Name: West Bay Fishing Charters
Brand: West Bay Fishing Charters
Rating: 5 (1 reviews)

At West Bay Fishing Charters, Captain Scott Chandler brings over 12 years of experience guiding anglers on the beautiful waters of Panama City, FL. Born and raised on the Gulf Coast, Scott grew up fishing with his dad and has passed down that same passion to his five children and four grandchildren. As a laid-back country boy and proud ex-Marine, Scott is known for his good nature, patience, and dedication to helping guests enjoy the water. Whether you're new to fishing or an experienced angler, Scott makes every trip personal, engaging, and memorable. If you're searching for Panama City FL fishing charters that cater to all skill levels, West Bay Fishing Charters is an excellent choice. Captain Scott specializes in light tackle fishing in Panama City, offering a hands-on experience that’s fun, educational, and rewarding. He enjoys teaching new techniques, sharing his knowledge of local waters, and helping guests reel in fish like Redfish, Flounder, Spotted Seatrout, and more. With top-notch equipment and a licensed, fully insured operation, you're in great hands from start to finish. Families are always welcome aboard, and Scott’s trips are especially popular among those looking for kid-friendly fishing trips in Panama City FL. With calm inshore waters and a focus on safety and fun, even the youngest anglers can get in on the action. Captain Scott’s 20-foot Tracker bay boat, powered by a 150HP Johnson engine, comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests. It's a smooth, stable ride that makes for an ideal setting for teaching kids and beginners how to fish in a relaxed, supportive environment. West Bay Fishing Charters is proud to offer affordable fishing trips in Panama City Beach without cutting corners on quality. All trips include rods, reels, tackle, live bait, lures, a fishing license, and catch cleaning. That means more time fishing and less time worrying about logistics. Scott’s goal is to make fishing accessible and enjoyable for everyone, whether you're planning a quick getaway or a full family day on the water. Wondering when is the best time to fish in Panama City FL? While you can catch something year-round, spring and fall bring peak opportunities for species like Redfish and Sheepshead, while summer is perfect for family outings. No matter the season, family fishing charters in Panama City Beach with Captain Scott are a great way to connect, learn, and make lasting memories on the water.

EPSG:4269

Great For Top Anglers

Best Spots

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

A fisherman with a big catch at an unknown location

Four anglers with a small fish during a fishing trip

Captain

Redfish Specialist

Casting Instructor

Tide Expert

Personable Captain

Weather Adaptive

Captain Scott consistently puts his clients on fish, with customers landing redfish limits, tons of trout, and even rare species like Tripletail. His expertise shines through strategic spot selection—when the bite is slow, he keeps moving until fish start biting. Scott customizes each trip based on tides, targeted species, and preferred baits, and provides valuable casting instruction that pays off instantly for anglers.

Customers consistently describe Scott as incredibly friendly and personable, treating guests like friends rather than customers. He goes above and beyond by recommending optimal trip timing for tides and adjusting plans for weather conditions to keep groups comfortable. Many clients specifically mention planning return trips and recommend Scott for his entertaining, informative approach that creates memorable experiences on the water.

Speckled trout caught while fishing in Panama City FL waters

Spotted Weakfish caught while fishing in FL

Angler catching a big black drum fish in Panama City

A black drum fish being caught fishing in FL

Ready to reel in unforgettable memories with West Bay Fishing Charters in Panama City, FL? Book your family fishing adventure or inshore charter boat trip today and experience the Gulf Coast like never before!

West Bay Fishing Charters specializes in Panama City Beach fishing charters designed for families, kids, and anglers of all experience levels. Led by Captain Scott Chandler, a local expert with over 12 years of experience, our private inshore fishing trips navigate the calm, scenic waters of St. Andrews Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway. Whether you are searching for Redfish fishing in Panama City Beach, trophy Speckled Trout, or a fun day of light tackle fishing with the family, we provide everything you need for a successful day on the water. We pride ourselves on offering the best fishing in Panama City Beach for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Our all-inclusive Panama City fishing trips provide the gear, bait, and local knowledge to target Flounder, Black Drum, Sheepshead, and Tripletail. If you are looking for a kid-friendly fishing charter or a relaxing day of bay fishing in Panama City, Captain Scott ensures a safe, educational, and productive outing. Book your fishing charter in Panama City, FL today to secure your spot with the most trusted local guide.

Find answers to common questions about our Panama City Beach fishing charters and learn everything you need to plan a smooth, memorable, and successful day on the water with our expert local guide.

Captain Scott Chandler, owner and operator of West Bay Fishing Charters, was born and raised along the Gulf Coast, where fishing quickly became more than a hobby—it became a way of life. From the time he was a boy casting lines with his father to teaching his own children and grandchildren how to fish, Scott’s love for the water has always run deep. A proud Marine Corps veteran and true local, Captain Scott brings a calm, welcoming energy to every outing, ensuring every guest feels right at home. His passion for sharing the outdoors, combined with decades of hands-on experience, makes every Panama City fishing trip a personal and meaningful experience. With over 12 years of professional guiding experience, Captain Scott has earned a reputation as a trusted, top-rated Panama City fishing guide. He holds a U.S. Coast Guard license and prioritizes safety above all else, ensuring each charter is fully compliant with all local and federal regulations. Scott’s in-depth knowledge of inshore and backwater fishing means he knows exactly where to find Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, and more throughout the year. Whether you are fishing in Panama City Beach for the first time or chasing a personal record, his approachable teaching style makes him a favorite among beginners, families, and seasoned anglers alike. Captain Scott’s dedication goes far beyond the catch. As a passionate advocate for local conservation, he teaches his guests about sustainable fishing practices and the importance of respecting our delicate bay ecosystems. He is a frequent participant in community outreach, school programs, and specialized veterans' outings, aiming to help more people appreciate and protect the Gulf’s natural resources. His steadfast focus on providing family-friendly fishing charters in Panama City has earned him a loyal following, glowing customer reviews, and a reputation as one of the most reliable experts on the water. <h2>The Boat: Your Stable Platform for Success</h2>You’ll fish aboard Captain Scott’s well-maintained 20’ Tracker bay boat, powered by a 150HP engine that delivers a smooth, efficient ride through the shallow flats and winding backwaters of St. Andrews Bay. Designed for versatility and comfort, the vessel is fully equipped with advanced GPS, fish-finding sonar, a large live bait well, and cushioned seating with plenty of room for up to 6 passengers. While this boat does not feature an onboard restroom, it is the perfect platform for half-day inshore fishing adventures. Its layout is specifically suited for families and groups who want a safe, stable, and productive way to explore the beauty of the Florida Gulf Coast.

Meet Captain Scott Chandler – Your Panama City Fishing Guide

Book a 2-hour inshore fishing trip in Panama City. Target redfish, sheepshead & more with expert guides. All gear included!

Redfish Rush

Top-Rated Inshore Fishing in Panama City, FL

Book a half-day inshore fishing trip in Panama City. Perfect for beginners targeting redfish and trout. All gear included.

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Beginner-Friendly Inshore Fishing in Panama City

Explore things to do in Panama City, FL! Enjoy family-friendly attractions, scenic coastlines, and local eateries that make your visit truly memorable.

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Things To Do In Panama City, FL

Book a 2-hour inshore fishing trip tailored for kids in Panama City. Learn techniques, catch fish, and create memories.

Kid Catch Fun

Kids' Fishing Adventure in Panama City, FL

Discover Panama City's inshore fishing with a family-friendly charter. Catch redfish, flounder & more. Book now!

Family Fish Fun

Family-Friendly Inshore Fishing in Panama City

Book a fun, family-friendly fishing charter in Panama City Beach! Perfect for kids & beginners. Calm waters, expert guide, & all-inclusive. Book today!

Family Charters

Family Fishing in Panama City Beach: Fun, Private Inshore Charter

Book a half-day inshore trip with seasoned guides in Panama City. Target prized Gulf species using light tackle.

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Expert-Guided Inshore Fishing in Panama City

Best time to fish in Panama City, FL! Discover peak seasons, top spots, and tips for an unforgettable fishing adventure on the Gulf Coast.

Best Practice

Best Time to Fish in Panama City, FL

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Panama City Inshore Fishing Charters&nbsp;Frequently Asked Questions What’s included with a fishing charter at West Bay Fishing Charters?All fishing trips with West Bay Fishing Charters include rods, reels, light tackle gear, live bait, lures, fishing licenses, and fish cleaning. Captain Scott ensures everything is ready, so you can enjoy a hassle-free day targeting species like Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, and Flounder in calm Panama City waters. How much does a fishing charter cost in Panama City, FL?West Bay Fishing Charters offers affordable Panama City fishing trips for families and small groups. Our charter trip starts at $300. What types of fishing trips do you offer in Panama City?We specialize in private inshore and light tackle fishing trips in Panama City FL. These calm-water trips are ideal for families, beginners, and anglers looking to catch Redfish, Sheepshead, Tripletail, and more. We offer half-day, custom-length, and family-friendly fishing charters. What should I bring on a family fishing charter in Panama City FL?Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, snacks, drinks, and a camera to capture your catches. We provide everything else, including bait, tackle, and fishing licenses. Our kid-friendly fishing charters in Panama City FL are designed to make it easy for everyone to have fun and stay comfortable. Are your fishing trips kid-friendly and good for beginners?Yes! West Bay Fishing Charters offers beginner friendly fishing trips in Panama City. Captain Scott is patient and great with kids, making the trip fun, safe, and educational. Calm inshore waters and simple gear make our charters ideal for families and first-timers. When is the best time to go inshore fishing in Panama City FL?The best time to go inshore fishing in Panama City FL is during spring and fall, when Redfish and Sheepshead are especially active. Summer is also great for family fishing trips with calm conditions and consistent bites. Fishing is available year-round depending on your target species. What fish can we catch on an inshore fishing charter in Panama City?On our Panama City inshore fishing trips, you can catch Redfish, Spotted Seatrout, Flounder, Black Drum, Sheepshead, and Tripletail. The species vary by season, but there’s always something biting in the bays, flats, and backwater areas we fish. Do you offer private charter fishing trips in Panama City FL?Yes! All trips with West Bay Fishing Charters are private, meaning it’s just your group onboard. Our private charter fishing trips in Panama City FL give families and small groups a personalized, relaxed experience on the water. Where are the best inshore fishing spots in Panama City FL?Some of the top Panama City inshore fishing hotspots include St. Andrews Bay, Grand Lagoon, and the Intracoastal Waterway. These shallow-water areas are ideal for light tackle fishing and are home to species like Redfish and Trout. What can I expect on a light tackle fishing charter in Panama City?Expect calm waters, close-to-shore fishing, and lots of action with species like Redfish, Flounder, and Tripletail. Our light tackle fishing trips in Panama City Florida are designed for fun, learning, and catching fish without the need to go far offshore.

West Bay Fishing Charters Customer Reviews

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Fishing Charters Panama City FL | Private Inshore Trips for All

Panama City Fishing Charter Reviews – What Guests Say About West Bay Fishing Charters

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