Fishing off the coast of Chiriqui

I have to take a break from my land bound responsibilities from time to time. I love to get out on the ocean, especially off the coast of Chiriqui. I keep a small boat in Boca Chica and regularly head out to the nearby fishing grounds to try my luck. The beautiful white sand beaches on the many islands usually lure me to their shores for a rest and I can always count on the tremendous amount of wild life in these seas to entertain as well. Dolphins, whales and sea turtles abound.

Panama is renowned for its deep sea fishing and right off the coast of Chiriqui is some of the best fishing grounds on the Planet. Exotic names like Isla Ladrones, Montosa, Isla Secas, Coiba and Hannibal banks have long lured the sportsman to these fishing grounds There are a number of fishing operators in the area and this last week I had the pleasure of spending a few days with a really first class operation run by father and son: Bruce and Shane Jarvis from the U.S..

For many fishermen it's just about the boat, equipment and fishing. The accommodations usually come a distant second, but with Propidad de Panama the accommodations and food add greatly to the fishing experience. Located on Isla Perida, a 20 minute ride from Boca Chica, these fellows have brought the level of first class fishing to a new high. And being on isla Parida brings you that much closer to where the fish are.

Right now they have only a few rooms, but they are air conditioned and nicely appointed with flat screen TV, video games and movies on CD. And this family really knows how to cook.

And this family really know how to cook. Our dinner consisted of a great broccoli salad, homemade bread and spicy tuna steaks. Eating a wonderful meal with great company as you watch the sun go down over the many islands doting the area could not be more perfect.

They currently have two boats and the one we went on was a 2007 33 foot catamaran with twin 225 4 stroke Yamaha's. This beauty road like a dream. These cats are extremely stable even when everyone on-board goes to one side to see the fish coming on board. They have brand new Penn reels, and tuna tubes stocked and ready for action.

One piece of equipment I have not seen on any boats of this size is a super sensitive radar that can be used to spot bird activity within 4 miles of your location. We used this instrument a lot on our way to the banks to locate the action we would have otherwise had to depend only on our eyes to see.

If you get a chance to fish this fantastic area you may want to go with Propidad de Panama. I don't think you will be disappointed.