Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch gag grouper.
Island Baby Islamorada
Tavernier, Florida
Flying Thief Charters
Big Pine Key, Florida
Key West Tarpon Fishing with Flying Thief Charters. Let us be your guide to the best Bonefish Spin Fishing, and excellent Flats Fishing in the Florida Keys.
Fat Cat Charters
Big Pine Key, Florida
Sea Glass Excursions
Cudjoe Key, Florida
Sea Glass Excursions offers offshore and inshore fishing, snorkeling, sandbars, sunset cruise, or just a ride, I’m your guide. My Name is Captain Brian and I live in the Lower Florida Keys.
Double O Fishing Charter
Cudjoe Key, Florida
Tarpon Trips
Summerland Key, Florida
Shane Wood Fishing
Summerland Key, Florida
Shane Wood Fly Fishing Guide - Rates and Information. Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit Photo Gallery. Book your fishing charter now.
Stock Island Fishing Charters
Naval Air Station Key West, Florida
Stock Island fishing charters at the entrance to Key West. Many different charters offered for all types of anglers and vacationers.
Captain Eddie Griffiths Charters
Key West, Florida
Dry Tortugas fishing trips with Andy Griffiths charters out of Key West, Florida. Overnight fishing to Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas and Marquesas Keys. Enjoy fishing and diving on your private charter, 2 or 3 day fishing charters for snapper, grouper, mahi mahi, wahoo and more. Best reef and wreck fishing available year round in the Florida Keys and west of Key West near the Dry Tortugas National Park.
Captain Bill Lowman Anna Maria Sportfishing
Holmes Beach, Florida
Anna Maria Island Charter Fishing Guide
Destination Fish Charters
Marco Island, Florida
Danny Fabian is one of Southwest Florida's premier backwater and sport fishermen in Naples and Marco Island, Florida. As a professional fishing quide, Danny specializes in fishing in Everglades National Park and focuses on Snook, Grouper, Tarpon, Trout, Redfish.
Captain Rio Adventures
Marco Island, Florida
Go fish with fun catching Charter fishing at its best!
Best Time to Catch Gag Grouper
Peak season: May, June. Also good: March, April, July, August, September. Right now in February, activity is fair.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Gag Grouper
Targeting Gag Grouper in Key West requires a focus on deeper waters and understanding the complex reef systems that surround the island. These fish are structure-oriented, so look for them around wrecks, ledges, and rocky outcroppings in depths of 80 to 200 feet. Winter months can be surprisingly productive as the grouper tend to congregate in these deeper areas to spawn. Use heavy tackle and braided line to handle the depth and the strong currents. Live bait, such as pinfish or grunts, is highly effective, but large jigs can also produce results. A key tip: many local charters know the GPS coordinates of productive wrecks, so consider booking a trip to learn the area. Be mindful of the strong tides and currents around Key West, as they can affect your presentation and require constant adjustments. Always check the latest regulations regarding size and bag limits before heading out.
How to Catch Gag Grouper
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Gag Grouper in Key West.
Gag Grouper Fishing Regulations in Florida
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
Regulations vary by area and season. Check current Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations before fishing.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use for gag grouper around Key West?
Live baitfish like pinfish or grunts are very effective for gag grouper. Artificial lures such as jigs and diving plugs can also produce good results. Match the lure size to the size of the baitfish in the area.
Do I need a fishing license to target gag grouper in Key West?
Yes, you'll need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license to legally fish for gag grouper and other saltwater species in Key West. Make sure to have it with you while fishing.
Where are some good spots to find gag grouper near Key West?
Gag grouper are often found around reefs, wrecks, and rocky bottom structures. Consult local fishing charters or tackle shops for specific locations and recent hotspots.
Are there any size restrictions for gag grouper I can keep when fishing near Key West?
Yes, there is a minimum size limit for gag grouper in Florida, but the exact size limit is currently unknown. It's crucial to check the latest Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations before you go fishing, as these rules can change.
More Gag Grouper Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Key West
Ready to Catch Gag Grouper in Key West?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.