Grouper

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Grouper, a popular saltwater game fish known for its powerful strikes and delicious flesh, can be found in the coastal waters of Florida. They are primarily found in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, inhabiting a range of habitats such as reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottoms.
Florida: Grouper can be found along the entire coastline of Florida, both on the Atlantic side and the Gulf side. They are commonly encountered in areas such as the Florida Keys, the Gulf of Mexico, and offshore reefs and wrecks. Popular fishing grounds for grouper include the Dry Tortugas, the Florida Middle Grounds, and the St. Petersburg area.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Grouper are bottom-dwelling fish that prefer structures and habitats where they can seek shelter and ambush their prey. They are often found near reefs, wrecks, rocky bottoms, ledges, and drop-offs. Grouper species have a preference for rocky and coral formations, where they can hide and wait for passing prey.
Look for grouper near areas with significant structure and relief, such as underwater ledges, pinnacles, and artificial reefs. They are known to inhabit both shallow and deep waters, depending on the species and the time of year. Grouper are also commonly found near areas with strong currents, as they use the currents to their advantage when hunting.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, grouper begin to move closer to shore and into shallower waters in preparation for their spawning season. Look for them near reefs, rocky outcrops, and ledges in depths ranging from 30 to 60 feet. Grouper are more active during this time, making it a good season for targeting them.

SUMMER

In the summer, grouper can be found in a variety of depths depending on the species and the availability of prey. Some species may move to deeper waters while others may remain in shallower areas. Look for grouper near reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottoms in depths ranging from 60 to 150 feet. Fishing during early mornings or late evenings can be productive during this season.

FALL

As fall arrives, grouper activity remains steady, and they continue to feed actively. They may start to move into slightly deeper waters, particularly as water temperatures begin to cool. Look for them near offshore reefs, wrecks, and areas with significant structure. Grouper can be found in depths ranging from 100 to 200 feet or more.

WINTER

Winter is a productive season for targeting grouper in Florida, especially in the southern parts of the state. Grouper tend to move to deeper waters during the colder months. Look for them near offshore reefs, wrecks, and ledges in depths ranging from 150 to 300 feet or more. Slow presentations and patience are key during the winter season.

Grouper are opportunistic predators and will feed on a variety of baits. Common baits for targeting grouper include live bait such as pinfish, grunts, and cigar minnows. Cut bait, such as mullet, squid, or fish fillets, can also be effective. It's important to use appropriate tackle and strong hooks to handle the powerful strikes and fights of grouper.

Bottom Fishing

How: Grouper are bottom-dwelling fish, so bottom fishing is the most effective technique. Use live bait, such as pinfish, grunts, or mullet, or fresh-cut bait like squid, mullet, or bonito. Drop your bait near structures such as reefs, wrecks, or rock formations where grouper are known to hide.
Gear: Rods: Heavy-duty boat rods. Reels: Conventional reels with a high line capacity. Line: 50-80lb test braided line or monofilament. Leaders: 60-100lb test fluorocarbon leaders with a length of 3-6 feet. Hooks: Circle hooks in sizes 6/0 to 9/0, depending on the size of bait used. Sinkers: Depending on the depth and current, use heavy sinkers to keep your bait close to the bottom.

Jigging

How: Jigging can be an effective technique to entice grouper to strike. Use heavy vertical jigs with fluttering or darting action to imitate injured baitfish. Drop your jig near structure or over a known grouper hotspot and work it with an upward jerking motion followed by a controlled descent.
Gear: Rods: Heavy-duty jigging rods. Reels: High-speed conventional reels with a strong drag system. Line: 50-80lb test braided line. Leaders: 60-100lb test fluorocarbon leaders with a length of 3-6 feet. Jigs: Heavy vertical jigs in weights ranging from 4 to 12 ounces.

Trolling

How: Trolling for grouper can be productive, especially when targeting larger specimens. Use deep-diving plugs or large spoons that imitate baitfish. Troll near drop-offs, ledges, or underwater structures at a slow speed to entice grouper strikes.
Gear: Rods: Heavy trolling rods. Reels: Conventional reels with a high line capacity. Line: 50-80lb test monofilament or braided line. Lures: Deep-diving plugs or large spoons.