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How to Catch Red Grouper in the Gulf of Mexico

Inshore + Offshore Fishing Tampa / St. Petersburg, Fl

Watch Video: Catch and Cook Parmesan Crusted Red Grouper

Catch and Cook

Fishing Tips and Tactics

Red Grouper are known known for their fight and flavor, red grouper are a prized catch among both novice and experienced fishermen along the gulf coast. Here’s how we landed a few of these sought-after bottom dwellers.

Fishing Gear:

Bottom fishing requires specific setups to effectively target red grouper. A sturdy, medium-heavy rod paired with a conventional reel spooled with high-capacity braided or mono but braided mainline is often preferred.

The rig setup should include a heavy-weight to keep the bait near the bottom and a strong circle hook to ensure a secure hookup.

Bait and Fishing Technique:

Live bait such as pinfish, grunts, and sardines are top choices for red grouper. When dropping bait, ensure it’s close to the structure to entice grouper out from their hiding spots. Patience and attention is key; grouper bites can be subtle before the fish attempts to run back to cover.

Parmesan Crusted Baked Red Grouper

For those looking to culminate their fishing adventure with a meal, red grouper is excellent when baked with a Parmesan crust, paired with pasta for a delightful home-cooked meal.

Red grouper lends itself well to various recipes, however here is how Captain Shaw prepared his Red Grouper steaks.

Red Grouper Recipe

Servings:4 servings

Ingredients:

• ¾ cupJapanese Panko Breadcrumbs
• ¾ cupParmesan Cheese(finely grated)
• 3 tablespoonsUnsalted Butter Room Temperature
• 3 tablespoonsMayonnaise
• 3 Green Onions(green tops only thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoonWorchestershire Sauce
• ½ teaspoonHot Pepper Sauce(tabasco or other)
• 1 ½ tablespoonsLemon Juice(freshly squeezed, approx. 1/2 lemon)
• add Salt And Pepper
• 3-4  Gouper Fish Fillets
• 2 tablespoonsFresh Flat-Leaf(parsely finely chopped

Applying Batter to Grouper Steaks

Oven Baking Red Grouper

Protecting the Species

Practice catch and release when out on the water and always adhere to current size and bag limits for your area. Familiarize yourself with local regulations before heading out as it is illegal to target and keep certain fish species due to either season or permits.

Whether you’re fishing with a guide like Captain Martin of Inverted Fishing Charters or setting out on your own, the thrill of landing a red grouper is an unforgettable experience.

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