The area was discovered by the USS Hannibal in the early 1900s. The bank runs for about 5 miles and occupies an area roughly 3 miles wide . The Humboldt Current sweeps the rich supply of plankton biomass up from 1,000m to just 40m consequently setting off an incredible food chain.
Hannibal Bank is 50nm from our resort. The run time is 1.5 hrs from the resort in our fishing fleet. Isla Montuosa (42nm) is located on the edge of the continental shelf therefore excellent for popping Mullet Snapper and Jacks. Anglers wishing to fish deep can land trophy sized broom-tailed grouper.
Closer to the resort is Isla Landrones and Isla Secas (17 nautical miles). We often start out for live bait fishing or popping for Cubera Snapper and Roosterfish. Right on our doorstep at Isla Parida (2 nautical miles away) lines are often hit by Amberjacks, Barracuda and Rainbow Runners and Roosterfish
The billfish and Tuna inhabit the waters a few miles out from Isla Montuosa. We catch huge Blue and Black Marlin, Sailfish, and trophy sized Yellowfin Tuna.
At the Southern end of the Banks is Isla Coiba, a UNESCO world heritage site. The largest river on the island is the Rio Negra (Black River) where large Tarpon can be found at the river mouth. Since these are protected waters fishing permits are required ($50 per angler per week).
Various billfish are abundantly found on the open waters off the Isla Montuosa and Hannibal Bank. Black Marlin are resident in our waters year round however most prolific in the winter months. Blue Marlin, as well as the acrobatic Sailfish can be found January thru march. Yellowfin Tuna are year-round, however the big ‘cow’ Tuna are landed in May and June.
August and September see the arrival of the huge female Black Marlin which can average in 500 lbs. Each season a few lucky anglers land a beauty that tips the scale past the 800lbs mark.
Dolphin (Dorado) are also caught year round, but most abundantly and oversized from October through to February.
The roosterfish is one of the most unique looking fish patrolling the world’s oceans. It gets its name from the giant, distinctive dorsal fin on the top of their powerful bodies. The tall, comb-like fin is distinctive and easily spotted when the fish breaks the surface on the hunt for baitfish. Typically, the roosterfish hunts…
Panama has more for the world traveler to see than just the Panama Canal. There are turquoise waters teeming with game fish, beautiful white sand beaches, and historical sites dotted throughout the country. Under those waters is where you will find what is best about Panama; a vibrant marine sanctuary full of color and life….
Our Couples friendly fishing resort had four couples visit in December. December is renowned big Marlin and abundant dorado and our fishing couples saw spectacular results. The action was happening both inshore and offshore. The Marlin were very active and aggressively feeding at the Hannibal Banks due to the excellent water quality and large schools…
Fishing for marlin is the ultimate adventure for anglers. It’s the World Series and Super Bowl of fishing; there’s no bigger prize. Marlin fishing is the biggest challenge available for anglers short of catching a blue whale, which we don’t recommend. Catching any species of marlin is the holy grail of fishing and the experience…
Panama Nautical Club wishes you a wonderful new year with many adventures! Want to experience one of Panama’s best Natutical Clubs? Give us a visit during 2018 and check out our fishing packages here. Best wishes / Panama Nautical Club
If you’re in the process of planning vacation, you’re probably wondering, when is the best time of year to visit Panama? The short answer is whenever you want. No matter when you visit, Panama offers the experience of a lifetime. This beautiful country is overflowing with history, modern convenience, and natural beauty. However, it is important…