charter today and let Captain JP take you where the fish are biting.

Find answers to common questions about our private charters and gain confidence in planning your perfect day on the water.

Panama City Catches & Offshore Fish Photos

Thank you for visiting our website. I hope you enjoy learning about the incredible fishing opportunities around Panama City, Florida. I am passionate about creating unforgettable fishing experiences and sharing the waters that have shaped my life. Whether you are looking for inshore action, offshore adventure, or a unique fly fishing experience, I can customize a trip around your goals.I have lived and fished in the Panama City area for over 40 years. Fishing can sometimes feel surreal as I pull up to spots with clients where I caught my first flounder and big trout nearly 43 years ago. These bays have been my home for almost half a century, and there are few guides who can match my knowledge of these waters, their seasonal patterns, and the fish that call them home.I grew up in Lynn Haven, Florida, a small town bordering the northern city limits of Panama City. As a teenager, I would ride my bike to the Bailey Bridge and fish off the catwalk every chance I got. I swore I would never eat another trout as an adult because of all the trout I ate growing up, but to be honest, trout remain one of the best-eating fish in our area.We always had a boat, and whether we were catching trout, reds, flounder, jacks, or blues, I was blessed to spend countless days on the water with my father. If I got good grades, I was rewarded with a day of "playing hooky" each semester to go fishing. I'll never forget standing on the bank on December 27, 1972, and catching my first big trout on a piece of dead shrimp. I was already hooked on fishing, but that was the moment that truly set the hook and made me realize fishing would always be a major part of my life.Fishing has always been more than just a hobby for me. I have spent my entire life learning how to read the water, understand fish behavior, and consistently find fish. I believe I was blessed with an ability to locate fish and help others experience the excitement of catching them. There is nothing more rewarding than having families and kids on the boat and sharing the knowledge I have gained over decades on the water.Fly fishing has also been a lifelong passion of mine. I have fly fished my entire life and was an Orvis instructor in 1995, where I developed my skills in fly casting and instruction. Fly fishing has allowed me to experience our waters in a completely different way, from sight casting in the bays to chasing powerful Gulf Coast pelagic species. One of my favorite challenges is fly fishing in the Gulf for mahi-mahi, bonito, and other pelagic fish, combining the excitement of offshore fishing with the skill and technique of fly angling. I also enjoy designing and handcrafting my own mahi-mahi lures, using decades of experience on the water to create proven lures that consistently attract offshore game fish.Another unforgettable fishing memory was catching my first mahi-mahi off the Gulf Coast with a hand line while working in the oil field when I was 24 years old. That experience showed me just how incredible the offshore waters of our area can be and fueled my passion for pursuing everything from inshore species to offshore game fish.There are always fish to catch in our waters, no matter what month you visit. In the summer, I may throw a cast net for live bait to target trout and redfish or set up a chum line. In the fall and spring, we often focus on casting artificial baits, while winter brings opportunities with live shrimp and artificial presentations. No matter the season, there is always an opportunity to catch fish when you know where to look.Fishing has continued to improve throughout our area, whether you are targeting monster speckled trout, redfish, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, flounder, or offshore species. Then we have the sharks — 40- to 100-pound predators that regularly cruise our bays looking for their next meal. I can customize your fishing trip around the experience you want.As a seasoned fly fisherman, I can teach the basics of fly fishing and help anglers experience the excitement of catching fish on the fly. If you want an easier approach, we can fish live bait. If you love topwater explosions, we can spend the morning throwing lures. Whether you are a beginner, experienced angler, or someone looking to learn fly fishing, I can create a trip that matches your goals.For many years, I ran without electronics because I knew these bays so well that I simply did not need them for much of my inshore fishing. With today's fishing regulations and conservation efforts, the offshore bite has become incredible. I have expanded my offshore trips for grouper, snapper, kings, amberjack, and other species, and we have had amazing success.I always recommend a 6-hour trip because it gives us enough time to fish multiple techniques and target different species. A typical six-hour trip may start with trout, reds, and flounder before moving into opportunities for big Spanish mackerel, blues, and sharks. If conditions allow us to head offshore, six hours gives us the opportunity to pursue grouper, snapper, kings, amberjack, and other offshore fish.While you are visiting Panama City, Florida, let me show you what more than 40 years of fishing experience can do for you and your family. I get just as much enjoyment watching kids catch their first fish as I do catching fish myself. I have thousands of fishing memories—let me help you create some of your own.

Panama City Fishing Guide with 30+ Years of Experience

Premium 4-hour inshore fishing targeting speckled trout and redfish in St. Andrews Bay. Book today!

Half Day Inshore

Half Day Inshore Guided Trip Panama City Beach

Book your 8-hour offshore fishing adventure targeting mahi mahi, king mackerel & cobia today.

Deep Sea Fun

Full Day Deep Sea Fishing Panama City Beach

Explore the pro-grade gear onboard JP2Fish Charters. Featuring Penn light tackle, Orvis fly rods, live bait & licenses included. Call (850) 319-7855!

Our Equipment

Pro-Grade Tackle & Gear: What’s Onboard JP2Fish Charters

Catch doormat flounder, big trout & redfish this winter in Panama City Beach. Guided light-tackle & fly trips with Capt. James Pic. Call (850) 319-7855.

Winter Fishing

Panama City Beach Winter Fishing: Target Flounder & Gator Trout

Book an award-winning Panama City fishing charter with Capt. James Pic. Over 30 years of local guiding experience. All gear & licenses included. Call today!

Best Charter

Award-Winning Panama City Fishing Charters | JP2Fish

Catch Red Snapper, Grouper & Cobia off Panama City Beach with Capt. James Pic. 30+ years local experience. All tackle & licenses included. Call today!

Snapper Fishing

Panama City Beach Snapper & Grouper Fishing: Target Reef Fish

Book Panama City deep sea fishing charters with Capt. James Pic. Target offshore species in the Gulf. Top gear, licenses & fish cleaning included!

Deep Sea Trips

Panama City Deep Sea Fishing Charters | JP2Fish

Experience premier light-tackle inshore fishing in Panama City, FL with Capt. James Pic. Target Redfish, Trout & Flounder. All tackle & licenses included!

Light Tackle

Planning a trip to Panama City Beach? Discover the best local attractions, parks, and dining to enjoy when you're not on the water. Plan your perfect PCB getaway!

PCB Local Guide

Guided duck hunting in Panama City, FL with Capt. James Pic. Target Redheads, Scaup & Teal in coastal bays & marshes. 30+ yrs experience. Call (850) 319-7855!

Duck Hunting

Panama City Duck Hunting Guides: Coastal Bay & Marsh Trips

Expert guided 6 hour offshore charter targeting grouper and snapper on Panama City reefs. Book now.

Reef Snapper Run

Offshore Reef Fishing Charter Panama City Beach

Premium 5-hour nearshore charter targeting flounder and Spanish mackerel in Panama City Beach. Book today!

Nearshore Fun

Nearshore Fishing Charter Panama City Beach

Top rated family inshore fishing for Sea Trout & Redfish. Expert guides, all gear included. Book now!

Kids Bay Trip

Family Fishing Fun in Panama City Beach

Target fast Cobia and big King Mackerel off Panama City Beach with Capt. James Pic. 30+ years experience. Tackle & licenses included. Call (850) 319-7855.

Cobia and Kings

Panama City Beach Cobia & King Mackerel Charters: Fast Action

Target Mahi Mahi off Panama City, FL with Capt. James Pic. Offshore sight-casting & trolling trips. All tackle & licenses included. Call (850) 319-7855!

Mahi Charters

Panama City Mahi Mahi Fishing Charters | JP2Fish

Target trophy Gator Speckled Trout in Panama City Beach with Capt. James Pic. 30+ years local experience. All light tackle & licenses included. Call today!

PCB Trout Trips

Panama City Beach Speckled Trout Charters: Target Gator Trout

Handcrafted custom fishing rods and expert repairs in Panama City, FL. Precision-built for light tackle and fly fishing. Call (850) 319-7855 to discuss a build!

Custom Rods

Panama City Beach Fishing Charter Frequently Asked Questions What is included in an Advanced Fishing With JP charter?We provide everything you need for a successful day, including premium Penn spinning gear, Orvis fly fishing equipment, all necessary tackle, and both live and artificial bait. We also cover your Florida fishing license for the day and offer complimentary fish cleaning so your catch is ready to take home and cook. How much does a full-day fishing charter cost in Panama City Beach?A full 8-hour deep sea fishing trip with Advanced Fishing With JP is $1,200 for up to four people. This private charter provides a full day of offshore fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, where we target trophy species like red snapper, grouper, and amberjack using the finest equipment available. Is fish cleaning and filleting included in my Panama City Beach fishing trip?Yes, professional fish cleaning is included at no extra charge on all of our fishing excursions. Once we return to the dock, Captain JP ensures your catch is properly cleaned, filleted, and bagged so you have fresh, delicious seafood ready to take home. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear for your charters?You are welcome to bring your favorite rod or reel if you prefer, but it is not necessary. We provide top-tier fishing gear and tackle for every trip, including specialized fly fishing setups and spinning tackle maintained by Captain JP to ensure you are ready for any fish you hook. What is the best time of year to fish in Panama City Beach?There is no bad time to fish here, as we run charters year-round! Spring and summer offer incredible action for pelagic species like mahi mahi and king mackerel, while the winter months provide fantastic, steady opportunities to catch big "Gator" speckled trout and redfish in the backwaters. Are your Panama City Beach fishing trips family-friendly?Absolutely, family fishing is a specialty of ours. We offer a dedicated 4-hour kid-friendly fishing trip in Panama City Beach that is perfect for children aged seven and up, focusing on calm waters, steady action, and building confidence for young anglers in a safe environment. How far offshore do you travel for deep sea fishing trips?For our deep sea fishing trips, we typically head 15 to 30 miles offshore into the Gulf of Mexico. This distance allows us to reach the most productive fishing hotspots where we can target larger game fish and bottom-dwelling species that provide the most fun for our guests. What should I bring on my private fishing charter?We recommend bringing polarized sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen (non-spray preferred), snacks, and your favorite beverages. If you are joining us during cooler months, please bring layered clothing or a light jacket, and always remember to bring cash for gratuity and potential extra bait charges. Can I book a private fishing charter for just my group?Yes, all of our outings are 100% private fishing charters. We only take a maximum of four people per trip, and we only run one trip per day, ensuring that your group gets Captain JP's full, undivided attention to make your time on the water truly special. How do I book a fishing trip with Advanced Fishing With JP?You can book your trip by calling or texting Captain JP directly at (850) 319-7855. Because we are a boutique charter service and prime dates fill up fast, we recommend reaching out as early as possible to secure your preferred date for your Panama City Beach fishing adventure.

Locations for Deep Sea Fishing in Panama City FL

Deep Sea Fishing Near Panama City Beach FL And The Emerald Coast

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Cancel before this guide’s cancellation window to get a full refund.

Experience a personalized 4-hour fishing trip on the beautiful waters of St. Andrews Bay. Perfect for families, beginners, and experienced anglers, this flexible inshore adventure targets seasonal species like redfish, trout, flounder, and more. Fish aboard a custom 26-foot Panga boat with quality gear, bait, tackle, a Florida fishing license, and fish cleaning included. Whether you are looking for a relaxing morning on the water or an action-packed fishing experience, this trip is built around your goals and the day’s conditions.

Redfish

Sea Trout

Panga

4 hrs 

4-Hour St. Andrews Bay Inshore Fishing Adventure

Our 8-hour deep sea option is built for serious anglers looking to maximize their time in the Gulf of Mexico. This extensive booking targets hard-fighting pelagic species such as king mackerel, cobia, and dolphin fish. Carrying up to four guests, the 26-foot Panga reaches prime offshore grounds quickly. All heavy-duty gear, licenses, and lures are supplied. Anglers must bring plenty of food, drinks, and sun protection for a long day on the water. The guide handles all fish processing at the end of the day.

Cobia

King Mackerel

Mahi Mahi or Common Dolphinfish

Red Snapper

Spanish Mackerel

8 hrs 

The Full Day Pursuit: Extended Range Fishing

Go beyond the bay and unlock more productive fishing grounds with the extra range that makes this one of Captain JP's best-value trips. That additional time on the water opens opportunities to target a wider variety of species, from Spanish Mackerel, Mangrove Snapper, and Flounder to offshore favorites like Mahi and Snapper when conditions allow. Aboard Captain JP's fast custom 26-foot boat, you'll spend less time running and more time fishing with premium tackle, bait, your Florida fishing license, and complimentary fish cleaning all included. For safety, this trip is available to children ages 7 and older.

Grey Snapper

Southern Flounder

5 hrs 

Beyond the Bay: Nearshore Fishing Charter

Create unforgettable first fishing memories on a family-friendly trip designed for kids, beginners, and anyone ready to learn the basics of angling. Fishing the calm, sheltered waters of St. Andrews Bay, this experience focuses on steady action, hands-on instruction, and a fun, comfortable environment where young anglers can build confidence and enjoy the excitement of their first catches. With all tackle, bait, and licenses provided, the captain handles the setup so families can focus on making memories together, spotting local wildlife, and enjoying a relaxing day on the water.

First Cast Family Fishing Experience

Designed for anglers wanting to travel 15 to 30 miles out, this 6-hour offshore run targets bottom-dwelling species around wrecks and reefs. Accommodating up to four passengers, guests focus on red snapper, grouper, and triggerfish. The booking provides state-of-the-art navigation, all required tackle, licensing, and bait (offshore live bait may incur a fee up to $30). This option requires moderate sea legs and provides ample time to fill the cooler. Complimentary fish cleaning is provided upon return to the marina.

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