Damn Good Black Grouper Fishing Charters In Sarasota

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Recently Booked Black Grouper Fishing Charters In Sarasota, Fl

Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore in Sarasota

4 Hours Fishing Trip

100% (32)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $600
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore in Sarasota

Prestige Anna Maria Sound

83% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Sarasota

Bountiful Backwaters Of Sarasota

100% (13)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Damn Good
Certified Damn Good Guides offer 10/10 trips. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Sarasota

Private 4 Hour - Sarasota Bay

83% (6)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Jetty in Sarasota

Sarasota’s Premier Fishing Trip

100% (16)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Bradenton

Luxury Bay Fishing Trips

100% (1)
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $4,800

Top Types of Black Grouper Trips in Sarasota

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All Target Species in Sarasota

View Full Species Seasonality Chart »
  • Get it while it's HOT!
  • This species is in play.
  • You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
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More Black Grouper Fishing Charters In Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Bradenton

24Hr Ultimate Offshore Adventure

100% (1)
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $4,800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing in Holmes Beach

Holmes Beach Reef Trip

100% (14)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $920
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in Bradenton

Ultimate Offshore Day Fishing!

100% (1)
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $3,650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore, Flats in Ruskin

Tampa Bay Rod-Bender

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 3 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Seasonal Snapper Run

100% (1)
33 ft 1 - 5 People From $2,300
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing in Holmes Beach

Nearshore Combo

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $800
See All Black Grouper Trips in Sarasota

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Everything to Know About Booking a Sarasota black grouper fishing charter

What are the best black grouper fishing charters in Sarasota?

What is black grouper in Sarasota all about?

Black grouper, prized for their delicious flesh and powerful fighting ability, are a popular target among anglers in Sarasota, Florida. These iconic fish inhabit the offshore reefs, ledges, and wrecks found in the Gulf of Mexico, providing anglers with ample opportunities to hook into these impressive predators. Sarasota's proximity to these productive fishing grounds makes it an ideal destination for anglers seeking to reel in a trophy-sized black grouper. With their distinctive black markings and robust build, black grouper are a prized catch that can provide a memorable fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.

One effective technique for targeting black grouper in Sarasota is bottom fishing using live bait such as pinfish, grunts, or squid. Anglers typically anchor up over known grouper spots such as rocky ledges or wrecks and deploy their baits near the bottom using heavy tackle. Black grouper are known for their aggressive strikes and powerful runs, so anglers must be prepared to apply strong and steady pressure to land these hard-fighting fish. Patience is key when bottom fishing for black grouper, as it may take some time for the fish to locate and strike the bait.

Trolling is another popular method for targeting black grouper in Sarasota. Anglers can troll with diving plugs, spoons, or rigged baits along the edges of reefs and drop-offs where black grouper are known to congregate. By varying trolling speeds and depths, anglers can cover a large area of water and increase their chances of encountering feeding black grouper. Trolling allows anglers to explore different areas and locate active fish, making it a versatile and effective technique for targeting black grouper in Sarasota's offshore waters.

What are the most popular months to fish for black grouper in Sarasota?

In Sarasota, the black grouper fishing season is influenced by various factors such as water temperature, migration patterns, and spawning behavior. Generally, black grouper can be targeted year-round, but certain times of the year offer better opportunities for anglers to reel in these prized gamefish. During the cooler months, particularly from fall through early spring, black grouper tend to move closer to shore and inhabit shallower waters, making them more accessible to anglers fishing from boats or the shore.

Spring marks the beginning of the black grouper spawning season, during which these fish migrate to deeper offshore waters to spawn. While this period may see a decrease in black grouper activity in nearshore areas, anglers targeting offshore reefs, ledges, and wrecks can still encounter these formidable predators. As temperatures rise in the summer months, black grouper may move to deeper waters to escape the heat, presenting challenges for anglers seeking to target them from shallower depths. However, skilled anglers can still find success by venturing offshore and targeting known grouper hotspots.

Late summer and early fall can provide excellent opportunities for black grouper fishing in Sarasota as water temperatures begin to cool, prompting these fish to migrate back towards shallower waters. During this time, black grouper can be found patrolling the edges of reefs, drop-offs, and wrecks, providing anglers with ample opportunities to hook into these hard-fighting gamefish. Understanding the seasonal movements and behavior of black grouper is key to maximizing success and enjoying a rewarding fishing experience in Sarasota's offshore waters.

What techniques are popular for catching black grouper in Sarasota?

Black grouper fishing in Sarasota offers anglers a variety of effective techniques to target these prized gamefish. One popular method is bottom fishing over offshore reefs, ledges, and wrecks where black grouper are known to congregate. Anglers typically use heavy tackle and deploy live bait such as pinfish, grunts, or squid near the bottom to entice strikes from these powerful predators. Patience is key when bottom fishing for black grouper, as anglers may need to wait for the fish to locate and strike the bait.

Trolling is another effective technique for targeting black grouper in Sarasota. Anglers can troll with diving plugs, spoons, or rigged baits along the edges of reefs and drop-offs where black grouper are known to patrol. By varying trolling speeds and depths, anglers can cover a large area of water and increase their chances of encountering feeding black grouper. Trolling allows anglers to explore different areas and locate active fish, making it a versatile and effective technique for targeting black grouper in Sarasota's offshore waters.

Another productive technique for catching black grouper in Sarasota is jigging. Anglers can use heavy jigs or bucktail jigs tipped with bait to target black grouper on offshore structures such as reefs and wrecks. Jigging allows anglers to present their bait vertically, allowing for precise placement near the bottom where black grouper are often found. This method can be particularly effective when fishing in deeper waters or areas with strong currents where traditional bottom fishing techniques may be less effective. With their powerful strikes and robust fighting ability, black grouper provide anglers in Sarasota with a thrilling and rewarding fishing experience.

What other species are popular in Sarasota?

Aside from black grouper, Sarasota offers anglers a diverse array of species to target, ensuring there's always something biting in its rich offshore waters. One popular catch among anglers is the red snapper, prized for its delicious flesh and powerful fighting ability. These vibrant-colored fish can be found inhabiting offshore reefs, wrecks, and ledges throughout Sarasota's waters. Anglers often target red snapper using live bait such as pilchards or squid, as well as artificial lures like jigs or cut bait. With their aggressive strikes and tenacious fights, red snapper provide anglers with an exciting challenge and a rewarding catch.

Another sought-after species in Sarasota's offshore waters is the amberjack, known for its brute strength and impressive size. These powerful fish can be found patrolling around offshore structures such as wrecks, oil rigs, and artificial reefs. Anglers targeting amberjack often use heavy tackle and deploy live bait such as blue runners or jacks to entice strikes from these formidable predators. With their powerful runs and stubborn fights, amberjack provide anglers with a thrilling battle and a memorable fishing experience offshore.

Sarasota's offshore ecosystem also supports a variety of other popular gamefish species, including gag grouper, mahi-mahi, and king mackerel. Gag grouper, similar in appearance to black grouper, can be found inhabiting the same offshore reefs and ledges, providing anglers with opportunities to reel in these tasty bottom-dwellers. Mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or dolphin fish, are often found patrolling offshore waters in search of baitfish and can provide anglers with fast-paced action and acrobatic leaps. King mackerel, with their sleek bodies and aggressive feeding habits, offer anglers trolling opportunities along offshore structures and in open water. Whether targeting red snapper, amberjack, gag grouper, or any other species, Sarasota offers anglers a wide range of opportunities to reel in memorable catches and create lasting fishing memories offshore.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Had lots of fun

    Elam P. | November 13, 2025

    Trip: 4 Hours Fishing Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time! Captain smith dodged storms and put us on the fish.

    Brandt B. | September 29, 2025

    Trip: Gulfport Combo Classic

  • ★★★★★
    Tony's the man went out with myself and 2 boys and had a blast catching multiple species of fish 🐟 and cant wait to go again ! sea trout, reds , snapper, snooks and tarpon are what we had on the mission and he even cut us up some to take home to cook on the grill

    Lyle K. | August 12, 2025

    Trip: Bountiful Backwaters Of Sarasota

  • ★★★★★
    Good time! The boat ride was fabulous. We were able to assist a boat taking on water. We call the Coast Guard.

    Andrew A. | August 7, 2025

    Trip: Prestige Anna Maria Sound

  • ★★★★★
    It was a wonderful fishing trip with an experienced and helpful crew!

    Lindsay B. | August 6, 2025

    Trip: Prestige Anna Maria Sound

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What's biting in Sarasota?

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