Testimonials:

“Fishing Trip of a Lifetime”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 27, 2013

I am 55 years old and have been offshore fishing the majority of my adult life. I am a serious angler and have fished the Eastern Atlantic extensively as this is near my home but also travel regularly to other destinations. These have included multiple trips to Hawaii (Big Island), Eastern and Western Mexico, Costa Rica, DR, Florida Keys, and The Gulf of Mexico. I chose Panama this year specifically to target Blue Marlin. A species that has eluded me.

My search for a fishing venue was in-depth. I arrived at the choice of the Panama Big Game Club based upon reputation but most importantly with my contact with the owner Mark Charman (“Mr. C”). From these discussions it became clear to me that Mr. C was as passionate about offshore angling as I am. He understood my desires to target Blue Marlin and we spent serious time panning times, moon phases and tides to come across what was felt to be the ideal time. He took great efforts to answer my questions personally and was attentive to my requests.

The trip outcome: UNBELIEVABLE!!!

From the moment we arrived in Panama we were immediately met at the gate by a Panama Big Game Club representative. Do not worry about anything once you arrive in Panama City. She escorted us through immigration in about five minutes and took us to a VIP room for drinks and snacks while our bags were picked up. (Never touched my bags until we arrived at the club). We were then met by a second representative Auro who was as pleasant and kind as I could hope for. She took us for a short ride for lunch and gave us some history on Panama City and the Canal. Next to the airport for our flight to David. Everything, and I mean everything was handled from bags to check in to covering for extra luggage wt. (I brought all me own tackle) at no charge. Flight to David, Carlos and Mrs. C are waiting for us at the airport. Once again, drinks in the car during the drive to the club. This is all included!

The club: WOW!

Situated on a stunning overlook of the river and small port, the club itself is nothing but beautiful. Infinity pool, hot tub with waterfall, poolside bar and lovely vistas. When Mr. C talks about Jurassic Park he fails to mention “and no expenses sparred”. He has done an outstanding job at landscaping, restoration of the living quarters, the dining and club area etc. Absolutely TOP RATE!

Mr. C.: I thought I was intense about offshore angling and one for details, this guy has me beat. He absolutely loves fishing and cares deeply about the ecology of the Hannibal Bank area. He takes care to be sure circle hooks are the standard. No Cuberras are taken do to their very long growth cycle. Once enough fish is caught to supply the club everything is released by the crew. This all comes down from Mr. C’s philosophy. He runs the club in only the highest standards.

The food is wonderful. The colorful chef, Fidel, will not only prepare to order any fish, meat etc but will also entertain you with his Panamanian warmth and smiles. Carlos and Captain Victor are also right there making sure you have anything you need. The service is personal and only with smiles and care. Quite frankly I have NEVER had such pampering. It was great!

Now to the really important stuff: Fishing.

Panama Big Game Club is unique in this remote area in that it offers a variety of larger boats as apposed to mid 20″ center consoles offered by other clubs. The boats are immaculate and fast. This is important as you do have a long ride to the Islands and the Hannibal bank. Although the Pacific waters off Panama are generally calm, there was a regular morning offshore breeze that did kick up a 2-3ft. swell for several hours. Riding in the Bertram: Smooth and comfy. The competing clubs center consuls pounding and slow. Our crew was absolutely top notch. Captain Tati and our mate Narciso (Hollywood) were well seasoned professionals. Rapid deployment and preparation of various bates and lures and no wasted time resting or changing tactics if the hour was slow. I did bring my own tackle however this is completely unnecessary. The boat was equipped with and assortment of Tiagra 30’s, 50’s and 80’s all in pristine condition. Spinning gear; Shimano Stella’s. Rods primarily custom Melton gear. Outstanding.

The Catch: Lost count of the number of 30-40 lb Maui, Multiple Large 100lb + Sails, Back to back Blue Marlin (~300-350lbs) and Black Marlin (~ 250 lbs), two 100 lb tuna on spinning gear (my arms are still recovering), Cuberra and Mullet snapper (30-50 lbs), Rooster fish (3 in one hour one weighing in at 62 lbs), Blue snapper, big eye jack, amberjack, red snapper: In all 13 species in one week! The end result: A fishing trip of a lifetime. Do not miss an opportunity for a day of inshore. The fish are abundant and varied and the scenery is outrageously beautiful.

All in all: With no reservations I can comfortably say that this has been the most outstanding fishing and vacation experience of my life. The Panama Game club so far exceeds any other fishing club or resort I have ever visited that it is literally in a league by itself. Be prepared to be pampered and have sore muscle from the monsters waiting in Panama. Bravo Mr. and Mrs. C!!!!

“Panama Big Game”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 14, 2013

Panama Big Game Club was an unreal fishing adventure like no other. We flew into Panama on a quick flight from Florida. After a quick flight from Panama City to David, we met our wonderful guide to transfer us to the lodge. With a cooler full of water and soda, we enjoyed a beautiful drive to the docks. At the docks, we were met by a Panama Big Game boat and some helpers that took our bags and drove us to the lodge. The sight of the lodge for the first time will be forever etched into my memory. It was such a breathtaking sight. The steep island looks over an archipelago that is only found in Pirates of the Caribbean movies. Truly, it is an unbelievable view.

The lodge was even prettier than the photos. Everything has been updated from the flat screen TV’s to the latest computers to check your email at the lodge. After a long day of fishing, dipping in the beautiful pool was the perfect ending to an eventful day. The staff continued to keep my drink full and brought terrific hors d’oeuvres until I couldn’t eat another bite! The chef prepared ceviche and fresh fish everyday that we were there.

The Fishing. Last but not least. Lets start with the fact that the nickname for this place is “Jurassic Park”. The trip to the fishing grounds is super quick and relaxing, especially when lounging in bean bag chairs on the back of the boat. Fishing in on the Hannibal Bank and Isal Montuosa were incredible. This fishery is truly spectacular. Whether you are chasing Marlin, Mahi, Mullet Snapper, or Sailfish the hunt is on. I have never been anywhere where catching bait involves trolling larger than life sabiki rigs to get full stringers of Bonita to use as Marlin candy. Mahi Mahi here are larger here than anywhere I’ve ever fished, and reeling them in as they jump all the way to the boat is exciting.

This place is magical. If you like fishing, food, relaxation, and memories that will last forever, then Panama Big Game lodge will be your new favorite place in the world.

“First Blue Marlin, far from last.”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 6, 2013

We planned a trip on short notice, and Mr C worked with us to fit the few days we had available in order to get us onto some fish while we were in Panama. We had escorts and knowledgeable drivers all the way to the boat ramp, and some of the best mixed drinks I have ever tasted once we made it to the island. All inclusive meant all inclusive, and the staff never let us lift a finger.

Above all, I come to fish, but our biggest regret when we left was that we didn’t just spend a day sitting by the pool and relaxing. The view is incredible! As far as the fishing, we caught so many fish the first day we started tracking by species instead of by size. My second fish to hook onto was a 90 lb. yellowfin, which set the biggest fish I’ve ever caught (a record that didn’t last long).

We fished all day, the crew kept the boat clean, we had a great lunch on the boat, and I don’t think 30 minutes passed by without us hooking something. We trolled, bottom fished, even got some time in with light tackle and topwater lures for feeding tuna. The second day I landed my first blue marlin, 350 pounds, and enjoyed the fight of a lifetime. When we caught sailfish and blue marlin, I was amazed to see how much time the captain spent making sure the fish was 100% when released.

Evenings we returned to share stories with the other groups of people – everyone was friendly, and we all opted to share the dinner table together. Each night we ate what we caught. In fact, even the breakfast was incredible each morning before getting on the boat. Our last day we left for an early flight, but we got to watch the sunrise over breakfast on the balcony. As the sky lit up, the monkeys in the surrounding trees let us know it was morning!

Mr C even took the time to ask us what amenities or activities would make our next trip better. We are already planning our return trip, and we’re not looking for another place to go. We’re just looking for who to bring with us next time.

“The Best Fishing Club Ever”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 1, 2013

This Christmas my family and I chose to go to Panama for nine days. My grandfather is an avid fly fisherman and he has been to this resort before back in 2001. Since then he has said that Panama Big Game Fishing Club has changed so much since the last time he has been there. The service is awesome and so is the fishing. The crew is the best crew that my whole family has ever seen and let me just say that the food is just amazing. The resort is kind of small which is good because it gives the resort a community kind of feeling. Everyone that stays there gets a chance to know each other and hopefully makes new friends or acquaintances. This is an awesome place to stay and fish if anyone is interested.

“4th trip”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 1, 2013

I have just returned from my 4th trip to Panama Big Game Fishing Club. I was privelaged to take my daughter and two granchildren aathere for Christmas week. What aphenomenal experiennce for all!!!!! The Club is gorgeous!!!! Very well groomed and Mr C has seen fit to improve the views from all locations. MR. C and Karen are the eppitomy of what gracious and understandingg hosts should be.
The cuisine—phenomenal!!!! Fidel in the kitchen is a master chef and prepared some of the best meals that I have ever eaten. His snapper, tuna and dorado can not be described–delicious!!!
The fishing–superb! The boats and fishing tackle all in perfect condition–well maintained and immaculate. The Captains and mates all highly skilled and very professional but accomodating.
MY PROGRNY HAD A BLLAST!!!! They caught several different species of pargo,dorado tuna and bonita. My grandson caught an 80-90# tuna!!!!
The lodgings–excellent–very clean, excellent AC lots of hot water and daily laundry service!!!!
A phenomenal operation—–Aphenomenal trip possibly a once in a life time experience for my progeny You can’t beat this!!!!

“Conde Nast meets Orvis”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 31, 2012

Yes, I am the spouse of an avid fisherman, who is given the task a few times a year, of coming up with accommadations that suite me, a fashion executive, as well as being a secluded spot somewhere in the world that is unspoiled with really great fishing. This Winter, we chose Panama.

We ended up at a gorgeous spot a boat ride away from Boca Chica, but found the new owners to be less than attentive. Before we headed back to Panama City a day early, we had a chance meeting with a charming British gentleman who invited us to spend the day at his new fishing Club. We took him up on this offer, and as my husband spent the day fishing on his boat, I was introduced to this new lodge.

Still in the process of being completed, the rooms, grounds, food and service were already beyond my expectations, above and beyond a mere “Fishing Club”, and certainly not a Mens Only spot. The small but chic pool area overlooked the jungle on one side, and the ocean on the other, perfect for spotting the howler monkeys after enjoying lunch. I have traveled the world, both for business and pleasure, and few places have been able to please both of us as PBGFC did. The all inclusive rate is also extremely reasonable …..so you can stay even longer, its a hard place to leave.

“Best Fishing Ever!”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 30, 2012

I caught an 90 pound tuna a ton of dorado and a two 60 pound snapper and hooked on to two sailfish the service is wonderful always asking if you need anything they are all so polite Mr.C has done a terrific job with the club the crew I was with was spectacular the fishing is great the rooms are awesome the pool is the best feeling after a long day of fishing their chef Fidel is the best cook all of his meals and deserts are mouth watering good just everything at Panama Big Game Fishing Club is excellent I LOVE IT.

“World Class”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 27, 2012

My wife and I spent some time at this fishing resort while in Panama earlier this month. The new owners whom we had the pleasures of meeting were almost finished with a multimillion dollar renovation of this hallowed game fishing destination.

Mark and Karen as you would expect from any caring owner operators, were on site and very involved in making the decisions to allowing the transformation of a previously austere fishing lodge to a first class resort with all the amenities that one might expect, all contained within the hill side of a biologically diverse island and nature sanctuary.
I spent one day fishing with Mark’ son and MD of fishing operations using one of their well-equipped deep sea fishing boats. The local Captain and deck hand expertly put us on some game fish and we were rewarded with a great complete fishing experience. They provided one of the best picnic lunches that I have ever had on such an outing.

Mark believes very strongly in the conservation of this great fishery by practicing sensible catch and release policies and adherers to all IGFA rules and regulation, which was a rare but welcome find in this fast developing nation of Panama.
After fishing my wife and I joined Mark and his lovely wife Karen for an afternoon libation and some great freshly caught ceviche and learned of their future plans for this amazing resort.

I plan to visit them again in the next month or two and highly recommend them to any discerning travelers looking for the perfect blend of action, fun, food, and amenities all without spoiling the great feeling of surrender to an unspoiled natural setting.

“First Class”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed October 25, 2012

We had the opportunity to get to the PBGFC back in August and as you can tell from the other reviews this place is a first class operation. If you are looking for this type of fishing experience you should not look any further, these guys will not disappoint. The crews work their [–] off to get fish on your lines and I don’t think you can get better food anywhere in panama. From the time we arrived at the Tocumen international airport until the time we arrived back there the PBGFC staff took care of every detail and arranged for whatever we needed. The view from the top of the main building is breathtaking and we took as many photos from there as we could. We hope to get back there soon!

“How it is Done”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed September 18, 2012

Having spent most of my adult life fishing in one remote tropical outpost or another, it was instantly recognizable that Mr. C and company have not taken the easy route with the Panama Big Game Fishing Club, and instead are truly building a show place in the jungle. From the stainless steel railings to the stonework in the rooms, attention to detail and quality is obvious. But that is just the physical improvements. Victor, the new manager is truly a first rate operator and has a great future ahead of him, and with the Club. As Mr. C says, “if you did not get what you wanted while at PBGFC it is only because you did not ask for it”….and that is the truth. No menus, not set dining times and no set dining place. Want to sit under a tree and drink wine and munch a steak? They will figure it out for you. Your trip is your own to customize.

The crews on the boats are some of the hardest working guys in the business and toil til the end so you catch fish. When we were there yellowfin tuna were providing the action, and I really think that they are on to a very special offering with throwing poppers to huge Ahi. That is just one thing that makes PBGFC unique.

All in all, it is no small endeavor to created and keep a first class outfit going in a remote location, but PBGFC is testament to “how it is done”.