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At Endless Summer Charters, our guests often get the thrill of a lifetime when a goliath grouper—one of the largest fish in the Gulf—decides to eat their bait. While we never specifically target these protected giants, we frequently hook into them while fishing the reefs and nearby wrecks off Fort Myers, Sanibel, and Captiva Islands.
Our captains—Bill Hammond, CJ LaFauci, and Hunter Tinsley—know these local waters like the back of their hand. When we’re anchored over prime structure for red grouper, mangrove snapper, or other reef species, it’s not uncommon for a massive goliath to show up. These fish can reach over 400 pounds and will test even the heaviest tackle on the boat. The initial hit is explosive, and the power they unleash often leaves our anglers in awe.
Goliath Grouper are a Protected Species
Because goliath grouper are a protected species in Florida, we follow all FWC guidelines for safe, ethical release. Our captains are experienced in fighting these fish quickly, keeping them in the water, and ensuring they swim off strong. On rare occasions, if a client has secured a state-issued harvest tag during the March–May season, we can legally land one within the FWC slot limit, but for most anglers, it’s a quick photo at boatside and a safe release back to the reef.
These surprise encounters are one of the unique thrills of fishing Southwest Florida’s artificial reefs and wrecks. Whether you’re here to fill the cooler with snapper and grouper or to simply experience the incredible variety of our Gulf waters, you just might find yourself going head-to-head with one of the ocean’s true giants on your Endless Summer Charter.
Book your trip today and see what’s waiting below the surface!