Goliath grouper in Florida

Meet the species

Goliath grouper
Image credit: © diane rome peebles

Scientific name

Epinephelus itajara

Overview

Coastal and nearshore waters around natural and man-made structures, or muddy bottoms. Young often occur in estuaries, especially around mangroves or manmade structures such as bridges, docks, and artificial reefs. More abundant in southern than in northern waters in Florida.

Typical size

Up to 8 feet and 800 pounds; largest grouper species in western atlantic waters harvest is prohibited without a permit.

At a glance

Regions
Statewide gulf, statewide atlantic
Water
Saltwater
Bait
Large live or dead baitfish near heavy structure

Florida fishing record

Weight
680 lb
Location
Fernandina beach
Date
May 20, 1961
Angler
Lynn joyner
Type
Florida state record

Open record source

Record catch notes

680.0 lb; by lynn joyner; on 05/20/1961; at fernandina beach

When to fish

Good months

March–may

Season notes

Months mentioned in profile narrative (not a fishing calendar): jun, jul, sep, oct closed/REGS: FWC goliath harvest (permit/tag required) open mar 1–may 31 only & otherwise catch-and-release / harvest prohibited without permit.

More season details

Where to fish

Florida regions

Statewide gulf & statewide atlantic

Water

Saltwater

Habitat

Coastal and nearshore waters around natural and man-made structures, or muddy bottoms. Young often occur in estuaries, especially around mangroves or manmade structures such as bridges, docks, and artificial reefs. More abundant in southern than in northern waters in Florida.

More locations and access

How to catch

Heavy tackle, circle hooks & catch-and-release only — do not remove from water longer than needed

Bait

Large live or dead baitfish near heavy structure

Videos

Sources

Fishing videos from local voices

Information comes from the supplied source datasets. Check linked FWC regulations for current rules.