Panama Island Lodge
Isla Parida, Boca Chica, Panama
Panama Island Lodge, situated on a private island near the famous Gulf of Chiriquí is one of Panama’s best-kept secrets. Home to Black Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Roosterfish, Cuberra Snapper, and a more than twenty other species of gamefish, the fishing in these waters is nothing short of legendary.
Accommodation
Private Island Lodge
Season
Year-round
Species
Roosterfish, Cuberra Snapper, Yellowfin Tuna, Marlin, Sailfish
Style
Spinning, Popping, Trolling,
Live-bait, Fly-fishing
Panama's Best Kept Sportfishing Secret
Highlights:
- Epic Inshore and Offshore Fishing: World-class inshore waters teeming with roosterfish, cuberra snapper, and amberjack. Just a short run offshore takes you to legendary hotspots like Hannibal Bank, Isla Montuosa, and Coiba—home to massive yellowfin tuna, blue and black marlin, sailfish, and dorado.
- Untouched National Park Setting: Located within the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park, the lodge is completely off the grid and immersed in pristine jungle. Towering rainforest, mangrove estuaries, and protected marine ecosystems surround you, offering a raw natural backdrop few destinations can match.
- Private Island Beachfront Lodge: Stay on a family-owned private island where rustic charm meets modern comfort. Air-conditioned rooms, ocean views, and freshly prepared meals are paired with warm Panamanian hospitality. After a day on the water, unwind on white-sand beaches and soak in the tranquil island atmosphere.
6 DAY PACKAGE
US$5,190 per angler
- One night at the Hilton Panama in Panama City on arrival.
- Four nights all-inclusive lodging at Panama Island Lodge.
- All meals and drinks.
- Three full days guided inshore & offshore fishing.
- Round trip domestic flights & all transfers while in Panama.
Target Species:
More than 20+ different game fish can be caught on any given day, including Yellowfin Tuna, Black and Blue Marlin, Pacific Sailfish, Wahoo, Cuberra Snapper, Mahi Mahi, Amberjack, and Roosterfish.
Environment:
The Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park was established in 1994 to protect 150 square kilometres (58 sq mi) of marine ecosystems, including coral reef, mangrove swamp and marine meadow, and around two dozen islands of the archipelago of Isla Parida. In total, the park has 25 islands and 19 coral reefs. The park is known for its wildlife including: green iguanas, humpback whales (from August to October), hammerhead sharks, whitetip reef sharks, manta rays, dolphins and multiple species of sea turtle that nest on the beaches of the islands.
Boats & Equipment:
Only the best ‘top-of-the-line’ modern tackle and equipment is used.
An array of brand new Accurate Dauntless and Valiant conventional reels as well as Shimano Stella, Twin Power, and Saragosa spinning outfits all spooled with 65# Yo-Zuri Super Braid braided line and all matched with Blackfin, Accurate, and Howk rods if you are into casting, popping, jigging with lighter tackle.
Boats are center-console catamarans with twin 300 hp 4 stroke Suzukis, SIMRAD system w/Radar/GPS/Sonar, outriggers, twin live-wells, Tuna tubes, fully rigged to fish. A very large stable platform with a 10′ 6″ beam for groups of up to 5 people with Captain & Mate.
Lodging:
Panama Island Lodge is private family owned and operated island lodge on Isla Paridas, 12 miles off the Pacific coast of Panama in the heart of the Gulf of Chiriquí and very close to Hannibal Bank, Isla Montuosa, and Coiba. The lodge sits up overlooking the coastline of the undeveloped jungle. A huge white sand beach and rocky coastline are the views from the three nicely appointed private guest houses that are surrounded by the jungle canopy. There are two 3 bedroom guest houses and one 2 bedroom guest house with the capability to lodge up to 18 guests comfortably. All have spacious living areas, private bathrooms, ocean view decks, and are equipped with: A/C, hot water, WiFi Internet access, fully stocked mini bar/drink refrigerator, YETI cooler packed with beer/soda/water, and large flat screen TVs.
Food & Drinks:
All of the food and meals are homemade, including: gourmet appetizers, fresh seafood, local cuisine, breads, and desserts all prepared by chef Lee. Open bar including: soft drinks, bottled water, beer, and cocktails. The bar is stocked with local Panamanian Abuelo brand rum, Tito’s vodka, Jack Daniel’s whiskey, Johnny Walker Black scotch, 1800 tequila (Reposado and Blanco), Tanqueray gin, a wide selection of South American white and red wines, and cold Panama beer.
Other Activities:
- Two beautiful large white sand beaches all within walking distance of the lodge. Both beaches can be accessed by seaside paths through the jungle that lead to two beach bars. The bars are attended by the staff and both have ocean kayaks and standup paddle boards available to use. The kayaks are great for exploring around the island and taking trips to the many tiny islands within the marine park.
- Great snorkelling in front of the lodge for lobsters, conch, or just checking out the sea life.
- You can also hike around from beach to beach through the numerous jungle trails. Lots of ground and area to cover here if you are into exploring nature.
How to get there:
Fly into Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport (PTY).
Direct flights are available from several US airports including Atlanta, New York, Houston, Miami and Denver. Travel time is 4 – 6 hours.
Documents Required:
A valid passport is required. Citizens of the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and other Western European nations do not need a visa for tourist trips of up to 90 days.
Travel Arrangements:
We take care of all flights, transfers and hotels to and from the lodge and will be included in the final quote.
Guests have the option of booking their own flights as well.
Sample Itinerary
Total Trip Duration: 6 Days
Arrive at Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport (PTY) and receive a VIP greeting at the gate by our English speaking reps. You’ll receive priority status at Immigration and Customs and will be assisted by our escort to the VIP lounge where you can enjoy a drink while your luggage is being collected and sent through Customs. Then, transfer in an air conditioned minibus to the Hilton Panama to check in to your rooms. Enjoy the nightlife!
Pick up at the Hilton and transfer to the Allbrook Airport for your Air Panama flight to David. Arrive in David 40 minutes later. We’ll greet you when you arrive at the David Airport and we’ll head to the marina (about a 10 minute ride) where the “TOP Cat” will be waiting. We’ll take a one hour ride through the mangroves, down the estuary, and out to the lodge offshore on Isla Paridas. You’ll then have the rest of the day to get settled into the private guest house, check out the island/lodge, have a cold drink, relax. have dinner, and get ready for the next three days of fishing.
After breakfast, return to the mainland for transfer back to the David Airport for your return flight to Panama City. When you land you’ll receive assistance to transfer back to the Tocumen International Airport (PTY) to check in for your flight back home.
Double Occupancy Rates and Shared Guide:
5 nights, 3 full days fishing: $5,190 USD per angler
Rates based on 4 anglers in group.
What’s Included:
- 1 night in Panama City at the Hilton Panama (double occupancy – includes breakfast).
- 4 nights All-inclusive lodging in your own private guest house.
- 3 full days guided fishing on one of the 33′ World Cats.
- Round Trip domestic flights to/from David/Panama City.
- All Minibus Transfers while in Panama City to/from Airports/Hotel.
- VIP Service/Assistance at Tocumen Airport with Customs/Immigration/baggage by our English speaking reps.
- ‘On call’ Travel Agent in Panama City to help with your needs.
What’s Not Included:
- International airfare to Panama City.
- Tips for guides and staff.
- Trip insurance.
GALLERY
Frequently Asked Questions:
What makes the Gulf of Chiriquí one of the best fishing regions in Panama?
The Gulf of Chiriquí is a biodiversity hotspot with over 25 islands, mangrove estuaries, and nutrient-rich waters fed by deep ocean currents. These conditions create an ideal environment for pelagic species such as black and blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, sailfish, and dorado, while the rocky inshore coastline holds prized roosterfish, cuberra snapper, and amberjack. Unlike more pressured destinations, the gulf remains relatively untouched, meaning anglers can expect fewer boats and more action on the water.
When is the best time of year to plan a fishing trip to Panama Island Lodge?
The prime offshore season typically runs from December through April, when calm seas and strong currents push massive schools of yellowfin tuna and marlin close to the surface. Inshore fishing for roosterfish and cubera snapper is productive year-round, but May through November—Panama’s green season—brings cooler water and strong baitfish runs, making it a favorite among serious anglers seeking less-crowded conditions and incredible topwater action.
How accessible is the Panama Island Lodge from Panama City?
Traveling to the Panama Island Lodge is straightforward. Most visitors fly into Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport, then connect on a short 1-hour domestic flight to David, the capital of Chiriquí Province, from where anglers are transported via boat to the lodge.