Grouper Season in Florida: The Complete Guide for 2024

Oct 23, 2024 | 9 minute read Comments
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Reading Time: 9 minutes

There are more than 200 Grouper species worldwide, and Florida is home to several of the most popular ones. The Sunshine State and Grouper fishing are a match made in heaven, but that doesn’t mean you can fish your heart out whenever you want here! Let’s take a closer look at the different rules surrounding the Grouper fishing season in Florida.

A photo featuring a female angler wearing a cap and a pair of sunglasses while sitting on a charter boat and posing with a huge Grouper caught in Florida
Photo courtesy of Arrieta Sport Fishing

Along with their availability and regulations, we’ll cover the best fishing spots and the most effective angling techniques. After all, if you want a bragging story, you must be familiar with the essentials of catching that trophy Grouper. So, without further ado, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of when and how to go after these brutes.

Grouper Season, Size, and Bag Limits

Florida is brimming with an incredible array of Grouper species. Gag, Red, Black, Goliath, Nassau, Scamp, Yellowedge, Snowy, Yellowmouth, Warsaw – the Sunshine State has them all! The first three, in particular, rank high on the prize catch list. Therefore, we’ll discuss them in more detail before diving into the seasonality for all Grouper species.

Gag Grouper Season in Florida

Gag Groupers are among the most wanted Grouper catches in Florida. Impressive-looking and even better-tasting, these beauties are among the most widespread Grouper species in Florida’s waters and average around 25 pounds. 

A photo featuring two anglers – one standing, and the other one sitting on a charter fishing boat – while posing with a Gag Grouper they caught off Florida during its season
Photo courtesy of Arrieta Sport Fishing

When it comes to seasonality, Gag Groupers aren’t up for grabs throughout the entire year. On the contrary, they follow a strict season in state and federal waters in the Gulf. In 2024, the season was modified to only run for two weeks in September, and it remains to be seen how these fish will be managed in the future. The availability window is slightly longer on the Atlantic side, where the Gag Grouper season lasts a month and a half between May and June in both state and federal waters.

You can find Gags in the shallows and deeper waters, usually up to 60 feet down. They usually head for the depths when the temperatures rise, whereas cooler waters motivate them to come closer to the coast. Adults prefer the deeper waters, while juveniles swim nearer the shore.

Black Grouper Season in Florida

Black Groupers are on every angler’s radar in Florida. Their appeal lies in the fact that they make for excellent opponents and delicious dinners. What more could you ask for?

If size is what you had in mind – fret not! Black Groupers also check this category. They often exceed 180 pounds! Most specimens, however, are unlikely to reach three digits but even a 40-pounder is a sight to behold. All in all, you can’t go wrong with Black Groupers as your targets.

A photo featuring a male angler wearing a cap and a pair of sunglasses while sitting on a charter boat and posing with a huge Grouper caught in Florida
Photo courtesy of Blind Date Charters

The great news is that you can pursue them year-round in state waters in the Gulf of Mexico. However, the closer you are to the shore, the smaller the Black Groupers are, as juveniles usually swim inshore. The same goes for state waters in the Atlantic. However, the Black Grouper season in Atlantic state waters runs from May through December. 

If you’re after bigger specimens, head offshore to spots with rocky bottoms, such as reefs and drop-off walls. Just don’t forget that the Black Grouper season in the Gulf’s federal waters is closed between February and March, and between January and April in the Atlantic.

Red Grouper Season in Florida 

If you haven’t fished for Red Groupers before, it’s high time you tested your skills against these bottom-dwellers. Red Groupers are opportunistic feeders and ambush predators. They’ll aggressively snatch the prey before any other species can even notice it. And when hooked, they won’t go down without a fight. In other words, Red Groupers are the challengers you’ve been waiting for.

A photo featuring a male angler wearing a cap and a pair of sunglasses while sitting on a charter boat and posing with a Red Grouper caught during a bottom fishing trip
Photo courtesy of Second Generation Fishing Charters

The good news is that the season kicks off right away! If you’re impatient and can’t wait to cast your line, you can go Red Grouper fishing as early as January 1. They’re available for recreational angling in the Gulf of Mexico from January through June. And if you want to keep perfecting your Red Grouper bottom fishing skills, you can continue pursuing them in the Atlantic between May and December. The season is the same for both state and federal waters.

Red Groupers are known as “shallow-water Groupers,” meaning they frequent the inshore fisheries, as they feel most at home in depths of around 10 feet. Like Black and Gag Groupers, juvenile Reds rule the shallow grass beds while adults dominate the ledges and other nearshore structures.

Grouper Season in Florida

By now, you’ve realized that each Grouper has its own season and that state and federal waters don’t always overlap. To help you plan your Grouper fishing trip in Florida, we created an overview of the most common species in the Sunshine State (including Black, Gag, and Red Groupers) and their availability for this year. Here’s what you can expect in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean:

Open Grouper Seasons in the Gulf of Mexico for 2024

BlackConeyGagRedRock HindScampSnoweyYellowfinYellowmouthYellowedgeWarsaw
State WatersYear-roundYear-roundSep 1 – Sep 15Jan 1 – Jun 30Year-roundYear-roundYear-roundYear-roundYear-roundYear-roundYear-round
Federal Waters*April 1- Jan 31Year-roundSep 1 – Sep 15Jan 1 – Jun 30Year-round*April 1- Jan 31Year-round*April 1- Jan 31April 1- Jan 31Year-roundYear-round

* The federal season is closed from Feb 1 to March 31, seaward of 20 fathoms. “The Edges” area is closed from Jan 1 to Apr 30.

Open Grouper Seasons in the Atlantic for 2024

BlackConeyGagRedRock HindScampSnowyYellowfinYellowmouthYellowedgeWarsaw
State WatersMay 1 – Dec 31May 1 – Dec 31May 1 – June 14May 1 – Dec 31May 1 – Dec 31May 1 – Dec 31May 1 – June 30May 1 – Dec 31May 1 – Dec 31Year-roundYear-round
Federal WatersMay 1 – Dec 31May 1 – Dec 31May 1 – June 14May 1 – Dec 31May 1 – Dec 31May 1 – Dec 31May 1 – June 30May 1 – Dec 31May 1 – Dec 31Year-roundProhibited

Grouper Catch Limit

Whenever a species is in high demand, there’s a threat of overfishing. To prevent that from happening, the authorities have introduced strict bag restrictions for Groupers. So, besides knowing when you’re allowed to fish for these prized fish, you must know how many you can actually keep.

Whether you’re angling in the Gulf or the Atlantic, you must respect the aggregate bag limit. The aggregate bag limit states how many different Groupers a person may possess and/or harvest during a day. Here’s a quick breakdown of the daily catch limit per person in both the state and federal waters of the Gulf and the Atlantic:

Grouper Catch Limits in the Gulf of Mexico for 2024

BlackConeyGagRedRock HindScampSnoweyYellowfinYellowmouthYellowedgeWarsaw
State Waters4444441
Federal Waters4444441

Grouper Catch Limits in the Atlantic for 2024

BlackConeyGagRedRock HindScampSnoweyYellowfinYellowmouthYellowedgeWarsaw
State Waters1333313331
Federal Waters1313331333Prohibited

Grouper Size Limit

Even if you’ve nailed the timing and don’t look like reaching your bag limit, you’ll have to release your Grouper if it’s too small. Some species, such as Yellowedge, Warsaw, or Coney, don’t have size restrictions, but others adhere to strict size policies. The table below outlines the minimum harvest size per species, which overlap in both state and federal waters:

BlackConeyGagRedRock HindScampSnoweyYellowfinYellowmouthYellowedgeWarsaw
The Gulf24″No limit24″ 20″No limit16″No limit20″20″No limitNo limit
The Atlantic24″No limit24″20″No limit20″No limit20″20″No limitState: No limit Federal: Prohibited

Other Grouper Regulations

First and foremost, having a valid saltwater fishing license is a must when fishing for Groupers in Florida. For more details on how to purchase your license, take a look at our Florida fishing license article.

A photo featuring a Goliath Grouper in the water and an angler posing with it while leaning over a charter fishing boat without pulling Grouper out of the water
Photo courtesy of Pole Dancer Fishin’ Charters

If you’re wondering why we haven’t mentioned Nassau and Goliath Groupers yet, the reason is that they’re in a category of their own. Both species are protected even more than the usual Grouper species. That means possession and harvesting are strictly forbidden. Unlike Nassau Groupers, Goliaths can be targeted with a special permit, but they’re strictly catch-and-release. So, if these giants appear at the end of your line, make sure to set them free unharmed.

Last but not least, if you’re planning to go on a Grouper fishing hunt, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with some reef fish gear requirements such as what hooks and de-hooking tools are allowed.

Best Grouper Fishing Spots in Florida

You can wet your line almost anywhere in the Sunshine State and a jaw-dropping Grouper may grace the end of your line. And no, we’re not exaggerating, we’re probably selling Florida’s Grouper angling opportunities short! There’s no place on the planet that’s as productive as Florida for Grouper fishing. The odds of landing a trophy fish here are well in your favor. 

A photo featuring a group of seven anglers proudly posing on the dock with their haul of Groupers after a bottom fishing trip in Florida during the high season
Photo courtesy of Second Generation Fishing Charters

However, if you’re fishing here for the first time and need a nudge in the right direction, look at the hotspots we’ve handpicked for you below. The following locations are famous for their Grouper population and deep sea fishing charter offer.

The Gulf of Mexico

  • The Florida Panhandle. With almost 200 miles of coastline, pristine beaches, shiny white sand, and emerald waters, the Florida Panhandle is a safe haven for vacationers. But this area is also a mecca for Grouper fishing fans. Pensacola, Destin, and Panama City, in particular, are renowned for their bottom fishing trips.
  • Crystal River. This coastal city secured its place on the world’s map as a manatee sanctuary. And we put it on a pedestal as a top shallow-water Gag Grouper fishery. Gags are prized catches here and you don’t have to venture far to find them. You can find them close to shore in waters as shallow as 10 feet deep.
  • Tampa Bay. During the cooler months, you’ll find Groupers coming inshore to the famous Tampa Bay. They’ll meander between rocky structures, so try your hand at Grouper fishing around the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. If you’re after the prime specimens, head to nearby Madeira Beach, often referred to as the “Grouper fishing capital of the world.”

The Gulf and the Atlantic

  • The Florida Keys. No region in Florida can brag about fishing opportunities as much as the Florida Keys. And the same goes for Grouper fishing! The unique location of the Keys allows you to tap into both the Gulf and the Atlantic’s waters, and unlock the pathway to Grouper heaven. Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West are the ultimate Grouper fishing spots you should not miss out on.

The Atlantic

  • Miami. We can’t wrap up this line-up without mentioning several gems on the east coast of Florida. Miami is a premier Grouper fishing spot, being abundant in reefs, wrecks, ledges, and drop-offs. So, if you’re up for exploring depths up to 400 feet, Miami is your starting point to land a monster Grouper.
  • Fort Lauderdale. The entire Fort Lauderdale area is suitable for Groupers because its fisheries are filled with rocky structures. Plus, the nearby reefs and wrecks are perfect for exciting bottom fishing trips. Naturally, a Grouper angling adventure in Fort Lauderdale guarantees rod-bending action with full coolers and sore backs.  
  • Daytona Beach. Last but not least, you can also kick off your Grouper angling experience in Daytona Beach. Its nearshore waters are home to huge artificial reef systems, including shipwrecks, bridge rubbles, barges, and other concrete structures that provide excellent food opportunities and hiding spots for bottom-dwelling creatures such as Groupers.

How to Catch Grouper in Florida

The first step to landing a Grouper in Florida is to know the seasons. The second step is knowing where to look for them. Then, you’ll also need to understand what type of bait to prepare, how to present it, and what angling techniques to employ.

A photo featuring a deep sea fishing angler while practicing bottom fishing and struggling to pull a big Grouper out of the depths
Photo courtesy of Reel Axing Fishing Charters

Groupers spend their lives on the sea bed seeking shelter and food. This means that you’ll have to serve them dinner along the bottoms. They prefer live bait such as shrimp, crabs, and squid, but they’ll fall for well-presented jigs, too.

When we say “well-presented,” we mean it. It’s not enough to only lower your bait with a sinker and wait for them to grab it – you have to bounce it off and imitate their real prey.

The most effective and popular angling technique is bottom fishing with a sinker and a heavy rod. Besides bottom fishing, slow-pitch jigging, freelining, and deep-dropping are common methods. To learn more on how to land these bottom-dwellers, read our guide on how to go Grouper fishing.

It’s Always Grouper Season in the Sunshine State!

A photo featuring a dad with three sons posing on a charter fishing boat during Grouper season with a decent Black Grouper catch in dad’s hands
Photo courtesy of Arrieta Sport Fishing

Whenever you go Grouper fishing in Florida, you won’t end up empty-handed. However, if you want to increase your chances of catching the exact species you had in mind, it’s good to know when and how to target them. Remember, it’s illegal to fish for Groupers outside their dedicated season so always make sure to double-check the rules and regulations surrounding your Grouper hunt. Tight lines!

What season do you think is best for Grouper fishing in Florida? Do you have any Grouper-related questions we didn’t answer? Hit the comment button below to ask us anything or share your thoughts with us.

Author profile picture

Tanja is a Content Creator at FishingBooker, where she spends her days casting lines and spinning tales about it. She started her journey at FishingBooker 8 years ago as a Captain Coordinator, working closely with our guides and partners. Quickly mastering the ropes, she moved up to an Account Manager role before diving into her true passions – fishing and writing. Tanja got hooked on angling in 2016 after reeling in her first fish from the Mediterranean Sea. Since then, she’s tried everything from deep sea and bottom fishing to shore casting and fly fishing, catching species like Mahi Mahi, Dentex, and Asp along the way.

Comments (16)
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Willie Friend

Jan 7, 2025

Looking for a grouper fishing trip in March or April

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  • Rhys

    Jan 8, 2025

    Hi Willie,

    Rhys here from FishingBooker. There will be plenty of charters ready to take you Grouper fishing all around the Sunshine State in March and April. This is when the season starts to heat up in plenty of places! Let me know where exactly you’d like to go and I can share a list of recommendations.

    Tight lines,

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Jim Barnes

Sep 17, 2024

Looking to book a Grouper Fishing Trip. Looking for info for January or February, if possible. What area…what specific species are available.
Thank you.

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  • Rhys

    Sep 17, 2024

    Hi Jim,

    Thanks for your question. Your best bet for January or February is to hit the Gulf side of Florida. Anywhere from Steinhaatchee round to Crystal River and down to the Tampa Bay will have plenty of Black and Red Grouper biting, with Goliath Grouper becoming available the further south you are – say, around Naples. I hope this helps.

    Tight lines,

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Randal Kenny

Aug 31, 2024

What a lie about Gag Grouper seasons. For years, Gag Grouper season in the Tampa area ran from June thru November or December. Last year, they changed it from 7 months to September 1 thru November 19, then shortened it by a month after a few weeks. This year was planned again for September thru November 16, and at the last minute they cut the season to 15 DAYS. This is devastating to guides and private fishermen who have spent tremendous time and resources prepping for the season. These bureaucrats fail to provide the public with their reasons and scientific evidence used for these decisions that affect fisherman’s lives.

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  • Marko

    Sep 3, 2024

    Hi Randal,

    Thanks for taking the time to provide some feedback. I’ve modified the article so it doesn’t state that it’s “usual” for the Gag Grouper season to only last 15 days. I understand your sentiment, as this impacts the Florida guides we work with as well.

    Thank you again for sharing your thoughts.

    Tight lines,

    Marko

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  • Doug

    Jan 29, 2025

    I’m trying to plan a trip for grouper fishing the Tampa, St Pete area in May and I have no idea if gag season is open or closed – this is the shallow water grouper fishing I would like to do so I don’t have to run out 50 miles. What are the current regulations?

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  • Rhys

    Jan 31, 2025

    Hi Doug,

    Thanks for your question. While the Gag Grouper season for 2025 hasn’t been announced yet, I highly doubt that they’ll be open to harvest in the Gulf by May. Last year’s season ran for just two weeks in September and we anticipate something similar this year. I hope this helps.

    Tight lines,

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