Panama City fishing report for the week of October 15, 2026. Fall is on, and the bays and passes around Panama City are filling with redfish, flounder and mackerel.
What’s Hitting
Bull reds are at the St. Andrews Pass jetties and along the beach, flounder are staging near the pass and the bay edges, and Spanish mackerel and bluefish are off the piers. Speckled trout are on the grass flats, and sheepshead are around the bridges and docks.
Looking ahead, flounder should continue staging near the pass in the coming weeks, with the fall run building as water temperatures drop. Bull reds should stay in the area through the fall.
Where to Find Them
Fish the jetties at St. Andrews Pass on the outgoing tide for reds and flounder. Work the piers at Panama City Beach for Spanish mackerel, and drift the grass flats of St. Andrews Bay for trout. Bridge pilings hold sheepshead.
Tides & Conditions
With the moon heading toward first quarter, tides are easing. Moving water at the pass is the best window. Check a current tide chart and the wind forecast before heading out.
Tackle & Tactics
Live shrimp, mud minnows and cut mullet are the staples. Cast a small silver spoon for mackerel and a jig for trout. Use a 20 pound fluorocarbon leader for reds and drop to 15 for trout.
On the pier, a small silver spoon or a Gotcha plug is a great choice for Spanish mackerel. Use a wire leader if you want to avoid cut-offs. In the bay, a popping cork with live shrimp is a reliable way to find trout.
Local Intel This Week
Public access includes St. Andrews State Park, Dan Russell Pier at Panama City Beach, and Hathaway Bridge area ramps. Fish are concentrating at the pass, the pier and the grass edges. Check current FWC regulations and seasons before keeping any fish, especially redfish, flounder and trout.
This Week’s Tip
Cast beyond the structure. On the jetties, throw past the rocks and bring the bait back along the edge where fish ambush bait.
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