Saint Andrew Bay - Bay, FL Fishing Report on 19th Jul, 2026

Water conditions across St. Andrews Bay and out into the open Gulf of Mexico are offering steady opportunities for both bottom fishermen and troll-line anglers. Water clarity remains high along the coast, with warm surface currents keeping baitfish schooling near reefs, wrecks, and pass structures.

Offshore Reef & Wreck Report Captains Josh and Mike report consistent bottom action over natural hard-bottom and artificial reef structures out in federal and state waters. Red Snapper and Vermilion Snapper (beeliners) are aggressively taking live pinfish and cut squid. Gag Grouper are holding tight to heavy relief, requiring heavy tackle setups to pull them clear of the structure. Farther out, scattered weed lines are yielding quality Mahi Mahi for trips working trolling spreads.

Nearshore & Inshore Highlights Trolling 2 to 5 miles off the Panama City Beach coastline is yielding fast-paced bites from Spanish Mackerel and Kingfish. Planer boards running small spoons or rigged cigar minnows have been the top producer early in the morning. Inside St. Andrews Bay, early morning topwater lures are drawing explosive strikes from Speckled Trout, while live shrimp around dock pilings continues to produce keeper Redfish.

Fleet Overview & Technical Setup Fish N' Tales Charters runs two specialized vessels tailored to different styles of fishing in Panama City:

37' Topaz Sportfish: Captain Josh operates this offshore vessel, equipped with outriggers, downriggers, advanced fishfinders, and an enclosed restroom for extended deep-sea runs.

24' Pathfinder Center Console: Captain Mike uses this versatile bay boat for nearshore trolling, light-tackle inshore drifting, and evening flounder gigging trips.

Guide Tip: Bring polarized sunglasses to spot weed lines and surface busts, non-spray sunscreen, and a light jacket for early morning departures off the marina. Fishing licenses, live bait, tackle, and catch cleaning are fully covered onboard.