Gag Grouper Season Is Halfway Over

The bite has been slow, but we are still putting meat on the table

We are already about halfway through gag grouper season, and I will shoot straight with you: the bite has been slower than we hoped. The fish have not exactly been jumping into the boat, but with patience, persistence, and a little captain's know-how, we have still managed to put some quality meat on the table.

Our most productive technique has been trolling Hot Heads through inshore and nearshore waters. We are working the right structure, watching the electronics, and changing our speed and presentation until we find what the grouper want that day. Sometimes it takes several passes before that rod finally bends over, but when a gag grouper crushes a trolled bait, there is no mistaking it.

Weather continues to determine how far we can venture and where we can fish safely. When conditions cooperate, we will work nearshore structure in the Gulf. When the wind keeps us closer to home, we concentrate on productive inshore areas around Tampa Bay.

The gag grouper bite may be slow, but slow does not mean dead. We are still grinding, still learning, and still bringing home a few fish for the dinner table. That is fishing. You do not always fill the box, but persistence can turn a quiet day into a memorable one.

There is still time left in the season, so if you would like to chase one of Tampa Bay's hardest-pulling and best-tasting fish, give Captain John a call.

The bite might be slow, but the grill is still getting hot.