FISHING IN PANAMA

From the hot popping action of Isla Montuosa to the huge Yellowfin tuna of Hannibal Bank to the super grand slams of Zane Grey Reef ( ), the consistent quality of Panama's inchore and offshore sport fishing continues to impress those anglers who can make the trek to this special place.

Geographic location, diverse habitat and lack of exploitation all play roles in the long-standing reputation of Panama as a sport-fishing paradise. Only about 8 degrees above the equator, Panama's warm sea temperatures attract a long list of marine game fish. The warm easterly-moving Equatorial Counter Current collides with cooler, north-moving Peru Current along the entire Pacific Coast of Panama. This accounts for high nutrient levels; unusually rich upwellings occur when these currents reach the country's numerous island, bays, narrow land passages and the continental shelf.

This Marine resource has not been depleted by overfishing, pollution or coastal development. Most of the Panamanian commercial fleet are hand-liners and small-scale gill netters that work with a limited supply of ice. Offshore island and banks remain relatively undisturbed. Additionally, whole regions such as Coiba Island benefit from preserve status that outlaws commercial fishing.

The Panamenian government has played an additional role by not issuing longline and drift gill-net permits to foreing vessels. One hopes this policy will continue. Both coast remain almost completely undeveloped, and mosto of the marine ecosystems remain in a natural state.

Whatever light-tackle fishing style you prefer - popping, jigging, fly fishing or light-tackle trolling- chances are it will be productive, thanks to the great volume of fish and variety of species here.

FISHING PACKAGES