Gatun Lake is an ideal destination for any fishing enthusiast looking to catch peacock bass, tarpon, and snook, as well as other less popular fresh water fish. With a countless number of small bays, inlets and channels, Gatun Lake provides for terrific fishing opportunities, whether you're using live bait, lures or plugs. Furthermore, its lined with lush, verdant rainforest, so the setting couldn't be better. Common sightings include hawks, howler and white-faced capuchin monkeys, iguanas, and an endless number of aquatic bird species.
For fisherman, there are two primary points of entry, Gamboa and Arenosa.
Gamboa
The small, quaint town of Gamboa, a 30-40 minute drive from Panama City, resides right along the Panama Canal and is home to the Panama Canal Dredging Division. Just prior to reaching Gamboa, and before crossing over the Chagres River bridge, you'll find the Gamboa public boat ramp off to the right side of the road, open daily from 4:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. The facility overlooks the Chagres River and Gamboa Resort, has ample dock space, and area set aside with tables where you can clean the days catch. There are no public bathroom facilities, nor are there any stores close by. Along the road, just outside the gates, is a large, public parking lot where you can leave your car day and/or night. The facility is used by locals for personal use (fishing, jet skis, etc.), and by commercial outfitters that offer fishing and/or general tours.
Fishing tours can be organized here, but it would be best to do so prior to arriving. Most fishing boats require a minimum of 4 passengers, so unless you arrive in a group you'll find it difficult, or very expensive. Normally, fishing gear can be rented, with live bait also available. The most popular fishing spots tend to be in the area just behind Barro Colorado Island, to its south and west. It takes approximately 35-35 to get there by boat, depending on motor, weather, etc.
Arenosa
The picturesque town of Arenosa is located on the far western shore of Gatun Lake, approximately a 1 1/2 hour drive from Panama City. The town itself is very small, has a few modest restaurants overlooking the lake, as well as a few stores where you can purchase soft drinks and other food items. The area surrounding Arenosa is very flat and open, thus more susceptible to the wind. The fishing spots aren't nearly as secluded and sheltered, but it is no less beautiful and peaceful, just different. Most importantly, the fishing here is quite good as well. Fishing rods, reels and live bait is also available upon request, but we recommend you organize something prior to arriving. Arenosa is a very small town, and while there are several locals with private boats for hire, finding them on short notice won't be too easy. Boat and fishing gear rental tends to be a bit cheaper here than in Gamboa, since few people fish here.
Regardless of your destination, fresh water fishing in Gatun Lake is a memorable experience and a wonderful way to spend a day while visiting Panama. You won't be disappointed, the lake is well stocked and nobody comes back with an empty bucket, nobody!