Tropic Star Lodge

Piñas Bay Billfishing - Panama

More than 300 IGFA World Records have been broken in Pinas Bay, making it the most record-breaking location on Earth. Tropic Star Lodge holds over 50 world records, which is more IGFA records than any other resort worldwide. This world-renowned fishing resort is situated in the jungle of Darien National Park, a 15,000-acre UNESCO World Heritage site. The lodge is located 150 miles south of Panama City and 35 miles from the Colombian border. With no roads within a 100-mile radius, the lodge is accessible only by boat or plane. Early booking is recommended.

Fishing Tropic Star Lodge:

Tropic Star Lodge was named the best saltwater fishing resort in the world in the 1999 Robb Report.
In Piñas Bay, black, blue, and striped marlin abound in numbers unheard of elsewhere. Pacific sailfish, dorado, roosterfish, cubera and muller snapper, yellowfin tuna, and more can be caught in these pristine waters.
Zane Grey spent a lot of time marlin fishing in this area in the 1920s. Zane Grey's Reef is now known as Piñas Reef, and the fish population has not diminished to this day.
Fishing Season: Peak marlin fishing months are January and February; only 6-day fishing packages are offered during this time. (Shorter stays are offered the rest of the year.) The prime black marlin season runs from December into April. All billfish and non-billfish species can be caught year-round in the pristine waters off Piñas Bay. The Pacific sailfish start moving in April through June. July brings another run of marlin, many in the 500-pound range.
All billfish are strictly catch-and-release. Roosterfish, cubera snapper, bluefin trevally, tarpon, and certain grouper species are also 100% catch-and-release.

Fishing Boats and Equipment:

Travel Time: Most fishing is six to 15 miles offshore in calm waters, with runs averaging 20 minutes. It gets a bit bumpy in late January and February when the north wind brings cooler water and tailing marlin.
Boats: The Lodge has a fleet of 16 customized, fully rigged, 31-foot Bertram yachts. The standard Bertrams have twin diesel engines and an open salon without air-conditioning. The upgraded Bertrams have brand-new Volvo Penta engines, an enclosed salon with air conditioning, and a stand-up head (toilet). Each boat hosts one to four anglers and is outfitted with GPS, VHF radios, tuna tubes, and a live baitwell. The Lodge also has a 45-foot Hatteras modern fishing yacht, the Pollyanna, which hosts up to six anglers. The enclosed air-conditioned salon has comfortable seating.
Guides: Local captains and mates with years of training and experience. One captain and mate per boat.
Equipment: The Lodge provides the use of all conventional tackle. Custom-made rods by Dru. Shimano Tiagras spooled with 50lb and 30lb top shot on top of braid backing. Spin equipment includes Shimano reels with 65lb power pro braid line paired with a Shimano Terez 7 ft heavy spin rod. Even though the boats are stocked with a variety of poppers, jigs, and plugs, you should bring some of your own secret weapons. Fly anglers must bring their own equipment.
Fishing Licenses: No fishing license is required in Panama for recreational sportfishing.
World Records: The Lodge is an official IGFA weigh station.

A Typical Fishing Day:
5:45 a.m. Morning 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 sits at the edge of the Darien Jungle on Panama's Pacific Coast.
The Lodge Season: Tropic Star Lodge is open from December through September and is closed for maintenance from October to mid-November.
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

Meals: You’ll enjoy a made-to-order breakfast at 6:00 a.m. in the Bay View dining room. You’ll have a packed lunch aboard the boat if you're fishing. Non-anglers can enjoy lunch at the restaurant or poolside. A four-course dinner with house wine is served in the Bay View dining room, and barbeque dinners are served near the pool every other evening.
The Bayview menu has many dinner options, from Fish Tacos, Filet Mignon, and St. Louis-style ribs to Chef's Fresh Catch of the Day. With advanced notice, the Lodge can accommodate special dietary needs.

Air-Conditioned Rooms

In 1961, Texas oil tycoon Ray Smith built the Lodge as his home away from home. The Lodge has 23 deluxe air-conditioned rooms with private baths and ocean views. One room is wheelchair accessible. The Lodge hosts up to 45 guests catered to by over 120 employees. 85% of their business is repeat clients, so early booking is a must. Lodging options vary from spacious cabin rooms to the Palace upgrade with three master suites for larger families.
Communications: The Lodge now offers phone service and limited internet in the rooms and common areas. There is a TV in the Bayview Bar and the Marlin Bar where sporting events can be streamed when necessary.
Lodge Activities: Hike jungle paths, snorkel, paddleboard through mangrove forests, watch whales from the lodge, comb the white sandy beach, enjoy massages, go on village tours, swim in the freshwater swimming pool, and more.

Getting to the Lodge:

1.) You'll fly to Panama City and stay overnight.
2.) In the morning, a Lodge representative will drive you to the local airport, a 30-minute drive. You'll take a one-hour charter flight to the Pinas Bay landing strip.
3.) (There is a 40-pound baggage limit for checked luggage and 15-pounds for your carry-on for the flight.)
4.) At Pinas Bay, you'll board the jungle cruise bus for a short ride to the boat. You will then board a panga, like a wide canoe, for a ten-minute boat ride to the Lodge.
5.) You'll settle into your room and then enjoy lunch.
The package does not include airfare or hotel nights in Panama City. There is a $715 transfer fee for the domestic charter flight and ground transfers.

Tropic Star Lodge in beautiful Pinas Bay, Panama.

2025 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 $715.00 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 for $325.00 per night.
Standard 31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,400.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,050.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $9,300.00 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,900.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,800.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $10,300.00 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $6,900.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $8,100.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $9,000.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $10,500.00 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $7,950.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $8,600.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $8,950.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $10,450.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $14,250.00 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $7,850.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $8,550.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $9,100.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $10,700.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $14,750.00 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $3,990.00 Includes three spa treatments and three excursions.

INSHORE SEASON: March through May.
7-nights in a Classic Room and 6-days guided fishing
Upgrade to a single occupancy room for $250.00 per night.
31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,250.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $5,950.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $6,850.00 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,900.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,700.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $7,900.00 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,450.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,100.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,900.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $8,100.00 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $6,350.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $6,900.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,500.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,800.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $11,950.00 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $7,100.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $7,650.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $8,300.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $9,550.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $12,700.00 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $3,185.00 Includes three spa treatments and three excursions.

5-nights in a Classic Room and 4-days guided fishing
31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,350.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $4,900.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $5,650.00 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,750.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $5,450.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $6,200.00 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $4,750.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,950.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $5,650.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $6,400.00 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $5,200.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,600.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,800.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,950.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $8,850.00 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $5,400.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,800.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,200.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,350.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $9,250.00 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $2,535.00 Includes two spa treatments and two excursions.

4-nights in a Classic Room and 3-days guided fishing
31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $3,800.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $4,150.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $4,800.00 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,000.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $4,400.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $5,050.00 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $3,700.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,200.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $4,600.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $5,250.00 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $4,250.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $4,500.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,950.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,200.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $7,700.00 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $4,550.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $4,800.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,450.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,600.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $8,100.00 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $2,260.00 Includes one spa treatment and two excursions.

BLUE MARLIN SEASON:
June through September and December.
7-nights in a Classic Room and 6-days guided fishing
Upgrade to a single occupancy room $300.00 per night.
July and August are high-demand months. Book well in advance.
Standard 31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,150.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,950.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $7,950.00 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,900.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,600.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $8,900.00 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $6,500.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,100.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,800.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $9,100.00 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $6,850.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $7,350.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,900.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $9,050.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $12,350.00 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $7,450.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $7,950.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $8,600.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $9,750.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $13,250.00 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $3,785.00 includes three spa treatments and three excursions.

5-nights in a Classic Room and 4-days guided fishing
31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,000.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $5,650.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $6,650.00 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,400.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,100.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $7,250.00 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $4,800.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,600.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,300.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $7,450.00 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $5,750.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $6,100.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $6,600.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,650.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $10,150.00 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $6,100.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $6,400.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $7,000.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $8,050.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $10,600.00 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $2,935.00 Includes two spa treatments and two excursions.

4-nights in a Classic Room and 3-days guided fishing
31-foot Bertram yacht:
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,400.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $4,800.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $5,600.00 per person
Upgraded 31-foot Bertram:
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,600.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $5,200.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $6,000.00 per person
32-foot Blackfin:
• 5-anglers per boat: $4,200.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $4,800.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $5,400.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $6,200.00 per person
45-foot Hatteras:
• 6-anglers per boat: $4,850.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,050.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,550.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $6,700.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $8,750.00 per person
47-foot Viking:
• 6-anglers per boat: $5,200.00 per person
• 5-anglers per boat: $5,400.00 per person
• 4-anglers per boat: $5,50.00 per person
• 3-anglers per boat: $7,150.00 per person
• 2-anglers per boat: $9,250.00 per person
Non-Angler Companion: $2,560.00 Includes one spa treatment and two 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
• Charter flight from Panama City to Pinas Bay, $715 transfer fee
• First & last night hotel & all expenses incurred in Panama City
• Alcoholic beverages (except for one glass of wine at dinner
• Drinks (other than sodas or iced tea) will be 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
• Travel insurance
• Panamanian room tax of $35 per room per week
($70 for a single occupancy room)
• $60 Panama departure tax
• Anything not mentioned under inclusions.

Fuel Surcharge:

Rates are subject to change without notice. The rates for the 2025 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 $715.00 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.

2025 Premium Accommodations

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.

The Villa - Two bedrooms, min. 3-guests:
Black Marlin Season: $400.00 per night
Inshore Season: $350.00 per night
Blue Marlin Season: $300.00 per night

The Villa Suite - One bedroom, 2-guests:
Black Marlin Season: $300.00 per night
Inshore Season: $225.00 per night
Blue Marlin Season: $275.00 per night

Presidential Villa - Three bedrooms
Black Marlin Season: $800.00 per night
Inshore Season: $600.00 per night
Blue Marlin Season: $700.00 per night

The Palace - Three bedrooms:
Black Marlin Season: $850.00 per night
Inshore Season: $600.00 per night
Blue Marlin Season: $700.00 per night

Fishing with Larry Payment Options:
1.) Credit card (a 2.5% convenience fee applies)
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 – typically a $15 to $30 fee for domestic transfers and $45 - $50 for international transfers.)
Please email Toni at toni@fishingwithlarry.com for wire instructions.

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.
Fishing with Larry strongly recommends purchasing trip insurance. Click here for our Travel Insurance page.