Red Grouper

Red Grouper is a bottom-dwelling powerhouse found throughout the Gulf of America and South Atlantic. These thick-bodied fish are a staple on charter trips from Florida to Texas, prized equally for their fighting ability and their superb flavor.

Charters target Red Grouper over hard bottom, ledges, and limestone outcroppings in depths of 60 to 200 feet. Live pinfish, sardines, and cut bait fished near the bottom are the most productive methods. Red Grouper tend to sit right on the structure, so you need to get your bait down quickly and be ready for an immediate strike.

The fight is all about power. Red Grouper dive hard for their holes the instant they feel the hook, and if you let them get back into structure, you are done. Reel fast and apply steady pressure to turn their head before they can bury you. Fish in the 5 to 15 pound range are common, with some exceeding 20 pounds.

Red Grouper is one of the finest eating fish in American waters. The firm, white flesh has a mild, sweet flavor that works beautifully fried, grilled, or in chowder. Grouper sandwiches are a Gulf Coast tradition for good reason.