All species
reef
Gag Grouper
Mycteroperca microlepis
Hard-fighting grouper that buries into structure the instant it is hooked. Strict seasons protect spawning aggregations.
Where to find them
Rocky ledges, reefs, and wrecks; larger fish hold in deeper offshore structure.
Regulations by Region
Atlantic Coast
Season open- Size limit
- 24" total length
- Bag limit
- 1 within 3-fish grouper aggregate
- Season
- Open May 1 - Dec 31 (Atlantic)
Seasonal closure Jan-Apr in Atlantic state waters.
Gulf Coast
Season closed- Size limit
- 24" total length
- Bag limit
- 2 within 4-fish aggregate
- Season
- Open Sep 1 - Dec 31 (Gulf)
Gulf gag season is short and shifts annually; check current FWC dates.
Top Baits
live pinfishlarge pilchardsbutterfly jigscut bait