Is goliath grouper fishing legal?
What to do when you’ve caught a goliath grouper? Harvest and possession has been prohibited in both state and federal waters off Florida since 1990. Must be immediately returned to the water free, alive and unharmed. Photographs can be taken but only during the active act of release.
Do goliath grouper attack divers?
However, in terms of actual number of attacks on divers, the goliath grouper gives sharks a run for their money. In fact, this fish has been known to steal food from aggressive sharks feeding on prey on the ocean bottom.
Can you keep goliath grouper anywhere?
Goliath grouper is not allowed to be caught in any other state or federal waters. Commissioner Robert Spottswood believes the population is getting near a point where a limited harvest can be allowed. He said many of the arguments against a harvest are based on emotion.
Where can I dive with goliath grouper?
The Mizpah, one of a series of wrecks in a dive known as “The Corridor,” and the Spud Barge are two favorite sites for aggregating goliath groupers. If you’re ready to take the plunge, it’s easy to sign up for a dive with these great fish.
What is the largest goliath grouper ever caught?
680-pound
The heaviest grouper ever caught and certified as an IGFA world record was this 680-pound goliath grouper caught on May 20, 1961, off Fernandina Beach, Florida, using a Spanish mackerel as fishing bait. This particular species of grouper is considered endangered today and protected in the United States and Caribbean.
Can goliath groupers eat humans?
In fact, many people familiar with them call the fish “gentle giants.” It’s still smart to stay away from fully grown goliath groupers. They could eat a person if they wanted to! However, in general, it’s the fish that are threatened by humans, not the other way around.
How deep can a grouper dive?
In the east the species ranges West Africa from Senegal to Cabinda. The species has been observed at depths ranging from 1 to 100 meters (3.28 to 328 feet).
How do you catch a Goliath grouper?
Large Goliath Grouper are almost exclusively caught on live or dead bait. The key to successful Goliath Grouper fishing is anchoring close enough to the reef or wreck so that they will come out to eat your bait, but far enough away that you have a chance of pulling them away before they get back and break you off.