Anglers move offshore to target gag grouper
By Capt. Danny Stasny
Anna Maria Island Gag Grouper Fishing Season
With gag grouper season having opened Sept. 1, Anna Maria Island anglers are quick to get out on the water to join in on the harvest of one of our most favorite species to catch and eat.
And, with only a 30-day season, many anglers are trying to put in as many days as possible before the closure at midnight on Sept. 30.
Gag Grouper Fishing Depths in the Gulf of Mexico
With water temps hovering in the mid- to upper-80s, the best action seems to be occurring in depths of 100 feet or more.
Typically, gags can be caught in shallower waters, in fact, they even inhibit our inshore waters in Tampa Bay southward to Sarasota Bay.
But when the water is this warm, you’re going to find the more consistent bite of keeper-size fish by venturing out into the Gulf of Mexico with deeper waters.
Where to Find Gag Grouper Offshore
Finding structure like hard bottom, ledges, reefs and boat wrecks is a key to finding these large groupers. Gags gravitate to structure where bait is gathering, and where there are plenty of hiding places and ambush points.
Best Baits and Tackle for Gag Grouper
Bottom fishing in these areas is most effective, especially when using live bait. Live pinfish or large shiners are like candy for a gag grouper, but don’t rule out using frozen bait like threadfin herring or sardines.
In most instances it’s smart to at least come prepared with a box or two or frozen stuff even though you have live bait. Some days you may find they like frozen baits as much as the live bait offerings.
As far as gear goes, you can get a simple as a Penn 4/0 Senator on a stout boat rod to accomplish the goal. Heavy spinning gear is a good bet, just make sure you your combo is strong enough to pull a big gag out of the rocks before you’re pulled into a hole and cut off.
Gag Grouper Regulations and Responsible Fishing
Lastly, don’t forget the rules while you’re out there targeting gags. Sometimes when you’re boating big gags it’s hard to keep count, so pay attention as you don’t want to end up being visited by FWC with extra fish in the boat.
For gag grouper an angler is allowed two fish per day in their 4 grouper aggregate. Gags must be a total length of 24 inches, so keep your ruler handy. Try to let the under-size gags go with care so they grow up to make more gag grouper.
