February 17, 2026 – PRESSADVANTAGE –
Hook’em Up Charters has opened early spring fishing reservations for February and March, offering anglers the opportunity to experience Panama City Beach’s productive winter fishery before peak spring break crowds arrive. The charter company reports strong redfish and sheepshead action throughout the winter months, with Spanish mackerel and pompano expected to become more active as Gulf waters warm toward March.
The Panama City Beach-based fishing charter service is open to both visiting anglers and local residents looking to take advantage of the quieter pre-season period, when flexible scheduling and personalized attention are more readily available. February trips offer consistent catches of redfish and sheepshead, while early March charters begin to see increased pelagic species activity as water temperatures rise.
“February and early March represent some of the best-kept secrets in Panama City Beach fishing,” said Captain BJ Burkett, owner and operator of Hook’em Up Charters. “The redfish and sheepshead bite remains strong through winter, and as we move toward spring, Spanish mackerel and pompano start showing up in good numbers. Anglers can book now to avoid the spring break rush while still experiencing fishing conditions.”
Hook’em Up PCB fishing trips during the early spring period range from half-day to full-day charters, accommodating both experienced anglers and families seeking their first Gulf fishing experience. The company’s fleet operates from Captain Anderson Marina, giving access to nearshore and offshore fishing grounds throughout the Gulf of Mexico.
The transition from winter to spring fishing patterns typically begins in late February and accelerates through March, creating diverse fishing opportunities. Redfish remain active around structure and grass flats, while sheepshead congregate near pilings and artificial reefs. As water temperatures climb above 65 degrees, Spanish mackerel begin their migration into Panama City Beach waters, followed by pompano moving along the beaches.
Early season bookings can also provide flexibility for snowbirds extending their stays and families planning pre-spring break vacations. The charter service offers customized trips based on target species preferences and group composition, with all necessary fishing equipment, licenses, and bait included.
“We see consistent success rates through February and March, particularly for anglers targeting multiple species,” added Captain Burkett. “The variety available during this transitional period means every trip offers something different, from the hard-fighting redfish to the acrobatic Spanish mackerel that arrive as spring approaches.”
The charter company notes that Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations remain in effect year-round, with specific size and bag limits for each species. Current regulations allow harvest of redfish within the 18-27 inch slot limit, while sheepshead must measure at least 12 inches. Spanish mackerel regulations permit 15 fish per person with a 12-inch minimum size when the season opens.
Hook’em Up Charters operates a fleet of vessels capable of accommodating groups from small families to parties of up to 36 people. The company specializes in deep-sea fishing experiences, offering trolling, bottom fishing, and combination trips tailored to current conditions and customer preferences. As a third-generation fishing operation, the charter service combines decades of local knowledge with modern equipment and techniques to maximize success rates throughout the changing seasons.
###
For more information about Hook’em Up Charters, contact the company here:
Hook’em Up Charters
BJ Burkett
850-774-8333
hookemupcharters@gmail.com
5550 North Lagoon Drive, Slip 3E and 1E
Panama City Beach, Florida, 32408
