INTERNATIONAL FISHING TACKLESTORES

Whenever I travel Internationally, I always try to arrive a few days earlier to get rid of the jetlag and to see some of the sites.  A top priority is to visit a local tackle store.  Often, these stores have lures which are not available in the United States or have colors I cannot get. Sometimes, if you are on top of prices, the International lures are cheaper than here in the USA.   On my recent trip to Panama, I found a fantastic store, Abernathy Transistmica which is located on Panama Street.  The store was huge as they offer a giant selection on tackle, rods, reels, boat, and camping equipment.  While browsing the tackle, I found Abernathy has a huge selection on Rapala lures.  I bought a few X-Rap Scoop XRSCP-14 , X-Rap Jointed Shad XJS-13 in Pike and Steel Perch coloration, X-Rap Subwalk XRSB-15 in Hot Pike, and Scaled Baitfish, a few Giant Shad Raps in Goldfish, and a few locally made jigs.  All of the Rapala lures were much cheaper than here in the States plus after talking with the owner, he gave me a 10% off all my tackle.  So next time you are in Panama make sure to visit Abernathy Transistmica or make sure to stop by a tackle store on your next International trip and you might be surprised on the lures not sold in the USA.  

PANAFISHING LODGE, PANAMA JUNE 19 TO 29, 2021

 

About 2 months ago I had a conversation with friend, Curtis Lee, about fishing opportunities.  Since the majority of destinations are still locked down due to covid, Curtis suggested I consider Panama where he has fished numerous times.  After a long discussion, Curtis said he was looking for a fishing partner for this June.  It took me about 5 seconds to tell him to count me in.  We would fish for 7 days our of Panafishing lodge

which is located in the town of Pedasi which is about 4 hrs ride from Panama City.  We would target Yellowfin Tuna, Roosterfish, and Cupera Snapper plus loads of others willing to bite.  X-large poppers would be the lure of choice as trolling and live bait is not allowed.  With my numerous trips to Papua New Guinea for Giant Trevally, I had all the equipment needed for a successful trip.  We were fishing in the rain season where the seas are normally calm. We experienced some rain during our 7 days of fishing but little to no wind.  The fishing was outstanding.  A few giant Roosterfish were caught by Curtis and myself.

  It is very exciting to see the comb of a rooster while chasing one's popper.  One day we went about 10 miles offshore and found Yellowfins jumping near a floating lodge.  The action was non-stop for about 1 hour with numerous tuna landed.  During the week we caught a variety of species such as YellowFin Tuna, Roosterfish, Jack Crevalle, Bigeye Jack, Bluefin Trevally, Sierra Mackerel, Needlefish, Amberjack (Almaco Jack), Dolphinfish, Cubera Snapper, Rainbow Runner, Barracuda, and even a shark.

  The lodge runs 3 boats and has a backup boat if needed.  The food is outstanding with the catch of the day being served the majority of your stay.  The rooms are very spacious with A/C and bath/shower.  There is a swimming pool to relax in after a day of arm bruising battles.  The staff and guides were outstanding!  I cannot wait to head back to Panafishing Lodge and hopefully go to battle with more giant Roosters!!!

Panafishing Lodge books well in advance so best to get in contact with Pierre ASAP to secure a booking.  He can be contacted at Panafishing@hotmail.com or call +507 6405 3675