Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping evening on the water with our 3-hour shark fishing trip off Panama City Beach. As the sun sets and the stars come out, we'll head offshore to where the big boys swim. This isn't your average fishing trip - it's a heart-pounding adventure that'll have you telling stories for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking for a unique night out, our expert captain will put you on the fish and make sure you have a blast doing it.
We run these trips from April 1st through October 31st, when the sharks are most active in our waters. You'll meet us at the dock around 7 PM, just as the day crowds are heading in. We provide all the heavy-duty gear you'll need to wrestle with these ocean predators, but you'll want to bring your own live bait or let us know ahead of time if you need us to sort that out. The boat's set up for night fishing, with lights that'll attract baitfish and, in turn, the sharks we're after. It's just you and up to two buddies on this private charter, so you'll have plenty of elbow room and one-on-one time with the captain.
Shark fishing isn't like your typical day of casting for redfish or trout. We use heavy-duty gear that can handle the fight these monsters put up. Think big reels spooled with 80-pound test line or more, steel leaders, and circle hooks that'll give you the best chance at a solid hookup without hurting the shark. We'll show you how to rig your bait - usually something oily like mackerel or bonito - and how to present it to attract the sharks. The captain will find the right spot, often near drop-offs or structures where sharks like to hunt, and we'll set up a chum slick to bring them in close. Then it's a waiting game, but when that reel starts screaming, hold on tight!
"Had an amazing day with Captain John on King Slayer Charters. He knew all the best spots and made sure we had a great time. The boat was clean, well-equipped, and John's guidance ensured we landed some impressive catches" - Alex
On this trip, we're targeting the porbeagle shark, a cousin of the great white that's known for its power and speed. These sharks can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh over 300 pounds, so when you hook one, you're in for a serious battle. Porbeagles are smart and strong, often making long runs and diving deep to try and shake the hook. They're most active in our waters during the cooler months, which is why we run these trips in spring and fall. What makes porbeagles so exciting to catch is their initial burst of speed when hooked - it's not uncommon for them to jump clear out of the water, giving you a spectacular show under the stars. Plus, they're one of the few shark species that can regulate their body temperature, allowing them to hunt in cooler, deeper waters where we fish at night.
Look, there's fishing, and then there's shark fishing at night - it's a whole different ballgame. If you're looking for a fishing trip that'll get your heart racing and give you bragging rights for years, this is it. Our captain knows these waters like the back of his hand and will put you right where the action is. Plus, with only three spots available, you're guaranteed a personalized experience. So grab your buddies, pack some snacks (trust me, you'll work up an appetite), and get ready for a night you won't forget. The sharks are out there waiting - all you've got to do is book your spot and show up ready for action. Don't miss out on this chance to tangle with some of the ocean's top predators under the Panama City Beach night sky.
August 17, 2023
The porbeagle shark is a powerful fighter that'll test your gear and skills. These cold-water specialists average 5-7 feet long and 300 pounds, with a streamlined, torpedo-shaped body built for speed. Look for them in deeper offshore waters, especially near drop-offs and structure. While we don't often see them in Panama City Beach, they sometimes follow bait schools into our area during cooler months. Porbeagles are known for their intelligence and endurance - expect a long, tough battle if you hook one. They've got a reputation for leaping clear out of the water during the fight. These sharks love oily fish, so mackerel makes great bait. We'll often chum with fish oil to draw them in closer to the boat. Use heavy tackle - their rough skin can easily fray lighter lines. A local trick is to use a weak link in your leader to help get your bait down deep where these sharks hunt. Porbeagles are prized for their meat in some places, but we practice catch and release to help conserve the population. The thrill is in the chase and the fight with these impressive predators.
Had an amazing day with Captain John on King Slayer Charters. He knew all the best spots and made sure we had a great time. The boat was clean, well-equipped, and John's guidance ensured we landed some impressive catches