Mahi Mahi Fishing in Panama City Beach, FL

If you’re chasing the thrill of colorful, fast-hitting fish, mahi mahi fishing (also known as dolphinfish or dorado) is an activity to try. Known for their vivid green and blue hues, aerial acrobatics, and aggressive strikes, mahi mahi are among the most exciting game fish in the Gulf of Mexico. And there’s no better way to hook them than with Captain James, the local legend with over 50 years of fishing expertise in Panama City Beach, FL.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to offshore fishing, mahi mahi fishing trips in Panama City Beach, FL, with Captain James offer a rewarding, action-packed day on the water. No gimmicks—just the best gear, a lightning-fast boat, and a captain who knows their zip code.

Target Mahi Mahi with Proven Local Knowledge

Timing and location are everything when it comes to catching mahi mahi. These pelagic fish migrate seasonally, typically moving closer to the coast in warmer months. With decades spent studying the Gulf’s rhythms, Captain James understands exactly where to troll, when to drop lines, and what triggers strikes.

Fishing aboard his 26-foot Panga—a vessel built for speed and agility—means you’ll waste no time reaching the mahi mahi zones. Equipped with the best in Penn Spinning and Orvis Fly Fishing gear, you’ll have everything needed for a successful day, whether you’re trolling weed lines, pitching baits, or casting flies.

Enjoy Comfort and Quality on Every Charter

Aboard Captain James’ Panga, you’ll find a boat built for both speed and fishability. The open deck design allows anglers of all experience levels to move freely, cast easily, and fight fish without crowding. Whether you’re deep into a multi-hour trip or enjoying a half-day excursion, comfort and performance are never compromised.

Your charter includes all necessary fishing licenses, bait, tackle, and gear—no hidden fees, no hassle. Captain James also provides expert coaching, making these trips perfect for anglers trying mahi mahi for the first time, as well as seasoned sport fishermen ready to land a trophy.

Catch More Than Just Fish—Make Lasting Memories

Mahi mahi fishing in Panama City Beach, FL, offers more than just tight lines. With Captain James, you’ll witness stunning sunrises, spot flying fish skipping across the surface, and maybe even see dolphins racing alongside the boat. For many guests, the experience becomes a memory they return to year after year.

Fishing trips with Captain James aren’t cookie-cutter charters. They’re personalized, professional adventures led by someone who’s earned the community’s trust. It’s no wonder he was voted “Best of Bay” and continues to rank as one of the area’s most respected captains.

Hook the Fish. Trust the Captain. Book the Trip.

When it comes to mahi mahi fishing tours in Panama City Beach, FL, nobody knows the water like Captain James. His local roots, top-tier equipment, and unwavering passion for putting people on fish make every outing a success.

Want to pair your mahi mahi charter with other seasonal catches like wahoo, king mackerel, or red snapper? No problem—Captain James customizes your day to match the season, the weather, and your goals.

Book now.

As the waters of the Gulf warm up each spring around Panama City Beach Florida each year the baitfish start showing up. Not far behind, usually by early May, the mahi mahi are not far behind.

There are several ways to catch mahi mahi in the Gulf of America around Panama City Beach Florida. Trolling is my favorite way to fish for them. I have developed techniques and lures for catching mahi over many years. While trolling we keep and watchful eye for floating debris or a weed line. Most times, when you find a weedline or floating debris, a school of mahi will be around. Ranging from a few fish to several hundred this can lead to a lot of fast a furious action. One other way to catch mahi is a school of these green, yellow and blue fish will swim up to the boat while bottom fishing for snapper and grouper.

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