Damn Good Goliath Grouper Fishing Charters In Clearwater

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Recently Booked Goliath Grouper Fishing Charters In Clearwater, Fl

Fishing in Destin
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Deep Sea Fishing in Clearwater

40’ Yacht Sport Fish Snapper / Grouper

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40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,599
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40’ Yacht Sport Fish Offshore

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Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Clearwater

40’ Yacht Sport Fish Inshore

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40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,499
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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Deep Sea Fishing in Clearwater

4-6 Hour Trip – Offshore

100% (51)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
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Clearwater Offshore Fishing

100% (60)
33 ft 1 - 6 People From $750
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Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing in Clearwater

Clearwater Mixed Bag Offshore

100% (51)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,650

Top Types of Goliath Grouper Trips in Clearwater

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Target Species in Clearwater

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Clearwater Offshore Reefs & Wrecks

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Fed Permitted Red Snapper - 35'

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Federal American Red Snapper - 28’

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Everything to Know About Booking a Clearwater goliath grouper fishing charter

What are the best goliath grouper fishing charters in Clearwater?

What is goliath grouper fishing in Clearwater all about?

Goliath grouper, known for their immense size and powerful presence, are a coveted catch for anglers visiting Clearwater, Florida. These massive fish can reach weights exceeding 500 pounds and are renowned for their strength, making them a formidable opponent once hooked. Clearwater, with its abundant offshore waters and numerous wrecks and artificial reefs, provides an ideal habitat for goliath grouper. Anglers often target these giants using heavy tackle and sturdy equipment to handle their immense power.

One of the most effective methods for catching goliath grouper in Clearwater is bottom fishing near wrecks, reefs, and other underwater structures. Anglers typically use large live baits such as mullet, pinfish, or stingrays rigged on heavy-duty tackle to entice strikes from goliath grouper. The key is to present the bait near the structure where the grouper are known to reside, allowing them to ambush prey and providing anglers with the opportunity for a thrilling battle.

Goliath grouper fishing in Clearwater is regulated by strict catch-and-release guidelines due to their protected status, which adds to the excitement and conservation efforts surrounding these magnificent fish. Anglers are encouraged to handle goliath grouper with care and release them promptly after capture to ensure their survival and continued population growth. Despite the challenges associated with catching and releasing goliath grouper, the opportunity to encounter these majestic creatures in the waters of Clearwater remains a highlight for many anglers seeking an unforgettable fishing experience.

What are the most popular months to fish for goliath grouper in Clearwater?

In Clearwater, Florida, goliath grouper fishing is not governed by traditional seasonal patterns like many other species. Instead, the presence and activity of goliath grouper in Clearwater's waters are influenced more by water temperature, bait availability, and spawning behavior. Generally, goliath grouper can be found year-round in the offshore waters of Clearwater, particularly around wrecks, reefs, and other underwater structures where they prefer to inhabit. However, certain times of the year may see increased concentrations of goliath grouper due to factors such as spawning migrations or changes in baitfish abundance.

Spring and summer months tend to be popular times for targeting goliath grouper in Clearwater, as warmer water temperatures increase the activity levels of these large fish. During this time, goliath grouper may be more actively feeding and congregating around offshore structures, providing anglers with prime opportunities for encounters. Additionally, spring and summer are typically when goliath grouper are more likely to be found in shallower waters, making them more accessible to anglers fishing from smaller vessels or nearshore locations.

While goliath grouper can be found in Clearwater's waters year-round, fall and winter months may see some changes in their behavior. Cooler water temperatures may cause goliath grouper to move to deeper waters or seek out warmer areas, making them less predictable in their movements. However, experienced anglers in Clearwater are still able to target goliath grouper successfully during these seasons by focusing on areas with known concentrations of fish and adjusting their tactics accordingly. Overall, with its abundant offshore habitats and diverse marine ecosystem, Clearwater offers anglers ample opportunities to pursue goliath grouper throughout the year.

What techniques are popular for catching goliath grouper in Clearwater?

In Clearwater, Florida, anglers employ various effective techniques when targeting goliath grouper, renowned for their immense size and power. One primary method for catching goliath grouper in Clearwater is bottom fishing near wrecks, reefs, and other underwater structures where these behemoths are known to congregate. Anglers typically use heavy-duty tackle and sturdy equipment to handle the massive strength of goliath grouper. Large live baits such as mullet, pinfish, or stingrays rigged on stout tackle are commonly used to entice strikes from these formidable fish.

Another popular technique for goliath grouper fishing in Clearwater is using vertical jigging techniques. Anglers deploy heavy metal jigs or large soft plastics to the bottom near known grouper habitats, allowing the lures to flutter enticingly in the water column. Goliath grouper are opportunistic predators and may strike at vertical jigs as they imitate wounded baitfish or other prey. Vertical jigging allows anglers to cover a wide area efficiently and can be particularly effective when targeting goliath grouper around wrecks or underwater structures.

In addition to bottom fishing and vertical jigging, chumming is another technique employed by anglers targeting goliath grouper in Clearwater. Anglers may use a variety of chumming methods to attract goliath grouper to their fishing area, such as deploying chunks of baitfish or other scent-producing materials into the water to create a feeding frenzy. Once the grouper are drawn in by the chum, anglers can present baits or lures in the midst of the action, increasing their chances of enticing strikes. With their adaptability and powerful presence, goliath grouper offer anglers in Clearwater a thrilling fishing experience that requires skill, patience, and sturdy equipment.

What other species are popular in Clearwater?

Aside from goliath grouper, Clearwater, Florida offers anglers a diverse range of other species to target in its rich coastal waters. One popular catch among anglers is the snook, a highly prized inshore species known for its aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. Snook can be found in a variety of habitats, including mangrove shorelines, bridges, and docks, where they prey on small fish and crustaceans. Anglers in Clearwater often target snook using live bait such as shrimp or mullet, as well as artificial lures like soft plastics or topwater plugs. With their challenging fights and elusive nature, snook provide anglers with an exciting fishing experience.

Another sought-after species in Clearwater is the redfish, also known as red drum or channel bass. Redfish can be found in shallow flats, marshes, and estuaries, where they feed on a variety of prey including shrimp, crabs, and baitfish. Anglers targeting redfish in Clearwater often use live or cut bait such as mullet or pinfish, as well as artificial lures like spoons or soft plastics. Redfish are known for their powerful runs and stubborn fights, making them a favorite among inshore anglers in Clearwater.

In addition to snook and redfish, anglers in Clearwater can target a variety of other species including spotted sea trout, tarpon, flounder, and mangrove snapper, among others. Whether fishing inshore, nearshore, or offshore, anglers have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the diverse fishing opportunities that Clearwater's coastal waters have to offer. With its abundance of fish species and accessible fishing grounds, Clearwater remains a premier destination for anglers seeking thrilling adventures on the water.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Gage was great, got us on some fish and even made a switch up for us to go for some bigger fish. Ton of amberjacks, barracuda, and a big Goliath grouper. Then took us to get some good eating fish. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a charter in Tampa, we ended up doing the 6hr trip 30 miles off shore. To clarify, this 4hr trip is NOT for Goliath grouper or other big fish. So if you want to go for a good fight let Gage know and he will get you on some fish.

    Drayton K. | May 24, 2025

    Trip: Clearwater Mixed Bag Offshore

  • ★★★★★
    My buddys and I did a 4 hour afternoon offshore charter with Brad. We had a blast and caught more than enough fish for dinner that day. We also each got the exhilarating experience of fighting and landing a big fish! Brad knew what he was doing and was able to make sure we caught a lot of fish. We would definitely recommend Brad!

    Justin N. | May 11, 2025

    Trip: Clearwater offshore fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great trip with Captain Brad and Skylar yesterday. Caught several grouper and saw a few dolphins as well. The guys were so good with our kids and they moved us frequently to make sure we continued to pull in fish. Would definitely recommend using this company to anyone looking to deep sea fishing in the Clearwater area.

    Jessica R. | April 21, 2025

    Trip: Clearwater offshore fishing

  • ★★★★★
    What a fantastic day out on the water!!! My family came in from out of town looking to go on a deeper fishing trip. Greg came highly recommended both by the booking agent as well as previous reviews. Our hopes of having fun and catching some big fish were exceeded both by the amount and size of fish that were caught as well as the variety. Greg really showed his knowledge and experience by his ability to put us “on the fish”! Robbie, the captain’s right hand man, was so awesome as well! He kept all the lines baited and really taught us how to not lose the fish while reeling them in. The entire day was a blast and an unforgettable adventure!!! Thank you again Greg and Robbie from the Shannon Clan!

    Michael S. | April 17, 2025

    Trip: St. Pete Offshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    Joe and John (first mate) did a fantastic job putting us on fish! We brought home a load and had a great time.

    Darryl S. | April 16, 2025

    Trip: Full Day St Pete Offshore

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