My initial thoughts on our Tropic Star experience would read virtually word for word as wolftrout's does above. He summarizes things very nicely. I would especially agree with his observation that fishing is never quite as good as one dreams of, some work is required to do well. Alas, the fish do not simply jump in the boat as some guests seem to expect.

Synopsis: Our experience at TSL was absolutely wonderful, honestly exceeding all expectations. Crews, boats, rooms, facilities, food and bar - all were first class. Amazing considering the nearest road is over 100 miles away and supplies must be shipped or flown in. This is an extremely remote location. The lodge has a beautiful dining room, bar, and pool. A private beach can be enjoyed, albeit with a bit of a walk or boat ride. Food is excellent - made to order - and does revolve at night around the catch of the day as one might imagine.

We worked hard for the fish we did catch - but in the end achieved a first Black Marlin and my wife's first Pacific Sailfish among many other species. In between, the inshore fishing for snapper and trophy sized rooster fish provided a nice change of pace from the offshore scene. Yellowfin tuna were abundant during our trip. The shoreline is visually stunning, a mountainous jungle right to the edge of the Pacific.

The Lodge does aim to please - customer service is phenomenal. Wakeup calls each day are in person - a knock on the door - with an offer of hot coffee. My wife briefly mentioned a desire for some soy sauce and wasabi, this resulted in those items being on the boat subsequent days and we enjoyed fresh sushi each day on the boat. Many guests enjoyed a massage by a therapist the Lodge flew in from Panama City for a few days.

Some notes: Ladies welcome. My wife was quite comfortable and may have had a better time than I did. Power is 110 Volts -- plugs the same as in the USA. The lodge is staffed by locals from a nearby village, children's supplies such as crayons, paper, etc are extremely appreciated by them. Tackle provided is top quality and in good condition but you are welcome to bring your own. Boats are Detroit Diesel powered - sound proofing is minimal - some ear plugs or noise cancelling headsets may be helpful for softer souls while under way. TSL captains know two speeds - slow and full throttle !

Trip pricing is significant, but considering experience worth every penny. Trips available for all budgets with shorter 3 and 4 day trips available outside the prime winter months where 6 days of fishing is the norm. Package price does not include charter flight to Pinas Bay, tips, alcohol or hotel in Panama City. Trip price does include excellent pick up service at airports and hotels, we felt safe and in good hands and enjoyed skipping the customs line.

The US dollar is widely accepted throughout Panama. While in Panama City we would recommend the beautiful Bristol Hotel located in the financial district. It has an outstanding restaurant and beautiful bar. We felt quite safe traveling throughout the country - and did so after visiting the TSL.

If offshore fishing is your thing, the Tropic Star Lodge is the holy grail of fishing trips in my opinion.