Panama City’s strategic location on St. Andrews Bay has played an important role in the destination’s history as an anglers paradise. Similarly, the ideal wind conditions have established Panama City as a world-class sailing destination, with travelers from around the globe envying the constant breezes and calm waters of St. Andrews Bay and the Gulf. Sprawling more than 68,000 acres behind the protection of the Gulf of Mexico shoreline, St. Andrews Bay is home to abundant aquatic life.

The bay spans more than 20 miles and includes a wealth of saltwater flats and seagrass beds that offer a rich bounty. Redfish, Speckled Trout, Black Drum, Cobia, Sheepshead and Flounder are just a few of the species that populate these channels.

The clear waters of this extensive ecosystem are ideal for both novice and expert anglers. Numerous charters and guides offer year-round off-shore fishing opportunities for various seasonal species. Bottom fishing yields grouper, snapper, mahi-mahi, mackerel and amberjack. Trolling is an ideal method for hooking both Spanish and king mackerel, cobia and jack crevalles. Sport fishing for sailfish and marlin provides heart-thumping excitement during a true test of endurance and skill.

Offering near perfect winds that many coastal communities envy, visitors to Panama City have the opportunity to sail in the deepest and largest protected bay in the area. Long revered as a sailing destination, Panama City is home to numerous regattas throughout the year such as the A-Class Catamaran North American Championships.

Boaters love Panama City with more marinas per capita than many similarly sized coastal destinations and charters providing ready access for water based excursions. Shelling expeditions to unpopulated barrier islands, such as Shell Island are readily available to any guests wishing to explore the bay area by water. Download a free Visitors Guide to learn about the crystal blue waters of Destination Panama City.