Black Grouper

Black Grouper (Mycteroperca bonaci) are among the largest and most powerful reef fish in South Florida waters. They can grow up to 150 cm long and weigh up to 100 kg, featuring a dark brown or black coloring with white-bordered dorsal fins. These solitary carnivores hunt near the bottom at dusk, feeding on fish and squid around the reefs and wrecks off Miami.

Captain Lester Wenger has spent over 40 years fishing the productive bottom structure off Haulover Inlet and Miami-Dade County. He knows every reef, wreck, and ledge where black grouper hold, and he understands their preferred water temperatures of 77 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. His experience translates into more time with your bait in the strike zone.

Peak Season and Technique

The peak season for black grouper in Miami is December through April, when these bottom dwellers are most active on the reefs. Bottom fishing with live or cut bait is the most effective technique, targeting the structure where grouper ambush their prey.

Best Bait

Pinfish and squid are the top choices for black grouper, as they align with the species' natural diet. Captain Lester supplements with quality live bait from his Haulover Inlet operation to target grouper on the bottom.

Table Fare

Black grouper is excellent table fare with firm, lean flesh and a mild flavor. It is superb grilled, broiled, or baked and is one of the most sought-after eating fish in Miami's restaurant scene.

Want to battle a heavyweight black grouper on the reefs? Book an offshore charter with Captain Lester or call (954) 557-8501 to reserve your spot.