Damn Good Black Grouper Fishing Charters In Sarasota

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Recently Booked Black Grouper Fishing Charters In Sarasota, Fl

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Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

4 Hours Fishing Trip

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Classic Trip

100% (5)
22 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
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, Flats Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Private 4 Hour - Sarasota Bay

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
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 Charter in Sarasota

Bountiful Backwaters Of Sarasota

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $450
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Deep Sea, Nearshore, Flats Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Prestige Anna Maria Sound

NEW
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $650
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Sarasota

Grouper/Snapper Run- 35’ Contender

100% (2)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,900

Top Types of Black Grouper Trips in Sarasota

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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).
  • Couldn't tell ya! (no data)

More Black Grouper Fishing Charters In Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Sarasota

Tampa Bay Nearshore Run

NEW
27 ft 1 - 5 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Sarasota

Inshore/Nearshore Max-Out - 48’

100% (2)
48 ft 1 - 6 People From $2,100
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Sarasota

Luxury Bay Fishing Trips

NEW
43 ft 1 - 6 People From $4,800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Sarasota

MIDDLE GROUNDS - 35''

100% (2)
35 ft 1 - 12 People From $3,500
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter near Sarasota

Nearshore Combo Trip

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People From $800
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea Fishing Charter near Sarasota

Nightime Trip Bucket List

100% (2)
32 ft 1 - 12 People From $1,999
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?

Why should I book a black grouper fishing charter in Sarasota with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 22 black grouper trips in Sarasota, and the most popular trips in the area are 4 hours Fishing trip guided by Vasiliy, Bountiful Backwaters of Sarasota guided by Tony, and Private 4 hour - Sarasota Bay guided by William.

Our guides in Sarasota are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 3716 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly black grouper guides / fishing lessons in Sarasota? Check out our beginner and family friendly black grouper guides in Sarasota.

What types of black grouper fishing charters are common in Sarasota?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for black grouper in Sarasota as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and flats fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Sarasota are live bait fishing, bottom fishing, and artificial lure fishing but trolling and heavy tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do Sarasota black grouper fishing charters cost?

Prices for black grouper in Sarasota can range anywhere from about $700 to $5,998, but the average price for a half day trip for black grouper in Sarasota is $1,810. The average price for a full day trip for black grouper in Sarasota is $3,748.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for black grouper fishing in Sarasota?

The most popular season for black grouper fishing in Sarasota is summer, and most anglers book their trips 38 days in advance.

Do I need a Sarasota fishing license for black grouper and what are the bag limits for black grouper in Sarasota?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Sarasota, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Sarasota. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations 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

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome!!!!!!

    John L. | June 30, 2024

    Trip: 4 hours Fishing trip

  • ★★★★★
    Booked this for my son’s birthday trying to get him to enjoy the outdoors again. We had a great time,I was thrilled when he asked if we could go again! Thank you so much for a great day! Jeannette & Kai

    Jeannette F. | June 15, 2024

    Trip: Bountiful Backwaters of Sarasota

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic 4 hour charter, Captain James was a blast and he knew where the fish were! Will book again, thanks for a great time.

    Ted M. | May 8, 2024

    Trip: Sarasota Classic Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Chris and Daniel were awesome. Caught a lot of fish and had a lot of fun. Provided rods and a variety of bait. Went on the 6 hour trip and it was plenty. If you want bigger fish then maybe go for the 8 hour

    Alex V. | March 18, 2024

    Trip: Gulfport Combo Classic

  • ★★★★★
    We had a super great time with Tony! He was friendly and very helpful, Made the adventure extra special. I would give Tony a 5 Star rating!!

    Steve T. | March 10, 2024

    Trip: Bountiful Backwaters of Sarasota

  • ★★★★★
    Captain James was AWESOME! He was easy going, confident and a pleasure. One person in our party had never fished and Captain James was patient and instructional. He got us on fish immediately and we caught Jacks, Trout, Reds, and Snooks. I cannot recommend Captain James highly enough. I will definitely be using him in the future!

    James R. | February 29, 2024

    Trip: Sarasota Classic Trip

  • ★★★★★
    We had a blast with James, it made our vacation!

    Theresa M. | November 9, 2023

    Trip: Sarasota Classic Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Highlight of our summer vacation! We took our kids (8 and 4 yr olds) and James made the trip all about them. We caught fish at every stop, did some sight seeing and played in the water. Exactly what I wanted them to experience. Thank you and see you next summer!

    Clint D. | June 29, 2023

    Trip: Sarasota Classic Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. Chris, and Jack were above and beyond professionals! Can’t wait to join them for another adventure.

    Seth R. | June 9, 2023

    Trip: Gulfport Combo Classic

  • ★★★★★
    AMAZING TRIP

    Julian C. | October 29, 2022

    Trip: Gulfport Combo Classic

  • ★★★★★
    Captan James was a great guy as well as a great Captain. He put my family on exactly what we were looking to catch and sent us home with a good meal. I would recommend him any day.

    Brian W. | October 24, 2022

    Trip: Sarasota Classic Trip

What's biting in Sarasota?

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