World-Class Fishing in Piñas Bay, Panama

Tropic Star Lodge is located in the remote and pristine Piñas Bay, Darien Province, Panama. This world-renowned fishing destination offers exceptional opportunities for both offshore big game fishing and inshore light tackle angling. The lodge’s proximity to the legendary Zane Grey Reef, just 20 minutes away, ensures quick access to some of the most productive fishing grounds in the Pacific.

Offshore Big Game Fishing

Piñas Bay is famous for its world-class big game fishing. Black Marlin can be targeted year-round, with peak season occurring in January and February when these magnificent fish are most abundant. During these months, anglers regularly encounter Black Marlin weighing 300 to 600 pounds, with some trophy fish exceeding 800 pounds. Blue Marlin are also abundant, particularly from June through September and in December, with fish commonly weighing 200 to 400 pounds.

Sailfish are another highlight of the offshore fishery, with large specimens regularly exceeding 100 pounds. The waters around Piñas Bay also hold impressive Yellowfin Tuna, typically ranging from 100 to 250 pounds, and Dorado (Mahi-Mahi) averaging 50 to 60 pounds. Wahoo are also available throughout the year, providing additional excitement for offshore anglers.

Inshore Light Tackle Fishing

The inshore fishery at Tropic Star Lodge is equally impressive, with Roosterfish being the star attraction. These powerful fish are abundant from March through May, with some specimens exceeding 70 pounds. The annual Roosterfish Tournament in May showcases the incredible size and abundance of these fish. Cubera Snapper, Bluefin Trevally, Broomtail Grouper, and Almaco Jack are also readily available, providing excellent light tackle action.

Tarpon can be found in the backwaters and brackish areas, offering fly anglers exciting opportunities. The inshore fishery includes over 17 additional species, ensuring that anglers always have multiple targets available.

Fishing Seasons & Packages

Black Marlin Season (January – February)

January and February represent the peak season for Black Marlin at Tropic Star Lodge. This is the most sought-after time to visit, and bookings should be made 1-2 years in advance due to high demand. During this season, only 7-night, 6-day fishing packages are available, reflecting the premium nature of this fishery. In addition to Black Marlin, anglers can also target Blue Marlin, large Sailfish (over 100 pounds), Yellowfin Tuna (100-250 pounds), and Dorado (50-60 pounds).

Inshore Season (March – May)

The Inshore Season offers flexible package lengths with options for 3-day, 4-day, or 6-day fishing packages. March features big Yellowfin Tuna and excellent inshore fishing. April offers record-sized Roosterfish and other inshore game fish. May is highlighted by the annual Roosterfish Tournament, with abundant Roosterfish, Cubera Snapper, Bluefin Trevally, and Grouper available. This season is perfect for anglers seeking world-class inshore action.

Blue Marlin Season (June – September & December)

June and July are excellent for big Roosterfish, with some fish exceeding 70 pounds. July is one of the best months overall, with Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Sailfish, and Dorado all abundant, and Grand Slams being common. August offers big Blue Marlin and Sailfish, with some Black Marlin closer inshore. September can be excellent for Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, and Sailfish, with an excellent offshore bite for large Yellowfin Tuna and Dorado. December is a great all-around month for most species, including Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, and Dorado.

Luxury Accommodations & Facilities

Tropic Star Lodge accommodates up to 45 guests in 23 spacious, air-conditioned rooms and villas. Each accommodation features private baths and views of either the ocean or tropical gardens. The lodge offers a range of options from double-occupancy standard rooms to upgraded villas, including two-bedroom and three-bedroom villas, as well as newly-built private residences.

The crown jewel of the accommodations is “The Palace,” a luxurious three-bedroom villa with master suites and panoramic views of Piñas Bay. This exceptional property provides ample space and comfort for larger groups, making it ideal for families or groups of friends traveling together.

Dining & Entertainment

The Bayview Restaurant offers formal dining with gourmet four-course dinners, featuring fresh seafood and international cuisine. Wine service is included with dinner, and the attentive wait-staff ensures a memorable dining experience. For a more casual atmosphere, poolside BBQ dining is available on select nights, allowing guests to enjoy delicious grilled fare while taking in the tropical surroundings.

The Marlin Bar is a sea-facing venue ideal for post-fishing relaxation, where guests can enjoy signature cocktails and share tales of the day’s fishing. The poolside bar serves refreshing drinks and snacks throughout the day. With three bars total on the property, guests always have options for refreshment and socializing.

Recreation & Wellness

The freshwater jungle pool with hot tub provides a perfect place to relax after a day on the water. The Rainforest Spa offers an array of treatments in a serene jungle setting, including massages, facials, and other wellness services. Shoreside guests receive three spa treatments as part of their package, along with three jungle excursions for wildlife viewing and nature exploration.

Fishing Fleet & Equipment

Tropic Star Lodge’s fleet consists of 31-foot Bertram yachts, renowned for their seaworthiness and fishing capabilities. Guests can choose between Classic Bertram 31′ boats or Premium Bertram 31′ boats, with the Premium option offering enhanced amenities and features. Each boat is equipped with GPS navigation, VHF radios, custom tuna tubes, and live baitwells designed for both inshore and offshore fishing.

The experienced local captains and mates are among the best in the business. Many are second or third-generation fishermen who have spent their lives on these waters. Their intimate knowledge of the local fishing grounds, tides, and fish behavior ensures that anglers have the best possible opportunity to hook and land their target species.

Getting to Tropic Star Lodge

Travel to Tropic Star Lodge is a seamless and comfortable process. Guests begin by flying to Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City, where they are met at the airport and transferred to their hotel for an overnight stay. The following morning, guests take a 30-minute drive to the regional airport for a charter flight of just under one hour to Bahía Piñas.

Upon arrival at the airstrip, lodge staff escort guests via a short bus ride and a 10-15 minute water taxi to the lodge. The total journey from Panama City to the lodge takes approximately 2-3 hours, but the remote location ensures that once you arrive, you’re in a world-class fishing destination with minimal distractions.

Transfer Fee: $715 per person (round-trip) includes round-trip airfare from Panama City to the lodge, VIP services upon arrival (meet-and-greet at Tocumen International Airport), and up to four ground transfers.

What’s Included

Included in Rates:

• 7 nights deluxe lodge accommodations (for 6-day packages)
• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Wine service with dinner
• Daily guided fishing (6 days for full package, varies for shorter packages)
• Use of lodge facilities (pool, bars, restaurant, spa)
• 3 spa treatments (for Shoreside guests)
• 3 jungle excursions (for Shoreside guests)

What’s Not Included

Not Included:

• Round-trip airfare from Panama City to lodge ($715 per person transfer fee)
• Room upgrades (available at additional cost)
• Gratuities for guides and staff
• International airfare to Panama City
• Travel insurance
• Personal items and souvenirs

Deposit & Payment Terms

To confirm reservations, a deposit is required (typically 50% of total package cost). The balance is due 60-90 days prior to scheduled arrival at the lodge. Please contact us for current deposit requirements and payment terms.

Special Events & Tournaments

Tropic Star Lodge hosts special fishing tournaments throughout the year. The Billfish Tournament in November 2025 and the annual Roosterfish Tournament in May 2026 are highlights of the fishing calendar. These events feature special rates and packages. Contact us for tournament-specific pricing and availability.