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Goliath Grouper Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Goliath Grouper Fishing Charters

Fishing in Miami

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Miami

Offshore Big Game Trip

100% (15)
36 ft 1 - 6 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 Clearwater

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip

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

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Half Day Trip - 44' Custom

100% (17)
44 ft 1 - 6 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 Fort Lauderdale

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Unforgettable Day Offshore

92% (12)
45 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Stock Island

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stock Island

Key West Nearshore/Offshore Trip

100% (3)
63 ft 1 - 12 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 Islamorada

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Epic Islamorada Inshore

100% (7)
25 ft 1 - 4 People $$

Most Popular Types of Goliath Grouper Trips

“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 Goliath Grouper Fishing Charters

Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Clearwater offshore fishing in Clearwater

Looking a fun and enjoyable charter out of Clearwater, FL? This trip with Captain Brad is a Clearwater fishing charter at it’s finest! On this trip, you can enjoy some of the world's best bottom fishing, hooking up Groupers, Snappers, Hogfish, and many other species on light to heavy tackle. If you're looking for some thrilling fishing, you can also go after iconic Florida species such as Tarpon and Sharks, both of which are a blast to catch for any angler. You'll be out there on board Captain Brad's 33' Dusky center console. She's a super versatile vessel that's ideal for mixing it up and fishing inshore, nearshore, or offshore. Plus, with tons of amenities and a twin 300-HP Suzuki engines, she'll get you out there quickly and comfortably. Captain Brad will supply everything you need for an awesome day on the water, from rods and reels to bait and tackle. Book a trip with him and see what Clearwater has to offer! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Offshore Fishing

100% (6)
33 ft 1 - 6 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 Port Aransas
Fishing in Port Aransas
Fishing in Port Aransas
trip description for Into the Depths- Captain Daniel in Port Aransas

Hit the water with Captain Daniel and experience an action-packed day of fishing! This 8, 10, or 12- hour deep-water adventure allows you to target a bigger variety of fish, such as Red Snapper (depending on the season), Mahi Mahi, and Tuna. The crew of Captain Daniel will guide you every step of the way. You will fish for big game fish, troll weed lines, and bottom fish around rocks, wrecks, and structure. The crew especially loves teaching kids and beginners everything about the different fish species available in this area, as well as fishing techniques. Captain Daniel will supply fuel, bait, top-of-the-line rods and reels, tackle, and ice. All you need to bring is a valid Texas Fishing License with a saltwater stamp for those over 16 years of age, food and drinks of your choice (no bananas), and comfortable life jackets if you are traveling with children. Enjoy an incredible day on the water with Captain Daniel! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Port Aransas

Into The Depths- Captain Daniel

100% (1)
36 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West "Flex" Sportfishing in Key West

Have you ever wanted to catch that once-in-a-lifetime fish, capture that awe-inspiring sunset, or enjoy an unforgettable day with your family on the water? With Captain John, you can do just that. Spend your half, 3/4, full or extended day trip exploring the beautiful flats around Key West as you chase down tarpon, permit, barracuda, sharks, snappers and more. This back country/flats charter is a popular choice for both longtime anglers and families because of its wide range of fishing opportunities. Hop on the 24' Yellowtail and the highly-rated Captain John will take you where you need to be. Your adventure will begin at the dock as Captain John explains what you can expect on your trip. No detail will be left out or question unanswered in order to make your trip exciting, educational, and memorable. Be sure to bring any beverages or snacks you might need, and Captain John will provide everything else. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West "Flex" Sportfishing

100% (6)
24 ft 1 - 4 People $$
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
Fishing in Key West
trip description for Key West Offshore Action in Key West

Climb aboard with Captain John and experience an action-packed day of fishing in Key West, Florida. If you have never been to Key West before, you’re missing out! And if you’re looking for a knowledgeable charter captain to take you out, Captain John is a great choice. As a 5th generation fisherman in Key West, Captain John knows exactly where the fish bite. Test your casting accuracy as you target Amberjack, Cobia, Goliath Grouper, African Pompano, Sailfish, Bull SharkYellowtail Snapper, Swordfish, Blackfin Tuna, and many more species. You’ll be fishing aboard Captain John’s 33-foot center console equipped with two 300 HP engines. She also has a GPS, fishfinder, flybridge, live bait well, outriggers, and tuna tubes. Captain John will provide Spearfishing Equipment and Snorkeling equipment free of charge if you’re interested. He welcomes 6 anglers on these 4, 6, and 8-hour adventures. Make sure you bring food and drinks for the day (preferably no glass) as well as a hat and sunscreen. Captain John will provide all licenses, rods, reels, lures, and tackle. He will also prepare live bait before the trip, although you can catch the bait during the trip if you’d like. For the 6-and 8-hour trips, a first mate will be on board to help you at all times. They will help you clean and fillet your fish at the end of the trip. Whatever your skill level, there is a fish out here with your name on it. Come and join Captain John for an exciting day of fishing! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Key West

Key West Offshore Action

86% (7)
33 ft 1 - 6 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 Key Largo
Fishing in Key Largo
Fishing in Key Largo
trip description for Epic Biscayne Bay Trip in Key Largo

A charter with Captain Jason is super flexible, allowing you to chase your favorite species or cross another fish off your bucket list! If you want to go offshore into the Gulf or fish Biscayne Bay, there are tons of options available—all for a reasonable price! On the bottom, there are multiple species of Snapper, Grouper, and Shark. In the middle depths, there are Jacks, Runners, Permit, Barracuda, and tons of other exciting sportfish. On this charter, you can mix it up, switching techniques depending on which species you're interested in catching. Captain Jason will provide the gear, bait, and licenses. All you need to bring is a sense of adventure, snacks and drinks! Get out there and get hooked! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key Largo

Epic Biscayne Bay Trip

100% (5)
18 ft 1 - 3 People $$
Fishing in Naples
Fishing in Naples
Fishing in Naples
trip description for Nearshore Trip with Captain Phil in Naples

Captain Phil welcomes you aboard his brand new 24 Avenger with a tower on it for Tarpon fishing and Permit fishing on the nearshore wrecks! Captain Phil has been serving clients in the Naples area since 1996. He offers nearshore fishing adventures for the entire family and for serious anglers. These Nearshore fishing excursions can be day or night trips, fishing the Gulf of Mexico for grouper, snapper, cobia, permit, kingfish, barracuda, and giant Jewfish on the wrecks. Captain Phil will provide all the fishing gear (rods, reels, tackle, bait), fishing licenses, water, ice. Anything else you’d like to eat or drink you should bring along with you. Though there is usually ample room in our onboard coolers, you may bring a small cooler for your provisions if you’d prefer. Clothing is seasonal, but it’s sunny down in South Florida and most often quite warm. Layering is recommended, especially utilizing anti-UV protective clothing. Captain Phil suggest sunblock, polarized sunglasses, and a hat. Shoes should be made for wet surfaces. Plan on memorable moments, so bring your favorite camera. No handheld GPS devices are allowed on board, thank you! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Naples

Nearshore Trip With Captain Phil

100% (5)
24 ft 1 - 5 People $$
See All Goliath Grouper Trips

Everything to Know About Booking a goliath grouper fishing charter

What are the best goliath grouper fishing charters?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 125 goliath grouper trips, and the most popular trips are Offshore Big Game Trip guided by Bryan, Clearwater Mixed Bag Trip guided by Gage, and Half Day Trip - 44' Custom guided by Harold.

Our guides are rated a 4.93 out of 5 based on 2538 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.

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

What types of goliath grouper fishing charters are common?

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

The most common fishing techniques are bottom fishing, heavy tackle fishing, and light tackle fishing but trolling and jigging are popular as well.

How much do goliath grouper fishing charters cost?

for goliath grouper prices can range anywhere from about $650 to $3,000, but the average price for a half day trip for goliath grouper is $824. The average price for a full day trip for goliath grouper is $1,796.

What month is best for goliath grouper fishing?

The most popular season for goliath grouper fishing is spring, and most anglers book their trips 35 days in advance.

Do I need a fishing license for goliath grouper and what are the bag limits for goliath grouper?

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

What is a Goliath Grouper?

The Atlantic Goliath Grouper (Epinephelus itajara) is the largest member of the grouper family. They have a stocky build (to put it lightly) with small eyes and a large head. They are yellowish-brown to grey in coloring, with spots that help to camouflage them against coral and muddy bottoms.

They are tough, solitary fish who can live in both brackish water and low oxygen levels. Also known to be fearless, they will defend their territory with aggressive body language, and by using their swimming bladder to make a rumbling sound.

How big do Goliath Grouper get?

Goliath groupers aren’t called “goliath” for no reason. These big boys and girls can grow up to over eight feet in length and over 600 pounds, which can be reached in up to their 50 years of life. However, the average catch will be between 75 and 150 pounds.

What's the biggest Goliath Grouper ever caught?

The world record according to the IGFA is a 680 pound goliath grouper that was caught off Fernandia Beach, Florida. It was caught on May 20th, 1961 by Lynn Joyner off of conventional tackle, using Spanish mackerel as bait.

Where is the best place to catch Goliath Grouper?

Goliath Groupers can be found throughout the western and eastern Atlantic. They are distributed from Florida to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, as well as from Senegal to Congo, as far as the Canary Islands. They can also be found in the Eastern Pacific from the Gulf of California to Peru.

Young grouper live in canals, brackish estuaries, and mangrove swamps. As they become older, they move to shallow, tropical waters and can be found around coral, rocks, mud bottoms, and man-made structures, up to 150 feet deep.

When should I catch Goliath Grouper?

The great thing about goliath groupers is that they can be caught year-round. However, the peak season is from May to October during and right after their spawning season. The early morning and late afternoon is the time of day for the best bite.

How do you catch Goliath Grouper?

As mentioned, goliath groupers are known for their aggressiveness, strength, and ability to muscle their way through reefs and rocks to break lines. This means that strong gear is absolutely necessary, including line with a minimum 300 pound test, and 16-20/0 sized circle hooks crimped solidly to the leader, and a 50-80 wide reel.

Goliath groupers eat sea turtles and crustaceans, but some great bait to use include burrfish, catfish, toadfish, octopus, ladyfish, and jack crevalle. In whichever you use, natural bait works best, as lures tend not to tempt them. Also, with any of these, be sure to anchor close to the reef so that the fish will be lured out to take the bait, possibly bouncing it off the bottom, however far enough that you have a chance to pull them away before they break the line on any structure.

Are Goliath Grouper good to eat?

Goliath groupers were once known to be a very highly regarded quality seafood, making them an ideal target for fishermen. But they quickly became overfished which led to strict bans on keeping them in areas they’re found including the United States, the Caribbean, and Brazil, in order for them to be able to regrow their populations. Due to long lifespans and slow growth rates, it is expected to be a long road to recovery, and these fish should always be handled carefully and released to live another day.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great day fishing with Mike and Marcus. They were very friendly and worked hard to make sure we had a great time! Highly recommend.

    Sarah S. with Mike M. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great Captain, great First Mate, caught a sailfish, multiple mahi mahi, Bonita, kingfish, and a giant Jack Cravel. Couldn’t have been better

    Christopher M. with Mike M. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Experience of a Lifetime! You know when you book an Air&BnB or an excursion and you have a slight apprehension due to the uncertainty of what the host guarantees? I will tell you this upfront, book with confidence. Let me explain… I’m going to do my best, but to capture the essence of what we experienced, in simple written word, is nearly an impossible task. Our guided fishing trip really started out like any other excursion. We met early morning, dockside at the “Bait House”. The host gave very clear and concise directions to our link up, what to expect and recommendations on what to bring along. The day before our trip, the staff reached out directly to ensure everyone was on the same page. We had (6) in our party. (3) adults and (3) kids. We packed our own lunches, drinks, adult beverages and snacks. This kept the guides fully engaged on fishing and not preoccupied preparing some spoiled kids’ lunch on the water. We also packed along warming layers and rain/wind gear. Our cadre of guides consisted of a captain/primary guide (Luke) and deckhand/assistant guide (Ben). Both were very cordial, professional and entertaining with their banter and dialogue. The boat was a 33’, fiberglass, Suzuki twin-engine, center console workhorse that appeared to be specifically designed for guided fishing. The live-well was fully packed with ice to preserve our harvested fish. (3) large bean bags were provided to lounge on while underway. The boat had been fitted with modern electronics for navigation, communication and fishing. Very nice, reliable, comfortable and safe vessel. Upon boarding we got a quick brief and were given ample storage space for all the gear we brought. This was key as everything must be stowed while underway. Our initial boat ride was 24 miles off the shore of Clearwater, FL. The ride was teeming with wildlife. As the sun came up, the city skyline disappeared into the horizon until you couldn’t see anything but ocean in every direction. It was magnificent. From start to finish, our guides were very organized on the boat. Gear, tackle, cabin, live bait, ect. all well organized and serviceable. As situations changed, they communicated clearly what they needed from us. Personnel management to balance the vessel and alleviate excessive listing, along with keeping the deck open to allow freedom of movement was well executed. The equipment provided was better than adequate. All of the gear was well maintained and prepped for use. From rigging and baiting to removing the fish and cleaning/prep, the guides handled every aspect of the equipment very well. My wife wanted to accomplish (2) things. She wanted to harvest fish for our family dinner that night, and catch the biggest fish. Both were achieved. We caught A LOT of fish. We began fishing for large Amber Jack, however the guide identified that the bite was slow so we shifted gears to catch our daily harvest. We slammed a bunch of amazing fish. Porgy, Hogfish, Red Snapper, Grunt and others. We also caught some fun interesting fish like: Lizard fish, Remora (suction cup fish) and blow fish. Some were even reused as bait for the huge Amber Jack we caught later in the day. After catching plenty of fish for dinner, we moved back to our original location for another run at the large Amber Jack (AJ); an artificial reef of an intentionally sunken ship. Fishing in about 80’ of water, we quickly hooked into our first AJ. After locating the targeted species, the guides quickly switched gears in an epic display of professionalism and mastery of their craft in order to draw out the largest AJs. The communication between the guides and their actions was impeccable. One man on the rod, the other in full support. As the guide asked for a certain type/color of bait fish, the other pulled it from the livewell and began to toss the same baitfish overboard. When that particular bait was unsuccessful, they moved onto another type. This was system repeated several times until they found the right bait. It was really cool to see. Very fast, deliberate and accurate fishing. Once we had the right bait, it was like the AJs were “switched on”. Shortly we were pulling monster AJs in the boat. Huge fish the size of both of a grown man’s legs. After an exciting run of pulling in several huge AJs, we were down to our last baitfish. What I’m about to tell you just can’t really capture how awesome this last cast truly was. Now, earlier in the day we had an AJ get bit by a shark. We got it in the boat and it had some teeth marks and a gushing blood. It was crazy cool. However, this last cast set into motion a series of events that we’ll certainly remember for the rest of our lives. The line was cast and immediately hooked up. My wife was fighting this monster AJ (Yes, the biggest fish of the day) for several minutes. As the AJ was retrieved and became closer to the boat (so close we could see it) two HUGE sharks swam right to it taking a gigantic bite out of the AJ. When I say “bite” I mean a literal shark-head-shaped-bite. A cartoonish bite. Like, imagine what you would see on a Saturday morning cartoon. The bite was so clean and the exact round shape of the jaws of a shark. It was remarkable. As it got up to the boat, guide Ben (in an epic display of reluctant courage mind you) reached down and pulled up this AJ. Even the pictures just don’t do this experience justice. My wife, grabbed this fish holding it right in the bitten area like a savage. She was so excited! We were all excited. As we unhooked the AJ, the guides tossed it back out and a full-on shark feeding frenzy erupted. Multiple sharks attacking this AJ in just the most amazingly violent display. This was straight up, no BS, some National Geographic sh!t. When the AJ was pulled in, nothing remained but a huge sardine head. The Gulf gave us a show we’ll never forget and it was all due to the expertise, fast thinking and relentless efforts of our guides. As if our experience wasn’t enough, our ride back was filled with dolphins, sea turtles and a host of other incredible wildlife. The guides cleaned and prepared all of our harvested fish. They even labeled them by name so we knew what types they were. Our family loves the outdoors, and we have a saying when we venture out, “Don’t expect anything”. The fishing trip that day took everyone by surprise as to how incredible it unfolded. If you are looking for an amazing experience on the water, book with confidence because we had the experience of a lifetime.

    Yuliya H. with Brad D. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a most excellent time. We were scheduled for an offshore trip but wind and waves caused us to cancel this trip. However, we rescheduled for later in the day for a tarpon fishing excursion. This was a blast ! We saw sharks up close and landed several yellow jacks which gave us a good fight before being returned to the water. After trying and trying (never give up) we snagged a good sized tarpon. After a good fight which included multiple boat maneuvers it was brought to the side of the boat before being cut loose to fight another day. We thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with the captain and first mate. Both were very attentive to us, making sure that our hooks were still baited and that we had all the help required for landing and documenting our catches before returning them to the water. A great time was had by all! The boat was immaculate and we had no issues if any sort.

    Lynn E. with Steve S. of Marathon, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an outstanding fishing trip with Captain Jack, and caught our target species at the first location of the day. In my experience this is rare. The snook were big, hungry, and plentiful. My son and his friend were astounded by the 30 inch snook's ability to fight. We had a great time, and I highly recommend Jack.

    Paul T. with Jack S. of Fort Myers, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Dave and Marcus weresome. We had a blast. Both of them were professional and fun to be with. Awesome time.

    William Y. with Mike M. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Mike and Cole were fantastic. We had four small kids with us, and they handled them perfectly. We caught lots of yellowtail snapper and a nurse shark! 10/10, would book again (and plan to).

    Daniel K. with Mike W. of Stock Island, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience with Captain Mike. Enjoyed our time on the water and caught an amazing meal of Yellowtail! Thank you Blind Squirrel and crew!

    Matthew P. with Mike W. of Stock Island, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Jack was right on time & immediately ready to go. We were fishing within 30 minutes more or less. He was very helpful and attentive. No complaints from us. Thanks - MW

    Matthew W. with Jack S. of Fort Myers, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We didn’t actually catch anything during the trip, but it was great nonetheless.

    Breyhauna J. with Taylor S. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a fantastic trip with Captain John in July of 2023. Went for a morning trip on our honeymoon, caught tons of fish, had a lot of fun. John and his first mate were very competent, personable, and provided an excellent experience. The boat was well outfitted, John knew several spots with lots of fish, and gave us more time than we'd paid for. Great experience, will absolutely book again next time we're in the keys.

    Clare D. with John G. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent service! Will definitely use again. Very knowledgeable about the area and put us in the fish. Loved every minute of it and highly recommended to anyone who wants to go fishing!

    Jonathan L. with Brandon S. of Summerland Key, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great time

    Leo M. with Antonio E. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Luke and Skye did a great job with us. We hope to do it again!! Well worth the money!!

    Dawn G. with Brad D. of Clearwater, 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

  • ★★★★★
    Excellent trip with John. Good guys, on fish all day and had a great time. Definitely would book again!

    Kevin V. with John G. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Ron is a true pro and so nice. My family had a great fishing trip. 10 out of 10🙂

    Mark L. with Ron B. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    The fishing charter with Captain Phil was the highlight of our trip to Florida this year! Phil and his first mate were very helpful and friendly throughout our 4 hrs trip. They made sure my 9 year old son had the best spot on the boat and were eager to help him land a few fish. Captain Phil helped us land a couple big fish and filleted our Cobia which gave us some tasty supper. We would definitely use Captain Phil again.

    Craig K. with Phil H. of Naples, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great fishing trip, memorable experience, would refer John and partner to anyone interested charting fishing trip in KeyWest!

    Rob R. with John G. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Our guide Nick is top notch, he is friendly, knowledgeable and certainly knows great spots to fish. We caught fish all day, brought home three very large mutton’s, some other mutton’s and good size yellow tail. We caught and released fish all day, hogfish, large groupers and other assorted fishes. Thanks Nick .

    Chris B. with Paul H. of Key West, Florida

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