Grouper

Charleston's offshore waters provide excellent opportunities for targeting grouper, particularly gag and scamp grouper, though you'll need to venture a bit further out than some other Florida locations. The numerous artificial reefs and natural hard bottom areas hold good numbers of these fish. The fall months, especially October and November, are often prime time as water temperatures cool and grouper become more active before winter. Accessing these offshore spots requires a boat, and many anglers opt for a charter due to the distance and specialized knowledge required. Several reputable charter operators run out of Charleston Harbor. Bottom fishing with live or cut bait is the standard method. Be prepared for strong currents and use appropriate weights to keep your bait on the bottom. The waters off Charleston can be unpredictable, so always check the weather forecast before heading out. Also, be aware of the seasonal closures and size/bag limits for grouper, which are strictly enforced to ensure the sustainability of the fishery.