What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Panama City Beach, Florida for the first time?

The keeper fish weren’t biting. We caught 3 that were too small to keep, but no other fish we could keep.

You need lots of water and sunscreen. There is no shade on the ocean. Long sleeve fishing shirts and sun hats are a good idea as well.

Was really hoping to get on some large fish but must not have been the right time of year but still have fun and the captain made sure we were catching fish

Reach out to Captain James before booking and he will give you some good advice about best time to go , and what to expect

Unexpected bad weather can happen be prepared to make changes and don’t have expectations too high.

Make sure you book for the weekend. We would have had more fish, due to red snapper being limited to weekend restrictions, this time of year.

8hr is a long trip but the way to go! You get to fish spots that aren’t over fished like the shorter trips that are at a disadvantage because of time.

I would recommend to hire a guide because they have the equipment you need and know where to find the fish. They have the experience that you need to make your trip enjoyable.

Knot Right was the first charter I have ever been on. If I do another I will book the same boat and captain.

Check the season dates for intended fish. Hydrate the night before. Pack a sack. Wear appropriate clothes for the sun and heat

Definitely talk to someone that is familiar with the area and get tips about what you want to catch regardless of how much experience you have elsewhere.

The 6 hr am trip worked really well for us. The boat had a bathroom and AC in the cabin. Ask questions ahead of time so your expectations can become reality.

Book your trip with Shallowtails adventures, with Captain Cowart. Guaranteed to have a blast and catch some fish, trophy of harvest this captain can put you on them. 10 out of 5 stars

Make sure you bring plenty to drink, a hat and sunscreen. Also, if you sweat a lot, bring a golf type glove so you can grip the pole better to prevent it from slipping in your hand.

Fishing is great. Don't get angry if a storm blows up and cuts you short. That's mother nature. Bring plenty of water. Can be a hot day.

Hire a guide. Well worth it. You might wanna bring some motion sickness with you if it's rough waters

I’m would definitely recommend Black Belt Charters and Captain Brandon. Already discussing booking next trip with him.

Fish in morning....rest of afternoon to recoup...hot as fire. Jim n Darius are the best - put us on 'em every year!

Weather is everything. With the rip current being at red flags they weren’t able to get to take the tripped they had planned.

We really enjoy inshore fishing. Lots of types of fish to catch without getting beat up by the big waves.

Throwing your hook in the water and trolling the bag is a great way to catch some stuff. We did a lot of trolling, and even more catching.

Expect to have a good time and some nice fish. Mind the weather and try to plan for a calm day if possible. The fishing is awesome

Don’t be scared to try something new. Never know what you might catch. Also don’t forget motion sickness medication.

Take the advice of your captain and do your best to do what he is telling you to do. Its not as easy as it looks!Proper technique makes a difference!

Take a long sleeve shirt for the trip out and back in because even if it’s sunny, the wind is chilly.

Sunscreen and plenty of snacks. An entire day on the ocean is draining. An amazing time, just exhausting.

Me andy family went and I'm newly disabled and they were worried. Justin took care of me and everyone else and we caught fish and had a great time!

Take the motion sickness medication before you go if you've never been on the open water. It's better for the first timers if you don't get sick

Just do it. It is such a great place to fish. January is not a great time to go however. Was cold and fish sluggish based on water temp.

Bring sunblock, snacks and a smile. Find a charter that takes care of their customers and is friendly.