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
Black Grouper can be caught year-round in Longboat Key. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Black Grouper
Targeting Black Grouper near Longboat Key requires understanding their preference for structure and seasonal movements. These fish are structure-oriented, so focus your efforts around reefs, wrecks, and hard bottom areas in the Gulf of Mexico. The best time to target them is generally during the cooler months, particularly fall and spring, when water temperatures are more favorable. Live bait like pinfish or grunts are highly effective, but large jigs can also produce. Pay attention to the depth; Black Grouper are often found in deeper water than other grouper species. A good starting point is around 80-120 feet, but always check local fishing reports for recent intel. A crucial local tip: use heavy tackle! These fish are powerful and will quickly run back into their hiding spots. Also, be aware of the seasonal closures for grouper to ensure you're fishing legally and ethically. Boat ramps in the area can get busy, so plan your trips accordingly, especially on weekends.
How to Catch Black Grouper
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
When is black grouper season open near Longboat Key?
Black grouper season in Florida is open from May 1st through December 31st.
What's the minimum size for black grouper that I can keep?
You can only keep black grouper that are at least 24 inches in total length.
How many black grouper can I keep in a day?
The bag limit is 1 black grouper per harvester per day within the Grouper Aggregate.
Do I need a saltwater fishing license to catch black grouper near Longboat Key?
Yes, a valid Florida saltwater fishing license is required.
More Black Grouper Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Longboat Key
Ready to Catch Black Grouper in Longboat Key?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.