facebook pixel

Gag Grouper Fishing Charters In Sarasota

Easily find a Sarasota fishing guide that fits your needs. Confidently book your next day on the water.

4.92/5 Average Rating


Experts Available 24/7

Licensed & Insured Guides

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Gag Grouper Fishing Charters Near Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Classic Trip

100% (4)
22 ft 1 - 5 People $
Fishing in Sarasota

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Inshore/Nearshore

100% (3)
23 ft 1 - 5 People $$
Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Bountiful Backwaters Of Sarasota

100% (1)
22 ft 1 - 4 People $
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Sarasota

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota Offshore Grocery Run

100% (3)
29 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Sarasota

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota 1/2 Day Trip - 18’ Sea Fox

NEW
22 ft 1 - 3 People $
Fishing in Sarasota

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Tarpon Trips

NEW
23 ft 1 - 4 People $$

Most Popular Types of Gag Grouper Trips in Sarasota

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Gag Grouper Fishing Charters Near Sarasota, Fl

Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
trip description for Sarasota 3/4 Day Trip - 18’ Sea Fox in Sarasota

On this 6 hour trip with Captain Scott, you'll have plenty of time to try trolling the deeper waters, as well as bottom fishing the shallows. Feel free to ask the captain to bring some fly fishing gear as well, and get the most out of your Sarasota Bay fishing excursion. Go after Snappers, Groupers, Cobia, and more along the reefs. While inshore, you'll do battle with Sheepshead, Trout, Redfish, and Sharks. Please, have in mind that 735-pound is the weight limit combined for guests, which is usually equal to 3 adults or 2 adults with 2 kids. Everything is provided on Captain Scott's trips including licenses, fishing gear, bait, and ice. So all you need to bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, and Captain Scott will make sure you have a great time out on the water! Read More

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Sarasota 3/4 Day Trip - 18’ Sea Fox

NEW
22 ft 1 - 3 People $$
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
Fishing in Sarasota
trip description for Extended Day Lunker Chase in Sarasota

The Gulf of Mexico has some of the best snapper and grouper fishing along the coastline of Sarasota, Florida. Aboard his 29' Regulator, Captain Dustin offers you the opportunity to go miles offshore and experience what it's like to haul in these hard fighting fish. Along with snapper and grouper, he also likes target amberjacks, kingfish, cobia, and some pelagic fish like blackfin tuna when they are around. Captain Dustin's 29' Regulator is equipped with updated twin Suzuki 4-stroke 300 HP engines, new Simrad Fish Finder/Sonar, Garmin Radar with electronics, and a GPS anchoring system that holds the boat in position over the fishing grounds. It rides and handles the water very well and has front seating for a comfortable ride to the fishing grounds. These trips can go anywhere from 10 to 60 miles offshore; the distance is based on the type of fish you'll be targeting and to make sure you hit the best fishing grounds. The charter can take up to 6 people and if you're looking for shorter options, Captain Dustin also offers 6-8 hour adventures as well (see below). Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Sarasota

Extended Day Lunker Chase

NEW
29 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Englewood
Fishing in Englewood
Fishing in Englewood
trip description for 4-6 Hour Inshore - 24’ Hanson in Englewood

Launch from Snook's Bayside Restaurant with Captain Ryan to chase a myriad of inshore species throughout the network of barrier islands and inlets around Englewood beach and Boca Grande! Captain Ryan will show you how to hook into Snook, Redfish, Speckled Trout, and other inshore species as you explore the back country passes and on the surf as well. Captain Ryan's 24' Hanson is the perfect vessel for these waters. With plenty of space for you and up to 5 others, live wells for bait, and a steering tower for sight fishing. Captain Ryan will provide all the gear you will need for a successful day out on the water. All he recommends you bring for these trips are your favorite snacks and drinks, maybe a lunch for longer trips, sunglasses, and a desire to catch a pile of fish! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Englewood

4-6 Hour Inshore - 24’ Hanson

NEW
24 ft 1 - 3 People $
Fishing in Englewood
Fishing in Englewood
Fishing in Englewood
trip description for Inshore Trip - 23 parker custom in Englewood

Fishing in the inshore waters around Englewood with Captain Tim means you'll be exploring the inlets, back bays, and beach front surf around Manasota Key, Don Pedro Key, all the way down to Caya Costa occasionally as well. These productive waters are home to big Snook, Redfish, Trout, Sheepshead and all kinds of Snapper. Tarpon also inhabit these waters during the late spring and summer months. And when they're in town we highly recommend giving Tarpon fishing a shot! There is nothing quite as fun as stalking fish along mangrove islands, stalking across shallow water bays, pitching live-baits into structure, or drifting baits through passes. Captain Tim mostly uses live bait and spinning reels. With proven success, he finds this is the most effective way to put fish into the boat! Since everything is provided aboard Captain Tim's Charters from Rods and Reels to Ice and Water, all you need to bring are your favorite snacks and drinks, your sunglasses, and your camera and you'll be all set! I licensed for 6 passengers but only 4 lines at a time. So price is for 4 angler additional $20 per head on passenger five and six. thank you Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter in Englewood

Inshore Trip - 23 Parker Custom

100% (1)
23 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
trip description for Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn in St. Petersburg

Head out to fish the waters of the coast of St. Pete with Captain Adam for an awesome day out on the water slaying the fish! Captain Adam - with his 9+ years of experience - will take you where the fish are biting. All Adam's trips are offshore where you can explore some reefs and wrecks to bottom fish for Red Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish and other offshore species, or troll grass lines for other pelagic species like Mahi, Wahoo, and Mackerel. For these trips, Captain Adam uses his 27’ Cape Horn, which comes with the latest marine electronics and safety gear, this boat has been recently renovated and decked out so get ready to ride in style!. It can accommodate up to 6 anglers fishing in full comfort and is federally permitted to go beyond state waters and explore the open ocean past 9 miles out! (Though a longer trip 6+ hours will definitely be necessary to motor out to those depths) Captain Adam provides all rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring are your favorite snack and drinks, your sun protection, and your camera to record your trophies! Bring your kids or your angling buddies and head out for a fishing adventure to remember with Captain Adam! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in St. Petersburg

Offshore Trip - 27' Cape Horn

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 4 People $
Fishing in Treasure Island
Fishing in Treasure Island
Fishing in Treasure Island
trip description for St. Pete Full Day Offshore in Treasure Island

If you're tired of messing around with the little fish and looking for a real deal offshore experience, Captain Martin has got you covered on the full day offshore Snapper/Grouper trip! You'll be motoring offshore aboard Captain Martin's 32' Conch center console and spend the day bottom fishing and jigging deep water structure for a wide range of a wide range of Grouper and Snapper species! These classic Florida gamefish are hard fighting, delicious eating, and often awesome trophies for the camera! Captain Martin has decades of experience catching these Florida staples, and he will do everything he can to put you on the fish and give you the best possible chance to catch your target for the day whether that's a trophy-size fish or pile for the freezer. You'll be spending the day aboard his beautiful 32' Conch center console, powered by twin 300HP Suzuki outboards. This fast and versatile boat is perfect for fishing the all around Tampa bay and beyond! (see his other trip offerings at the bottom of the page). Captain Martin will provide everything you need for a perfect day on the water, including rods, reels, bait, and tackle. His goal is for everyone to have a blast and to catch a bunch of fish! Remember to bring proper clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Treasure Island

St. Pete Full Day Offshore

NEW
30 ft 1 - 5 People $$$
See All Gag Grouper Trips in Sarasota

Everything to Know About Booking a Sarasota gag grouper fishing charter

What are the best gag grouper fishing charters in Sarasota?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 67 gag grouper trips in Sarasota, and the most popular trips in the area are Sarasota Classic Trip guided by James, Sarasota Inshore/Nearshore guided by Darius, and Bountiful Backwaters of Sarasota guided by Tony.

Our guides in Sarasota are rated a 4.92 out of 5 based on 2565 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and 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.

Other popular cities nearby for booking a Gag Grouper charter include St. Petersburg, Tierra Verde and Holmes Beach.

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

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

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

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

How much do Sarasota gag grouper fishing charters cost?

for gag grouper in Sarasota prices can range anywhere from about $550 to $2,250, but the average price for a half day trip for gag grouper in Sarasota is $728. The average price for a full day trip for gag grouper in Sarasota is $1,411.

What month is best for gag grouper fishing in Sarasota?

The most popular season for gag grouper fishing in Sarasota is spring, and most anglers book their trips 6 days in advance.

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

You’re in luck! Our fishing tours in Sarasota don’t require you to purchase a fishing license – your group is covered by your boat’s captain. See here for more information on bag limits and fishing season regulations in Sarasota.

What is gag grouper fishing in Sarasota all about?

Sarasota, situated along Florida's picturesque Gulf Coast, offers anglers abundant opportunities to target gag grouper, a prized species known for its delicious taste and formidable fighting abilities. Gag grouper are commonly found in the waters surrounding Sarasota, inhabiting rocky ledges, coral reefs, and offshore wrecks where they can ambush prey and seek refuge. Anglers can explore a variety of fishing grounds, from nearshore reefs to deeper offshore waters, in search of these elusive and sought-after fish.

Fishing for gag grouper in Sarasota requires employing effective techniques tailored to the local conditions and habitats. Anglers often utilize bottom fishing with live or cut bait, such as pinfish, squid, or sardines, rigged on heavy tackle to withstand the grouper's powerful strikes and the rugged terrain of their preferred habitats. Additionally, jigging near structure or trolling along the edges of reefs and underwater structures can also yield success in targeting gag grouper. Whether fishing from a private boat, charter vessel, or even from shore, anglers in Sarasota can enjoy a thrilling angling experience pursuing these prized gamefish.

Beyond the excitement of the catch, gag grouper also play a vital ecological role in Sarasota's marine ecosystem. As apex predators, they help regulate populations of smaller fish and invertebrates, contributing to the overall health and balance of coral reef and rocky habitat communities. Responsible fishing practices, including adherence to size and bag limits, are essential for maintaining sustainable grouper populations and ensuring their continued presence in Sarasota's coastal waters for generations to come.

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

In Sarasota, Florida, gag grouper seasons are governed by regulations designed to protect and sustain the population of these prized gamefish. The recreational gag grouper season typically opens annually on April 1st and closes on December 31st, although these dates may vary slightly from year to year. During this period, anglers have the opportunity to target gag grouper in Sarasota's coastal waters, with a daily bag limit and size restrictions in place to ensure sustainable fishing practices.

Outside of the open season, gag grouper are subject to strict regulations aimed at protecting spawning populations and allowing for replenishment of stocks. This includes a seasonal closure from January 1st to March 31st each year, during which time fishing for gag grouper is prohibited in federal waters off the coast of Florida. Additionally, size limits and gear restrictions may apply to help safeguard the reproductive success of gag grouper and maintain healthy fish populations for future generations of anglers to enjoy.

While the gag grouper season in Sarasota is relatively limited, anglers can still enjoy opportunities to target other species year-round, including red grouper, mangrove snapper, and various pelagic species such as mahi-mahi and king mackerel. By adhering to regulations, practicing responsible fishing techniques, and respecting seasonal closures, anglers can help ensure the long-term sustainability of Sarasota's diverse marine fisheries while enjoying the thrill of the catch in this vibrant coastal destination.

What techniques are popular for catching gag grouper in Sarasota?

Fishing for gag grouper in the waters around Sarasota demands a nuanced approach and a solid understanding of effective techniques. Anglers often rely on a combination of methods to target these prized fish, which favor rocky outcrops, coral reefs, and offshore wrecks. One popular technique is bottom fishing, where anglers use heavy tackle and present live or cut bait near the sea floor to entice grouper hiding in their preferred habitats. This method requires patience and precision, as anglers carefully position their baits around underwater structures or drop-offs where grouper are known to congregate.

Another productive technique for gag grouper fishing in Sarasota involves jigging near structure or trolling along the edges of reefs and underwater formations. Vertical jigging with heavy metal jigs allows anglers to mimic the movement of injured prey, enticing grouper to strike with sudden, darting motions. Similarly, trolling with diving plugs or rigged baits can attract grouper patrolling the perimeter of reefs or wrecks, presenting anglers with opportunities for thrilling strikes and exhilarating battles. Adapting to the prevailing conditions and experimenting with different presentations are key to success when targeting gag grouper in Sarasota's diverse marine environments.

In addition to traditional methods, anglers in Sarasota often keep an eye out for visual cues such as diving birds or surface disturbances, which can indicate the presence of feeding grouper. By approaching these areas quietly and presenting baits or lures in a natural manner, anglers can capitalize on the feeding behavior of grouper and increase their chances of success. Whether bottom fishing, jigging, trolling, or capitalizing on visual cues, mastering these techniques and adapting to changing conditions are essential skills for anglers seeking to hook into the exhilarating experience of gag grouper fishing in Sarasota's bountiful waters.

What other species are popular in Sarasota?

In addition to targeting gag grouper, anglers in Sarasota have a diverse array of other species to pursue, ensuring an exciting and varied fishing experience. One popular option is the red snapper, a prized catch known for its delicious taste and strong fighting ability. Found in offshore waters around Sarasota, red snapper can be targeted using a variety of techniques, including bottom fishing with live or cut bait, jigging, and trolling near reefs, wrecks, and underwater structures. With strict regulations in place to manage their populations sustainably, catching red snapper provides both a thrilling challenge and a rewarding culinary delight for anglers in Sarasota.

Another sought-after species in Sarasota's coastal waters is the tarpon, often referred to as the "silver king" for its impressive size and acrobatic leaps when hooked. These powerful gamefish migrate along Florida's Gulf Coast, offering anglers thrilling battles from both boat and shore. Tarpon are typically targeted using live bait such as mullet or crabs, or with artificial lures such as plugs or flies. Anglers flock to renowned tarpon hotspots like the Boca Grande Pass or Sarasota Bay during the annual tarpon migration season, eagerly anticipating the chance to hook into one of these iconic fish.

For anglers seeking a unique and challenging experience, Sarasota's waters are also home to a variety of species such as king mackerel, cobia, and amberjack. These fast-swimming pelagic fish provide exciting action for anglers trolling offshore, with their vibrant colors and powerful runs adding to the thrill of the catch. Whether targeting reef-dwelling species like snapper and grouper, pursuing migratory gamefish like tarpon, or trolling for pelagic species offshore, Sarasota's diverse fishing opportunities ensure that anglers of all skill levels can find their perfect catch amidst the stunning backdrop of Florida's Gulf Coast.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great half day out on the water with Hank. Very friendly and done a good job of keeping us on the fish.

    Brian with Hank V. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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. with Chris S. of Gulfport, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Went as a family trip of 4 and had an amazing time! Dustin and Mike were very professional and attentive. We had 2 newer fishers on board and they made sure we were comfortable. We caught our limit of fish! We’ve taken multiple charters in the area and this has by far been the best one! Highly recommend and we definitely will be rebooking the next time we visit!

    Nebraska D. with Dustin L. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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. with Tony F. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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. with James G. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Fantastic experience. Son and I caught 7-8 big Amber jacks!! Then on the way in saw a mako shark!! Caught lots of small fish that tasted awesome blackened in tacos!!!

    Chris H. with Greg M. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an awesome day on the water with Tommy! He kept us on the fish and sharks all day. If you are looking for an experience like you are out fishing with one of your buddies, Tommy is the type of guide for you.

    Justin L. with Tommy M. of Apollo Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Tim was spot on gave us a fantastic trip to remember and put is on fish at ever point. Book him and be sure to ask him to bring Lilly along, best First Mate ever. Thanks For a great time Tim VR Mike Foy and Crew

    Foy M. with Tim H. of Englewood, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dimitri is a great fishing guild, extremely knowledgeable of the area and the target species you can go after. Even with not so great weather, he put us on the fish from the start to finish. Great conversations to be had and very knowledgeable about the local area and places to go. My wife and I had a great time and are looking forward to next year's trip to do it again.

    Richard K. with Dmitri S. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an absolutely awesome experience with Captain Greg and Deckhand Ali. We knew ahead of time that the water was going to be a bit choppy and that there would be higher than usual winds, but that didn’t deter the Captain from finding perfect fishing spots for us on our half day charter. Both fellas are super knowledgeable and shared lots of gulf marine life info with us; even stopping to check crab traps and showing us how the eco system is balance. An added bonus is the restaurant located at the marina where the fishing vessel docks; Greg filleted our fish haul from the day and the super friendly staff cooked up our catch and served up tacos for a late lunch. If in the area again, we’d definitely book Captain Greg and his friendly Deckhand Ali for our fishing excursion. They are an awesome team.

    Leah G. with Greg M. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Taylor was great to fish with. We had my 3 year old son, my 70 year old father and my 14 year old nephew on the boat. Everyone had a blast and got a fish on a day that was not ideal conditions for fishing. Highly recommend and plan to use him and Alex again in the future.

    Bill Z. with Taylor C. of Bradenton, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    My family fished with Alex today and everyone had a blast. Great guide and wonderful trip and experience with him and Taylor. Would highly recommend them and we plan to book them again in the future.

    Bill Z. with Alex K. of Bradenton, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Dustin showed us a great day fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Hooked a few whopper Amber Jacks and plenty of grouper and snapper galore! Great eats!! Book with Captain Dustin and prepare to be wowed!

    Donald M. with Dustin L. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an awesome morning with our terrific guide. Could not have been better. Thanks.

    Chip B. with Andrew C. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Darius was very informative and always helpful during out inshore fishing trip. He was always considering when it was best to move to a new location to provide the best fishing experience. He was also great to talk to and share thoughts about the area.

    Todd W. with Darius K. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome trip, he put me on fish the whole trip. Caught redfish, snook, Jack crevalle, trout and a 4 ft 60 lb bull shark

    Matt D. with Matt Y. of Riverview, Florida

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

    Theresa M. with James G. of Sarasota, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great trip with Keith and Nick. My son had a great time and Captain Keith let him drive the boat on the way back. He was thrilled! Nick was so great! Great experience!

    Donna I. with Keith N. of Madeira Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great time. Did great with our child. Then they recommend O’Maddys right down the road to have it cooked. It was a great day.

    Wendie S. with Joseph D. of Gulfport, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    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. with James G. of Sarasota, Florida

What's biting in Sarasota?

View Gag Grouper Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re licensed, insured and vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans all across the country and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Gag Grouper Trips in Sarasota