Gag grouper season florida.

• Gag grouper season florida Mar 22, 2019 · The gag grouper season in the remainder of Gulf of Mexico state waters and federal waters is open June 1 through Dec. Florida Gag Grouper Size Limit: 24" total length; Daily Bag Limit: 2 per person within 4-grouper aggregate limit ; Florida Gag Grouper Season: The 2025 season is to be determined ; Special Notes: Charter captains and crew may not retain their limit ; Gulf Black Grouper Regulations Aug 11, 2021 · Florida Keys. These closures, announced at the Gulf Grouper . Atlantic Open season: Open May 1-Dec. Florida’s Gag Grouper Season: June 1st-December 31st Grouper are typically hiding within rock structures so it is important to use between 70-80 pound line with an 80 pound leader to ensure you get them in the boat. 1 to March 31 seaward of 20 fathoms. Gag Grouper Season in Florida. 4 meeting, Florida FWC issued an executive order to close gag grouper season in Gulf state waters on Oct. Gag and red grouper are the most widely distributed of the Florida groupers. Snapper Fishing: Target red snapper and lane snapper using natural baits and circle hooks. Jan 3, 2024 · Harvest for shallow water grouper will reopen to recreational anglers in Atlantic state waters (including Monroe County) on May 1, 2024. Season’s closed Feb. 1 in May 14, 2025 · Explore fishing regulations, management plans, and upcoming meetings from the Gulf Council. Apr 14, 2025 · Recognized by their dark, blotchy patterns and powerful build, these fish are highly sought after for both commercial and recreational fishing due to their firm, mild-flavored meat. Here's everything you need to know about the Florida grouper season for 2023. May 23, 2021 · According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), recreational harvest of gag grouper opens June 1 through Dec. On the Atlantic side, gag grouper season along with other shallow-water grouper species opened on May 1. May 15, 2025 · Gulf Gag Grouper Regulations. This allows the fish to spawn and grow, ensuring a healthy population for future generations. Season is currently open. Bag Limit: You can keep up to 2 Gag Grouper per person within a 4-Grouper aggregate limit. Impressive-looking and even better-tasting, these beauties are among the May 15, 2025 · Gulf Gag Grouper Regulations. 31. Dec 13, 2024 · Consistent regulations between Florida’s Atlantic state and federal waters can help improve the stock status of gag grouper, end overfishing and improve regulatory compliance and enforcement Apr 24, 2025 · Gag grow slowly, can reach more than 3 feet in length, and weigh up to 50 pounds. Mar 24, 2025 · Here are a few top spots for Grouper fishing in Florida: Florida Keys. 1. 19, consistent with the closure in adjacent federal waters. Oct 12, 2023 · For Gulf anglers, the gag season ends Oct. Dec 27, 2024 · The shallow water grouper complex includes popular species like black grouper, gag grouper, yellowfin grouper, scamp, red grouper, and several others. Those owning private recreational vessels can cast lines beginning Jan. 31 Gag grouper season opened June 1 st and will continue through December 31st according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The season opens April 1 and runs through June 30. Nov 20, 2024 · Short & Sweet Gag Grouper Season. Earlier this year, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) issued an executive order to modify the recreational season of gag grouper in Gulf state waters, excluding all state waters off Monroe County. The minimum size limit for gag grouper is 24 inches total length and the daily bag limit is two fish per person within the four grouper per person aggregate limit. The model shows pelagic gag larvae drift inshore and settle out in estuarine seagrass beds as nursery habitat where they continue to grow into juveniles from 5-7 months old and then move to nearshore hard bottom as immature females (typically between 1-4 years old). 6 million pounds of gag grouper had been caught, including 106,602 pounds from shore. Season dates: Typically June 1 to December 31 (check annually with FWC for updates) Hernando County Gulf Grouper Offshore Fishing Charters at it's finest! Our West Coast of Florida offshore fishing specialist, Captain Steven Soults, specializes in catching Gag & Red Grouper, Goliath Grouper, Amberjack, Kingfish AKA King Mackerel, Bull Redfish, Cobia, and a variety of Sharks and many other deep sea fish species that call the Gulf of Mexico home. Anglers intending to land this species in Florida are required to sign up as a Florida State Reef Fish Angler if they fish from a private recreational boat and are 16 years of age and older. Jun 14, 2022 · Gag Grouper season for recreational fishing in St. The specific rules depend on several factors: Species: Different grouper species have different size and bag limits. Jul 1, 2024 · The 2023 recreational season for gag grouper in Gulf state waters, excluding state waters of Monroe County, will close at 12:01 a. The main tried and true bait that gag grouper simply can't pass up is the trusty pinfish. Gulf Grouper . vessels applies to gag, black and red grouper only. Spawn between January and May with some of the more tropical species spawning year-round. Therefore, we’ll discuss them in more detail before diving into the seasonality for all Grouper species. Jan 20, 2019 · Now onto the Atlantic side of the state of Florida: Atlantic Regulations: Gag Grouper must be a minimum of 24 inches total length. The Florida Keys/East Florida population of hogfish is managed from south of Cape Sable, around the Florida Keys Dec 31, 2024 · (g) Shallow Water Grouper: Red hind, rock hind, coney, graysby, yellowfin grouper, yellowmouth grouper (h) Snappers: Gray, lane, cubera (i) Each fish is reported in the unit in which it is landed (either gutted or whole). on June 15, 2024, consistent with the closure in adjacent federal waters. Among the variety of fish you can catch here, one that stands out is the gag grouper. Daily Bag Limit: 1 gag or black within the 3 grouper aggregate. . Read on to learn how to catch the Red Grouper and make a delicious and healthy meal! Mar 30, 2022 · The gag grouper season in the remainder of Gulf of Mexico state and federal waters is open June 1 through Dec. Crystal River is home to a unique shallow-water grouper fishery that boasts an extremely healthy population of gag grouper, making it a prime destination for anglers seeking an exciting and rewarding fishing experience. Jul 1, 2024 · The gag grouper season is curtailed due to projections indicating that the 2024 recreational catch target will be reached by Sept. Feb 19, 2016 · At its Feb. • Gulf Grouper Aggregate Bag Limit - all species of grouper in the Gulf are included in a 4 fish per harvester per day aggregate bag limit in any combination of grouper species May 24, 2023 · Grouper Regulations. Commissioners of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, or FWC, approved the measures during their Wednesday, July 13, meeting in Jacksonville. Aug 29, 2024 · A Short Season in 2024. Feb 4, 2020 · Tips For Inshore Gag Grouper & Quick Ways To Know If A Flat Has Redfish How To Catch 24X More Inshore Saltwater Fish (Easy 10-Minute System) To see what Todd was talking about in action, check out this video from one of their epic days on the water. (j) Any remaining quota from the Season 1 quota is rolled over into the Season 2 quota. The definitive details are expected to be disclosed tomorrow at the Gulf Council meeting in Alabama. Aug 30, 2023 · Gag Grouper Season While seemingly abundant in some areas, The Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Management Council chose to open the gag recreational fishing season on September 1 and close it when the recreational ACT is projected to be met; this is expected to result in a season duration of about two months in 2024. During this period, it is illegal to harvest or possess black grouper, red grouper, gag grouper, and other species of grouper. m. Making the Most Out of Your Grouper Gag have deeply notched preopercles, distinguishing them from black grouper. Although not as durable, frozen baits can get the job done as well. Federal Regulations. As it stands, the gag Similar Species: Gag, M. Therefore, targeting these areas can May 12, 2025 · Shallow Water Grouper, Red Grouper, Gag Grouper, Deep Water Grouper, Red Snapper, and Tilefishes are managed under the Gulf of America Reef Fish IFQ Program. May 1, 2023 · Grouper season is almost upon us. Large gags can reach 50 pounds or more, with most keeper-sized fish Dec 20, 2021 · Several species of grouper and snapper will be open or close to harvest in Gulf and Atlantic waters on Jan. Monroe County state waters follow Atlantic grouper rules. Anglers are being very closed-mouth about where the bite is best, as there is a lot of competition due to the unusually short season. 31 and lowering the minimum commercial size limit from 24 inches to 22 inches total length. Mar 31, 2025 · Each year during summer, the waters off Crystal River offer one of the most anticipated fishing opportunities on Florida’s Gulf Coast—shallow water gag grouper season. The gag grouper season is still expected to close on November 10, unless NOAA Fisheries projects the recreational Annual Catch Limit (ACL) is reached prior to that date, in which case the season might end sooner. Crystal River, a standout spot in Florida’s Nature Coast known for its top-notch inshore fishing. 16. Red snapper season has Oct 6, 2023 · At its Oct. Now, NOAA says a May 14, 2025 · Florida maintains strict regulations on grouper fishing, with specific season dates, size limits, and bag limits designed to protect spawning stock and maintain healthy populations. For complete information on gag grouper rules and regulations, ask your charter captain or click right here. Florida, June 3-4, 2025 Shallow-Water Grouper Complex Management Aug 29, 2024 · Florida's snook harvest season closes May 1 in many regions. Apr 25, 2024 · As a result, gag grouper in Atlantic waters from North Carolina to Key West will be limited to a six week recreational fishing season from May 1 until June 15, 2024. Use bottom rigs with 8/0 circle hooks, baited with live minnows or squid chunks. 1 Dec 27, 2024 · Popular red grouper fishing also reopens on Jan. (Shutterstock image) The 2024 recreational gag grouper season in Gulf state waters will be open Sept. When is the Gag Grouper Season in Florida? The gag grouper season in Florida is open year-round, but there are some restrictions and closed seasons to be aware of. venenosa (pectoral fins trimmed in bright yellow) Size: Up to 48 inches (180 pounds); common to 40 pounds Sep 21, 2023 · Management Measures – Gag and Black Grouper. Example: you can have 1 Gag Grouper and 2 Red Grouper, but you cannot have more than 1 Gag Grouper or 3 total Groupers in a single day. gag or 1 black grouper (but not both) per person per day, whichever is more rest rictive, subject to the bag limits in Section XVII. Anticipation is high, with expectations of a short season, potentially measured in weeks rather than months. Aug 28, 2024 · The 2024 recreational gag grouper season will be open Sept. Jarrod Tuttle, of Driftwood Charters in Daytona Beach, Florida. Don’t miss out this year—book your fishing trip now! Jul 15, 2022 · At its July meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved a final rule, effective January 1, 2023, modifying the recreational season for gag grouper in state waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Harvest will re-open May 1, 2025. Apr 23, 2025 · Understanding Grouper Regulations in Florida. 1-15 in 2024, Gulf of Mexico recreational anglers and charter captains are feeling the sting. Open Season. General Regulations: • Gulf grouper regulations apply to all state waters of the Gulf except off Monroe County (where Atlantic rules apply). microlepis (spur on preopercle is serrated); and yellowfin grouper, M. Hot Spots. The season runs until December 31, and each angler can collect one or the other each trip within the 3 grouper aggregate. The final rule also reduced the annual catch limits for gag to end overfishing and rebuild the stock. In a press release, Florida indicated the Gulf Oct 6, 2023 · At its Oct. Jul 13, 2022 · At its July meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved a final rule, effective January 1, 2023, modifying the recreational season for gag grouper in state waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is committed to collecting critical recreational harvest fishing data to inform management of popular reef fish, such as gag grouper. The Florida Gag Grouper record is also the World Record: 80lbs, 6 oz in Jun 13, 2024 · Florida fishing regulations and fishing season opening and closing dates: Gag grouper: Recreational harvest in Atlantic waters closes June 15. Aug 28, 2024 · Anglers in Gulf state waters (excluding Monroe County) will have a short window to catch recreational gag grouper this year. If you ever wondered about one of the best grouper fishing opportunities in the state of Florida, wonder no more. The peak season for grouper in the Florida Keys is between May and October. Ready to hook that monster fish? Sep 21, 2023 · Gag Grouper Size Limit in Florida. 19 in federal waters. They can live as long as 30 years. Know Your Habitats: Gag Grouper thrive in structured environments such as reefs, rocky ledges, and shipwrecks. Shallow-water Grouper: gag, black grouper, red grouper, scamp, red hind, rock hind, coney, graysby, yellowfin grouper, and yellowmouth grouper. Starting Monday, May 1, groupers are in season until Dec. Anglers can expect to hook into grouper, snapper, king mackerel, and cobia. An FWC news bulletin states, "Consistent state and federal recreational seasons for gag grouper will help prevent quota overages and mitigate risks of Jun 15, 2017 · The Gag Grouper must measure 24 inches or larger to be a fish that can be kept during the Florida Keys and Key West fishing season. 2024-2025 Preliminary Commercial King Mackerel Landings. Greater Amberjack A. Special regulations apply for this species when fishing in Biscayne National Park. Regulations during closure Jan 1, 2025 · This species is part of the shallow water grouper spawning season closure: January 1 through April 30. Then recreational harvest will May 3, 2023 · The 2023 gag grouper season in federal waters was scheduled to open June 1; now it will open on Sept. Stay tuned for further updates! Conceptual model of gag spatial ecology. Jun 20, 2024 · For complete fishing regulations in Florida go to scoring nice sized grouper on the last day of the season. Harvest will then close for May 16, 2024 · Florida fishing regulations and fishing season opening and closing dates: Gag grouper: Recreational harvest in Atlantic waters will be open May 1 through June 15, 2024. May 16, 2024 · Florida fishing regulations and fishing season opening and closing dates: Gag grouper: Recreational harvest in Atlantic waters will be open May 1 through June 15, 2024. May 18, 2023 · Florida offers some of the best grouper in the world. 10 meeting at the Florida Public Safety Institute near Tallahassee, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved changes to the gag and black grouper minimum size limit and the gag grouper recreational season in Gulf state waters. B . With an extremely short season that runs Sept. The state of Florida will mirror federal regulations, closing state waters to gag grouper fishing on the same days in October. Aug 19, 2024 · In Florida, the official grouper season typically runs from May to November, with some species having shorter or longer seasons. In recent years, most recreational gag grouper landings from the Atlantic stock come from Florida, followed by Dec 14, 2024 · At its December meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved a rule to modify recreational regulations for gag and black grouper to be consistent with current and pending regulations in adjacent Atlantic federal waters. 15. The Gulf gag grouper recreational season will reopen on Sept. These new gag and black grouper recreational regulations will go into effect at a later date once pending federal regulations have been implemented. Season Closed: January 01, 2025 – April 30, 2025; Season Closed: January 01, 2026 – April 30, 2026 Dec 29, 2021 · Gag grouper Season closes Jan. Born as females but can later become male. Must be landed with head and fins intact. Current Florida Gag Grouper Regulations to Know. Harvest will then close for May 2, 2024 · The 2024 recreational season will close at 12:01 a. Check with state and federal regulations at Florida Fish and Wildlife or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to ensure you're compliant when fishing for grouper. Sept. Black grouper look similar to gag grouper and are often found in the same habitats. 1 with a 20-inch total length and two per angler allowed but gag grouper fishing will remain closed to harvest until Sept. 1 – Nov. Mar 22, 2019 · A few small grouper are fun to catch and fight, and give notice of what the giants can do when hooked. The closed season for grouper in Florida typically runs from May 1st to December 31st. The approvals include: As for Gag Grouper, although information is available on the site, the season projection is not yet public. Black grouper is open year-round in state waters with a 24-inch total length and four per angler. on Sept. Blacks, Gags, Reds, and Goliaths are available near the wrecks and reefs off Marathon, and if you go to Key Wes May 13, 2024 · Atlantic Gag Grouper Season. Other grouper Jan 8, 2025 · MRIP’s conclusion from dockside interviews and mail-in surveys for a 49-day season in 2023 was that 1. Federal: 1 gag or black within the 3 grouper aggregate. 1, 2025. The season opens on September 1st and closes at 12:01 a. 10, while Red Grouper season closes from July 21 through the end of the year. Federal waters begin where state waters end and extend to 200 nautical miles. Atlantic state waters and Atlantic federal waters (including Monroe County) will reopen to harvest May 1. For the captain and crew on a for -hire vessel with a Federal or For -Hire Snapper -Grouper Permit, the bag limit for gag and black grouper is zero. Gulf Gag Josee Lanzi caught this grouper 30 miles off the coast Oct 24, 2023 · Grouper Season Florida. The commercial trip limits for gag will be reduced to 300 lbs gw. 10. I. , local time, on Oct. In compliance with federal regulations, NOAA Fisheries must stop harvest once the target is met or anticipated to be met, thereby prompting the closure on Sept. Consistent state and federal recreational seasons for Atlantic gag grouper will help protect the gag grouper population and rebuild the fishery, while also helping to ensure future harvest opportunities. Sep 4, 2024 · The 2024 recreational gag grouper season is open through Sept. Gag Grouper Changes. However, the gag season is slated to close on June 15 because NOAA Fisheries estimates that the recreational landings will reach the annual catch limit (ACL) of 133, 075 pounds gutted weight by that time. Gulf Grouper General Regulations: • Gulf grouper regulations apply to all state waters of the Gulf except off Monroe County (where Atlantic rules apply). Of course, a mid-fall trip won’t be possible this year. The Red Grouper must measure 20 inches or larger to be a fish that can be kept during the Florida Keys and Key West fishing season. m Jan 1, 2025 · This species is part of the shallow water grouper spawning season closure: January 1 through April 30. Sep 16, 2021 · Grouper can be caught on a wide variety of baits. New Regulations: Effective January 1, 2023, the recreational season for gag grouper in Gulf state waters sees a modification. Florida recently announced a regional recreation harvest season for state waters off the coast of Franklin, Wakulla, Jefferson and Taylor counties. May 9, 2024 · Florida fishing regulations and fishing season opening and closing dates: Gag grouper: Recreational harvest in Atlantic waters will be open May 1 through June 15, 2024. Over the 15-day window we were given, the weather held up perfectly, allowing us to fish each day. Sep 24, 2023 · Deep dive plug trolling in fall is an exciting way to catch Gag Grouper along Florida’s coast. Tips for Catching Gag Grouper. Gag grouper or Gags are a shallow water species of grouper found in the nearshore channels, reefs, and rock piles of Crystal River. In the Keys, you are likely to experience scamp grouper, not popular in other waters around Florida. 19 to remain consistent with regulations in federal waters. May 12, 2025 · (l) Amendment 37 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region established two populations for Hogfish in the South Atlantic: Georgia through North Carolina and Florida Keys/East Florida. Oct 5, 2023 · Updated 2023 Florida Gag Grouper Regulations. In a press release, Florida indicated the Gulf Dec 21, 2023 · Gag Grouper . NOAA Fisheries Announces the Length of the 2025 Recreational Fishing Season for Gag in the South Atlantic Region What/When: The 2025 recreational Sep 26, 2023 · Shallow Water. East Coast anglers should mark your calendars for May 1, this is when Gag Grouper and Black Grouper season opens from the Keys to Duval County (Jacksonville area). May 2, 2024 · Florida fishing regulations and fishing season opening and closing dates: Gag grouper: Recreational harvest in Atlantic waters will be open May 1 through June 15, 2024. Florida Gag Grouper Size Limit: 24" total length; Daily Bag Limit: 2 per person within 4-grouper aggregate limit ; Florida Gag Grouper Season: The 2025 season is to be determined ; Special Notes: Charter captains and crew may not retain their limit ; Gulf Black Grouper Regulations 19 hours ago · The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has issued executive orders to close the recreational harvest of snowy grouper, gag grouper, and blueline tilefish in Atlantic state waters, including all state waters off Monroe County, for the 2025 season. Apr 23, 2025 · 04/22/2025 Blackfin Tuna, Gag Grouper, Red Snapper, Snowy Grouper Sport Fishing, Bottom Fishing, Trolling, Shark Fishing, Tuna Fishing, and Sword Fishing. Aug 4, 2021 · The best season for grouper in Maraton is usually from May to October and grouper tend to bite best in the late afternoon. Aug 16, 2023 · While Florida's west coast has a number of grouper species that anglers target, the one most targeted by us in Crystal River is the Gag grouper. Aug 29, 2024 · Get ready for Florida's Gulf gag grouper season in Crystal River from Sept. Goliath and Nassau were similarly favored, until designated no-harvest (1990 and ‘92 Sep 26, 2023 · Shallow Water. • Gulf Grouper Aggregate Bag Limit - all species of grouper in the Gulf are included in a 4 fish per harvester per day aggregate bag limit in any combination of grouper species. We’re allowed to keep 2 Gag per person, with a 4 Grouper aggregate. 31 in all federal and most state waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Here is some information all about the Gag Grouper: Location Jul 26, 2023 · Gag grouper season usually opens in June in the Gulf waters off Florida, so be sure to check the current regulations with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Gag Groupers are among the most wanted Grouper catches in Florida. on September May 5, 2013 · Mason Moreno, Fall gag grouper, caught with 550 spinner 7 miles off shore, Tampa Florida with captain John Thomas, on 33 Invicible. This proposal will only focus on the Atlantic gag grouper stock. Harvest will then close for Feb 17, 2025 · Here are some key changes fishery managers have made: Closed the commercial season early in 2012, 2013 and 2014; In 2013, created a 10-year plan to rebuild the population The requirements to reduce the season were effective on October 23, 2023, through the final rule to implement Amendment 53 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region. Atlantic Grouper General Regulations: • Atlantic grouper regulations apply to all state waters of the Atlantic and all state waters off Monroe County (Gulf and Atlantic sides). Hernando tackle shop roundup Closed Season. IV. Regulations during closure The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), at its July meeting, approved a final rule that will take effect January 1, 2023, and modify the recreational season for gag grouper in the Gulf of Mexico. Current Gulf IFQ landings can be found at the IFQ Homepage. May 20, 2021 · Gulf state waters in Florida are from shore to 9 nautical miles. 1 to Nov. • Atlantic Grouper Aggregate Bag Limit - all species of grouper plus golden tilefish in the Atlantic are May 30, 2024 · Last Updated on May 31, 2024 by Eric. The closure will remain in effect until May 1st, 2025, when recreational harvest for shallow water grouper will reopen in Atlantic state waters. If you plan to fish for red grouper in Florida state or federal Gulf waters from a private recreational vessel, you must sign up for the State Reef Fish Angler Designation (annual renewal is required). Dec 27, 2024 · Recreational harvest of red grouper and lane snapper will open in Gulf state waters on Jan 1, 2025. These closures, announced at the See full list on captainexperiences. Feed on fishes and invertebrates. The Gag Grouper stock in the South Atlantic is overfished and undergoing overfishing. The recreational season for gag grouper in Gulf state waters will open from September 1 through November 10. Aug 28, 2024 · Must Know Facts for Fishing for Gag Grouper in 2024. From Mar 28, 2013 · Atlantic vermilion snapper and several Gulf grouper species are back on the take-home list. Seasonal Fishing: Gag Grouper season is open from Sept. Several species are primarily targeted on the reefs of the Florida Keys, including black, red and gag grouper. Landings through 5/12/2025. Jun 25, 2024 · These months also align with the spawning season when Gag Grouper move closer to the shore and assemble in larger numbers, providing ample opportunity for anglers. The season closes the rest of the year to protect them while they are spawning and allow for a sustainable fishery. 14. 1-15, 2024. Our extremely short gag grouper season this year offered some good fishing. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the gag grouper season is: Open year-round in the Gulf of Mexico, except for a 3-month closed season from Jan 9, 2025 · The featured Gulf Coast catch and cook species for January 2025 is the Red Grouper! Red Grouper are exciting to catch and delicious to eat! January serves as the perfect time to target Red Grouper with cold water bringing the fish into shallower water and an open fishing season. Feb 9, 2012 · The following changes will make state gag grouper management efforts the same as recent federal gag grouper management efforts in the Gulf of Mexico: setting the recreational open season from July 1 through Oct. Sep 1, 2024 · Local Florida fishermen in the Tampa Bay area say the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council announced that 2024’s recreational gag grouper season would open Sept. Florida’s grouper regulations aim to protect these important fish populations while allowing recreational and commercial fishing. Gag Grouper in Florida must be at least 24” long for a Gag to be bagged. Harvest will then close for May 30, 2024 · Florida fishing regulations and fishing season opening and closing dates: Gag grouper: Recreational harvest in Atlantic waters will be open May 1 through June 15, 2024. Last year, NOAA incited some teeth gnashing by curtailing the season from six months down to just 45 days. For questions contact IFQ Support. Vessel limit: 2 black per vessel per day, not to exceed the daily bag limit, whichever is more restrictive; For-hire captain and crew retention prohibited May 8, 2025 · The first three, in particular, rank high on the prize catch list. Gags can grow up to 60 pounds and over 4 feet long! Record Gag Grouper Catch in Florida. The rule will establish private recreational vessel limits for gag and black grouper of 2 fish per vessel per day not to exceed the daily bag limit of 1 fish per person per day, whichever is more restrictive. Caught over grass flats with sabiki rigs or traps, these frisky baits are sure to catch a grouper's eye. Harvest will then close for Feb 28, 2022 · By Michael Sipos, Florida Sea Grant agent, UF/IFAS Extension Collier County Gag Grouper, aka, Mycteroperca microlepis Florida state record and International Game and Fish Association world record: 80 pounds, 6 ounces, caught in Destin, Florida Gag grouper are a popular fish in the recreational and commercial fishing sectors making them among the more valuable species Aug 28, 2024 · The 2024 recreational gag grouper season will be open Sept. 1-15 and close at 12:01 a. Harvest will then close for View current federal fishing regulations for the Gulf of America, including seasons, size limits, and bag limits for grouper, snapper, and more. Thanks to the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic, the Keys are an amazing place to fish for Grouper when it comes to both numbers and size. If you plan to fish for gag grouper from a private recreational vessel off Florida, make sure to sign up as a State Reef Fish Angler prior to your fishing trip (annual Monroe County state waters follow Atlantic state grouper regulations, as illustrated in the map above. They are protogynous hermaphrodites—they begin life as females and sexually mature around age 4. Grouper Fishing: Target gag grouper as the season opens in April. Minimum size limit: 24 inches total length Bag Limit: 2 fish per person within the 4 Grouper aggregate bag limit which include: Gag Grouper, Red Grouper, Black Grouper, Yellowfin Grouper, Yellowmouth Grouper, Scamp, Snowy Grouper Sep 16, 2021 · Grouper can be caught on a wide variety of baits. 1 and runs through Sept. The wrecks in the deep waters and reefs off Marathon are an excellent place to find mature groupers, including the main ones, black grouper, gag grouper, red grouper, and the goliath grouper. Gulf Grouper Aggregate Bag Limit – all species of grouper in the Gulf are included in a 4 fish per harvester per day aggregate bag limit in any combination of grouper species. 16. To sign up, call 1-888-347-4356. Goliath and Nassau grouper are protected from harvest in Florida waters. Kinda like NC flounder season - they are counting an over allocation harvest from last year against this year's quota. Three of these—black, gag and red—are among the most popular eating fish in Florida. 19 hours ago · The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has issued executive orders to close the recreational harvest of snowy grouper, gag grouper, and blueline tilefish in Atlantic state waters, including all state waters off Monroe County, for the 2025 season. Golaith Grouper Although there has been some talk of reducing it of late, there is currently a federal ban on keeping the incredible Goliath Grouper (Epinephelus itajara). 15; it will close at 12:01 a. com Nov 3, 2020 · Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by Eric Bonneman. From limestone ledges in eight feet of water to rocky bottom in the mid-thirties, this region gives fishermen a rare chance to target hard-pulling grouper without running far Gulf Grouper General Regulations: Gulf grouper regulations apply to all state waters of the Gulf except off Monroe County (where Atlantic rules apply). They prefer rocky bottoms, ledges, and reefs where they can hide and ambush their prey. Some days we had to work a little harder for them than others but with water temps near 90 degrees we had no complaints. Seasonal information is in parentheses, y=years, mths=months. The Gag Grouper, scientifically referred to as Mycteroperca microlepis, is a popular target for anglers along the Gulf Coast. Goliath and Nassau were similarly favored, until designated no-harvest (1990 and ‘92 Consistent regulations between Florida’s Atlantic state and federal waters can help improve the stock status of gag grouper, end overfishing, and improve regulatory compliance and enforcement. m Mar 21, 2025 · The requirements to reduce the season were effective on October 23, 2023, through the final rule to implement Amendment 53 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region. “Fishing also gets better when Dec 29, 2024 · Anglers who favor catching red grouper or lane snapper in Florida waters will have their chance beginning Wednesday. Gag grouper in the Atlantic is an important fishery for Florida. 1, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Mar 27, 2017 · This presentation will review the gag grouper season in the Big Bend \⠀䘀爀愀渀欀氀椀渀Ⰰ 圀愀欀甀氀氀愀Ⰰ 䨀攀昀昀攀爀猀漀渀Ⰰ 愀渀搀 吀愀礀氀漀爀 挀漀甀渀琀椀攀猀尩 regi\൯n, summarize stakeholder input from recent gag grouper workshops, and discuss a proposed fall season for the four county Jul 13, 2022 · New season dates went into effect for gag grouper and greater amberjack fisheries in state waters of the Gulf of Mexico to help grow the species’ population. They inhabit rocky reefs and ledges, feeding on smaller fish and crustaceans. The recreational harvest season for gag closes in all Gulf and Atlantic state and federal waters Jan. 31 in Monroe County waters. Pete Beach, Florida, opens between June 1 and December 31. The gag grouper is the most widely distributed grouper in the region, with adults present from North Carolina to Brazil over low- and high-profile hard bottom in waters 60-500 feet deep. Franklin, Wakulla, Taylor and Jefferson counties opened April 1. Gag groupers are structure-oriented fish, so look for areas with a lot of cover like reefs, wrecks, and ledges. May 8, 2025 · The most common grouper species found in Florida include red grouper, gag grouper, black grouper, and scamp grouper. “It’s been a good year for gag grouper,” says Capt. Florida and federal managers say this will help prevent quota overages, which would have to be repaid in the 2024 season. Plan your trip, follow regulations, and use the right gear and techniques for Florida Grouper fishing success. May 31, 2019 · In the Atlantic, the angler can catch any 3 Grouper that are in-season, but only 1 of those 3 can be Gag Groupers. 1, 2024. The season for grouper in the Florida Keys opens up May 1st and goes all the way into December, and it is great the entire time. Closed: January 01 - August 31 Open: September 01 - December 31 2 Bag Limit ; 4 Aggregate Limit ; 24 in Total Length; Anglers intending to land this species in Florida are required to sign up as a Florida State Reef Fish Angler if they fish from a private recreational boat and are 16 years of age and older. For example, the gag grouper season typically starts in June and ends in December, while the red grouper season starts in July and ends in October. The recreational season for gag grouper in Gulf state waters will be open Sept. Oct 4, 2023 · The 2023 recreational season for gag grouper in Gulf state waters, excluding state waters of Monroe County, will close at 12:01 a. They can be found along the southeastern coast of the United States, from North Carolina to the Gulf of Mexico. Sep 11, 2024 · Lots of boats have been buying lots of grouper bait to get in on the short gag grouper season, which opened Sept. Aug 29, 2024 · Florida's snook harvest season closes May 1 in many regions. With over 35 years of expertise, we offer a experience that delivers an unforgettable blend of adrenaline, strength, and salty air. Apr 25, 2024 · A Shallow Water Grouper ID Guide is available from the Council’s website and a helpful reference for identifying the different species. Gag grouper closed to harvest on June 15 until May 1, 2025. When setting sail for these trophy Gag Grouper, knowing the rules of the sea is crucial: Size Limit: Minimum of 24 inches total length. Jan 1, 2025 · South Atlantic 225 Snapper Grouper – South Atlantic EEZ. The open For complete information on gag grouper rules and regulations, ask your charter captain or click right here. NOAA Fisheries has determined the 2024 recreational season for Gag Grouper is May 1 – June 15, 2024. 1-15 and will close at 12:01 a. Where can I find the most up-to-date grouper fishing regulations in Florida? The most up-to-date regulations can be found on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website. The species is found in the Gulf of Mexico but not in the West Indies. Mar 24, 2025 · The Carolinas - 2025 Gag Grouper Season - Pretty short. Grouper regulations are ever-changing, so it's crucial to stay up-to-date on the latest rules and guidelines. State: 1 gag or black within the 3 grouper aggregate. Current Regulations. jfgt bpbct ymqbd ydws flo fxs sqfkfb yficj byroo iibhq