First Cast Charters 

4.9/5 (66 reviews)
 
Federally permitted
 5550 North Lagoon Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408, United States

First Cast Charters 

 
Federally permitted
4.9/5 (66 reviews)
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5550 North Lagoon Drive
Panama City Beach, FL, United States
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If you want a first class charter then you should book a trip with First Cast Charters today. Captain Kory Freed and his crew offer fishing trips for anglers of all skill levels. Children and the elderly will love the 4-hour trolling trips, and die-hard anglers will find the 12-hour trips perfect.

Hop on board the 'First Cast', a 41' Morgan sport fishing boat, that can easily fit 12 anglers. During trolling trips, 5 lines will set up and the anglers can take it in turns reeling the catch in. On the longer offshore trips, each angler will have their own rod.

The First Cast has twin 375 HP Caterpillar engines, getting you to the fishing grounds fast. On the trolling trips, you'll stay close to shore and be fishing shortly after setting off. The longer trips will take up to 90 minutes to reach the best fishing grounds.

The boat is fully equipped with navigation and safety equipment, so you can fish with peace of mind. There's a private restroom for your comfort, as well as air-conditioned spaces.

There's a first mate on hand to help you fish. He will work hard for you, so don't forget to tip him after the trip! There is also a live bait tank. Live bait is sometimes prepared before, but you may have to buy live bait on the day.

Depending on which trip you choose, you'll be able to target Mahi Mahi, Red Snapper, other Snapper species, Kingfish, Little Tunny, Wahoo, Grouper species, Bull Shark, and many more.

There's no minimum age for children and life vests are provided. Everyone on board is covered by the boat's fishing license and will be using top quality Penn rods and reels. You're welcome to bring a small cooler of your own food and drink – you'll need to keep your energy up! Don't forget to bring layers of clothing, it can get cold out on the water.

Book a trip with First Cast Charters today for an awesome fishing adventure with Capt. Kory. With decades of experience, he will do everything he can to make sure you have a great day fishing.

If you want a first class charter then you should book a trip with First Cast Charters today. Captain Kory Freed and his crew offer fishing trips for anglers of all skill levels. Children and the elderly will love the 4-hour trolling trips, and die-hard anglers will find the 12-hour trips perfect.

Hop on board the 'First Cast', a 41' Morgan sport fishing boat, that can easily fit 12 anglers. During trolling trips, 5 lines will set up and the anglers can take it in turns reeling the catch in. On the longer offshore trips, each angler will have their own rod.

The First Cast has twin 375 HP Caterpillar engines, getting you to the fishing grounds fast. On the trolling trips, you'll stay close to shore and be fishing shortly after setting off. The longer trips will take up to 90 minutes to reach the best fishing grounds.

The boat is fully equipped with navigation and safety equipment, so you can fish with peace of mind. There's a private restroom for your comfort, as well as air-conditioned spaces.

There's a first mate on hand to help you fish. He will work hard for you, so don't forget to tip him after the trip! There is also a live bait tank. Live bait is sometimes prepared before, but you may have to buy live bait on the day.

Depending on which trip you choose, you'll be able to target Mahi Mahi, Red Snapper, other Snapper species, Kingfish, Little Tunny, Wahoo, Grouper species, Bull Shark, and many more.

There's no minimum age for children and life vests are provided. Everyone on board is covered by the boat's fishing license and will be using top quality Penn rods and reels. You're welcome to bring a small cooler of your own food and drink – you'll need to keep your energy up! Don't forget to bring layers of clothing, it can get cold out on the water.

Book a trip with First Cast Charters today for an awesome fishing adventure with Capt. Kory. With decades of experience, he will do everything he can to make sure you have a great day fishing.

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Rating

4.9
66 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
4.9
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (53)

What anglers say

97%
Great experience
100%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
98%
Recommended
95%
Caught fish

All reviews (66)

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Showing 15 of 66 reviews
Jesse Brown
Jesse Brown
Repeat angler
us
Georgia, US
Member since 2020
2 trips
0
5.0
Verified
Unforgettable Offshore Fishing Experience with First Cast Charters!
8 Hour – Bottom Fishing on June 12, 20254 adults
We went out with First Cast Charters yesterday and had one of the best offshore charters of our lives. Captain Kory and first mate Scott were absolute pros from start to finish. They had us on fish immediately and the action never slowed down. We caught a huge variety—red snapper, blackfin snapper, lane snapper, red grouper, gag grouper, even bonita—and maxed out our bag with keepable fish! Every time a line got snapped or needed bait, Scott was right there to rerig or rebait without missing a beat. Their knowledge of the water and dedication to making sure everyone was having a great time was second to none. If you’re looking for a top-tier fishing charter with serious results and a great crew, look no further than First Cast Charters.
Reported catch:
Red Snapper
Gag Grouper
Vermilion Snapper
Response from Captain
June 20, 2025
Wow! What an awesome review. We strive to be the best! Thanks so much for taking the time to comment on your experience. See you soon!!
Kristen Larson
Kristen Larson
us
Missouri, US
Member since 2025
0
5.0
Verified
Great Experience!
4 Hour Trip – Trolling (AM) on November 17, 20254 adults6 children
We chose First Cast Charters based on the reviews, so I wanted to share our awesome experience as well. Captain Kory and first mate Scott took our group of 4 adults and 6 kids out for a 4 hour inshore trolling trip. We had a very successful trip, catching a total of 13 King Mackeral! First mate Scott was awesome. He was very informative and helpful, ensured the boat was clean throughout the trip (the boat was very clean upon us boarding as well), and answered all of our questions about the area and things to do.
Reported catch:
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Response from Captain
November 26, 2025
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review! We are so glad y’all had a great trip and can’t wait to SEA you again soon!
Joseph Schoggins
Joseph Schoggins
us
Alabama, US
Member since 2025
1
5.0
Verified
Awesome time with 3 family generations
8 Hour – Bottom Fishing on August 30, 20258 adults2 children
I booked to take my son on his first deep sea trip for his high school graduation and I carried my father and a couple friends along. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Both captian and deck hand were extremely nice guys and they put us on a nice catch for the 8hr trip we booked. Definitely would use these guys for my next run!! Y’all bookem and they will get you to where you need to be to hookem!!!! Thanks again guys for your time and service we enjoyed the trip and can’t wait to do it again soon!!
Reported catch:
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Red Snapper
Little Tunny (False Albacore)
Gag Grouper
+3
Response from Captain
September 2, 2025
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review. We really appreciate it and are so glad you had a great time! We look forward to seeing you again next time!
Zacary Dietz
Zacary Dietz
us
Iowa, US
Member since 2026
0
5.0
Verified
Great trip, very kid friendly
3 Hour Trip – Inshore Trolling (AM) on March 18, 20263 adults5 children
Cpt. Korey and 1st mate were great with kids. We had 5 kids and 3 adults, everyone was able to land a fish. Make sure to bring proper cloths on cold /windy mornings. They were able put us on some fish ( Spanish makeral) even though the weather was cold. I would recommend them again. book early as they will fill up
Reported catch:
Spanish Mackerel
Response from Captain
March 23, 2026
Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a review. We love having the kids experience the thrill of catching their first fish!
Nikki Jones
Nikki Jones
Repeat angler
us
Missouri, US
Member since 2022
2 trips
0
5.0
Verified
So fun! Lots of fish were caught!
3 Hour Trip – Inshore Trolling (AM) on April 1, 20265 adults2 children
We had so much fun on Kory’s boat with Dave! He was very helpful and handled all the fish that were caught! We counted I believe 28 Spanish Mackrel! Great expereince for us as a family for trying fishing on the sea! I would highly recommend them and we will book again when we come back! Great time over all!
Response from Captain
April 2, 2026
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review. We appreciate it and hope to SEA you again soon!

Trip availability and prices

Trip Date:
Days:
Group Size:
Select date to see availability
May 2026
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Number of days
1
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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3 Hour Trip – Inshore Trolling (AM)
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
3 hour trip starts at 8:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Nov 1 - Apr 30
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US $825
Entire boat: up to 6 people
4 Hour Trip – Trolling (AM)
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 6:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Aug 1 - May 31
US $1,200
Entire boat: up to 6 people
6 Hour Trip – Trolling (PM)
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 12:00 PM
Seasonal trip
Nov 1 - Apr 30
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US $1,650
Entire boat: up to 6 people
6 Hour Trip – Trolling (AM)
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
6 hour trip starts at 6:00 AM
Seasonal trip
Aug 1 - May 31
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US $1,800
Entire boat: up to 6 people
8 Hour – Bottom Fishing
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
8 hour trip starts at 6:00 AM
US $2,400
Entire boat: up to 6 people
10 Hour Trip – Bottom Fishing
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
10 hour trip starts at 5:00 AM
US $3,000
Entire boat: up to 6 people
12 Hour Trip – Bottom Fishing
FREE Cancellation 30 days notice
12 hour trip starts at 5:00 AM
US $3,600
Entire boat: up to 6 people
There are 10 people looking at this charter.

Rating

4.9
66 reviews
4.9
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
4.9
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (53)

What anglers say

97%
Great experience
100%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
98%
Recommended
95%
Caught fish

All reviews (66)

Filter
Frequently mentioned
Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...Loading...
Showing 15 of 66 reviews
Jesse Brown
Jesse Brown
Repeat angler
us
Georgia, US
Member since 2020
2 trips
0
5.0
Verified
Unforgettable Offshore Fishing Experience with First Cast Charters!
8 Hour – Bottom Fishing on June 12, 20254 adults
We went out with First Cast Charters yesterday and had one of the best offshore charters of our lives. Captain Kory and first mate Scott were absolute pros from start to finish. They had us on fish immediately and the action never slowed down. We caught a huge variety—red snapper, blackfin snapper, lane snapper, red grouper, gag grouper, even bonita—and maxed out our bag with keepable fish! Every time a line got snapped or needed bait, Scott was right there to rerig or rebait without missing a beat. Their knowledge of the water and dedication to making sure everyone was having a great time was second to none. If you’re looking for a top-tier fishing charter with serious results and a great crew, look no further than First Cast Charters.
Reported catch:
Red Snapper
Gag Grouper
Vermilion Snapper
Response from Captain
June 20, 2025
Wow! What an awesome review. We strive to be the best! Thanks so much for taking the time to comment on your experience. See you soon!!
Kristen Larson
Kristen Larson
us
Missouri, US
Member since 2025
0
5.0
Verified
Great Experience!
4 Hour Trip – Trolling (AM) on November 17, 20254 adults6 children
We chose First Cast Charters based on the reviews, so I wanted to share our awesome experience as well. Captain Kory and first mate Scott took our group of 4 adults and 6 kids out for a 4 hour inshore trolling trip. We had a very successful trip, catching a total of 13 King Mackeral! First mate Scott was awesome. He was very informative and helpful, ensured the boat was clean throughout the trip (the boat was very clean upon us boarding as well), and answered all of our questions about the area and things to do.
Reported catch:
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Response from Captain
November 26, 2025
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review! We are so glad y’all had a great trip and can’t wait to SEA you again soon!
Joseph Schoggins
Joseph Schoggins
us
Alabama, US
Member since 2025
1
5.0
Verified
Awesome time with 3 family generations
8 Hour – Bottom Fishing on August 30, 20258 adults2 children
I booked to take my son on his first deep sea trip for his high school graduation and I carried my father and a couple friends along. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Both captian and deck hand were extremely nice guys and they put us on a nice catch for the 8hr trip we booked. Definitely would use these guys for my next run!! Y’all bookem and they will get you to where you need to be to hookem!!!! Thanks again guys for your time and service we enjoyed the trip and can’t wait to do it again soon!!
Reported catch:
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Red Snapper
Little Tunny (False Albacore)
Gag Grouper
+3
Response from Captain
September 2, 2025
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review. We really appreciate it and are so glad you had a great time! We look forward to seeing you again next time!
Zacary Dietz
Zacary Dietz
us
Iowa, US
Member since 2026
0
5.0
Verified
Great trip, very kid friendly
3 Hour Trip – Inshore Trolling (AM) on March 18, 20263 adults5 children
Cpt. Korey and 1st mate were great with kids. We had 5 kids and 3 adults, everyone was able to land a fish. Make sure to bring proper cloths on cold /windy mornings. They were able put us on some fish ( Spanish makeral) even though the weather was cold. I would recommend them again. book early as they will fill up
Reported catch:
Spanish Mackerel
Response from Captain
March 23, 2026
Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a review. We love having the kids experience the thrill of catching their first fish!
Nikki Jones
Nikki Jones
Repeat angler
us
Missouri, US
Member since 2022
2 trips
0
5.0
Verified
So fun! Lots of fish were caught!
3 Hour Trip – Inshore Trolling (AM) on April 1, 20265 adults2 children
We had so much fun on Kory’s boat with Dave! He was very helpful and handled all the fish that were caught! We counted I believe 28 Spanish Mackrel! Great expereince for us as a family for trying fishing on the sea! I would highly recommend them and we will book again when we come back! Great time over all!
Response from Captain
April 2, 2026
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review. We appreciate it and hope to SEA you again soon!

FAQs about First Cast Charters

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The fish you can target

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What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Sportfishing boats
Capacity
12 persons
Boat length
41 ft
Year built
2000
Boat manufacturer
Morgan
Boat type
Sportfishing
Engine model
Caterpillar 3208
Powered by
2 x 375HP
Max cruising speed
18 knots
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