Just returned from taking another group of anglers to Panama’s Pacific coastal fishery. As always the trip was fantastic with perfect weather and a great group of anglers. I have been fishing Panama yearly since about 2003 and I am amazed at the size and variety of finned creatures there. Our recent trip produced many big roosterfish over 50lbs but the problem as usual was the only big rooster taken on fly was around 30lbs, now that’s nothing to cry or moan about in anyone’s book 
My issue with the fishing there has been the lack of the knowledge of the captains in the fly dept. I have fished with most outfits there and many many Captains who are considered the best in Panama. Don’t get me wrong these captains know where the fish are and most work hard for their anglers, the problem is associated with boat handling and approach when fishing areas with fly anglers. These guys are used to positioning the boats for guys throwing giant poppers on braided line spinning set-ups, which is a hell of alot of fun by the way… but it is not as intimate and quiet as approaching an area that holds GIANT roosterfish for the fly angler. There is no question in my mind that Panama can produce many world record fly catches for a host of species, the fish are there to do it but the lodge owners and operators need to change their mind sets if Panama is ever to become a top destination for fly anglers.
It’s really a place you should visit and fish, it’s one of the most beautiful and unspoiled places on the planet and no matter what they say bring along an Echo 12wt because even thier “small” fish are too much for any 10wt !! Hell maybe I’ll get down there someday and open up a fly fishing haven that will turn the fly world on it’s ear I truely love the place..
-Capt. John Ford
PS- I would some pics but I have not figured out how to yet ? I won’t allow me to browse my computer files ?? Where’s a teenager when you need one