Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch black grouper.
Reel Adventures
World class Boca Grande Tarpon Fishing Charters in Florida on the flats and back country of Tampa Bay,, Clearwater, St Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, and Charlotte Harbor for tarpon, snook, redfish, permit trout, cobia, and goliath grouper.
Right on Charters
Marathon fishing charters, Fly fishing charters, light tackle spin fishing charters and Family Fun Fishing charters. Fishing the Marathon, Islamorada, Big Pine and Everglades National Park Backcountry. 11 years experience guiding full time in the Florida Keys. Come chase permit, tarpon, bonefish, redfish, snook, snappers,sharks, barracuda, cabin, Goliath grouper and more;.
SW Slam Fishing LLC
Join Captain Jason in reeling in Redfish, Snook, Tarpon, Goliath Grouper and more! Catering to all skill levels, expect big fish and a fun adventure!
Florida Inshore Xtream Charters
Boca Grande, Englewood, Pine Island Sound... inshore, nearshore, tarpon and goliath grouper fishing charters.
Coastal Outfitters Sport Fishing Charters
Top-rated New Port Richey, Florida sport fishing charter that specializes in targeting Tarpon, Shark, Goliath Grouper in the Gulf of Mexico
Captain Jody Weis
We offer the best Offshore fishing boats where you might hook into Snook, Shark, Grouper, Snapper, Permit, Barracuda, Cobia, Mackerel and Goliath Grouper.
Best Time to Catch Black Grouper
Peak season: April, May, June. Also good: January, February, March, July, August, September, October. Right now in February, activity is good.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Black Grouper
Destin, Florida, offers excellent opportunities for targeting Black Grouper, especially around the numerous artificial reefs and natural hard bottom structures scattered throughout the Gulf of Mexico. These structures, often holding baitfish, attract sizable grouper. The best time to target them is during the cooler months, from spring through fall, when the water temperatures are more comfortable, and the grouper are actively feeding. Focus your efforts on depths of 80 to 200 feet, where these bottom-dwelling fish tend to congregate. A key local tip is to use a heavy enough jig or bait to get down quickly through the strong currents often found offshore. Live bait, like pinfish or grunts, is incredibly effective, but large jigs also produce well. Be prepared for a tough fight, as Black Grouper are known for their power and ability to quickly retreat into structure. Remember to check the regulations for size and bag limits before heading out, as these can change periodically.
How to Catch Black Grouper
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Black Grouper in Destin.
Black Grouper Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
May 1 - December 31
Daily Bag Limit
1 per harvester per day within the Grouper Aggregate
Size Limit
24-inch minimum total length
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
Check FWC regulations for any potential emergency closures or changes to the season. The Grouper Aggregate includes gag, red, scamp, yellowfin, yellowmouth, and black grouper.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for catching black grouper near Destin, Florida?
Live baitfish like pinfish, grunts, and cigar minnows are highly effective for black grouper. Anglers also use cut bait or large jigs and swimbaits fished near structure.
What is the minimum size I can keep for black grouper in Florida?
In Florida, the minimum size limit for black grouper is 24 inches total length. Any black grouper shorter than that must be released.
When is black grouper season open in Destin, FL?
Black grouper season in Florida is open from May 1st through December 31st. Fishing for black grouper is prohibited outside of these dates.
How many black grouper can I keep per day in Florida?
The bag limit for black grouper is 1 per harvester per day. However, this is part of the Grouper Aggregate, so ensure you understand the combined limits for all grouper species.
More Black Grouper Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Destin
Ready to Catch Black Grouper in Destin?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.