Ready for a serious day of fishing in the Gulf? Our 8 to 10-hour charter with Got'em Fishing Charters is the real deal. We're talking about a full day on the water, giving you plenty of time to try different spots and techniques. Whether you're looking to fill the cooler or just enjoy a day out with friends and family, Captain Jeremy's got you covered. No need to worry about gear or bait – we've got all that sorted. Just bring your food, drinks, and sunscreen, and we'll take care of the rest. From newbies to seasoned anglers, we'll make sure everyone has a blast and hopefully lands some impressive catches.
When you step aboard our boat, you're in for a treat. We'll start the day early, usually around sunrise, to make the most of the prime fishing hours. As we head out into the Gulf, Captain Jeremy will fill you in on the game plan for the day. We might start by targeting some nearshore species before heading further out for the big guns like Red Snapper and Grouper. Throughout the day, we'll mix it up with different fishing spots and techniques to keep things interesting and increase your chances of a varied catch. Don't worry if you're new to this – we'll show you the ropes and have you reeling in fish in no time. And hey, if you need a break, feel free to kick back and enjoy the ride. We've got a comfortable boat with plenty of shade and seating.
On our full-day trips, we use a variety of fishing methods to target different species. We might start with some bottom fishing, dropping baits down to the structure where Grouper and Snapper like to hang out. Then we could switch it up with some trolling for Kingfish or Mahi Mahi. If the conditions are right, we might even do some sight fishing for cobia or throw some topwater lures for bluefish and Spanish mackerel. We provide all the gear you'll need – top-quality rods and reels, fresh bait, and all the tackle. Our gear is well-maintained and suited for the fish we're after, so you won't be outgunned when that big one hits. Captain Jeremy keeps up with the latest fishing tech and techniques, so you'll be using some of the best gear in the business.
"We had a great time fishing with Captain Jeremy. We had never been charter fishing before and my son had requested to go, so we booked the trip. Captain Jeremy taught us the basics and kept us going with our lines in the water and reeling in the fish. He was excellent as far as communication before and after the trip (sending us the pics of our catches and thanking us for the booking). He even let my son play his music on the boats bluetooth radio. I would definitely book with him again." - Matthew
Red Snapper: These guys are the stars of the Gulf. Known for their bright red color and tasty white meat, Red Snapper are a favorite among anglers and seafood lovers alike. They typically hang out near reefs and wrecks in depths of 60 to 250 feet. Red Snapper can grow up to 40 pounds, but most catches are in the 5 to 15-pound range. They're known for their strong initial run, so be ready when you hook one! The season for Red Snapper is usually in the summer months, but regulations can change, so we always stay up to date to make sure we're fishing legally.
Gag Grouper: If you're after a real arm-wrestle of a fish, Gag Grouper is your target. These bruisers love to hang around rocky bottoms and reefs, using their powerful bodies to pull you right back into their hidey-holes. They can grow over 50 pounds, though most catches are in the 10 to 30-pound range. Gags are ambush predators, so we'll often use live bait to entice them out. The meat is white, flaky, and delicious – perfect for grilling or frying. Gag Grouper fishing is typically best in the cooler months, from fall through spring.
King Mackerel: Also known as Kingfish, these speedsters are a blast to catch. They're known for their blistering runs and aerial acrobatics when hooked. We often target them by trolling with live bait or artificial lures. Kings can grow over 5 feet long and weigh up to 100 pounds, though most catches are in the 10 to 30-pound range. They're migratory fish, so we see them most often in the spring and fall as they pass through our waters. If you're lucky enough to hook a big one, hang on tight – they're known for their spectacular fights!
Mahi Mahi: Also called Dorado or Dolphinfish (though they're not related to dolphins), Mahi Mahi are some of the most beautiful fish in the sea. They're known for their vibrant colors – electric blues, greens, and yellows that seem to shift and change. Mahi are fast-growing and can reach up to 30 pounds in their first year. We often find them near floating debris or weed lines, where they hunt for smaller fish. They're acrobatic fighters, known for their aerial displays when hooked. The meat is mild and delicious, making them a favorite for both sport and table fare. We typically see more Mahi in the warmer months, from late spring through early fall.
Greater Amberjack: Locally known as "reef donkeys" for their stubborn fighting ability, Amberjack are the heavyweight champions of the reef. These powerful fish can grow over 100 pounds and are known for their stamina – expect a long, grueling fight if you hook into a big one. We typically find them around deep-water structures like wrecks and offshore reefs. Amberjack season is usually in the cooler months, making them a great target when other species might be slower. They're not the prettiest fish out there, but what they lack in looks they make up for in pure fighting power. If you're after a true test of your fishing skills, Amberjack are the way to go.
Alright, folks, if you're itching to get out on the water and tangle with some of the Gulf's finest, it's time to lock in your date with Got'em Fishing Charters. Our full-day trips are perfect for serious anglers looking to maximize their time on the water, but they're also great for families or groups who want to mix some fishing with a day out on the Gulf. Remember, we provide all the gear and know-how – you just need to bring your sense of adventure (and maybe some snacks). With Captain Jeremy's local knowledge and our top-notch equipment, you're in for a day of fishing you won't soon forget. So why wait? The fish are biting, and we've got a spot on the boat with your name on it. Give us a call or book online, and let's make some fishing memories in Panama City Beach!
March 26, 2025
King Mackerel, or Kingfish, are speed demons of the Gulf. These sleek predators can hit 40 mph and put on aerial shows when hooked. Most kings we catch run 10-30 pounds, but 50+ pounders aren't unheard of. Look for them in 30-150 feet of water around reefs, wrecks, and bait schools. Spring and fall are prime seasons when kings migrate through our area. Anglers love targeting them for their blistering runs and acrobatic jumps. Kings make good eating too, especially when smoked. To catch 'em, try slow-trolling live baits like blue runners or cigar minnows. Use wire leaders - those razor-sharp teeth will slice through mono. Here's a tip: when a king hits, don't set the hook right away. Let it run with the bait for a few seconds, then engage the reel. This gives the fish time to turn the bait and get the hook in its mouth.
Mahi Mahi, also called Dolphin or Dorado, are some of the most beautiful fish in the ocean. Their iridescent blue, green, and gold colors are stunning. Most mahi we catch are 5-15 pounds, but 30+ pounders show up too. You'll find them around floating debris, weed lines, and offshore rips, usually in water over 120 feet deep. Summer is prime time as warm currents push in. Anglers love mahi for their acrobatic fights and excellent table fare. These fish grow fast but don't live long, so there's no guilt keeping a few for dinner. To catch 'em, troll ballyhoo or small lures around floating structure. Here's a tip: when you hook one, leave it in the water. Others will often follow it to the boat, giving you shots at multiple fish.
Red Snapper are the crown jewels of Gulf bottom fishing. These ruby-red beauties average 5-10 pounds but can top 30. You'll find them around natural and artificial reefs in 60-300 feet of water. They're structure-oriented, so good electronics are key to locating them. Snapper season is short but sweet, usually in June and July. Anglers target them for their hard-fighting nature and top-notch eating quality. To catch 'em, drop baits like squid or cigar minnows straight down over structure. Use circle hooks - they're required and help with catch and release. Here's a local trick: when you feel the bite, reel fast instead of setting the hook. This helps pull the fish away from the reef before it can break you off.
Greater Amberjack are real bruisers, often reaching 40-50 pounds and putting up one heck of a fight. You'll find these guys hanging around reefs, wrecks, and underwater structures in depths from 60 to 240 feet. They're most active in spring and fall when water temps are in the 70s. Amberjacks are popular targets because they'll test your strength and endurance - they don't give up easily once hooked. Their meat is good eating too, with a firm texture similar to tuna. When targeting AJs, use heavy gear with at least 50-pound test line. Live bait like blue runners or sardines works great, but big jigs can be effective too. Here's a local tip: If you hook one, get it off the bottom fast or it'll try to break you off in the structure. Crank hard and be ready for some sore arms!
We had a great time fishing with Captain Jeremy. We had never been charter fishing before and my son had requested to go, so we booked the trip. Captain Jeremy taught us the basics and kept us going with our lines in the water and reeling in the fish. He was excellent as far as communication before and after the trip (sending us the pics of our catches and thanking us for the booking). He even let my son play his music on the boats bluetooth radio. I would definitely book with him again.