Fishwhacker Charters 

4.7
(76 reviews)
 
State licensed
 6824 South Lagoon Drive, Panama City, FL 32408, United States–

Fishwhacker Charters 

Panama City, FL, United States
–
24 ft
4
4.7
(76 reviews)

Explore the beautiful waters of Panama City Beach and Shell Island by joining Fishwhacker Charters on this exclusive adventure. Captain Don Rice personally invites you on an epic battle against some of the biggest fish you've ever seen!

Your charter will take place on a 24' Tidewater center console, powered by a 350 HP Yamaha engine, and equipped with a fishfinder, GPS, and wireless trolling motor. The boat also comes with Humminbird Electronics and a Bluetooth sound system, so you can play your favorite tunes while fishing. The Tidewater fits up to 4 guests and 3 to 4 people can fish at the same time.

Once you hit your destination, you can expect lots of action with lines screaming everywhere, fish flying in every direction, and water splashing all over the place. The captain calls these wild encounters 'controlled chaos.' Even the most experienced anglers have a tough time dealing with some of these big trophy fish!

Capt. Don will either take you trolling, drifting, or bottom fishing, depending on what you prefer. He also offers fly fishing trips as long as you bring your own fly gear and let him know in advance. Otherwise, you'll mainly be using light tackle with top-of-the-line Penn and Shimano rods and reels.

For your offshore excursions, you'll go up to 9 miles from the coast to chase species such as Kingfish, Mahi Mahi, Amberjack, and Vermilion Snapper. On nearshore and inshore trips, you'll be drifting or bottom fishing over beautiful wrecks and reefs in search of Black Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia.

If you're looking for an action-packed day of fishing in sunny Panama City Beach, then look no further. Fishwhacker Charters is the perfect day trip for your friends or family and kids are more than welcome to join, as well. Your fishing license will already be taken care of for you, so just bring a hat, sunglasses, and some sunscreen and join Capt. Don on an unforgettable adventure!

Explore the beautiful waters of Panama City Beach and Shell Island by joining Fishwhacker Charters on this exclusive adventure. Captain Don Rice personally invites you on an epic battle against some of the biggest fish you've ever seen!

Your charter will take place on a 24' Tidewater center console, powered by a 350 HP Yamaha engine, and equipped with a fishfinder, GPS, and wireless trolling motor. The boat also comes with Humminbird Electronics and a Bluetooth sound system, so you can play your favorite tunes while fishing. The Tidewater fits up to 4 guests and 3 to 4 people can fish at the same time.

Once you hit your destination, you can expect lots of action with lines screaming everywhere, fish flying in every direction, and water splashing all over the place. The captain calls these wild encounters 'controlled chaos.' Even the most experienced anglers have a tough time dealing with some of these big trophy fish!

Capt. Don will either take you trolling, drifting, or bottom fishing, depending on what you prefer. He also offers fly fishing trips as long as you bring your own fly gear and let him know in advance. Otherwise, you'll mainly be using light tackle with top-of-the-line Penn and Shimano rods and reels.

For your offshore excursions, you'll go up to 9 miles from the coast to chase species such as Kingfish, Mahi Mahi, Amberjack, and Vermilion Snapper. On nearshore and inshore trips, you'll be drifting or bottom fishing over beautiful wrecks and reefs in search of Black Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, and Cobia.

If you're looking for an action-packed day of fishing in sunny Panama City Beach, then look no further. Fishwhacker Charters is the perfect day trip for your friends or family and kids are more than welcome to join, as well. Your fishing license will already be taken care of for you, so just bring a hat, sunglasses, and some sunscreen and join Capt. Don on an unforgettable adventure!

Don Rice
Captain
Don Rice
10 years of experience
ID & credentials verified
responds within an hour

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
October 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
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Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
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Half Day Morning Trip
FREE Cancellation 3 days notice
4 hour trip starts at 7:00 AM
US $700
Entire boat: 2 people

Customer reviews

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Rating

4.7
76 reviews
4.8
Boat & equipment
4.7
Captain & crew
4.6
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (70)

What anglers say

89%
Great experience
92%
Family friendly
95%
Friendly captain
98%
Good boat
89%
Recommended
81%
Caught fish

Reviews (76)

  • Jay Donnell
    Jay Donnell
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2026
    5.0
    Verified

    Very Knowledgeable Captain

    Half Day Morning Trip on July 16, 2026 • 3 adults

    Caught Amber Jack and a few Trigger fish

  • Mark Albertson
    Mark Albertson
    us
    South Carolina, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    An Amazing Day in Panama City Beach Florida with Captain Don

    Half Day Morning Trip on June 27, 2025 • 2 adults

    **⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Amazing Day on the Water with Captain Don!** If you’re looking for an unforgettable fishing experience in Panama City Beach, look no further than Captain Don and Fishwacker Charters! We had the absolute best time — we caught grouper, red snapper, and king mackerel, and the entire trip was incredible from start to finish. Captain Don went above and beyond to make sure we had a successful trip. He was so patient with us, took the time to explain everything, and didn’t hesitate to move to different spots to make sure we had the best chance to reel in some great catches. His knowledge of the area and commitment to giving us the best experience possible really showed. We made memories that will last a lifetime and can’t wait to go out with Captain Don again. Highly recommend Fishwacker Charters — you won’t be disappointed!

  • Drew Daly
    Drew Daly
    us
    Alabama, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Great Captain

    Half Day Morning Trip on June 21, 2025 • 3 adults

    Was able to get us on some great fish, put in the time to catch us bait, so we were ready to hook up. Then he was able to put us directly on the bite. Would go again!

  • Kyle Boring
    Kyle Boring
    Repeat angler
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2021
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Half day with Captain Don

    Half Day Morning Trip on June 8, 2022 • 1 adult

    Had yet another great day with Captain Don! We tried to get on some grouper and he got us hooked up tight away (first drop) but our rookie skills led to a few breaking off in the wrecks. No worries, we hooked into some decent amberjack who took us on a nice ride. After all of the huffing and puffing we welcomed a few aboard before returning them to the deep. Everyone on the boat (4 of us) caught fish every day we went. Some better than others but the experience was excellent and the memories will be lasting. If you can take advice and put it into action immediately you will absolutely have success. Working these fish is a blast. 10 out of 10

  • Kyle Boring
    Kyle Boring
    Repeat angler
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2021
    3 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Half day with Caprain Don

    Half Day Morning Trip on June 7, 2022 • 1 adult

    Couldn't have asked for a better time and experience! Everyone caught fish. Some amberjacks beat us up but we came home with the man in the brown suit so it doesn't get any better than that! Conditions were sunny and slick calm seas. We didn't expect cobia today but captain Don was ready when an opportunity presented itself. Without his quick thinking, pre planning and guidance we wouldn't have that excellent fish. Book with him. He will put you on the fish!

  • Craig Cronin
    Craig Cronin
    us
    Kentucky, US
    Member since 2021
    5.0
    Verified

    Capt/Coach Don

    Half Day Morning Trip on October 14, 2021 • 3 adults • 1 child

    Capt Don worked his butt off today to put us on fish and we had a blast, despite very non ideal conditions. He was hard on us like a football coach until we got the hang of fighting giant amberjack, which was the fight of a lifetime, but he put us on the fish and showed us exactly how to wrestle and land these huge fish, they wore us out but we wore them out too! We broke off several and we’re able to land several good ones too! Had a blast, 100% recommended fishing with Capt Don! We’ll be back for sure

  • David Reynolds
    David Reynolds
    Repeat angler
    us
    Kentucky, US
    Member since 2021
    5 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Half day trip with Captain Don!

    Half Day Morning Trip on August 4, 2021 • 3 adults • 1 child

    Had a blast! Started catching fish on the first cast! Captain Don was able to put my 10 year old on some nice fish, right from the start. Stopped to grab some bait, and caught some dinner at the same time. Then headed for some big boys. Hooked up on a few that my father thought would take him with them. We were all able to bring in a variety of species as well as put food on the table the same night. Captain Don was extremely knowledgeable and fun fish with. Will definitely use him again next trip!

  • Brandon White
    Brandon White
    Repeat angler
    us
    Georgia, US
    Member since 2022
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Half day trip fishing for Jacks

    Half Day Morning Trip on August 1, 2023 • 2 adults • 1 child

    Had a great time on the 4 hour trip. Hooked up on quite a few jacks, only got 3 to the boat as dolphins were taking some but had a great time taking my son fishing with Captain Don!

  • Matthew Lauersdorf
    Matthew Lauersdorf
    Repeat angler
    us
    Wisconsin, US
    Member since 2020
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    4 hour trip

    Half Day Morning Trip on March 29, 2021 • 2 adults

    Was supposed to be a morning trip but Don suggested we wait till afternoon when the sea calmed down. Glad we waiting. Was a great trip. Put us on the fish right away and tried a few different techniques. Ended up with a few triggerfish and one red snapper we got in the boat but had good fights with a few others that broke us off. Will for sure book with fishwacker when I’m done in PCB again!

  • Galen Johnson
    Galen Johnson
    us
    Illinois, US
    Member since 2021
    5.0
    Verified

    Half Day with Captain Don.

    Half Day Morning Trip on February 25, 2021 • 2 adults

    The day started a little foggy, but Captain Don’s boat was well equipped with the proper electronics to navigate to a predetermined location without any difficulty. The time just flew by while practicing the different fishing techniques demonstrated by Captain Don. We caught and released several fish. It was a great day with good company, good equipment and good fishing.

Rating

4.7
76 reviews
4.8
Boat & equipment
4.7
Captain & crew
4.6
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (70)

What anglers say

89%
Great experience
92%
Family friendly
95%
Friendly captain
98%
Good boat
89%
Recommended
81%
Caught fish

All reviews (76)

Frequently mentioned
Showing 1 – 5 of 76 reviews
Santiago Velasquez
Santiago Velasquez
us
Nebraska, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Great time!
Half Day Morning Trip on June 25, 2026 • 3 adults • 1 child

It was a great time. Even my six year old had fun!

Reported catch:
Amberjack
Don Rice
Response from Captain

Thank you very much, Santiago. And thank you for your service as a police officer. It was my pleasure to take you guys out.

Jay Donnell
Jay Donnell
us
Georgia, US
Member since 2026
5.0
Verified
Very Knowledgeable Captain
Half Day Morning Trip on July 16, 2026 • 3 adults

Caught Amber Jack and a few Trigger fish

Don Rice
Response from Captain

Thanks, Jay. I was glad we found some smaller fish like the trigger fish for your 11-year-old grandson. I know he had a lot of fun catching those and the Bait.

Mark Albertson
Mark Albertson
us
South Carolina, US
Member since 2025
5.0
Verified
An Amazing Day in Panama City Beach Florida with Captain Don
Half Day Morning Trip on June 27, 2025 • 2 adults

**⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Amazing Day on the Water with Captain Don!** If you’re looking for an unforgettable fishing experience in Panama City Beach, look no further than Captain Don and Fishwacker Charters! We had the absolute best time — we caught grouper, red snapper, and king mackerel, and the entire trip was incredible from start to finish. Captain Don went above and beyond to make sure we had a successful trip. He was so patient with us, took the time to explain everything, and didn’t hesitate to move to different spots to make sure we had the best chance to reel in some great catches. His knowledge of the area and commitment to giving us the best experience possible really showed. We made memories that will last a lifetime and can’t wait to go out with Captain Don again. Highly recommend Fishwacker Charters — you won’t be disappointed!

Reported catch:
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Amberjack
Red Snapper
Don Rice
Response from Captain

Hi, Mark. It was a pleasure to serve you and Mary Jo. Thank you very much for the kind review!

Drew Daly
Drew Daly
us
Alabama, US
Member since 2025
5.0
Verified
Great Captain
Half Day Morning Trip on June 21, 2025 • 3 adults

Was able to get us on some great fish, put in the time to catch us bait, so we were ready to hook up. Then he was able to put us directly on the bite. Would go again!

Don Rice
Response from Captain

I really appreciate that great review, Drew! Totally enjoyed having you and your fiancé and your brother-in-law on the boat today! Best wishes on your upcoming nuptials!

Jordan Deal
Jordan Deal
us
Tennessee, US
Member since 2025
5.0
Verified
Amazing trip
Half Day Morning Trip on June 19, 2025 • 2 adults

Best fishing trip I’ve ever been on. Knows exactly where to take you for the good fish. Highly recommended using don very great guy and makes it the best experience possible

Reported catch:
Red Snapper
Black Grouper
Don Rice
Response from Captain

Thank you very much for the great review, Jordan. I’ll look forward to taking you and Jonathan out again!

FAQs about Fishwhacker Charters

Fishwhacker Charters offers the following trip to customers:
  • US $700 per group, additional US $50 per person after 2 guests - Half Day Morning Trip (4 hours)
When you book a trip with Fishwhacker Charters, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS
  • Fishfinder
  • Live bait well 2 of them.
  • Refrigerator
  • Wireless trolling motor
  • Radar
Trips booked with Fishwhacker Charters include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle (Shimano & Penn.)
  • Live bait (For reef/wreck trips. Pilchards caught on the way.)
  • Lures
  • Fishing license
Fishwhacker Charters offers the following types of fishing:
  • Nearshore fishing
  • Reef fishing
  • Wreck fishing
Fishwhacker Charters offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Bottom fishing
  • Trolling
  • Fly fishing
  • Drift fishing
Top targeted fish species with Fishwhacker Charters include:
  • Amberjack
  • Cobia
  • Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
  • Grouper (Black)
  • King Mackerel (Kingfish)
  • Redfish
  • Snapper (Red)
  • Snapper (Vermilion)
  • Spanish Mackerel
  • Speckled Trout
  • Tarpon

Your captain

Don Rice
Don Rice
Panama City, Florida, United States
ID & license verified
76 Customer reviews
Typical response within an hour
Member since March 2019
Captain Don Rice grew up in Panama City Beach, Florida, where he's been fishing since the early age of 12. Fast forward to 45 years later, and his passion for being out on the water is stronger than ever. Capt. Don finally decided to start guiding his own trips about 3 years ago, and to no surprise, has fallen in love with the job. His goal is not only to get you some fish but to show you a good time as well. It won't take long for you to see why he loves the sport so much!
Don Rice
Don Rice
Fully verified
76
reviews
2019
member since
~1h
response
Captain Don Rice grew up in Panama City Beach, Florida, where he's been fishing since the early age of 12. Fast forward to 45 years later, and his passion for being out on the water is stronger than ever. Capt. Don finally decided to start guiding his own trips about 3 years ago, and to no surprise, has fallen in love with the job. His goal is not only to get you some fish but to show you a good time as well. It won't take long for you to see why he loves the sport so much!

The fish you can target

Amberjack
Amberjack
Cobia
Cobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Black Grouper
Black Grouper
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
Redfish
Redfish
Red Snapper
Red Snapper
Vermilion Snapper
Vermilion Snapper
Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel
Speckled Trout
Speckled Trout
Tarpon
Tarpon
Amberjack
Amberjack
Cobia
Cobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
Black Grouper
Black Grouper
King Mackerel (Kingfish)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)

Real catches by this captain

  • Very Knowledgeable Captain
    Jay D.
    Jay D.
  • An Amazing Day in Panama City Beach Florida with Captain Don
    Mark A.
    Mark A.
  • July fishing trip
    Dylan B.
    Dylan B.
  • Half day trip fishing for Jacks
    Brandon W.
    Brandon W.
  • Fishing with Don
    Maggie E.
    Maggie E.
  • Half day with an excellent captain
    Hunter C.
    Hunter C.
  • Half day with Captain Don
    Kyle B.
    Kyle B.
  • Half day with Caprain Don
    Kyle B.
    Kyle B.
  • Half Day Trip With Don
    Jessica K.
    Jessica K.
  • Half day with Captain Don with Fish Wacker charters.
    Eric J.
    Eric J.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
4 persons
Boat length
24 ft
Year built
2015
Boat manufacturer
Tidewater
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
Yamaha
Powered by
1 x 300HP
Max cruising speed
43 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

Nearshore Fishing
Reef Fishing
Wreck Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Bottom Fishing
Trolling
Fly Fishing
Drift Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Fishfinder
Live bait well
2 of them.
Refrigerator
Wireless trolling motor
Radar
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Shimano & Penn.
Live bait
For reef/wreck trips. Pilchards caught on the way.
Lures
Fishing license

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 3 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 3 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup not included
Transfer to/from departure site is not included in trip rates.
Child friendly
Min. age is discussed with parents prior to trip.
You keep catch
You keep whatever is in season & w/in legal size.
Catch and release allowed

How you can pay

Book with 10% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 10% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash
 Visa
 Mastercard
 American Express
When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 3.5% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Panama City right now

AmberjackAmberjack
CobiaCobia
Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)Dolphin (Mahi Mahi)
King Mackerel (Kingfish)King Mackerel (Kingfish)
RedfishRedfish
Snapper (Red)Snapper (Red)
Snapper (Vermilion)Snapper (Vermilion)
Spanish MackerelSpanish Mackerel
Speckled TroutSpeckled Trout
TarponTarpon

Compare similar fishing charters

Current
Fishwhacker Charters
Fishwhacker Charters
State licensed
4.7
(76)
24 ft
Group size 1 - 4
1 - 4
Fish 1
Fish 2
+9
4 hour trip • 4 persons
US $700