How To Catch Grouper

Do you want to catch grouper? Would you like to learn how to catch grouper? Grouper fishing can be challenging if you don’t have the knowledge, skills, and right equipment to fish for this fish. They are bottom feeders and can be found around structures like reefs, wrecks, ledges, bridges, and navigational markers. In this article, we discuss the skills, techniques, tips, and equipment needed to catch more groupers.

How To Catch Grouper

There are a number of techniques that can be used to catch grouper from the boat. They are bottom fishing and trolling.

1. Bottom Fishing

Groupers are bottom feeders and when you are fishing for them in a boat, you must get your bait down to the bottom. First, you have to locate structures like coral reefs, jetties, wrecks, ledges, bridges, docks, rocks, and markers.

One technique anglers use to attract groupers to the area they are in is chumming. They drop the bait into the water to get the attention of fish and they send it down their line. When fishing from a boat, set the boat up the tide of the area you will fish for grouper. When the bait is dropped, it will naturally float back to the structure and the fish.

Let your line hit the bottom of the ocean floor using a weight or sinker. Then get your bait off the ocean floor so it is suspended by cranking the reel. When the grouper bites, keep the line tight and reel in quickly. Don’t yank the rod as it will pull the bait out of the mouth of the grouper. Instead, reel quickly to drive the hook in.

Sometimes when you have the grouper hooked, it will make a run for rock, hole, or reef to break the line. Don’t break the line or let it break the line. Instead, give it a loose line for a period of time like 30 minutes to let it relax and maybe swim out from under the structure. Groupers don’t have a lot of stamina. Just be patient and give it some time with a slackline.

2. Trolling

Trolling is an effective method for covering a large area of water to locate grouper, particularly when targeting larger species like Goliath grouper or Black grouper. Anglers use specialized trolling gear, including heavy-duty rods and reels, along with deep-diving plugs or large swimming baits to mimic the appearance and movement of prey fish.

By trolling along reef edges, drop-offs, or other productive grouper habitats, anglers can entice strikes from grouper lurking in deeper waters. Trolling allows anglers to cover a variety of depths and structures, increasing the likelihood of encountering active grouper.

3. Jigging

Jigging is a versatile technique used to target grouper, particularly in deeper waters or areas with strong currents where traditional bottom fishing may be challenging. Anglers deploy heavy metal jigs, often with assist hooks attached, and use an up-and-down motion to bounce the jig off the seafloor, mimicking the erratic movement of wounded prey.

Grouper are ambush predators and are attracted to the sudden movement and flash of the jig, making them susceptible to this method. Successful jigging for grouper requires anglers to accurately gauge the depth and structure of the underwater terrain and adjust their jigging technique accordingly to entice strikes.

4. Live Bait Fishing

Live bait fishing is a highly effective method for targeting grouper, as these predatory fish are naturally drawn to the movement and scent of live prey. Anglers use a variety of live baits, including pinfish, grunts, mullet, and small snappers, rigged on circle hooks and presented near the bottom or suspended midwater using a float or balloon.

The key to successful live bait fishing for grouper is presenting the bait naturally and enticingly, either by allowing it to swim freely or by using controlled drift or slow trolling techniques to cover a larger area.

5. Chumming

Chumming is a technique used to attract grouper to a specific area by dispersing a mixture of ground-up fish, fish parts, and other natural baitfish oils into the water. This creates a scent trail that draws grouper from surrounding areas to investigate and feed.

Once the grouper is attracted to the chum slick, anglers can then deploy baits or lures into the area to entice strikes. Chumming can be particularly effective when fishing in deeper waters or areas with limited structure, as it helps concentrate grouper and increases the likelihood of a successful catch.

How To Catch Grouper From Shore

When fishing for grouper from the shore, look for structures like docks, bridges, wrecks, rocks, navigational markers, etc. Groupers like structures and there is a good chance that they will be around these structures. Attach your bait to your line and try to get bites.

You can match the hatch for the shoreline and use bait that is commonly used in that area. Shrimps, pinfish, herring, squid, sardines, and mullet are some of the bait you can use. When you get a bite, don’t yank the rod. Keep the line tight and quickly reel it in.

How To Catch Grouper In The Gulf

You can fish for grouper in the gulf by using bottom fishing or trolling.

1. Bottom Fishing

With bottom fishing, you drop your bait to the bottom and then get it off the bottom so it is suspended by cranking the reel. When a fish bites the line, keep it tight and reel in quickly. Don’t yank the fishing rod the way it is done when fishing for bass. This will pull the bait out of the fish’s mouth.

You will encounter a scenario when the grouper is hooked that it will run for its favorite hole or wreck to break the line. Loosen the line and give the fish some time. Groupers don’t have a lot of stamina. After calming down and with a slack line, it might just swim from the hole or wreck.

2. Trolling

Trolling is another method of fishing for grouper with a boat. Move the boat at a steady speed of around 3 to 7 knots. When you locate structures like coral reefs, rocks, jetties, and ledges, drop your line in or around the structures with the bait. When a fish bites, maintain a tight line and reel it in quickly. Diving plugs are often used when trolling.

Grouper Tackle

Groupers grow to be very large and are hard-fighting fish when it is hooked. You need heavy tackle to pull them from the structure and turn them very early in the battle. Heavy conventional rods and reels as well as heavy spinning tackle will get the job done. Conventional rods provide more cranking power and allow you to put more pressure on it. A rod that is about 6 to 7 feet and can carry a 50-100 pound test line will work.

How To Catch Grouper In Florida

Grouper can be found near reefs, wrecks, bridges, docks, mangroves, rocky areas, flat bottoms, and other underwater structures. They feed on crabs, squid, bridge pilings, octopus, mullet, bonito, and baitfish such as pinfish, threadfins, and sardines.

Lures such as scented jigs also work well when fishing for grouper. Bottom fishing, trolling, chumming, drift fishing, vertical jigging, and trolling are fishing methods used to catch grouper

Once you find an area you want to fish for grouper, anchor up current to drift a live bait near their holes with the tide. If you are using lures, anchor down the current to cast lures. If you use jigs, get it to the bottom or bounce it off the bottom.

Best Baits For Grouper

1. Squirrel Fish

Squirrelfish can be an effective bait choice for grouper fishing, especially in tropical and subtropical waters where these colorful reef inhabitants are abundant. Anglers often use squirrelfish as live bait, as their natural swimming motion and vibrant coloration can attract the attention of predatory grouper lurking in reef structures and rocky ledges.

Squirrelfish are typically rigged on large circle hooks and presented near the bottom or suspended midwater using a float or balloon. Their lively movements can mimic the behavior of distressed prey, enticing strikes from hungry grouper. Additionally, the scent and oils released by squirrelfish can further enhance their appeal to grouper, making them a valuable bait option for anglers targeting these prized reef dwellers.

2. Grunts

Grunts are a popular bait choice among anglers targeting grouper, particularly in tropical and subtropical waters where grunts are plentiful. These small, colorful fish are often abundant around reef structures and rocky bottoms, making them easily accessible bait for grouper fishing.

Grunts can be rigged whole or cut into chunks and presented on large hooks near the bottom, where grouper are known to inhabit. Their natural scent and flavor can attract the attention of hungry grouper, enticing strikes from these voracious predators.

Additionally, the lively swimming motion of live grunts can make them irresistible to grouper, especially when fished in areas with strong currents or tidal movements. Overall, grunts are a versatile and effective bait option for anglers seeking to catch grouper in a variety of marine environments.

3. Sardines

Sardines are highly regarded as effective bait for grouper fishing due to their natural oils, scent, and appealing flavor that can attract these predatory fish. Their oily flesh releases a strong scent trail in the water, enticing grouper from a distance.

Sardines are commonly rigged whole or filleted and presented on large hooks near the bottom, where grouper are often found lurking around reefs, wrecks, and other structures. The silvery flash and lifelike movement of a properly rigged sardine can mimic natural prey, making it irresistible to hungry grouper.

Additionally, sardines are relatively durable and can withstand the rigors of being deployed in deep waters or strong currents, making them a reliable choice for anglers targeting grouper in various fishing conditions. Overall, sardines are prized bait for grouper fishing, offering anglers a versatile and effective option to entice these prized game fish.

4. Ballyhoo

Ballyhoo is a favored bait for grouper fishing, prized for its natural appearance, enticing scent, and durability. These slender baitfish are commonly rigged with wire or circle hooks to mimic the movement of wounded prey, making them irresistible to hungry grouper.

Anglers often deploy ballyhoo near the bottom, where grouper tend to congregate around underwater structures such as reefs, wrecks, and ledges. The vibrant colors and lifelike swimming action of ballyhoo can attract the attention of grouper from a distance, drawing them in for a strike.

Additionally, ballyhoo are known for their firm flesh and resilience, allowing them to withstand the rigors of deep-water fishing and strong currents. Whether rigged whole or cut into strips, ballyhoo remains a popular and effective bait choice among anglers targeting grouper, offering both versatility and reliability on the water.

5. Blue Runners

Blue runners are widely recognized as one of the most effective baits for grouper fishing, prized for their versatility and durability in various fishing conditions. These sleek, silvery fish are highly enticing to grouper due to their natural swimming motion and vibrant coloration, making them irresistible targets for predatory species.

Anglers often deploy blue runners near underwater structures such as reefs, wrecks, and ledges, where grouper are known to congregate. Whether rigged whole or filleted into strips, blue runners emit a strong scent that can attract grouper from a distance, enticing them to strike.

Furthermore, blue runners possess robust bodies and strong swimming capabilities, allowing them to withstand the rigors of deep-water fishing and turbulent currents. As a result, blue runners are a popular choice among anglers seeking to maximize their chances of success when targeting grouper, offering both reliability and effectiveness on the water.

6. Herring

Herring is a highly effective bait for grouper fishing, renowned for its oily flesh and strong scent that entices grouper to strike. These silvery fish are commonly used as cut bait or whole, rigged on hooks to mimic natural prey.

Herring’s natural swimming motion and appealing scent make it an excellent choice for targeting grouper near rocky bottoms, reefs, and wrecks where these predatory fish often lurk. Anglers typically deploy herring baits at various depths, allowing them to cover a wide range of the water column where grouper may be actively feeding.

Furthermore, herring’s durability and ability to stay on the hook make it a practical option for extended fishing sessions, ensuring anglers have a reliable bait option throughout their trip. Overall, herring’s combination of scent, movement, and durability makes it a go-to choice for anglers seeking to land trophy-sized grouper on their lines.

7. Shrimp

Shrimp is a versatile and popular bait for grouper fishing, prized for its natural scent and enticing movement in the water. Grouper are known to be opportunistic feeders, and shrimp presents an irresistible meal for them.

Anglers can use fresh or live shrimp, rigged on hooks either whole or in pieces, depending on the size of the target grouper and the fishing conditions. Shrimp can be fished near the bottom or suspended in the water column, making it effective in various habitats where grouper are found, such as reefs, wrecks, and rocky structures.

Additionally, shrimp can attract a variety of other species, adding to the excitement of the fishing experience. Its availability in bait shops and ease of use make shrimp a go-to option for anglers targeting grouper, whether they’re fishing from boats or shorelines. Overall, shrimp’s natural appeal and versatility make it a reliable bait choice for anglers aiming to hook grouper on their next fishing adventure.

8. Pinfish

Pinfish are a popular and effective bait choice for grouper fishing, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and along the southeastern coast of the United States. These small, silvery fish are abundant in coastal waters and are readily eaten by grouper.

Anglers can catch pinfish using bait traps or small hooks with bits of shrimp or squid as bait. Once hooked, pinfish can be fished whole or cut into chunks to attract grouper. Their natural movements and scent are enticing to grouper, making them a reliable bait option.

Pinfish can be fished near the bottom or suspended in the water column, depending on the targeted grouper species and the fishing conditions. Overall, pinfish are a favorite bait among anglers targeting grouper, providing a natural and effective way to entice these prized game fish.

9. Mullet

Mullet is a versatile and widely used bait for grouper fishing, particularly in coastal areas where mullet are abundant. These silvery fish are often found inshore and around estuaries, making them easily accessible for anglers.

Mullet can be fished live or dead, depending on the preferences of the angler and the fishing conditions. Live mullets are particularly effective for targeting larger grouper species, as their natural swimming movements and lively behavior can attract predatory fish from a distance.

Dead mullet, either whole or cut into chunks, also makes excellent bait for grouper, emitting scents and oils that can entice nearby fish. Anglers often rig mullet on circle hooks or J-hooks, allowing the bait to swim freely or drift naturally with the currents. Overall, mullets are prized by anglers for their effectiveness in enticing grouper and are a staple bait choice in many coastal fishing communities.

10. Squid

Squid is a popular and effective bait choice for grouper fishing, favored by anglers for its durability, versatility, and strong scent. Squid can be used fresh or frozen, and its firm texture allows it to stay on the hook well, even in strong currents or when attacked by aggressive fish. Its natural appearance and movement in the water make it highly attractive to grouper, enticing them to strike.

Anglers often use whole squid, cutting it into strips or chunks to expose more scent and increase its effectiveness. Additionally, squid can be combined with other baits or attractants to enhance its appeal to grouper.

Whether bottom fishing from a boat or fishing from shore, squid remains a go-to bait option for targeting various species of grouper in both shallow and deep waters. Overall, squid’s versatility and effectiveness make it a valuable asset for anglers pursuing grouper in a variety of fishing environments.

11. Mackerel

Mackerel is a highly prized bait choice for grouper fishing, renowned for its oily flesh and strong scent that can attract grouper from a distance. Its oily nature releases a powerful scent trail in the water, enticing grouper to strike.

Anglers often use fresh or frozen mackerel, either whole or cut into chunks, depending on the size of the target grouper species and the fishing conditions. Whole mackerel can be rigged to drift or troll, mimicking natural prey movements, while chunks of mackerel are commonly used in bottom fishing rigs.

Whether drifting over reefs or anchored near underwater structures, mackerel proves effective in enticing grouper to bite. Additionally, mackerel can be combined with other baits or attractants to enhance its appeal further. Overall, mackerel’s oily texture, strong scent, and lifelike appearance make it a favorite among anglers targeting grouper in both shallow and deep waters.

12. Cigar Minnows

Cigar minnows are a popular bait choice for grouper fishing due to their long, slender shape and oily flesh, which emits a strong scent that attracts grouper from afar. These baitfish are often rigged whole or cut into chunks, depending on the size of the target grouper species and the fishing conditions.

When rigged whole, cigar minnows can be trolled or drifted over reefs and underwater structures, mimicking the movements of natural prey and enticing grouper to strike. Alternatively, cut cigar minnows can be used in bottom fishing rigs, where they release a potent scent trail that entices grouper to investigate.

Anglers often use cigar minnows in combination with other baits or attractants to increase their effectiveness. Overall, cigar minnows are prized for their oily texture, strong scent, and lifelike appearance, making them a favored bait option among anglers targeting grouper in various habitats and depths.

Best Lures For Grouper

1. Jigs

Jigs are highly effective lures for grouper fishing, offering anglers versatility and the ability to target grouper in various depths and habitats. These weighted lures come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing anglers to match the local baitfish and mimic their movements.

Vertical jigging with heavy jigs is a popular technique for targeting grouper, especially in deeper waters or around underwater structures like wrecks and reefs. Anglers drop the jig to the bottom and then work it upward with sharp jerks, imitating the motion of injured baitfish. Grouper are attracted to the sudden movements and the flash of the jig, often striking aggressively.

Additionally, jigs can be cast and retrieved over shallower reefs or along rocky shorelines, where they can entice grouper hiding in crevices or hunt near the surface. Some jigs are equipped with rattles or scent-infused materials to further attract grouper. Overall, jigs are versatile and effective lures for targeting grouper, making them a staple in many anglers’ tackle boxes.

2. Plugs

Plugs are versatile and effective lures for targeting grouper, offering anglers the opportunity to cover a wide range of depths and habitats. These lures come in various shapes, sizes, and diving depths, allowing anglers to match the local baitfish and target grouper in different water columns.

Floating or diving plugs can be cast and retrieved over shallow reefs or along rocky shorelines, where grouper may be lurking in search of prey. The erratic action and realistic appearance of plugs mimic injured baitfish, enticing grouper to strike.

Additionally, deep-diving plugs can be trolled or cast into deeper waters, where grouper often patrols around underwater structures like wrecks, reefs, and ledges. By varying the retrieve speed and depth, anglers can effectively target grouper holding at different levels in the water column.

Some plugs are also equipped with rattles or incorporate scent-infused materials to further attract grouper. Overall, plugs are reliable lures for grouper fishing, offering anglers versatility and the potential for enticing strikes from these prized gamefish.

3. Rigs

Rigs play a crucial role in grouper fishing, offering anglers the versatility to present baits effectively in various depths and environments where grouper are found. One popular rig for targeting grouper is the fish-finder rig, which consists of a sliding sinker on the mainline above a swivel, with a leader line attached to the swivel and a hook at the end.

This setup allows the bait to move freely and naturally in the water, enticing grouper to strike. Another effective rig is the Carolina rig, which features a sliding egg sinker on the mainline above a swivel, followed by a leader line and a hook.

The Carolina rig allows the bait to sit on the bottom while keeping it a few inches above snags and debris, where grouper often hide. Additionally, dropper loop rigs and knocker rigs are commonly used for grouper fishing, especially in deeper waters.

These rigs allow anglers to present live or cut bait directly on or near the bottom, where grouper are known to feed. By selecting the appropriate rig and adjusting leader length and weight according to the fishing conditions, anglers can effectively target grouper in a variety of habitats and depths.

Grouper Fishing Tips

1. Groupers are bottom feeders.

2. Look for groupers around structures like wrecks, coral reefs, ledges, bridges, docks, jetties, and markers.

3. Groupes can also be caught in the inshore waters.

4. Lures can be used to catch grouper.

5. When using circle hooks to set the hook, keep the rod tip low and wait for a steady pull then quickly reel while slowly raising the rod tip.

6. You can also catch groupers with jigs.

7. You can vertically jig butterfly jigs to catch groupers in deeper waters.

8. You can use both spinning and conventional tackle when fishing for grouper.

9. The Carolina rig is the choice of many anglers when grouper fishing.

10. A grouper is often hesitant to chase live bait in cold water.

11. Grouper can be found closer to the shore in cold water. They will move out to deeper waters in warm and very cold weather.

12. Grouper must be turned very early in the battle when it is hooked as it will dive into holes and other areas, cutting the angler off.

13. Use the lightest sinker and smallest hook that will get the job done.

14. Circle hooks are the choice of many anglers fishing for groupers.

15. Trolling can help you find structures that hold groupers.

16. When fishing for grouper in a boat, position the boat up tide of the structure you will fish for grouper. So, when the bait is lowered, it will float back to the structure and fish.

17. You can also use chumming to fish for groupers when in a boat.

18. The deeper the water, the farther up-current the boat should be positioned.

19. Most of the groupers are caught on natural bait.

20. You can use metal jigs to fish for grouper in deeper waters.

21. Go 30 to 85 miles offshore for the best groupers.

22. Grouper will swim with the current towards your bait.

23. Ask the local fishing shop folks about the best chum for groupers in that area.

24. Set the hook through the baitfish’s throat when bottom fishing for groupers.

25. Let your bait be suspended off the ocean floor by cranking the reel.

26. When a grouper bites, keep the line tight and reel in.

27. When trolling for grouper, move the boat at a steady speed like 3 to 7 knots.

28. Frozen bait, like sardines or squid, can be used to catch grouper when the water is cold.

29. Bottom fishing with a heavy rod and reel is one of the most popular ways of catching grouper.

30. A heavy-duty rod that will give you more cranking power will work for catching groupers.

The Bottom Line

Groupers are a favorite for many anglers that can be found in tropical and subtropical waters. There are many types of groupers such as the black grouper, the gag grouper, the scamp, the yellowmouth, and the Nassau grouper. Groupers grow very large and are hard fighting when hooked.

In this article, we discussed the fishing techniques and tips you can use to increase your chances of catching for groupers. If you are interested in catching other fish like surfperch, tarpon, rock hind, gag grouper, black grouper, and halibut, then read how to catch surfperch, how to catch tarpon, how to catch rock hind, how to catch gag grouper, how to catch black grouper, and how to catch halibut.