Gatun Lake fishing
questions, answered.

Gatun Lake is the man-made freshwater lake at the heart of the Panama Canal. PanalakeSportfishing operates from La Arenosa in La Chorrera, on the western shore. It is about a 90-minute drive from Panama City and Tocumen International Airport (PTY). We recommend our private transport option, it is the most convenient and often cheaper than what most taxis or Uber will charge you. Uber, taxi, and rental car also work if you prefer.

Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City is the main international gateway. From there, it is about 90 minutes by road to our lodge. We recommend flying in the day before your first fishing day, so you arrive rested and ready.

US, Canadian, UK, EU, and most other Western passport holders do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Check with your embassy for the latest requirements before you travel.

Yes. We can arrange air-conditioned private transport for pickups from the airport, transfers back to Panama City, or day trips elsewhere in Panama. Not included in the base charter rate but easy to add. Ask when booking.

Peacock bass (Cichla ocellaris) are the main target, and the reason most guests fly here. We also target snook, jack crevalle, and occasionally tarpon. Peacock bass fish well year-round. Snook and jack are seasonal. Tarpon are rare but unforgettable when they show up. See our peacock bass fishing guide for a complete species breakdown.

Realistic sizing: typical peacock bass on Gatun Lake run 1 to 2 pounds. Anything over 3 pounds is a big fish. 5 pounds is a true trophy that most anglers land one or two of per good week. Fish approaching 7 pounds have been landed in recent years but are rare. Amazon peacock bass grow much larger, Gatun Lake peacocks are smaller on average but abundant.

Peacock bass fish well year-round on Gatun Lake. The dry season (December through April) has the most stable conditions and clearest water. The wet season (May through November) has more structure and fewer anglers. See our seasonal guide for detail.

No. Every trip includes rods, reels, lures, jigs, and live bait, all top-tier gear rigged for the conditions. If you prefer to fish your own rod, you are welcome to bring it. Standard bass tackle works well on Gatun Lake. Light shore gear also works. We often run reels in the 5000 to 7000 size when trolling heavy deep-diving lures or when we need extra horsepower for big jacks.

Panama does not require a personal fishing license for guided sport fishing charters. Your captain operates under commercial authorisation that covers all guests on the boat.

Primarily yes. We are a catch, photo, release operation, which is why the fishery stays this good. Guests are welcome to keep a couple of fish for dinner (we clean and fillet on the boat) as they are absolutely amazing eating. We just do not fill coolers.

Absolutely. We have hosted families with kids of all ages. The boat is stable and shaded. Life jackets in kids sizes available. Peacock bass are a great species for younger anglers because they hit hard and pull hard, keeps kids engaged.

WhatsApp is fastest. Message +507 6636 0618 with your dates, party size, and trip type (Half Day, Full Day, Extended Day, or lodging package). We reply directly and confirm availability. No middleman, no booking platform fees.

Half Day (6 hours): $275 for up to 3 anglers, $25 per extra, max 5. Full Day (8 hours): $325 for up to 3 anglers, $25 per extra, max 5. Extended Day (12 hours): $550 for up to 3 anglers, $35 per extra, max 5. Full details on our charter trips page.

Full refund up to 5 days out. After that, we work with you on rescheduling or a partial refund depending on circumstances. If we have to cancel from our end due to weather or unsafe conditions, you get a full refund or reschedule.

We take deposits and payments via bank transfer, cash, or WhatsApp confirmation. Final details are confirmed when you book.

Yes. Capt. Luke Cowan is fluent in English and Spanish, as are our hosts at the lodge.

Yes. Message us with your group size and dates and we will put a plan together, including split-boat charters when needed.

A hat, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera. That is it. Everything else, including tackle, water, snacks, and rain gear, is on the boat. Wear light clothing that dries fast.

We fish in rain. We only cancel for lightning or unsafe wind. Our boats have full top-cover roofs, so you stay dry even in a downpour. We do recommend bringing a rain jacket or poncho just in case, especially in the wet season.

Snacks, water, and ice are included on every trip. Full meals are not included in the base rate but can be arranged for an additional cost. Many of our guests also eat at the local restaurant that sits right on the water. It has a seafood-based menu and they can cook up your catch for you. Ask when booking.

Yes. Partners and family who just want to enjoy the day on the lake are welcome. We charge the same per-person add-on rate regardless of whether they fish. Bring a book, take photos, or just relax on the water.

A custom 18 x 8 pontoon boat with 40 hp 2-stroke engine, built for Gatun Lake conditions. Full top cover, comfortable padded seating, live bait well, fishbox, top-tier tackle. Ideal for up to 5 guests. See our boats page for details.

Yes. Panalake has four lakefront casitas: Lakeview One (2 bedrooms, sleeps 4), Lakeview Two (large studio, sleeps 4), Lakeview Three (1 bedroom, sleeps 2), and Lakeview Four with private splash pool (1 bedroom, sleeps 2). Total capacity 12 guests. See our lodging page for details.

Sometimes. Multi-day fishing packages with lodging often work out to a better rate than booking separately. Message us with your dates and party size, we will build a custom quote.

Kayaks, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, dock and lake access, bilingual hosts, free parking, and free Wi-Fi. All casitas have full kitchenettes so you can cook your own meals if you prefer. Laundry is available as a low-cost add-on. Meals are not included in the casita rate but can be arranged.