Grouper

Targeting Grouper around Bay St. Louis requires understanding the nuances of the Mississippi Sound. This area offers a mix of natural reefs, artificial structures, and oil rigs that hold these powerful fish. The best time to target Grouper here is during the cooler months, particularly fall and early spring, when they move closer to shore to feed. Water clarity is crucial; look for areas with less sediment stirred up by winds or recent storms. Focus your efforts around structure using live bait like pinfish or croakers on a Carolina rig, or try jigging heavy bucktails. A key local tip is to pay attention to the tides – Grouper often become more active during periods of strong tidal flow. Remember to check the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources regulations for size and bag limits before heading out, as they can change frequently. Grouper in this area tend to be gag or scamp grouper, so adjust your tackle accordingly.