Tropic Star Lodge

Piñas Bay Billfishing - Panama

Fish the legendary waters of Piñas Bay.
Tropic Star Lodge is home to more than 300 IGFA World Records. Located on Panama’s remote Pacific coast in the Darien jungle, the Lodge offers world-class black and blue marlin, sailfish, tuna, roosterfish, cubera snapper, and more. All fishing charters are exclusive—you’ll share the boat only with members of your travel party. Early reservations are recommended.
2027 Rates start at $5,130 per person, four anglers per boat for 4 nights / 3 days Blue Marlin fishing.

Piñas Bay

The nutrient-rich Humboldt Current brings vast numbers of forage and predatory species into the waters of Pinas Bay. The waters of are teeming with gamefish—black, blue, and striped marlin appear in numbers rarely seen elsewhere. Anglers also pursue Pacific sailfish, dorado, yellowfin tuna, roosterfish, cubera snapper, mullet snapper, and more. Named the Best Saltwater Fishing Resort in the World by the Robb Report in 1999, Tropic Star Lodge has long been a destination for serious anglers seeking record-breaking catches.
A Historic Fishing Legacy
Legendary author and angler Zane Grey spent much of the 1920s fishing for marlin in this very region. What was once known as Zane Grey’s Reef is now called Piñas Reef, and remarkably, the abundance of fish has never diminished.
Fishing Seasons at a Glance:
Peak Marlin Season: January & February – 6-day fishing packages only
Prime Black Marlin Season: December through April
Pacific Sailfish: April through June
Second Marlin Run: July – often featuring fish in the 500-pound range
Year-Round Action: All billfish and non-billfish species can be caught throughout the year
Catch-and-Release Conservation:
All billfish are strictly catch-and-release, along with roosterfish, cubera snapper, bluefin trevally, tarpon, and select grouper species—preserving this rich fishery for generations to come.

Fishing Boats and Equipment:

Travel Time to the Action: Most fishing takes place just 6 to 15 miles offshore in typically calm waters, with boat runs averaging only 20 minutes. Conditions can get a bit choppy in late January and February, when the north wind brings in cooler waters and tailing marlin.
Boats & Fleet: Tropic Star Lodge operates a premier fleet of 16 fully rigged, customized 31-foot Bertram yachts, plus one luxury 45-foot Hatteras:
Standard Bertrams: Twin diesel engines with an open salon (no air conditioning)
Upgraded Bertrams: Brand-new Volvo Penta engines, enclosed air-conditioned salon, and a stand-up head (toilet)
All Bertrams are equipped with GPS, VHF radios, tuna tubes, and live baitwells and accommodate 1 to 4 anglers
The Pollyanna – 45-ft Hatteras Yacht: For larger groups or enhanced comfort, the Pollyanna offers a fully air-conditioned enclosed salon with cushioned seating and accommodates up to six anglers.
Guides & Crew: Each boat is crewed by a professional local captain and an experienced mate, many of whom have years of service at the Lodge. Their expertise and deep knowledge of the area ensure an unforgettable fishing experience.
Tackle and Equipment: All conventional tackle is provided by the Lodge, including:
• Custom rods by Dru
• Shimano Tiagra reels spooled with 50 lb and 30 lb top shot on top of braid backing
• Spinning gear includes Shimano reels with 65 lb PowerPro braid and Shimano Terez 7-ft heavy spin rods
The boats carry a variety of poppers, jigs, and plugs, but you’re welcome to bring your own favorite lures.
Note: Fly anglers must bring their own gear.
Fishing Licenses: No fishing license is required in Panama for recreational sportfishing.
World Records: Tropic Star Lodge is an official IGFA weigh station and holds over 50 IGFA world records.

A Typical Fishing Day:
5:45 a.m. Wake-up knock and wake-up call, and coffee service.
6:00 a.m. Breakfast is served in the Bayview Restaurant.
6:30 a.m. The boats leave the dock. The fleet sets out to catch live bait for your fishing day. You'll take along your choice of a boxed lunch and beverages. Beer is a separate charge.
3:00 p.m. You'll reel in for the day and head back to the Lodge for the afternoon.
3:30 p.m. Snacks are served at the Marlin Bar, Jungle Pool, or Bayview Restaurant. Enjoy the view of the bay, swim in the pool, and tell stories.
7:00 p.m. A four-course dinner is served in the Bayview Restaurant, and a BBQ dinner at the Jungle Pool every other night.

About Tropic Star Lodge:

Tropic Star Lodge is tucked away at the edge of the Darien Jungle, along Panama’s remote Pacific coast—a breathtaking and secluded setting where the rainforest meets the sea.
Lodge Season: The Lodge is open from December through September. It is closed annually from October to mid-November for seasonal maintenance.
Click here for a YouTube video of Tropic Star Accommodations.

Tropic Star Dining

Anglers seated in Tiled Room with Round Tables and Sailfish on the Wall

Start your day with a made-to-order breakfast served at 6:00 a.m. in the scenic Bay View dining room. While out on the water, anglers enjoy a packed lunch aboard the boat, while non-anglers can relax with lunch at the restaurant or poolside.
Evenings at the lodge are a highlight, featuring a four-course dinner with house wine served in the Bay View dining room. Every other night, guests gather for barbecue dinners by the pool, in a relaxed and social atmosphere under the stars.
The Bay View menu offers something for every palate—favorites include fish tacos, filet mignon, St. Louis-style ribs, and the chef’s fresh catch of the day.
Special Dietary Needs:
With advance notice, the Lodge is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and special meal requests.

Air-Conditioned Rooms

About the Lodge
Founded in 1961 by Texas oil tycoon Ray Smith, Tropic Star Lodge was initially built as his private retreat. Today, it stands as a world-class fishing destination nestled in the heart of Panama’s remote Pacific coast.
The Lodge offers 23 deluxe, air-conditioned rooms, each with a private bath and ocean view. One room is wheelchair accessible, and lodging options range from spacious cabin rooms to the luxurious Palace upgrade, which features three master suites—perfect for families or larger groups. The Lodge accommodates up to 45 guests, served by over 120 staff members, ensuring a high level of personalized service.
Did You Know?
An impressive 85% of guests are repeat visitors. Early booking is highly recommended.

Getting to Tropic Star Lodge

Your journey to the remote and beautiful Piñas Bay is part of the adventure. Here’s what to expect:
1. Arrival in Panama City:
Fly into Panama City (PTY) and plan to stay overnight at a local hotel (not included in the package).
2. Morning Transfer & Charter Flight:
The next morning, a Tropic Star Lodge representative will pick you up and transfer you to the local airport—a 30-minute drive. From there, you'll take a one-hour charter flight to the Piñas Bay landing strip.
3. Charter Flight Luggage Limits:
Checked luggage: 40 pounds
Carry-on: 15 pounds
4. Jungle Transfer: Upon landing, board the “jungle cruise” bus for a short drive through the rainforest to the dock. Then enjoy a 10-minute boat ride in a panga (a wide, motorized canoe) to the Lodge.
5. Arrival & Lunch:
You’ll be welcomed at the Lodge, settle into your room, and then enjoy lunch overlooking the bay.
Please Note:
• The $745 transfer fee includes round-trip charter flights and ground/boat transportation between Panama City and Tropic Star Lodge.
• International airfare and hotel accommodations in Panama City are not included in the package.

Tropic Star Lodge in beautiful Pinas Bay, Panama.

RATES and PACKAGES

Tropic Star Lodge
• All charters are exclusive; you will share a boat with the people in your travel party.
• Two anglers per standard room.
• Packages do not include the transfer fee of $745.00 per person.

Our advice is free.
We never charge more than the Lodges we represent.

Peak Black Marlin Season: January and February.
• Only 7-nights and 6-day packages are offered during Black Marlin Season.
• Book early, as these dates are usually booked out more than a year in advance.
BLACK MARLIN SEASON:
7-nights in a Classic Room and 6-days guided fishing

Upgrade to a single occupancy room $425 per night.
Standard 31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $8,500 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $9,150 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $10,400 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $9,000 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $9,900 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $11,400 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $8,000 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $9,200 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $10,100 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $11,600 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 5-anglers per boat: $9,700 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $10,050 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $11,550 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $15,350 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 5-anglers per boat: $10,250 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $10,800 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $12,400 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $16,550 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $4,810 Includes 3 spa treatments and 3 jungle excursions.

INSHORE SEASON: March through May.
7 nights in a Classic Room and 6 days guided fishing

Upgrade to a single occupancy room $350 per night.
31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,450 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,150 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $8,050 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,100 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,900 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $9,100 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $6,550 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,200 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,100 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $9,300 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $7,350 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $8,000 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $8,600 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $10,000 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $13,150 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $8,500 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $8,850 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $9,400 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $10,750 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $13,900 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $3,685 Includes 3 spa treatments and 3 jungle excursions.

5 nights in a Classic Room and 4 days guided fishing
31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,150 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $5,700 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $6,450 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,550 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,250 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $7,000 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,550 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,750 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,450 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $7,200 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $6,200 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $6,600 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,800 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,950 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $9,950 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $6,400 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $6,800 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,200 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,350 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $10,350 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $3,035 Includes 2 spa treatments and 2 jungle excursions.

4 nights in a Classic Room and 3 days guided fishing
31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,600 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $4,950 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $5,600 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,800 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $5,200 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $5,850 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $4,550 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,000 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $5,400 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $6,050 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $5,050 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,300 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,750 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,000 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $8,700 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $5,350 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,600 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,250 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,400 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $8,900 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $2,760 Includes 1 spa treatment and 2 jungle excursions.

BLUE MARLIN SEASON:
June through September and December.
The Lodge is closed from October to mid-November.
7 nights in a Classic Room and 6 days guided fishing
Upgrade to a single occupancy room $400 per night.
July and August are high-demand months. Book well in advance.
Standard 31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,350 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,450 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $9,150 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $8,000 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,700 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $10,000 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $7,600 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $8,200 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,900 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $10,200 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $8,250 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $8,550 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $9,100 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $10,250 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $13,500 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $9,100 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $9,400 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $10,050 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $11,100 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $14,700 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $4,750 includes 3 spa treatments and 3 jungle excursions.

5 nights in a Classic Room and 4 days guided fishing
31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,800 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,450 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $7,450 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,200 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,900 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $8,050 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,600 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,400 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,100 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $8,250 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $6,650 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $7,000 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,500 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,550 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $11,050 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $7,000 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $7,300 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $8,000 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $9,250 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $11,800 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $3,830 Includes 2 spa treatments and 2 jungle excursions.

4 nights in a Classic Room and 3 days guided fishing
31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,130 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $5,530 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $6,330 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,400 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,000 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $6,800 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,000 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,600 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,200 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $7,000 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $5,650 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,850 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,350 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,500 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $9,550 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $6,200 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $6,400 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,950 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,150 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $10,250 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $3,100 Includes 1 spa treatment and 2 jungle excursions.

Packages Include:

• Deluxe double-occupancy room
• Guided fishing with captain and mate
• Use of fishing tackle (except for fly fishing)
• Breakfast, boxed lunch, four-course dinners
• Sodas, iced tea, and afternoon snacks
• One glass of house wine with dinner.

Packages Do Not Include:

• Airfare - international or domestic
• $745 p.p. roundtrip charter flight Panama City–Piñas Bay
• First & last night hotel & all expenses incurred in Panama City
• Alcoholic beverages (except for one wine at dinner)
• Drinks (except sodas/iced tea) are charged to your room
• Beers consumed on the boat
• Laundry service
• Fly tackle and equipment
• Gratuities to guides and lodge staff
• Massages
• Special air charters
• Special excursions
• Taxidermy orders
• Global Rescue coverage
• Travel insurance
• $35 Panamanian room tax
($70 for a single occupancy room)
• $60 Panama departure tax
• Anything not listed under inclusions.

Fuel Surcharge:

Rates are subject to change without notice. The rates for the 2027 season are fixed on fuel prices up to $4.00 per gallon delivered to Piñas Bay. If fuel prices increase above this amount, a fuel surcharge may apply.

A Transfer Fee of $745 per person is additional to the rates above. This transfer package includes roundtrip airfare from Panama City to the Lodge in Piñas Bay, meet-and-greet Service at the Tocumen International Airport upon arrival to Panama, and up to four ground transfers between the airport and your hotel in Panama City. The charter flights are only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Upon booking, you’ll receive a confirmation packet with detailed transfer information.

Accommodation Upgrades

Tropic Star Lodge also offers room upgrades from the standard Classic Room listed in the rates above. Upgrades are priced per room per night. Subject to availability. Options include 2 - 5 Bedrooms, with breathtaking views, a private ledge pool, and a full kitchen, living and dining areas.

The Villa Suite - One bedroom:
Black Marlin Season: $475 per night
Inshore Season: $375 per night
Blue Marlin Season: $425 per night

The Villa - 2 bedrooms
Black Marlin Season: $650 per night
Inshore Season: $500 per night
Blue Marlin Season: $600 per night

Presidential Villa - 3 bedrooms
Black Marlin Season:
$1,400 per night
Inshore Season:
$1,050 per night
Blue Marlin Season:
$1,300 per night

The Palace - 3 bedrooms:
Black Marlin Season:
$1,150 per night
Inshore Season:
$950 per night
Blue Marlin Season:
$1,050 per night

Tropic Star Lodge

Deposit Policy: 50% of the rate is required at the time of booking to confirm your space. The remaining balance is due 135 days before arrival at the Lodge.

Cancellation Policy: Payments made on your trip are refundable for cancellations received, in writing, at least 121 days prior to your arrival date at TROPIC STAR LODGE®, less a $1,000.00 per person cancellation fee ($500.00 may be applied toward a trip within one year of your cancellation). If you cancel your trip for whatever reason, 0-120 days prior to your arrival date at TROPIC STAR LODGE®, all payments will be non-refundable. Travel Insurance is strongly recommended to protect your investment.

Travel Insurance: Fishing with Larry strongly recommends purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage and Global Rescue medical evacuation.
Visit our Travel Insurance page.

Fishing with Larry Payment Options:
1.) Credit Card: A 2.5% convenience fee applies for all credit card transactions.
2.) Check: Please include your invoice number in the memo.
Mail checks to Fishing with Larry
P.O. Box 419
Columbus, MT 59019.
3.) Wire Transfer: Send money electronically. Typical fees are approximately $15–$30 for domestic transfers and $45–$50 for international transfers.
Please email Toni at toni@fishingwithlarry.com for wire instructions.
4. Please review our Travel Terms & Disclaimers prior to submitting your deposit.