What Are The Different Types of Grouper?
Types of Grouper
Black Grouper
Black Grouper is one of the largest Grouper types you’ll find in the Atlantic Ocean. They can reach up to 100 pounds and be four feet in length. Most people catch Black Grouper that’s anywhere from five to 20 pounds.
Gag Grouper
Gag Groupers, also known as Grey Groupers, are similar to Black Groupers in appearance. They reach a maximum weight of about 50 pounds and can be found throughout Florida and the Bahamas.
Goliath Grouper
Goliath Groupers are massive fish that can reach about eight feet and weigh over 800 pounds. They are protected and can only be fished on a catch and release basis.
Snowy Grouper
Snowy Grouper is known for being one of the most delicious types of Grouper. They can be found at depths of 350 feet or greater and can reach up to 50 pounds.
Nassau Grouper
Nassau Groupers, also known as White Grouper or Bahamas Grouper, are commonly found in the Bahamas and occasionally off the coast of the Florida Keys. They can reach up to 30 pounds and are critically endangered.
Red Grouper
Red Grouper are identified by their reddish tone and white speckles. They can be found offshore in the waters of Florida and weigh around five to ten pounds. They live 1,000 feet below the surface.
Scamp Grouper
Scamp Groupers are relatively small compared to other types of Grouper. The average Scamp weighs five pounds and is found in deep water.
Warsaw Grouper
Warsaw Groupers are another giant fish, growing up to seven feet and weighing around 600 pounds. They are deep ocean fish and require special handling to avoid killing them when caught.
Misty Grouper
Misty Groupers, also known as Mystic Groupers, are common in South Florida and the Bahamas. They can be found swimming in depths that average about 500 feet and weigh between 15 and 50 pounds.
Yellowfin Grouper
Yellowfin Groupers have vibrant yellow fins and markings. They have high levels of ciguatoxin, making them potentially poisonous to eat. They are found in reefs and can disguise themselves well.
Yellowmouth Grouper
Yellowmouth Grouper are identified by their yellowish and plump lips. They are smaller than other Grouper types, averaging about two to three pounds.
Yellowedge Grouper
Yellowedge Grouper have vibrant yellow scales and weigh between eight and 40 pounds. They are a protected species due to overfishing.
Speckled Hind Grouper
Speckled Hind Grouper live on the rocky bottom of the ocean and are found down to about 400 feet. They are protected in Florida’s Atlantic waters.
Coney Grouper
Coney Grouper are some of the smallest of the Grouper species, ranging from six to eight inches in length. They are found in coral reefs and more inshore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Grouper can be found in the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, and Atlantic Ocean.
The size of Grouper varies depending on the species. Some can reach weights of over 800 pounds.
Most Grouper species are edible, but some, like the Yellowfin Grouper, may contain high levels of ciguatoxin and are not recommended for consumption.
Some Grouper species are protected and can only be caught on a catch and release basis. Make sure to check the regulations in your area.
Grouper can be caught year-round, but the best time for fishing depends on the specific species and location.
The world record for the largest Grouper caught is 124 pounds.
Black Grouper is larger and can reach weights of up to 100 pounds, while Gag Grouper reaches a max weight of about 50 pounds.
Some Grouper species, such as Nassau Grouper, are considered critically endangered.
Yes, many Grouper species can be found near coral reefs.
Most Grouper species are delicious and safe to eat, but some may contain ciguatoxin, which can cause food poisoning. It is always best to check local advisories before consuming any fish.
