Trips

Panama 2012 Tagging Tournament!

Atlantic Tuna Project is hosting a trip to Panama Sport Fishing Lodge February 25th to March 3rd, 2012. There will be prizes for top catch, tag and release accomplishments like largest tuna and marlin tagged, most tuna tagged, largest tuna tagged on a popper etc.

There are 12 angler spots available.  We only have 3 spots left. 

Last year our group of 12 tagged 52 yellowfin tuna, so 52 is the number to beat this year.  Check last year's blog post for a great video and photos for a glimpse of what this fishery is all about.

 

Find more photos like this on Save The Bluefin Tuna

Here are more photos from last year where you can see additional pictures of the boats, tuna/marlin/snapper etc., the lodge, captains etc. 

On this trip you will learn how to catch and tag tuna and marlin, fish with poppers, jigs and live bait.   You will get a "tagging member" care package that will include items from our sponsors as well as your own tags. Last year anglers received AFTCO Sun Masks, Guy Harvey Shirts, Hats and prizes from Jig N Pop, Braid and Save The Bluefin. 

This year, Kil Song over at JigNPop.com made some amazing hats for tagging anglers as well as donated a Black Hole 250gr Cape Cod Special jigging rod that be will awarded for tagging achievements. 

The captains at Panama Sportfishing Lodge are wonderful, hard working and friendly, the staff at the lodge is amazing, food is delicious and of course the fishing is out of this world.

Check their youtube channel if you want to blow your mind.

Dates:

Arrival: Saturday February 25th, arrive Panama City and spend the night at the Veneto Hotel in Panama City.  The next morning, Sunday, we drive to the lodge which is a four hour ride.  Sunday will be spent gearing up for Monday.

Monday - Friday are full days fishing.

Departure:  Saturday March 3rd.   If you want to spend an extra night in Panama City which would be Saturday night - you can book that on your own.  Book an early afternoon flight out on Saturday March 3rd, so you have time to make the drive from the lodge back to Panama City.

Cost:  $2,400 per angler.  Includes five full days fishing, bait, all meals and drinks including alcohol, lunches, first night at Panama City Hotel (Veneto), six nights at the lodge and transportation (driving) to and from the Panama City Airport.

Gratuity:  You should plan on minimum $250 per person for gratuity for the Captains, mates and housing staff. 

Fuel Surcharge:  There is no fuel surcharge as of 12/11.  If the gas prices spike there may be an adjustment.  Any surcharges will be communicated to you before departure.

Tackle:

The lodge has tackle.  If you have your own gear, do bring it.  Check your airlines for extra baggage charges for rod cases and rules for carrying on gear. 

Award Party:  We will have the award ceremony on Friday night.

Payment:  Send a $1,000 deposit to secure your spot.  Balance to be paid no later than January 25th, 2012. 

Send your deposit and payment checks:

Panama Sportfishing Lodge

Attn: Reggie Delacruz

Panama Sportfishing Lodge

1308-B Fording Island Rd.

Bluffton SC 29910

If you have any questions email me at savethebluefintuna@gmail.com or call 917-721-4061.  Watch this page for updates on sponsors, awards etc.