Half-Day Fishing and Shelling at Shell Island | Panama City Beach Morning Trip
Start before sunrise aboard the Crown Jewel with Captain Eddie: two hours of inshore fishing followed by two hours exploring Shell Island's shell-strewn beaches. This five-hour combo is accessible, family-friendly, and geared for morning calm and good light.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring sun protection
The morning sun intensifies quickly on open water—use SPF 30+, a brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses.
Motion-sickness prep
If you get seasick, take medication before boarding and choose a mid-ship seat to minimize motion.
Protect valuables
Use a small dry bag for phones, wallets and cameras—water and sand are ubiquitous on deck and beach.
Pack a small trash bag
Even small items can wash ashore; carry out any trash to help protect fragile dune and marine habitats.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Northern sandbars near Shell Island that reveal tidal pools at low tide
- •Quiet west-facing coves on Shell Island good for spotting dolphins at dawn
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins
- •Shorebirds such as sandpipers and willets
Conservation Note
Barrier islands are fragile—avoid taking live shells, pack out trash, and follow local guidelines to protect nesting birds and dune vegetation.
Shell Island and the surrounding baylands have supported fishing and maritime communities for generations and are part of the barrier-island system that shaped panhandle coastlines.
What to Bring
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Protects skin during prolonged sun exposure on deck and beach.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare for spotting fish and protects eyes from reflected sunlight.
Non-slip deck shoes or sandalsEssential
Good traction on wet decks and comfortable on sand.
Small dry bag
Keeps phone, keys and snacks dry while fishing and swimming.
Common Questions
Where does the trip depart from?
Most departures are from a Panama City Beach marina; check your booking confirmation for the exact meeting point and arrive 15 minutes early.
Is fishing gear provided?
Yes—bait, tackle and all fishing supplies are provided, and the crew will help with basic instruction.
Are restrooms available?
There may be a restroom at the departure marina; boats of this size typically do not have full restrooms, so plan accordingly.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; trips may be canceled for bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Panama City Beach, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—able to board a small boat, stand for fishing periods, and walk on soft sand.
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