Science Name: | Mycteroperca bonaci |
Other Names: | Rock Grouper |
World Record: | 114 lbs. Texas and Florid |
Environment: | reef |
Techniques: | drift, bottom fishing, trolling |
Black groupers are large, hard-fighting, reef fish. Anglers will commonly hook a live baitfish to a line that has a breakaway sinker. This allows them to drop the bait right on top of a reef and keep it anchored in position. Be ready to have your line cut-off on the reefs, as most groupers will run straight into the rockiest areas. Sixty- to 80-pound tackle and a heavy, abrasion-resistant leader is best suited for targeting this species.
Where to Find
Found mostly on the coasts of Florida and the Gulf.
Habitat
Adults associated with rocky bottoms, reef, and drop off walls in water over 60
feet deep.
Feeding Habits
Adult black grouper will feed on whatever fish are available in their immediate
area. They will also eat squid and crustaceans (when they're young).